Cycle the Coast of Kerala

Cycle the Coast of Kerala

8 Days Starting in Kochi (Cochin) and ending in Varkala

Visiting: India

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

MIA

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 14

Physical rating:

Easy & Moderate

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Please inform Exodus of specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Cycling

From: $2248 $2025 Operator discount: -$223

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Kerala is seemingly tailormade for an easy-going cycling adventure: an idyllic coastline, tranquil backwaters, and a welcoming population always ready with a wave or a smile. On this guided adventure, we cycle from the old spice port of Kochi (Cochin) to the sweeping beaches of Varkala. That’s balanced with time to experience the local culture: sampling South Indian cuisine, spending a night in a village homestay and cruising the backwaters on a traditional houseboat.

Highlights

  • Cycle the coast and backwaters of Kerala, guided by our expert tour leader

  • Discover the old spice town of Kochion a culture-filled bike ride

  • Enjoy traditional Keralan hospitality with a night in a village homestay

  • Cruise the backwaters and stay on a converted houseboat

  • Unwind on the sandy beaches of Varkala – the perfect end to the trip!

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Start Kochi (Cochin); Bike Fitting

The trip starts in the old spice port of Kochi, formerly Cochin. The Portuguese established a base here in the early 1500s, followed by the Dutch, who were forced to hand it over to the British in 1841. With a multicultural heritage, it is now the bustling commercial capital of Kerala. Warehouses still smell of tea, rickety bikes and hand-painted trucks fill the narrow streets, and food stalls stand on every corner.



We get to explore this fascinating city properly tomorrow. Today, once the group has gathered, we can test and fit our bikes, ready for the adventures ahead.



Accommodation: Casino Hotel (or similar)

Day 2 : Explore Kochi By Bike And On Foot

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is a good opportunity to get used to the bikes, exploring the historic town of Kochi by bike and on foot.



Most of the major sights are in the Fort Kochi and Mattancherry areas. We visit St Francis Church, close to the hotel, where explorer Vasco da Gama was first buried, then head to the Dutch Palace in Mattancherry. Constructed by the Portuguese in 1568, it was gifted to the Maharaja of Kochi before the Dutch took it over. Close to the palace is Jew Town and the Paradesi Synagogue. Built in 1568 for the Jewish members of the local trading communities, it is adorned with hand-painted tiles from China and elegant Belgian chandeliers, all donations from wealthy merchants. The area around the synagogue, called Jew Street, is a heritage zone with many antique and handicraft shops. The fish market near the Chinese fishing nets is also worth a visit.



Kochi is also a hub for Keralan arts, so this evening we enjoy a Kathakali dance performance, a form of religious dance and play unique to Kerala.



Accommodation: Casino Hotel (or similar)



Maximum elevation: 174ft (53m)

Day 3 : Cycle To Muhamma, Past Old Portuguese Villas And Through Fishing Villages

Meals Included: Breakfast

Riding out of Fort Kochi, we pass 500-year-old Portuguese villas, a striking contrast to the tiny fishermen huts dotted along the beach road, with their wooden boats pulled under the palm trees and nets hung out to dry. Many of these fishing villages are Christian. At Arthungal, we can rest under the shade of the coconut trees, sip tea and admire the view of the old stone church.



Continuing along the coastal road, we head towards the backwaters of Muhamma. Kerala is renowned for its backwaters: a network of canals and lakes that we cruise on a traditional rice barge later in the trip. Tonight, we stay in a backwater resort overlooking Vembanad Lake. The veranda and the gardens are excellent spots for relaxing, while backwater life unfurls before us.



Accommodation: Deshadan Backwater Resort (or similar)



Maximum elevation: 89ft (27m)

Day 4 : Continue Riding Along The Coast To A Backwater Village In The Alleppey Region

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Continue along the coastal road towards Alleppey, another start point for the backwater trips. Our ride takes us through Kainakary village, eventually reaching Chennamkary, a traditional village in the Kuttanad backwater region of Alleppey. Spend the night here in a homestay, arriving in time for lunch. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience warm Keralan hospitality and we enjoy a cooking demonstration in the evening, followed by dinner.



Accommodation: Gabby World Community Homestay (or similar)



Maximum elevation: 85ft (26m)

Day 5 : Optional Morning Village Ride; Board Houseboat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We have a laid-back morning. You can either relax at the homestay or go on an optional short bike ride to explore the village. At midday, we board our houseboat for a backwater cruise to Thrikkunnapuzha. These converted rice barges consist of two-berth cabins with private bathrooms and have their own cook; depending on your group size, you may be divided over two or three boats. We stack our bikes on the side of the boat (we are saddle-free for the next 19 hours), a chance to unwind as we watch the world pass. Vessels of all sizes use the network of canals and lakes, with smaller boats ferrying passengers and goods between tiny communities on narrow spits of land. On one side of the canal, we see vast paddies, and on the other side are fishing nets and coconut trees. As the sun begins to set, the boats are moored together and we unite on the deck for sundowners and dinner.



Accommodation: Houseboat



Maximum elevation: 69ft (21m)

Day 6 : Disembark Houseboat; Cliff-Top Ride To The Laid-Back Beach Town Of Varkala

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Breakfast is taken on the houseboat before we disembark, then enjoy a cliff-top ride to the laid-back beach town of Varkala. We set off along a quiet coastal road to Karunagapally, passing Amrithanadamayi Ashram, better known as the Hugging Mama Ashram, a spiritual retreat overlooking the backwaters. We stop for lunch en route before spending the next two nights at Varkala, staying close to one of the best beaches in India.



With coffee bars, shops and yoga schools perched along the red sandstone cliff-top, this town is an excellent place to relax.



Accommodation: Sajjoys Hotel (or similar)



Maximum elevation: 75ft (23m)

Day 7 : Short Morning Ride To The Surrounding Coastal Area; Afternoon Free To Relax And Enjoy Varkala

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a small morning ride after breakfast to explore the surrounding coastal areas. Returning to the hotel by lunch, there is time to enjoy the beachside location and perhaps try one of the beach shack restaurants, which serve excellent seafood. We recommend trying tandoori dishes, the clay ovens give a more authentic taste to the breads and curries. Tonight, there is the option to enjoy a final group dinner at the hotel restaurant, which serves a variety of Keralan dishes.



Accommodation: Sajjoys Hotel (or similar)



Maximum elevation: 558ft (170m)

Day 8 : End Varkala

Meals Included: Breakfast

The trip ends after check-out. Start your return journey home or, if you’d like a little more time to explore, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

What's Included

  • Meals
    7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners.

  • Explore the old spice town of Cochin

  • Experience warm hospitality in a village homestay

  • Cruise the backwaters on a traditional houseboat

  • Relax on the sandy beaches of Varkala

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

  • Visas and vaccinations

  • Single supplement

Food

All breakfasts, four lunches and two dinners included.



Where food is not included, allow at least 1,650 rupees (approximately US$20) per day for lunch and dinner. You can eat out very cheaply in India, but if you mainly eat at the more expensive restaurants, you will spend more than the suggested amount. Please note, service in restaurants can be quite slow.



Lunches on riding days are usually taken in roadside cafes, allowing us to sample South Indian dishes such as poori (deep-fried bread served with curry) and dosa (thin pancake made with fermented rice and lentil batter). South Indian food is heavily influenced by the tropical landscape: creamy coconut dishes enlivened with delicate spices, served on a banana leaf. It’s also an ideal destination if you are vegetarian.



Tea and soft drinks are very cheap; a (large) bottle of beer is approximately 410 rupees (US$5). Due to Kerala state laws, alcohol licenses are limited to one or two bars in each area and not all hotels are permitted to serve alcohol. The first day of every month and certain holidays in India are dry days, when no alcohol is permitted for sale.



Drinking water is provided in the support vehicle, where you can fill your bottle from the containers.

Accommodation

Accommodation on this cycling adventure in Kerala includes five nights in hotels with pools, one night on a houseboat and one night in a homestay.



The accommodations typically used are on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the notable places we stay on this trip.



Chennamkary: Gaaby World Community Homestay (night 4)



Go beyond the traditional hotel with an experiential night at this welcoming homestay. Accommodation is spread across several houses owned by different families. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience warm Keralan hospitality, plus we enjoy a cooking demonstration in the evening, followed by dinner.



To Thrikkunnapuzha: Houseboat (night 5)







No trip to Kerala is complete without a houseboat stay. Typically, the boats are converted barges (known locally as kettuvallam), once used to transport rice from farm to market. All cabins have private bathrooms and the staff will keep you well fed. The houseboats have a deck and dining area, although the style/layout varies between boats. There is a cook, driver and assistants for each boat and the food is traditional Keralan fare using local produce. Houseboats have two to five twin-bedded rooms. Larger groups may be split over several boats; however, the group reunites at riverside stops and the overnight anchor point where your leader is available.



Varkala: Sajjoys Hotel (nights 6-7)







On a clifftop, Sajjoys has stretching ocean views just a few moments away. Additionally, the area is consistently popular with our group: Varkala is laid-back and less touristy than other nearby coastal towns. The hotel itself has an outdoor swimming pool and restaurant serving Keralan cuisine and international dishes.



Worth knowing



Hotels in India usually do not have heating as there are really only a couple of months in the year when the weather can be cooler. You can, however, request more blankets or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room. Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter.

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Check out our Q&As

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights are not included with this tour.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    If you would like to be paired with a tour member of the same gender, there is no additional charge. A single supplement can be requested if you would like your own room.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 16 years old.

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    We are happy to assist with pre and post tour accommodation. Please enquire for detailed information.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, our local guides are English speaking.

  • Who is Exodus Travels?

    At Exodus Travels, we've been exploring the world for nearly 50 years. From Walking and Trekking, Cultural and Cycling, Responsible Wildlife, to Polar and our new Premium Adventures, we are proud to offer award-winning small group and self-guided tours to 100+ countries worldwide.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Wow, what a trip

Wow, I'm still buzzing a week after getting back from this trip. I have done several cycling trips with Exodus and this was my first one solo. The whole trip was amazing, along with a lovely group. We all got on really well and had lots of laughs. The cycling was flat and easy going. Cycling through the crazy Indian towns was surprisingly straightforward. 'Good bell, good brakes and good luck' is the motto! The Indians use their hooters and bells for spacial awareness and are very good at it. The friendly Indian children waving on their way to school has left a lasting impression. We cycled from 8am and only in the mornings. We stopped for tea and samosa, then for lunch. The hotels had lovely swimming pools. Swimming in the Indian Ocean waves on the last two days was lovely. None of us had any tummy issues. Joseph always had nice restaurants and the best seats reserved for us.

A Cycling Adventure Through the Charms of Coastal Kerala: A Journey to Remember

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the incredible "Cycle the Coast of Kerala" trip with Exodus Travels, and it was an absolute dream come true. Every aspect of this journey, from the breathtaking landscapes to the exceptional guidance, exceeded all my expectations. The itinerary was meticulously planned, allowing us to soak up the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Kerala at our own pace. The cycling routes were well-chosen, taking us through picturesque coastal villages, lush greenery, and serene backwaters, offering an authentic glimpse into the soul of this beautiful region. The accommodations provided by Exodus were top-notch. From comfortable stays in charming local lodges to luxurious nights in beachside resorts, each place offered a unique experience, blending modern amenities with the traditional charm of Kerala. The trip leaders were incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to offer support and guidance. Their deep understanding of the local culture, history, and geography truly enriched our journey, making it more than just a cycling adventure but an immersive cultural experience. Furthermore, the local cuisine was a highlight of the trip. From delectable seafood dishes to flavorful spices, every meal was a celebration of Kerala's rich culinary heritage. The team made sure we got to savor the authentic flavors of the region, adding an unforgettable dimension to our travel experience. Overall, I cannot recommend this trip enough. It's a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Exodus Travels has truly crafted a remarkable itinerary, leaving me with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for the beauty of Kerala. I will undoubtedly cherish the moments and look back on this trip with fondness for years to come. Thank you, Exodus, for an unforgettable experience!

fantastic country and people

Just returned from this trip over Xmas and loved it. The pace and distances were just right, allowing us to soak in the atmosphere of the Country. Safi, our guide and his team were brilliant in every way. Patient, knowledgeable and helpful. The bikes were of very good quality and made it easy to cover the distances without too much effort.

Cycling - The Best Way to Experience Kerala!

I had a truly memorable week as part of a group of six, who cycled a total of 134 miles (215 km) from Willingdon Island, Fort Kochi to Varkala. The weather was georgeous and the scenery and food amazing. The sights and sounds of the real Kerala could not be experienced in a better way. Shibu our tour leader and Kingsley our mini bus driver and support assistant made it so easy just to relax and soak everything up. The support vehicle was always present to provide regular water top ups and snacks and always drove a good distance behind the last cyclist, (frequently me) so there was never any pressure to speed up. There are seemingly no rules of the road in India.! Lorries, cars, taxis, tuk tuks, motor bikes and cyclists simply move along in incredible harmony , somehow avoiding each other and the numerous animals and pedestrians occupying the streets, by sounding horns and bells constantly. Unlike European drivers, this is done in a very non aggressive way and is simply to alert other road users of a vehicles presence. You soon learn to join in with your bicycle bell!

Kerala is a gem!

Spoiler alert: your senses may never be the same again - but in a good way! We visited Kerala over 20 years ago, but only scratched the surface. Exodus is very good at stripping away all that is unnecessary, to enable you to connect with Kerala and immerse yourself into Indian culture. Throw into the mix a great bunch of fellow cyclists and you strike gold. We had a blast! The trip notes describe pretty accurately what you will see and do. Every day has new experiences. Cycling is a gentle pace and when you do hit a busy town you are shepherded through effortlessly by the two guides. Oh, and the food is seriously good. Cauliflower has never tasted so delicious. Let the magic unfold, but it will be over all too soon.

Fantastic trip

This was a lovely trip showing Kerala at its best. Our guide was simply outstanding which left us with a lasting memory of the beautiful part of India. Very easy cycling with no climbs at all, until a couple of small ones on the optional last day cycling.

Loved this trip it will be hard to beat!

This was a most fabulous trip - a fantastic mix of cycling and sampling local culture. We had a really good guide Shibu and his team. We loved Kerala and the mix of experiences on this trip. We liked the level which was leisurely /moderate - ideal in such a hot country we wish there were more trips available at this level. We loved the food and have had withdrawal cravings on return to the UK from such delicious fare! We had a great group of people on this tour they also helped to make it a brilliant experience.

Fab trip

Fantastic trip, enjoyed every second.

Well Organized Trip

Well organized trip. The cycling route was very well thought out by our guide Shibu. The entire team of Shibu, Bevan, and Franklin took extra lengths to ensure we were well taken care of, and safe. Really great people leading us. My group was a good size (11), making is easy to interact and have fun. I recommend this trip to see Kerala up close.

good

The home stay was awful, it would have been good to have an option to have a stay at hotel instead. It's not my idea of a holiday being a strangers house. People nice enough. Some environmental issues that were offensive, think Exodus should be insistent that the locals improve on.

Read all 14 reviews

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    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

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