Cycle the Coast of 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!

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.

Our action-packed week was a wonderful way to explore this beautiful region. Going along on a bike allowed us to experience colours, sights, smells and sounds so much better than if we had traveled around by coach. It allowed us to spontaneously pop onto the beach, visit temples and sample local delicacies. And cycling in the hectic traffic proved no great problem, just keep ringing your bell!

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.

fantastic food- authentic curries you cannot find at home,freshly caught seafood. the backwaters were beautiful and perfect for sun downers after a day of cycling. hotels much better than expected

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.