Central Kerala Cycling Tour – 11 Days
Price starting from 26,500 per person
An immersive cycling journey through Kerala’s hills, forests and backwaters.
This signature cycling journey through Central Kerala combines scenic landscapes, cultural immersion, wildlife experiences, and the warmth of village life. Designed for travellers who enjoy slow, active exploration, each day offers a rewarding mix of cycling, trekking, rafting and backwater cruising—all supported by an experienced cycling guide and backup vehicle.
11 days Kerala Cycling tour Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Fort Kochi - Transfer to Airport hotel
A warm welcome awaits you at the airport. Followed by a transfer to the airport hotel. You have the day for rest and prepare yourself for the next 10 days of cycling tour across the country lanes, mountains, plantations, backwaters, heritage towns etc.
Day 2 – Cochin airport to Thattekkad
Cycling Distance: ~45–55 km
Your cycling journey begins after a morning briefing and cycle fitting session. Once outside the busy city limits, quiet country roads lead you through paddy fields, rubber plantations and small hamlets. As you approach the forested region of Thattekkad, the environment becomes greener and more serene - perfect for easing into multi-day cycling.
Start: Cochin airport hotel (low altitude, ~10–15 m)
End: Thattekkad (~60–70 m)
Terrain: flat → gentle rolling
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Optional Activity:
Guests may choose to enjoy a river kayaking experience at Thattekkad, available in the evening or the following morning.
Note: Seasonal activity - operates from monsoon through winter; unavailable in summer.
Day 3 – Thattekkad to Munnar
Cycling Distance: ~60–70 km
Today’s ride takes you steadily into the highlands. The route winds past river valleys, spice plantations, waterfalls and cool forest patches, with altitude gradually increasing as the landscape opens into vast tea gardens. The final stretch into Munnar is scenic and rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the mountains.
Elevation: 70 m → 1,600 m
Terrain: Major high-altitude climb
Approx. Ascent: 1,500–1,700 m
Approx. Descent: Very minimal
Difficulty: Hard
This is the most demanding climbing day. The ascent is continuous and steady as you move into the Western Ghats. Forest roads, hairpin bends, waterfalls and tea plantations dominate the landscape. Riders should expect a long but rewarding climb.
Day 4 – Meeshapulimalai Trek
A highlight of the tour, this full-day guided trek leads you through shola forests, rolling grasslands and high-altitude ridges to Meeshapulimalai - one of the highest accessible peaks in South India [second highest peak in South India]. The trek offers dramatic panoramas and an immersive experience, and rich flora and fauna of the Western Ghats landscape.
No cycling elevation; trekking to ~2,640 m
This is a high-altitude day with steep trekking gradients.
Day 5 – Munnar to Thekkady
Cycling Distance: ~ 70 – 80 km
Continue your journey through the mountains as you cycle from the tea slopes of Munnar towards the spice-rich region of Thekkady. The terrain shifts from cool tea valleys to the fragrant cardamom hills, passing through rural settlements and scenic viewpoints. Arrive by afternoon and relax for the rest of the day.
Elevation: 1,600 m → 900 m → 1,050 m
Terrain: High-altitude undulating landscape
Approx. Ascent: 400–600 m
Approx. Descent: 900–1,000 m
Difficulty: Moderate → Hard
This scenic ride consists of rolling climbs and descents, moving through tea gardens and cardamom forests. Though there is a steady descent, the route is not easy due to multiple climbs in between.
Day 6 – Bamboo Rafting at Periyar Tiger Reserve
Spend the morning inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve with a half-day bamboo rafting program, combining soft trekking with a raft journey across calm forest waters. This peaceful experience offers opportunities to observe wildlife, birdlife and the rich ecosystem of Periyar.
Afternoon at leisure for optional cultural shows or spice garden visits.
No cycling elevation this day
Activities include half day hiking and a bamboo rafting crossing within the reserve.
Day 7 – Thekkady to Vagamon
Cycling Distance: ~50–60 km
Today’s ride leads you toward the rolling meadows and pine forests of Vagamon. The route is scenic and less travelled, offering open landscapes, quiet country roads and refreshing highland air. Vagamon’s peaceful ambience makes it a perfect mid-tour retreat.
Elevation: 900 m → 1,100 m
Terrain: Mostly climbing with some breaks
Approx. Ascent: 400–500 m
Approx. Descent: 150–200 m
Difficulty: Moderate
The route features cool highland air, pine forests and open meadows. The climb is steady but not as intense as Day 3 or Day 5.
Day 8 – Vagamon to Kumarakom
Cycling Distance: ~50 – 70 km
Descend from the hills as the terrain transitions from cool meadows to warm lowland plains. Cycling through plantations, paddy fields and quiet villages, you reach the backwater region of Kumarakom - an oasis of calm on the shores of the Vembanad Lake.
Elevation: 1,100 m → ~5 m
Terrain: Long descent from high ranges to backwater plains
Approx. Ascent: 50–100 m
Approx. Descent: 1,000+ m
Difficulty: Easy → Moderate
A beautiful continuous descent into the lowland plains. Riders enjoy smooth pacing, with warm tropical scenery replacing the hill country.
Day 9 – Kumarakom to Alleppey – Houseboat Cruise
Cycling Distance: ~35 – 40 km
A gentle cycling stretch brings you to Alleppey, after which you board your private houseboat for a slow cruise through Kerala’s iconic waterways. Glide past village life, coconut groves and paddy fields while enjoying freshly prepared meals on board.
An evening kayaking session is included, offering a serene way to experience the backwaters at sunset.
Elevation: ~5 m → ~1 m
Terrain: Coastal backwater plains
Approx. Ascent: Minimal
Approx. Descent: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
A simple, relaxed ride through paddy fields and lakeside villages. Completely flat terrain, ideal for beginners or recovery.
Day 10 – Return to Fort Kochi – End of Cycling Tour
Cycling Distance: ~50 – 55 km
Disembark after breakfast and drive to Fort Kochi. The remainder of the day is free to explore its colonial-era streets, markets, museums and seaside promenades. The cycling portion of your tour concludes here.
Elevation: ~1 m → ~5 m
Terrain: Coastal roads with slight urban undulations
Approx. Ascent: Low
Approx. Descent: Low
Difficulty: Easy
This is a flat coastal route with minimal elevation change. A relaxed ending to the tour.
Day 11 – Departure transfer to Cochin airport
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kochi International Airport for your onward journey. Your cycling adventure through Central Kerala ends with memories of forests, mountains, culture and warm hospitality.
Kerala cycling route map
Elevation summary table
Accommodation & Pricing per person
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Cycling tours are operational only from October to May
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The rates are not valid from 20th Dec to 10th Jan
The program includes
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Accommodation on half board basis
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Trek Marlin 5 - gen 3 cycles or equivalent based on size
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Back up van that can hold cycles with English speaking driver
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Lunch and refreshments during cycling days
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Services of an accompanying English speaking cyclist guide
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Spares, helmets, back up mechanics
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Entrance tickets at places of interest
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Meeshapulimalai trek in Munnar [Full day]
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Half-day Bamboo Rafting at Periyar Tiger Reserve [Half day]
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Day cruise and overnight stay on a houseboat
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Kayaking experience during the houseboat stay
Notes
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The price is based on 2 adults travelling together
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Cycling clothing, gloves, shoes, socks etc to be carried by guest
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Houseboat meal menu would be a local backwater cuisine
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Air conditioning in the houseboat would be from 9 PM to 6 AM
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The houseboat will be docked from 5 PM to next day 8 AM.
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The program can be further customised adding additional nights in Kochi or respective destinations of interest.
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Rooms as above is subject to availability at the time of booking
Kerala tour booking Procedure
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Once the tour is confirmed with us we make reservation at the respective hotels / resorts / houseboat.
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We shall send you a confirmation voucher based on the confirmation we have received from the service providers.
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70% advance deposit is required to guarantee the tour and the rest could be paid on the day of arrival.
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We accept payments via credit cards
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International wire transfer is available for foreign remittances.
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In the event of a cancellation, the cancellation policy applies - kindly refer to the cancellation policy.
Enquiry Now!
Cycling Tour – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the cycling tour customisable?
Yes. All our cycling tours are fully customisable. You can add extra days, shorten the itinerary, or modify activities. Simply send us an enquiry and we will work on a personalised program for you.
2. What is the best time to do a cycling tour in Kerala?
The ideal time is October to May.
October to February: Winter season – pleasant weather, best for long rides.
March to May: Tropical summer – hot and humid; rides are possible but require more breaks and hydration.
3. Can I add or remove days from the itinerary?
Absolutely. You can extend the program or shorten it. Share your preferred travel dates, and we will tailor the itinerary accordingly.
4. What should I carry for the cycling tour?
We recommend bringing:
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Gel-padded cycling shorts or clothing,
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Cycling gloves
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Sunglasses
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Sunscreen
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Personal first-aid kit
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Any prescription medication
5. What does the backup van carry?
Your support vehicle is equipped with:
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Basic medical aid kitPortable
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cycle repair kit
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Puncture repair tools
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Spare tubes and essential spares
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Drinking water (unlimited supply)
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Snacks and refreshments
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Comfortable seats for guests
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Air-conditioning
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Foldable table and chairs for break stops
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Full space to load cycles
6. Is this a private tour?
Yes. This is an exclusive cycling tour for your group, accompanied by a dedicated cycling guide.
7. How often do we take breaks during cycling?
We usually take breaks every 20 km or at scenic viewpoints. Your guide also adjusts break frequency based on weather, terrain, and your comfort.
8. Will drinking water be provided?
Yes. Drinking water is provided unlimited throughout the tour.
9. Can you accommodate specific meal preferences?
Yes. We cater to vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences.Food allergies and dietary restrictions are noted and taken care of during the tour.
10. Can I skip treks or hikes in the itinerary?
Yes. All trekking and hiking segments are optional. We can remove them or replace them with alternative experiences.
11. Can I discontinue the cycling tour mid-way?
Yes, you may discontinue. However, refunds are not applicable for unused services or partial completion of the tour.
12. Are the cycles owned by Green Earth Trails?
Yes. All cycles used in the tour belong to Green Earth Trails. We maintain them in excellent condition and ensure correct frame sizes for guests.
13. Do you organise flight tickets?
No. Flight tickets must be arranged by guests.We handle your travel arrangements from the moment you arrive at Cochin Airport.A valid Indian visa is required for international travellers.
14. Can you organise cycling tours in other regions?
Yes! We can organise cycling tours across various regions of South India. Share your preferred destinations, and we will curate a customised route.
15. What happens in a medical emergency?
Your backup van is always on standby.In case of a medical situation, our guide and driver will take you to the nearest medical centre.Continuation of the tour will depend on professional medical advice.
16. What if I fall sick during the cycling tour?
We will take you to a recognised medical facility for assistance.If you recover, you may rejoin the cycling.If not, you can continue the tour in the support vehicle.In severe cases, you may choose to discontinue the tour.
17. What happens if I cancel the program?
Our cancellation policy applies. Refunds (as per policy) will be processed within 21 days from the date of cancellation.
18. What level of fitness is required for this tour?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but the pace is flexible. Breaks are frequent, and the support vehicle is always available if you wish to rest.
19. What type of terrain will we be cycling on?
The route includes a mix of:
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Countryside roads
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Rolling hills
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Forest stretches
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Mountain climbs (Munnar & Thekkady region)
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Backwater plains
All routes are chosen for scenic value and safety.
20. Do you provide helmets and safety gear?
Yes. Helmets are included. Guests are encouraged to bring any personal safety gear they prefer for comfort.
21. Can non-cycling partners join the tour?
Yes. Non-cycling partners can travel in the support vehicle and enjoy the destinations, activities, and scenic landscapes.