Coast to Coast South India Cycling Tour

Tour Overview

Experience one of India's most rewarding cycling adventures as you ride coast to coast across the diverse landscapes of South India. Beginning in Kerala and crossing the spectacular Western Ghats to the Bay of Bengal, this luxury cycling holiday takes you through fragrant spice plantations, coffee and tea estates, coconut groves, rubber plantations, vibrant villages, and some of South India's most celebrated cultural landmarks. Discover the magnificent temple cities of Madurai and Thanjavur, the historic Danish settlement of Tharangambadi (Tranquebar), the charming French Quarter of Puducherry, and the UNESCO World Heritage monuments of Mahabalipuram on an unforgettable two-week journey. Cycling quiet country roads and scenic mountain passes, you'll traverse the UNESCO-recognised Western Ghats, one of earth’s 36 biodiversity hotspots. Ride through misty tea gardens, cardamom plantations, high-altitude forests, fertile river valleys, and the sun-drenched Coromandel Coast, experiencing the extraordinary diversity of South India's landscapes, wildlife, and living culture. Designed for discerning travellers, this itinerary combines rewarding cycling with exceptional comfort. Stay in carefully selected boutique hotels, heritage properties, and plantation bungalows, each chosen for its character, warm hospitality, and sense of place. With authentic cultural experiences, outstanding regional cuisine, and meaningful encounters with local communities, this responsible travel holiday offers an unforgettable way to discover the natural beauty and rich heritage of South India on two wheels.

Day 1: Fort Kochi

On arrival in Kochi, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your carefully selected boutique hotel in the historic district of Fort Kochi. The remainder of the day is yours to relax, recover from your journey, or enjoy a gentle stroll through one of India's most atmospheric coastal towns before your cycling adventure begins. For over 500 years, Fort Kochi has been a meeting place of cultures, where Arab, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British traders left behind a remarkable architectural and cultural legacy. Wander its leafy streets lined with colonial-era buildings, vibrant cafés, galleries, spice warehouses, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets that still grace the waterfront. Once at the heart of the global spice trade, Kochi remains synonymous with pepper, cardamom, tea, coffee, and other treasures that you'll encounter as you cycle across Kerala and into Tamil Nadu over the coming days. This relaxed introduction offers the perfect opportunity to acclimatise, soak up the city's maritime heritage, and prepare for your unforgettable coast-to-coast cycling journey through the spectacular landscapes of South India.  

Day 2: Lowland Forests of Thattekkad

Your cycling journey begins as you leave the coast behind and ride through the lush countryside of Kerala towards the lowland rainforests of Thattekkad, one of South India's finest birdwatching destinations. Quiet rural roads wind through coconut groves, rubber plantations, spice gardens, and traditional villages, offering a gentle introduction to the landscapes and rhythms of rural Kerala before arriving at this internationally recognised biodiversity hotspot. Thattekkad lies on the edge of the Western Ghats and is home to an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, including more than 275 species of birds, numerous butterflies, reptiles, and mammals. Keep an eye out for some of the region's celebrated endemic species, including the vibrant Malabar Parakeet and the elusive Malabar Trogon, while elephants, sambar deer, civets, and other wildlife also inhabit the surrounding forests. Later, enjoy a guided walk through the neighbouring village, where you'll gain an authentic insight into everyday life in Kerala's farming communities. Stroll among rubber estates, coconut palms, and spice plantations producing pepper, ginger, and other aromatic crops, meeting local families whose warm hospitality and enduring traditions have shaped this remarkable landscape. It is a fitting introduction to the responsible travel experiences that characterise this coast-to-coast cycling holiday through South India. Today you will be riding towards one of the best bird watching destinations in India – the lowland forests of Thattekkad with over 275 species of birds, 76 species of butterflies 30 species of reptiles, besides wildlife such as elephants, Sambar deer, wild Dogs, civet Cat among others. Your stay would be at a resort set along the shores of the river Periyar opposite the sanctuary. In the evening, you will get an opportunity to go through to the rain forests on the opposite side of the river. The lush rain forest also harbours endemic birds like the brilliantly colorful Malabar Parakeets & the Malabar Trogons. After your return, there is a walk planned through the local village to see how the farming community lives amidst their plantations of rubber, coconuts & various spices like pepper and ginger. The villages are friendly places and you will be welcomed in their midst.  

Day 3: At the Foothills of Western Ghats

Today marks the first major challenge of your coast-to-coast cycling adventure as you ascend from the tropical lowlands to over 3,600 feet in the spectacular Western Ghats. The reward is a day of ever-changing scenery, following the Periyar River through verdant forests, pineapple farms, rubber plantations, and fragrant spice estates before the landscape begins its dramatic transformation into Kerala's cool mountain highlands. From Neriamangalam, often known as the gateway to the Western Ghats, the road climbs steadily along quiet mountain lanes, winding through dense forests, cardamom plantations, and welcoming spice-growing villages. Each ascent reveals sweeping views, making this one of the most memorable cycling days of the tour. As you gain altitude, the air cools and the scenery become increasingly dramatic, offering a fitting introduction to the UNESCO-recognised Western Ghats—one of earth’s 36 biodiversity hotspots and a highlight of any luxury cycling holiday in South India. Cycle to Bodimettu on the border between Kerala & Tamilnadu. Old settler colonies, villages, spice farms and lakes dot the landscape as you climb towards the tea estates at Poopara. The magnificent Anaerangal lake is the background to today’s ride as you check in to a resort set overlooking the Western Ghats.  

Day 4: Highlands at Munnar

Today's ride takes you higher into the spectacular Western Ghats as you cycle towards Chinnakanal, the mountain pass marking the border between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Quiet roads meander through historic settler villages, fragrant spice plantations, and rolling farmland before climbing into cool highland landscapes where expansive tea estates carpet the hillsides. As you approach Chinnakanal, the road overlooks the magnificent Anayirangal Lake, whose name translates from Malayalam as "the place where elephants descend." True to its name, the lake and surrounding forests are frequented by wild elephants, adding to the sense of riding through one of South India's most remarkable natural landscapes. Framed by emerald tea gardens and forested mountains, it is one of the most scenic highlights of this coast-to-coast cycling holiday. Your day concludes at a carefully selected boutique retreat overlooking the Western Ghats, where you can relax in comfort and take in sweeping mountain views after an exhilarating day in the saddle. Combining rewarding cycling, spectacular scenery, and authentic highland hospitality, today perfectly captures the spirit of a luxury cycling journey through South India.   Cycle to Bodimettu on the border between Kerala & Tamilnadu. Old settler colonies, villages, spice farms and lakes dot the landscape as you climb towards the tea estates at Poopara. The magnificent Anaerangal lake is the background to today’s ride as you check in to a resort set overlooking the Western Ghats.  

Day 5: Plains of Tamilnadu

Leaving the cool mountain landscapes of the Western Ghats behind, today's ride descends onto the fertile plains of Tamil Nadu, where a striking change in scenery, culture, and agriculture awaits. Quiet country roads lead through coconut groves, sugarcane fields, banana plantations, and traditional farming villages, offering an authentic glimpse into the everyday life of rural Tamil Nadu. This is a rewarding day of cycling, with opportunities to witness the rhythms of village life and the agricultural traditions that have sustained these communities for generations. Your destination is the peaceful village of Athoor, set on the shores of the scenic Kamarajar Lake near Dindigul. Home to a close-knit farming community, Athoor provides a rare opportunity to experience the warmth and hospitality of rural Tamil Nadu away from the usual tourist trail. Staying in a charming heritage-style country home, you'll have time to explore the village on foot, meet local farming families, learn about traditional agricultural practices, and enjoy gentle birdwatching around the lake. This immersive cultural experience is a highlight of the journey, offering a genuine connection with the people, landscapes, and rural heritage that define the heart of South India. Riding forward, we leave the mountains behind us and cycle down towards the great plains of Tamilnadu. Our destination is the small village on the banks of the Kamaraj Lake, near Dindigul. The scenic ride will be passing through coconut groves, sugar cane fields, small villages and towns. The village of Athoor is itself very small and is home to a thriving farming community. Here we will stay at a beautiful country home and spend the day in the village meeting the local farmers, going on walks & bird watching.

Day 6 - 7: Temples of Madurai

Today's ride brings you to the historic city of Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in India and the cultural heart of Tamil Nadu. Cycling across the fertile plains, you'll arrive in a city whose rich heritage spans more than 2,000 years. Once the capital of the ancient Pandya Kingdom and a thriving centre of the Sangam era, Madurai continues to be a vibrant crossroads of history, religion, art, and commerce. A full afternoon is dedicated to exploring the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, one of India's greatest masterpieces of Dravidian architecture. Accompanied by your guide, discover its soaring, vividly coloured gopurams (gateway towers), intricately carved halls, and sacred spaces that have attracted pilgrims for centuries. Beyond its architectural splendour, the temple remains the spiritual and cultural heart of the city, where ancient traditions, rituals, classical Carnatic music, and Bharatanatyam dance continue to flourish. Continue your exploration through the bustling streets and traditional markets surrounding the temple, where flower sellers, spice merchants, and artisan workshops offer a fascinating insight into everyday life in Madurai. The day concludes with an authentic South Indian vegetarian feast, served in the region's celebrated culinary tradition—a fitting finale to an immersive journey into the history, culture, and living heritage of Tamil Nadu. Today we will cycle to the great city of Madurai. We will spend an additional day to discover this ancient city & will visit the Madurai Meenakshi temple in the afternoon. Established in the Sangam period of the pre Christian era, this bustling town in Tamil Nadu is famous for ancient temple - the Meenakshi Temple. During that time the town was planned around the temple in the shape of a lotus. The beautiful architecture of some of the temples that can be seen today is attributed to this history - the architectural genius of the Meenakshi temple, the multi colored gopurams of the other temples, classical Carnatic music and bharatnatyam (a classical dance born in the temples of South). After visiting the temple & surrounding market with a guide, it is time for us to tuck into some excellent traditional vegetarian fare.

Day 8: Chettinad

Today's ride takes you through the heart of the Chettinad region, one of Tamil Nadu's most distinctive cultural landscapes. Quiet country roads wind through fertile farmland, traditional villages, ancient temples, and avenues lined with tamarind and banyan trees, offering an intimate glimpse into rural life and the enduring traditions of southern India. Chettinad is the ancestral homeland of the Nattukottai Chettiar community, renowned for its entrepreneurial legacy, magnificent mansions, and one of India's most celebrated regional cuisines. Explore villages where opulent heritage homes—many with over a hundred rooms—stand as remarkable examples of 19th-century architecture, reflecting a unique blend of Tamil craftsmanship and international influences gathered through centuries of maritime trade. Your day concludes with a stay in a beautifully restored Chettinad heritage bungalow, where period architecture, antique furnishings, and warm hospitality offer a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era. Savour the region's world-renowned cuisine, celebrated for its bold spices and aromatic flavours, and, if you wish, discover the secrets behind these time-honoured recipes through a traditional cooking experience. Combining rewarding cycling, exceptional heritage accommodation, remarkable architecture, and authentic cultural experiences, Chettinad is one of the most memorable highlights of this luxury coast-to-coast cycling holiday through South India.  

Day 9: At Tanjore

Today's ride takes you deeper into the fertile heart of Tamil Nadu, through the rich agricultural landscapes of the Cauvery Delta, often referred to as the "Rice Bowl of South India." Cycling along quiet rural roads, you'll pass vast paddy fields, coconut groves, traditional villages, and bustling local markets, gaining a fascinating insight into the farming communities whose lives have been shaped by the life-giving waters of the Cauvery River for centuries. Your destination is Thanjavur (Tanjore), one of South India's great cultural capitals and the historic centre of the mighty Chola Empire. A UNESCO-recognised heritage city, Thanjavur is renowned for its extraordinary contribution to temple architecture, classical arts, literature, music, and sculpture. Over the centuries, the city flourished under the Cholas, Nayaks, and Marathas, each leaving a lasting imprint on its rich cultural landscape. Accompanied by your guide, visit the magnificent Brihadeeswara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest achievements of Chola architecture. Built by the emperor Raja Raja Chola I over a thousand years ago, this awe-inspiring temple remains one of India's most remarkable monuments. Continue to the historic Royal Palace complex and the renowned Saraswathi Mahal Library, home to an exceptional collection of ancient manuscripts and rare works of scholarship. You will also discover the artistic traditions for which Thanjavur is famous, including exquisite bronze sculpture and the celebrated Tanjore style of painting, distinguished by its vibrant colours, gold embellishments, and intricate depictions of Hindu deities. Rich in history, culture, and architectural splendour, Thanjavur offers an unforgettable immersion into the artistic and spiritual heritage of Tamil Nadu. We will take the ride through the countryside to the famed Chettiar village. Chettinad is well known for its local cuisine, architecture, and religious temples. "Chettinad" also means a social caste specialising in the preparation of food. Chettinads are considered master chefs, and Chettinad cuisine is one of the spiciest and the most aromatic in India. This small town is also famed for its houses – large, colourful and with rooms numbering more than 100! This is also great countryside for cycling through the fascinating Tamil countryside with its great swathes of farmlands, rural farming communities, temples and massive Chettinad Mansions. But what truly makes the stay here is the wonderfully delicious Chettinad cuisine & maybe a chance to learn the secrets of this fascinating culinary art.  

Day 10: The Coromandel Coast

Today's ride carries you across the fertile Cauvery River Delta, often called the "Rice Bowl of South India," where vast emerald paddy fields, coconut groves, and thriving farming villages illustrate why this region has been the agricultural heartland of Tamil Nadu for over two millennia. Quiet country roads pass through a timeless rural landscape shaped by the life-giving waters of the River Cauvery, offering wonderful opportunities to experience the rhythms of village life and the rich farming traditions that continue to sustain generations of local communities. By afternoon, you reach the Coromandel Coast and the historic seaside town of Tharangambadi, better known by its Danish name, Tranquebar. Founded as a Danish trading settlement in 1620, it became the headquarters of the Danish East India Company and one of Europe's earliest trading outposts in India. Its remarkably preserved colonial architecture, imposing Dansborg Fort, historic churches, and quiet streets overlooking the Bay of Bengal evoke a fascinating chapter in India's maritime history, where European merchants traded textiles, spices, and other precious commodities with kingdoms across South India. Tonight, stay in a beautifully restored heritage hotel overlooking the sea, where colonial elegance, coastal charm, and warm hospitality provide the perfect setting to reflect on another memorable day of cycling. Combining rewarding riding through the fertile Cauvery Delta with the rich history and heritage of Tranquebar, today is one of the most distinctive highlights of your luxury coast-to-coast cycling holiday through South India.  

Day 11: French Heritage at Pondicherry

Today's coastal ride follows the scenic Coromandel Coast to Puducherry (Pondicherry), the former capital of French India and one of South India's most captivating heritage towns. Palm-fringed beaches, fishing villages, salt pans, and quiet rural roads provide a relaxed day's cycling before you arrive in a town where French elegance blends seamlessly with Tamil culture. Founded by the French East India Company in 1674, Puducherry remained under French administration until 1954, leaving behind a unique architectural and cultural legacy unlike anywhere else in India. Explore the atmospheric French Quarter, where mustard-coloured colonial villas, leafy boulevards, cafés, and elegant churches evoke the charm of southern France. Cross the canal into the vibrant Tamil Quarter to discover traditional courtyard homes, bustling markets, colourful temples, and lively streets that reveal the city's rich Indian heritage. Together, these contrasting neighbourhoods tell the story of two cultures that have coexisted for centuries. This evening, stay in a beautifully restored heritage bungalow in the heart of the historic Tamil Quarter. Carefully preserved with its original architecture and timeless character, it offers an authentic glimpse into Puducherry's rich past while providing boutique comfort and warm hospitality. Combining relaxed coastal cycling, fascinating colonial history, exceptional heritage accommodation, and immersive cultural experiences, Puducherry is a memorable highlight of this luxury coast-to-coast cycling holiday through South India.  

Day 12 -13: Shore Temples at Mahabalipuram

Your final day of cycling follows the scenic East Coast Road to the historic seaside town of Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), bringing your remarkable coast-to-coast journey across South India to a fitting conclusion. Overlooking the Bay of Bengal, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of India's greatest archaeological treasures, where spectacular stone monuments, ancient maritime history, and coastal charm combine to create an unforgettable finale to your cycling holiday. Built during the 7th and 8th centuries under the powerful Pallava dynasty, Mahabalipuram was one of the most important ports on the ancient maritime trade routes linking South India with Southeast Asia. The town flourished under King Narasimhavarman I, known as Mamalla ("the Great Wrestler"), from whom Mamallapuram derives its name. The Pallava rulers transformed the granite outcrops into masterpieces of early Dravidian architecture, marking an important transition from monolithic rock-cut monuments to freestanding stone temples that would later inspire temple architecture throughout southern India. Accompanied by your guide, explore the extraordinary UNESCO monuments, including the iconic Shore Temple, one of the oldest structural stone temples in South India, dramatically overlooking the sea. Discover the beautifully carved Five Rathas, each sculpted from a single granite boulder, the elegant cave temples (mandapas), and the magnificent Descent of the Ganges, also known as Arjuna's Penance—one of the world's largest open-air rock reliefs, stretching nearly 30 metres across and depicting scenes from Hindu mythology with astonishing artistry and detail. Beyond its remarkable monuments, Mahabalipuram remains a thriving centre for traditional stone carving. Wander through artisan workshops where sculptors continue skills handed down through generations, transforming granite into exquisite works of art much as their ancestors did over 1,300 years ago. Staying in a carefully selected boutique hotel by the sea, you'll have time to soak up the relaxed coastal atmosphere and reflect on an extraordinary journey that has taken you from Kerala's spice-covered mountains, across the Western Ghats and the fertile plains of Tamil Nadu, to the timeless shores of the Bay of Bengal.

Day 14: Departure Home

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Chennai International Airport, bringing your unforgettable coast-to-coast cycling adventure to a close. From the lush landscapes of Kerala and the spectacular Western Ghats to the cultural treasures of Tamil Nadu and the shores of the Bay of Bengal, this journey has showcased the very best of South India. Rich in heritage, boutique accommodation, authentic local experiences, and rewarding cycling, it leaves you with lasting memories of an extraordinary responsible travel holiday.

Inclusions

• Accommodation
• Meal Plan as shown (13 breakfast & 7 dinners; field lunch on cycling days)
• Refreshments and bottled water while cycling
• Cycling guide (will ride along with you)
• Cycles (Cannondale/ Giant / TREK / Bergamont)
• Helmets / Gel seats if required
• Sightseeing with local culture guides at Kochi, Madurai, Tanjore & Mahabalipuram
• Aircon vehicles for all transfers & as cycle carrier.
• Driver’s & Guide’s allowances, toll, parking
• Permits & permissions to enter forest areas & monuments

Holiday Feedback

Route Maps

FAQs

Q. Are cycles provided for this tour?
Cycles are provided for the tour

Q. Can I hire Ebikes?

Yes, there will be a supplement

Q. What type of cycles are provided?
We provide CANONDALE / TREK / GIANT cycles.

Q. Will I get choice of my size?
We can provide frame sizes from 13” to 21”.

Q. Can I get my own cycle?
Yes, you can, but do let us know in advance.

Q. What other equipment are provided?
Standard items provided with the cycles are Pedals, Bar ends, water bottles and Helmets. We however recommend you bring your own helmets and camelbaks.

Q. What about transfers?
All transportation is included in the cost including airport pick up & drop at the nearest airport. The vehicle is also used to ferry your luggage , cycle & yourself as required.

Q. What kind of terrain can I expect?
The terrain consists of both level roads and mountainous terrain.

Q. What are the distances cycled each day?
We will send you this with the detailed itinerary.

Q. Are meals included in the package?
Most meals are included. The itinerary will have the details.

Q. What do I do if I’m too tired to cycle?
There is a vehicle that accompanies you throughout the trip. You can load the cycle on to carriers and take a ride it till you are ready to cycle again.

Q. Are panniers provided?
No but can do on specific request.

Q. Do we have a guide who cycles with us?
Yes, our guide will cycle with you throughout the trip.

Q. Do we get to shop along the way.
Yes, you will get opportunities en-route to do a bit of shopping. However, unless specifically asked for, our guides will not recommend any particular shop. We or our guides do not take commissions on shopping.

Q. Do we get to interact with local people?
You will get lot of opportunities to interact with local people and the itinerary specifically designed for such interactions.
Q. Does our visit help the local community in any way?
Yes, Most of the places you would be staying at are in small homestays, family owned resorts or camps and eco lodges managed by local community members . Your guides are selected from amongst the locals.

Q. Are entries into national parks, treks, elephant rides etc. included in the package?
No, all entries and activities will be charged extra but at actuals.

Q. Is the water available en-route safe to drink?
We recommend that you drink only the bottled water provided by us or if you are buying water, ensure that the bottle is sealed and has an ISI mark (India Standards Institute).

Q. How spicy is the food?
Typically Kerala food is spicy. We ensure that the food we provide is medium spicy unless you ask for bland food. Any special food requirements can be met if sufficient advance notice is given.

Q. Do we get an option of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food?
Yes

Q. What is the type of accommodation?
Accommodation provided is a combination of heritage villas, Eco Lodges & luxury Tents - all with a common thread of excellence in service. Most are family owned and run with great care and love. Food is a very important part of these journeys and we have ensured that Keralan cuisine is a part of this adventure. Our prices are based on 'twin-sharing' basis. For those interested, we provide single rooms, but at additional cost. While staying at the camp we provide all essentials including sleeping bags. A open-air barbeque around camp fire is another highlight of this adventure.

Q. What are the Exclusions ?
• Insurance - Please take your own insurance
• Tips to the guide and driver
• Personal expenses like beverages, laundry, telephone bills etc..
• Airport departure taxes (if any)

Q. Do we need a VISA ?
Yes, visitors to India must obtain a Visa before departure.

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