South India Western Ghats Cycling Tour
Destination
South India
Duration
15 Days
Activity
Cycling
Grade
Beginner
Stays
Premium
Price
$2700
Departures Available
November 26, 2023
- December 10, 2023
Goa to Kerala Sahyadri Mountain Cycling Tour
South India – Western Ghats Ride is an epic cycling tour connecting the highlight destinations across one of the oldest mountain ranges in the World. This scenic mountain range with its tropical evergreen forest, a wide variety of flora and fauna and perennial rivers leverage monsoons and the overall climate of the region. The area is home to ethnic tribes like Badaga, Toda, Kota, Kurumba, Irula, Nayaka & Kani tribes. These tribes live in perfect harmony with nature and forests. However, the ever-growing human activity, requirement of housing and industrial land is detrimental to the fragile ecosystem of the Ghats. The government of India and forest departments has implemented key policies to effectively protect the region’s natural diversity. Undoubtedly, the best way to explore this immensely biodiverse and ecologically sensitive mountain range is on bikes.
We will commence our ride from the sunny beach of Goa and ride along the coastal fishermen villages through Gokarna and Shiroor. Then we cut across the Agumbe forest to reach the rural Koppa. Further, we ride toward the scenic Chickamagaluru and reach the vast expanse of coffee plantations at Balur. Here on, we will ride to Hassan and see the 13th-century Chennakesava temple, an epitome of Hoysala Architecture. We will ride through villages and suburbs to the palace city of Mysore to spent an additional break day to recharge ourselves.
We will drive through the Bandipur and Mudumalai National Park which are prime tiger hotspots of South India. We will join for a jeep safari in the National park where Elephant, Gaur, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Wild Boar, Malabar Parakeet, and the Grey-headed Bulbul are common sightings. Further, we ride up the Nilgiris (Blue Mountains) towards Ooty and spend overnight at the enchanting Coonoor. After a heritage train ride through stretches of Tea Plantations and valleys, we will reach the agrarian village of Pollachi for authentic village experiences. Next days, we ride through the misty tea hills of Valparai, the breathtaking waterfalls of Athirapally and further along the river Chalakkudy towards the colonial town of Fort Kochi for a history tour.
PS: If you have a couple of days left, our beach and backwater add-on tour program (3 days) offers cycling to the fishermen’s village of Marari, relax by the pristine beach here and witness the traditional martial arts. Another day will be spent exploring the backwaters village on a kayak through the meandering narrow canals and have lunch on banana leaf at a traditional family homestay.
Tour Highlights
Cycling along the enchanting Konkan Sea Coast
Travelers can experience the breathtaking beauty of the Konkan coast while cycling through small villages, pristine beaches, and coconut groves, with stops at ancient forts and temples.
Sacred town of Gokarna
Visitors can explore the ancient temples and beaches of the sacred town of Gokarna, known for its spiritual significance and scenic beauty, with opportunities for trekking and water sports.
Cycling across coffee capital of Balur
Take a scenic ride through the coffee plantations of Balur, with stops at coffee factories and tasting sessions, and explore the local village life and culture.
Nature and rustic countryside of South India
Discover the tranquil and rustic countryside of South India, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring local plantations and farms.
Heritage city of Mysore
History buffs can explore the grandeur and architectural marvels of the heritage city of Mysore, including the magnificent Mysore Palace, museums, and cultural performances.
Ancient Hoysala Temples of Hassan
Visitors can marvel at the ancient and intricate architecture of the Hoysala temples in Hassan, with a mix of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist influences, and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
Cycling through the biodiversity hotspot of Western Ghats
Cycling enthusiasts can ride through the lush and diverse landscape of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with opportunities for wildlife spotting, trekking, and camping.
Wildlife safari in Bandipur National Park
Nature lovers can embark on a tour of the prime national parks of South India, including Bandipur, Nagarhole, and Mudumalai, and spot a wide range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.
Enchanting Nilgiri hills of Ooty
Travelers can experience the enchanting beauty of the Nilgiris in Ooty, with its rolling hills, tea plantations, and scenic lakes, and indulge in activities such as boating, trekking, and camping.
Rustic village of Pollachi Tamil Nadu
Visitors can experience the simple and rustic village life of Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, with opportunities for exploring the local farms, plantations, and handicrafts, and enjoying traditional cuisine and cultural performances.
Misty tea hills of Valparari
Visitors can take a misty and scenic drive through the tea hills of Valparai, with breathtaking views of the Western Ghats, and indulge in activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and visiting local tea factories.
Magnificent waterfall of Athirapally
Travelers can marvel at the stunning and powerful Athirapally waterfall, known as the Niagara of India, and enjoy activities such as boating, trekking, and wildlife spotting in the surrounding forest.
Sightseeing of the colonial Fort Kochi
History lovers can explore the colonial heritage of Fort Kochi, with its quaint streets, historic churches, and ancient Chinese fishing nets, and indulge in local cuisine and shopping.
Itinerary
Day 1: The tranquil beach of South Goa
Activity: Arrival, Bike Fitting, Free day
Meals: Breakfast
Our guide will pick you from Goa International Airport. We will drive for roughly 90 mins through the village roads with a view of Portuguese styled houses, Churches, Mangroves, Coconut and Cashew trees, restaurants serving Goan Fish Thali and favorite beverage – the Feni brewed from the juicy Cashew fruit. We drive along the silent beaches of Varca & Cavelossim to reach the tranquil beach in South Goa. Here we spend overnight in a cozy wood cottage nestled in palm groves adjacent to the pristine beach. After you settle down, the bike fitting is scheduled for the afternoon. Rest of the day, you can relax by the beach and prepare for the Western Ghats Ride ahead.
Day 2: Cycling to Gokarna
Activity: Cycling to Gokarna along the Coast, River crossing on local ferry, Evening Walk at the beach, Optional Boat Ride to Paradise Beach
Activity Distance : 95 Kms
Terrain : Undulating coastal backroads
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Crossing the Goa state border, we will transfer you to Karwar in Karnataka which will take an hour and a half. The drive will be through the hilly undulating terrain with sparse forest and woody patches. En route, you can also view the sea shaking hands with the river Kali. We will cross the river on a Ferry along with the locals. From here, we start cycling towards our first destination – Gokarna. Further, we ride on the backcountry roads, mostly flat terrain with the view of fishing harbors, Coconut, Cashew, and Mango Tree groves along the western coast. We will finish today’s ride at a scenic nature resort in Gokarna. Being a prime pilgrim center in South India, Gokarna is famous for the 4th century CE Sri Mahabaleshwara Swami Temple. According to legend, the Atma Linga – the Soul of Lord Shiva is worshipped here. Hence, it is believed that the Mahabaleshwara temple is one of seven temples to be visited for attaining Moksha. In the evening, you will be visiting tranquil Ohm Beach for a sunset walk followed by a special dinner at the beachside restaurant.
Day 3: Cycling to Shiroor
Activity: Cycling to Murudeshwar, Temple visit, Transfer to hotel
Activity Distance : 111 Kms
Terrain : Undulating coastal backroads
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, we will start our bike ride further south, along the coastal road with the view of the Arabian Sea in the west. We will pass through the fishermen villages of Honnavar and Manki with their off-grid beaches, fish markets, and small temples. We will cross the Aghnashini and Sharavati river and ride through a combination of flat and undulating backroads. En route, we will visit the majestic Murudheshwar Temple standing 20 stories tall in the coastal village of Bhatkala. A mechanical lift will take you to the roof of the temple. From here, you can see the gigantic statue of Lord Shiva sitting gracefully with blessing mudra with the vast sea in the backdrop. Further, we drive crossing the Venkatapur and Chowtani River and enter the gateway of the lush green and biodiverse Western Ghats to wind up our ride at an old-styled eco-resort.
Day 4: Cycling to Koppa
Activity: Cycling to Koppa through Ghat Roads, Plantation walk, Transfer to hotel
Activity Distance : 147 Kms
Terrain : Undulating forest & ghat roads with hairpin bends
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
From Shiroor, we further ride south to cross the Byndoor, and Yadamavu River and ride through the narrow stretch between the scenic Maravante Beach and the Kolluru river. We will further orient east towards the most enthralling sections of western Ghats. Initially, we ride through flat village roads with farms, temples, and dwellings. Further, we ride steep uphill through the Agumbe forest area. The unique rainforest ecosystem here serves as one of the top habitats for the great reptile species – the King Cobra. We will progress our ride through hilly and undulating terrain with the scenic view of valleys, winding roads, hairpin bends, and swatches of Coffee Estates. In the last section, we drive towards the rural destination of Koppa bordering the Chikkamagaluru district. We will wind up today’s endeavor in a traditional and well-kept homestay with 300 years of lineage.
Day 5: Cycling to Balur
Activity: Cycling to Balur through Plantations, Coffee Plantation walk at Balur Estate
Activity Distance : 70 Kms
Terrain : Undulating ghat roads
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We start today’s ride through the undulating and hilly terrain of Chikkamagaluru towards Balur. We transverse through the high mountains of the region with the view of scenic landscape, slithering rivers, waterfalls and lush vegetation. After riding past 70 Kms, 6 hours, we will wind up today’s endeavor to reach a rustic bungalow nestled in a 400-acre expanse of Coffee plantation located at a height of 1100m above sea level. The ideal weather and rainfall make Chikkamagaluru, the coffee capital of India alongside the Kodagu district in Karnataka. Established in the year 1826 by the British, these numerous plantations provide employment to the local population invariably. The centuries-old plantation and the time-tested planter’s bungalow is more than a tale on the history of coffee cultivation in India. We unfold the coffee heritage of the estate during the plantation walk scheduled in the evening.
Day 6: Cycling to Hassan
Activity: Cycling to Hassan through Villages, Visit Chennakesava and Hoysaleshwara Temple, Transfer to hotel
Activity Distance : 97 Kms
Terrain : Undulating suburb roads
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, we again ride on undulating terrain through the small agrarian villages of Mudigere with coffee and spice plantations. Further, we will ride along the Yagachi water reservoir to reach the temple town of Somanathapura, Belur. The town is renowned for the Chennakesava temple dedicated to Lord Kesava / Vishnu located on the banks of river Kaveri. The 13th-century temple is the epitome of exceptional Hoysala architecture. The temple has very finesse stone carving and inscriptions depicting ancient Hindu scriptures Mahabharata, Bhagavata Purana, and Ramayana. If time allows, we will further drive to Halebidu to visit the Hoysaleshwara temple dedicated to Lord Kesava, After the temple visits, we drive through the back-country roads to reach the rustic Hassan and wind down at a scenic village resort.
Day 7: Cycling to Mysore
Activity: Cycling to Mysore via backroad
Activity Distance : 120 Kms
Terrain : Undulating suburb roads
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning, after breakfast, we leave Hassan and ride through the rural roads towards the city of Mysore also called Mysuru. Today, the terrain will be undulating with a slight downhill. We will pass through villages with a vast stretch of cultivated lands, tobacco plantations, vegetable farms and small temples along the way. We ride alongside the Krishna Raja Sagara lake which is the confluence point of Sacred river Kaveri and its tributaries. Kaveri river is also the basis of Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary which supports a variety of avian species in the region. Once this land was affected by famines and droughts severely affected the local cultivation and livelihood. It was until 1911 a dam was constructed by the Maharaja of Mysore and the issue was mitigated. Further, we drive the last short stretch to reach the palace city of Mysore and wind down at a cozy hotel.
Day 8: Break day at Mysore
Activity: Mysore Sightseeing, Visit Palace, Chamundi Hill & Devaraja Market walk
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
It’s a break day for cycling and today we set out for the sightseeing tour of Mysore city. Mysore is an ancient city with more than 600 glorious years of legacy. Known for its glittering royal heritage, bustling markets, magnificent monuments, cosmopolitan culture, and a friendly populace. The city is also a thriving center for the production of premium silk, sandalwood, and incense. We visit the famous Mysore Palace with its Durbar Hall and the Golden Royal Elephant Throne. We will further visit Chamundi Hill to have a panoramic view of Mysore city. Further, we will visit the ancient Chamundeshwari temple and the Nandi temple with its giant stone sculpture of a sitting bull dedicated to God Nandi. We will wind up the sightseeing tour with an evening walk through the old-time Devaraja Market packed with its flowers, fruits, and vegetable stalls.
Day 9: Cycling to Masinagudi
Activity: Cycling to Bandipur via villages, Drive through Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary, Jeep Safari
Activity Distance : 95 Kms
Terrain : Undulating suburb & forest roads
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We will start today’s ride through the outskirts of Mysore city crossing the Kabani River, settlements, and small temples. Reaching Bandipur, we will stop cycling and drive through two of the prominent wildlife sanctuaries in South India – Bandipur and Mudumalai. This scenic and biodiverse section of Western Ghats is categorized as Nilgiri Biosphere, one of the largest in South India. The national parks here are primarily dedicated to conserving endangered habitat of the tiger. Here, we go for a jeep safari in the Tiger reserve. Look out for the commonly seen species like the Elephant, Gaur, Mouse deer, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Wild Boar, Malabar Parakeet, and the Grey-headed Bulbul. After the Safari, we drive to cozy accommodation in Masinagudi.
Day 10: Cycling to Coonoor
Activity: Cycling to Coonoor, Optional visit to Lamb’s rock view point
Activity Distance : 55 Kms
Terrain : Undulating forest and ghat roads with numerous hairpin bends
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, we start the ride, to take on the grueling high-altitude hairpin bends along the villages with tea, and vegetable plantations to reach the hill station Coonoor. You will ride past Udhagamandalam or Ooty situated approx. 2000m above sea level. The little colonial town is known for its English-styled cottages that have unique teak floors, tiled roofs, and chimneys, resemble a movie scene from another era. The land is framed by the lush tea gardens while you ride to Coonoor. We will wind down today’s ride at a cozy boutique hotel in the scenic town. Evening, we will find time to visit Lamb’s rock an eco-point offering a great view of the vast plains of Tamil Nadu, plantations, forests and ravines.
Day 11: Cycling to Pollachi
Activity: Heritage train ride through tea hills and villages, Transfer from Mettupalayam to Pollachi, Countryside cycling through sugarcane and coconut farms
Activity Distance : 30 Kms
Terrain : Downhill ghat roads, Undulating suburb roads
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning, we board the heritage train for a remarkable monorail journey through spectacular vistas as we descend to the popular hill station of Coonoor. The railway still relies on its fleet of steam locomotives and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The train journey through villages and pine forests offers a mesmerizing view of manicured tea plantations and scenic valleys. Alighting from the train, we ride through the backcountry roads to Mettupalayam and further to Pollachi – a small agrarian town located at the foothills of the Nilgiris known for its jaggery, vegetables, and cattle market. The terrain will be continuous downhill and undulating, then flat and windy towards the last stretch. We will settle down at a serene plantation resort amidst coconut groves in the quaint agrarian village.
Day 12: Cycling to Valparai
Activity: Cycling to Valparai via Reserve Forests, Tea Plantation Visit
Activity Distance : 75 Kms
Terrain : Plains & Uphill Backroads
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We start our ride through the vast plains of Pollachi with the view of Aliyar Lake, Coconut Plantations and rustic villages. We reenter the Western Ghats to traverse between Anamalai Tiger Reserve and the Alliyar Reserve forest. Further, you will be riding uphill through the exhilarating 42 Hairpin bend roads with stunning views of the Tamil Nadu hinterland. The terrain is hilly with scenic tea plantations and countryside roads. Keep a lookout for the Lion-Tailed Macaque sighting here. We will reach the decade-old Plantation Bungalows in Valparai to wind up the ride. In the morning, you can explore the misty and manicured tea plantation to have a closer look of the tea plucking, processing and also to taste refreshing tea.
Day 13: Cycling to Athirapally
Activity: Transfer & Cycling to Athirapally via Sholayar forests, Visit Athirapally Waterfall
Activity Distance : 26 Kms
Terrain : Undulating hilly backcountry roads
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Morning, we start our ride through the undulating backcountry roads towards Athirapally. We pass by the Sholayar Dam and see numerous Tea and Coffee plantation which were introduced by the British planters in the 19th century. No doubt that the high-altitude climate here is most suitable for cultivation of these cash crops. We will end todays ride at Malakapara to board the transport and drive through the restricted core Sholayar Forest Ranges. Reaching Athirapally village, we will set out to visit the spectacular Athirapally waterfall here. The view of enormous water gushing down from the mountain and crashing into the river bed is breath-taking. The region is also known for its rich biodiversity and home to a wide variety of wildlife including the Great Indian Hornbill. It was a blessing that a major Hydro Electric Project planned here was abandoned due to the opposition from the environmental activists.
Day 14: Cycling to Fort Cochin
Activity: Cycling through villages along plantations & canals, Afternoon Fort Kochi Sightseeing, Kathakali Dance Performance
Activity Distance : 45 Kms
Terrain : Mostly downhill countryside roads
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, you will ride the downhill and undulating country roads along the Chalakudy river. You will be seeing many villages, irrigation canals, rubber and palm plantations on the way. We will embark the transport before we hit the bustling city traffic. We drive to Fort Kochi – the queen of the Arabian Sea. Afternoon, we will go out for the History tour of Fort Kochi to know more about its colonial heritage. Once been a major port and trade Centre, it evolved as a settlement hotspot for numerous merchants from across the world. The gradual intermingling of their cultures for centuries has made Fort Kochi a unique heritage city to visit. We will walk through the Jew street, flea market, watch the creaking Chinese fishing nets, and the sunset. Later, a traditional Kathakali dance performance will be showcased. It will be nice to check out the local restaurants for a dinner before winding up in a comfy hotel.
Day 15: Cochin Airport
It’s the time to say Adieu, with fond memories of the ride through the biodiverse and culture-rich Western Ghats. We will be happy to drop you at the Cochin International Airport. If you have a couple of days more left, the add-on tour program offers more experiences of the beach and backwaters of Kerala as you can read through below.
Route Map
Inclusions
- Accompanying English Speaking Guide
- Geared Bicycles (Trek / Giant / Cannondale / Scott)
- Accommodation in Twin Share
- Meals as mentioned
- Snacks, Beverages & Drinking Water
- Activities as mentioned
- Entry Fees at Forest, Monuments, Plantation, Museums etc
- Transfers in AC vehicle
- Airport Pickup and Drop
- Toll, Vehicle Permit & Parking
- Government taxes
Exclusions
- Airfare
- Travel Insurance
- Personal Expenses
- Gratitude
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