E-Bike Tour in Rural Kerala

Tour Overview

Experience the heart of rural Kerala on an e-bike excursion, a tranquil journey through picturesque landscapes adorned with backwaters, beaches, forests, spice gardens, and rubber plantations. Commencing from Kochi, this cycling escapade encapsulates the essence of Kerala's culture and natural splendor. From the historic charm of Fort Kochi to the ancient port of Muziris, from the lush lowland forests to the bird-watching haven of Thattekkad, and from rustic country houses to local village explorations, every moment of this eight-day rural cycling odyssey promises unique encounters. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of rural life and emerge at journey's end rejuvenated and revitalized

Day 1: Kochi

On your first day of this thrilling cycling holiday in Kerala, you'll begin by arriving at Kochi International Airport and then transferring to Fort Kochi. Nestled among islands and narrow peninsulas, Kochi is a city renowned for its cultural richness. After settling in and preparing your bikes, you'll have the opportunity to explore Fort Kochi. Highlights include visiting the synagogue and the Dutch palace, browsing through the shops on Jew Street, and witnessing the iconic Chinese fishing nets at the harbor. Your evening will be enchanted by performances from diverse classical dancers representing various regions of Kerala.

Day 2: Beach & Backwater ride

  Starting early in the morning, your day begins with a short ferry ride to Vypin Island. From there, your cycling adventure kicks off, passing through coastal villages along the beach and navigating alongside the serene Kochi backwaters. The route takes you through picturesque landscapes including paddy fields, fish farms, coconut groves, and expansive beaches, ultimately leading you to the ancient port of Muziris. Once a dominant hub of the spice trade, Muziris offers historical landmarks such as the restored Chendamangalam synagogue, the Cheraman mosque, and the renovated palace of Palliath Achan, former rulers of Kochi. Your journey culminates at a tranquil country home nestled amidst the backwaters, covering a cycling distance of 45 kilometers for the day.  

Day 3: Ride along the Periyar River Rapids

  The day begins with an early morning ride towards the foothills of the Western Ghats. As you cycle through the rural Kerala countryside, the landscape gradually transforms, giving way to lush spice farms and sprawling rubber plantations. Your destination awaits at a meticulously designed resort near one of Kerala's renowned rivers, the Periyar, where the distant roar of its rapids echoes through the mountains. Today's cycling journey covers a distance of 40 kilometers.  

Day 4: The Lowland Forests of Thattekkad

  Today's journey leads you towards one of India's premier bird watching destinations—the lowland forests of Thattekkad, renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Here, you can marvel at over 275 bird species, 76 types of butterflies, and 30 species of reptiles. Wildlife enthusiasts can also spot elephants, Sambar deer, wild dogs, civet cats, and more. Your accommodation for the night is the rustic Hornbill camp, nestled along the banks of the Periyar River, just opposite the sanctuary. After enjoying a traditional lunch at the gazebo with a view of the river, take the opportunity to explore the rainforests across the river. These lush forests are home to endemic bird species such as the vibrant Malabar Parakeets and the striking Malabar Trogons. Later in the day, a guided walk through a local village offers insights into the lives of the farming community. You'll witness their daily routines amidst rubber, coconut, pepper, and ginger plantations. The villages are known for their warm hospitality, ensuring you feel welcome among them. Today's cycling route spans 40 kilometers, offering a blend of nature, wildlife, and cultural immersion.  

Day 5: Thodupuzha

  Leaving from Thattekkad, the Kerala cycling tour proceeds alongside the tranquil banks of the Periyar River towards Thodupuzha, a charming and scenic town. The route winds through verdant spice farms and expansive rubber plantations, offering picturesque views along the way. Your cycling journey culminates at a riverside resort where you can unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings. During your stay, take a leisurely walk through the nearby spice belts, where you can encounter spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and flourishing pepper vines. This leg of the journey spans 40 kilometers, combining scenic beauty with opportunities to explore Kerala's rich agricultural heritage.  

Day 6: Pala

  After breakfast, your journey continues through picturesque villages and scenic countryside to reach an organic spice farm. As you pedal along, you'll pass through rubber plantations and verdant paddy fields before arriving at Mundakkal Plantation homestay, a century-old farmhouse built in Kerala's traditional architectural style. Nestled amidst lush paddy fields and fragrant spice plantations, this villa is where Joseph and his family reside. At Mundakkal Plantation, Joseph's son, a naturalist, will guide you on walks through the farm and the surrounding village. You'll have opportunities to explore nearby hills, interact with local residents, and delve into the nuances of Syrian Christian cooking, especially their renowned meats and pickles. Additionally, nearby Ayurvedic centers offer rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages. Today's cycling route covers 35 kilometers, offering a blend of cultural immersion, culinary experiences, and natural beauty in Kerala's countryside.  

Day 7: Backwater Village

  As you wake up to a breathtaking sunrise in the village, you'll witness the start of another day for the villagers—school children heading to school, farmers tending to their fields, and toddy tappers collecting coconut sap for toddy production. Your cycling route follows narrow country roads, leading you to a backwater heritage villa nestled along the serene backwaters. This tranquil setting provides an ideal spot to indulge in a rejuvenating Kerala Ayurvedic massage in the evening, marking a perfect conclusion to your rural cycling adventure in Kerala. Today's journey spans 45 kilometers, offering a blend of cultural immersion, local life experiences, and relaxation amidst Kerala's scenic beauty.  

Day 8: Depart

This marks the end of an exciting rural cycling holiday.   

Inclusions

• E-bike ride
• Accommodation with most Meals
• Transfers by AC car 
• E-bikes or normal bikes
• Accompanying Biking guide
• Mineral water & Refreshments during cycling
• All applicable taxes. 

Holiday Feedback

Route Maps

FAQs

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

Q. Are E-bikes provided for this tour?
E-bikes are provided for the tour

Q. Is E-bike hire included in the cost?
Yes.

Q. Will I get choice of my size?
Mid size Ebikes will be provided

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 level roads and the quite countryside most of the way.

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 and you can take a lift.

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.

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