On arrival at Cochin and transfer to the hotel in Fort Kochi. Later we set off to walk to Fort Cochin, a historic town with its charm and the grandeur of the colonial times still intact.Later in the evening, we settle down by the beach, with an enchanting view of the Chinese fishing nets that are unique to Cochin and enjoy some mouthwatering Kerala dishes.
After breakfast we collect our cycles and embark on a warm-up trip on the calm Sunday morning roads south of Cochin. Behold the sights along the sea passing by fishing villages and long serene stretches of backwaters. Later in the evening we shall watch a performance of Kathakali, the classical dance of Kerala known for its extensive make up and dramatic story telling amidst some heart thumping music of the percussion instruments and horns. Total distance: 30 km
At the gates of Cochin we will start the first real stage of our cycling tour. We will soon be amidst the beautiful countryside that is endowed with green coconut palms and farmlands all through the year. By the end of the ride we will find ourselves under the canopy of towering trees of the rainforest near the beautiful waterfalls of Athirappally.Total distance: 65 km
What a day for cyclists! Right at the beginning we pass the entrance gate of the forest and begin a gradual and impressive climb for the next 50 km through the rainforest, offering lots of unforgettable views. As we near the border of the adjoiningstate of Tamilnadu, the scenery changes from rainforest to tea plantations and this is what we will be surrounded by for the next few days. Overnight we stopover at an exclusive bungalow amidst a Tea Estate.Total distance: 87 km <
After a manageable climb at the beginning we will enjoy an impressive downhill stretch, enjoying a bird’s eye view of Aliyar dam, the lake and the beautiful plains of Tamilnadu. Don’t rush here or you will miss this spectacular experience! Total distance: 65 km
After an easy tailwind section towards Udumalpettaiwhere we will stop for breakfast and then move on for another 15 km, this time, facing the Western Ghats.We reach the entrance gate of theAnnamalai Wildlife Reserve that is home to a variety of animal species. Further on, riding through gradually ascending roads we reach Chinnar Wildlife reserve, where we will spend the night in a forest bungalow. There we will watch wildlife guided by local forest rangers.We reach Marayoor, by the end of the day Total distance: 60 km
While at Marayoor, you can see how jaggery is made from sugarcane in the traditional way. We now begin our ascent that’s quitechallenging for the next 25 km through a beautiful valley with tea, tea and more tea around us. After having crossed the pass, another Wildlife Reserve (Eravikulam) welcomes us. From here we descend down to Munnar, a centre of tea manufacturing since the days of the British. Get holdof some great tealeaves right from its source. Total distance: 55 km
Today’s trip will take us through magnificent scenery of tea, coffee, pepper and cardamom plantations. It comes with the promise of a feast for all the senses. Spend the next two nights in a plantation home just at the foothills of the rain forest.Total distance: 55 km
It is a day to rest those tired limbs. Relax on your terrace, enjoying the view of the ranges of the Western Ghats or accompany us on a little stroll through the spice plantations of the village
We continue to cycle through plantations and hilly forests towards Kumily,on little roads along the Tamilnadu border. We ride downhill and reach Pepper County, our home stay amidst a spice plantation with magnificent views of the valley. Take a tour of the garden, guided by the person who owns it, as he proudly introduces you the many tropical fruits and spices growing there. Total distance: 50 km
After a short ascent in the morning, we ride down the slopes, quickly losing height and finally reach the land of rubber.Total distance: 70 km
We will meet some rubber tappers in the morning to watch the first step of producingrubber. Later we take on a fairly easy ride and reach the Backwaters at Chaganacherry and proceed to the nearby traditional Kerala house of Josey, where a houseboat would be waiting for us. Hop on board and spend the night on a well-fitted houseboat and enjoy the sights and sounds of the serene waters and the activities around it. Total distance: 65 km
After we checkout from the boat we mount our bicycles one last time for a relaxed tour through villages along Vembanad Lake and the beaches of Malabar coast. You could go swimming in the sea and visit coir-making centers on your way.Total distance: 50 km
Feel free to attend the classes to learn the art of cooking up spicy treats of the traditional Kerala cuisine offered by Thomas while fishing or just venture out by yourself and use the day for another swim in the sea or indulge in some last minute shopping in Alleppey town.In the evening enjoy a farewell dinner in the garden of Thomas’s home, where we will have a little rest before the early rise next morning.
Leave to Cochin International Airport
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