Indian Himalayas
Ride from Manali to Leh across the Indian Himalayas, conquering 5,000m+ passes on one of the world’s highest roads.
The redspokes Kerala and Tamil Nadu cycling holiday is a richly varied journey through southern India’s tropical landscapes and vibrant culture. Beginning in Trivandrum, the route climbs into the rolling hills and tea plantations of Tamil Nadu before crossing the misty Western Ghats into Kerala’s lush backwaters. Along the way, riders visit the sacred city of Madurai, ascend to the cool hill station of Kodaikanal and experience the wildlife-rich forests of Periyar.
From spice plantations and sandalwood forests to tranquil lagoons and colonial Cochin, the scenery constantly evolves. Challenging climbs are balanced with rewarding descents and well-timed rest days, including a relaxing cruise aboard a traditional Kerala houseboat. This immersive adventure blends culture, cuisine and spectacular landscapes for an unforgettable cycling experience.
Cochin, or Kochi, has a beautiful coastal location with the Western Ghats to the east and the Arabian Sea to the west. Near to the equator and overlooked by mountains Cochin has a moderate balmy climate. The town is referred to as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’ and the ‘Gateway to Kerala’.
Kochi was an important spice trading centre on the west coast of India from the 14th century, and was known to the Yavanas (Greeks and Romans) as well as Jews, Syrians, Arabs, and Chinese since ancient times. Kochi was the first of the European colonies in India. Occupied by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British.
With over 600 years of international links Kochi has a rich mixed heritage, and features diverse cultural and architectural elements.
Deep in the Cardamom Hills, Kumily is an important spice trading town and a popular tourist destination. Visitors come in great numbers to tour the local plantations and shop at the spice trading market in the town. A number of spice themed products are on sale from chocolate to preserves to tea and coffee as well as the spices themselves. You can also buy jute and bamboo products, traditional pickles and Keralan hand woven textiles.
The Cardamom Hills are named thus after cardamom spice that grows so well at elevation in the cool air. Pepper and coffee crops also thrive here. The Western Ghats including the Cardamom Hills, is under consideration for selection as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The crest of the hills marks the boundary between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The capital of Kerala and its largest and most populated city, Thiruvananthapuram, formerly known as Trivandrum is also considered India’s cleanest city.
The name Thiru-anantha-puram, means “Abode of Lord Ananta’; and derives from the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Hindu temple (The temple of Vishnu reclining on Anantha), which is at the heart of Thiruvananthapuram. It is an iconic landmark. It is said to have been described by Gandhi as the “Evergreen city of India”. Set on the west coast, near the southern tip of mainland India, it is built over seven hills. It is a thriving centre for commerce and for tourism in Kerala.
Thiruvananthapuram is also the political centre of Kerala and home to a number of academic and science and technology institutions, such as the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology. The climate here borders between a tropical savanna and monsoon climate. There are no distinctive seasons.
Temperatures range from 34 °C and 21 °C. The humidity is high and the city gets heavy rainfall of around 1700 mm per year. The dry season begins in December. December, January and February are the coldest months, while March, April and May are the hottest.
redspokes Kerala and Tamil Nadu cycling tour commencing in Trivandrum. Upon your arrival, regardless of the time, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a group briefing, followed by bike assembly for a scenic 15km ride to Kovalam Beach, immersing yourself in the coastal charm. Take in the breathtaking views, relax on the sandy shores, and embrace the vibrant local culture. Anticipate the journey ahead with a blend of excitement and relaxation.
Cycling Distance: 15km
Accommodation: Hotel (D)
There is time this morning to wander along the beach here amongst the fisherman as they sell their catch of the day before we take a train to Madurai, Tamil Nadu. The journey will give us an insight into South Indian daily life. We travel along dense palm tree-lined track, with views from your carriage of village women tending to their washing and men playing cards outside brightly painted houses. Our bicycles will be transported by road.
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
We begin the day with an early morning visit to the magnificent Meenakshi temple. After breakfast at our hotel and a short vehicle transfer to Nilakottai where our cycling begins through the rural villages of Tamil Nadu. We will stop for a packed lunch then continue riding along an old narrow road which rises from the plains as we cycle up into the hills enjoying views across semi-desert land interspersed with lush green palm plantations.
Cycling Distance: 35.5km (22 miles)
Cycling Climb: 1,450m (4,757ft)
Cycling Descent: 326m (1,070ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
Today redspokes Kerala and Tamil Nadu tour continues with a stunning ride to the cooler climate in the hill station town of Kodaikanal. There is a long climb over 1200m; we pass the 60m high Silver Cascade falls right beside the road on this afternoon’s ride. Our exertions will be rewarded with dramatic scenic views of the plains below as we end the day.
Cycling Distance: 48km (30 miles)
Cycling Climb: 1,394m (4,573ft)
Cycling Descent: 810m (2,657ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
You have the chance to relax in pleasant surroundings today after yesterday’s cycle or go walking. Known as ‘the princess of hill stations’ Kodaikanal has beautiful views, forested areas and waterfalls. You can take a boat ride on the man-made star shaped lake.
Conclude your day with a visit to the local markets, sampling delicious homemade chocolates and picking up handcrafted souvenirs, adding a touch of local charm to your rejuvenating day in this enchanting hill station.
Altitude: 2,133m (6,998ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
Our day begins with a 15km undulating ride before we cycle a continuous 40km downhill. We continue our long, winding cycle downhill away from forest and coffee plantations to the arid plains at a low of 300 metres. Just outside Palani town we will have lunch at a local restaurant. Palani is a famous and densely occupied Hindu pilgrim town.
Cycling Distance: 61km (38 miles)
Cycling Climb: 350m (1,148ft)
Cycling Descent: 2,326m (7,631ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
Today we cycle through Indira Gandhi National Park and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary to Marayoor. Be prepared to encounter the rich biodiversity of the region, including spotted deer, langurs, and various species of vibrant birds. The refreshing air, lush greenery, and occasional panoramic views make each turn an opportunity for awe and appreciation.
In the Malayalam and Tamil languages ‘mara’ means hidden and ‘oor’ means land. The fresh mountain air and views of mist-clad hills and hamlets make this a beautiful location.
Cycling Distance: 75m (46.5 miles)
Cycling Climb: 1,046m ( 3,432ft)
Cycling Descent: 383m (1,256ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D
As you pedal away from Marayoor, surrounded by the lush expanse of sugarcane fields and the ancient dolmens that dot the region, you’ll experience the unique blend of nature and history.
Cycling through the winding roads, the fragrance of sandalwood forests and the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats unfold, creating a picturesque backdrop for your journey. As you ascend towards Chinnakanal, the cool mountain air and the gurgling sounds of nearby streams accompany you, creating a refreshing ambiance.
Marvel at the tea plantations that carpet the hillsides, showcasing the vibrant green hues synonymous with the region. The undulating terrain presents a mix of challenging climbs and rewarding descents, offering a thrilling experience for cycling enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a nature enthusiast yearning for scenic beauty, todays cycle ride promises an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Kerala’s mesmerising landscapes.
Cycling Distance: 55km (34 miles)
Climb/Ascent: 1,580m (5,184ft)
Altitude Gain: 1,014m (3,415ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
Todays route takes you through winding roads that wind their way through lush forests, spice plantations, and charming villages. The air is infused with the scent of spices, providing a sensory delight as you pedal through the aromatic landscapes.
Cycling through this undulating terrain, you’ll encounter challenging ascents and thrilling descents, each turn revealing panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The journey offers glimpses of wildlife and birdlife, adding a touch of adventure to your ride.
Approaching Thekkady, the landscape transforms into dense forests and the promise of Periyar National Park, renowned for its wildlife and pristine beauty. As you reach Thekkady, the vibrant marketplaces and the welcoming aroma of local cuisine provide a perfect conclusion to a great cycling day.
Cycling Distance: 90km (56 miles)
Climb/Ascent: 1,480m (4,856ft)
Down/Descent: 2,120m (6,955ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
Non-cycling day. After a leisurely breakfast you have to opportunity to explore Periyar National Park, a beautiful area of lush evergreen and deciduous forest serving as home to various animals such as deer, elephants, sambar, Nilgiri Langurs. There is a watch tower within the park that offers wonderful views of the surrounding area. You could take a guided tour of a spice plantations. You might want to visit nearby town Kumily and take a walk through the market where you will find spiced chocolates, spiced preserves, specialty teas and coffee, or have a rejuvenating ayurvedic massage.
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
The first 25km of our journey is along well surfaced rolling road through tea plantations. We can stop along the way to visit a plantation. After lunch, on our route towards Vagamon village, we follow quiet twisting back roads through moorland, complete with dry stone walls. The area bears an uncanny resemblance to a British moorland, with the exception that the bushes are tea plants rather than gorse.
Cycling Distance: 53km (33 miles)
Climb/Ascent: 1,055m (3,461ft)
Down/Descent: 840m (2,756ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
We enjoy a morning of easy riding as we cycle from Vagamon to the Inland Waterways passing through quaint rubber plantations. We will board houseboats
locally known as “kettuvallams,” at lunch time, allowing you to immerse yourself in the enchanting surroundings.
As you gently glide along the intricate network of canals, lagoons, and serene water bodies, the lush greenery on either side creates a breathtaking panorama. Tall coconut palms sway in the gentle breeze, and vibrant water lilies adorn the water’s surface, reflecting the vibrant hues of the Kerala landscape.
The houseboat, crafted in the traditional style with wooden planks and coconut fiber ropes, provides a comfortable and leisurely vantage point to witness the daily life along the backwaters. Local villages line the shores, offering glimpses into the unhurried pace of rural Kerala, where fishermen cast their nets and women wash clothes by the water’s edge.
As night descends, the houseboat provides a cozy haven. Enjoy the gentle lull of the water as you retire to comfortable sleeping quarters, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. Stargazing from the open deck, with the reflection of moonlight on the water, completes this enchanting experience.
Cycling Distance: 89km (55 miles)
Climb/Ascent: 639m (2,096ft)
Down/Descent: 1,727m (5,666ft)
Accommodation: Houseboat (B,L,D)
We disembark at Alleppey late morning and begin a ride through shady coconut palms and sleepy agricultural areas inundated by the backwaters making this one of the only areas where rice paddys grow below sea level. We take a break from cycling, stopping for a picnic lunch you have the opportunity to cool off with a dip in the Arabian Sea. This afternoon we cycle a coastal route through fishing villages to reach Cochin on the Malabar Coast. The town is an intriguing mix of Indian and Chinese influences with fading remains of British and Portuguese architecture. You can visit the Dutch Palace and the 400 year old synagogue or explore spice warehouses and antique shops. There is also an interesting folk lore museum.
Cycle Distance: 60km (37 miles)
Climb/Ascent: 497m (1,630ft)
Down/Descent: 460m (1,509ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
redspokes cycling tour of Kerala and Tamil Nadu ends today. There will be a transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Tour Status Definitions
Booking & Payments
Small Group Note
For groups of fewer than four participants, the guide may lead from the support vehicle rather than cycling with the group, ensuring full logistical and guiding support.
Fully supported cycling holiday
Meal Key (used in the itinerary)
Tour End
Flights
We choose accommodation based on comfort rather than luxury. Our prices are based on sharing a twin room. Should you wish to have a room to yourself there is a single supplement option on most of our tours.
The majority of nights are spent in comfortable hotels, with one unforgettable night aboard a traditional Kerala houseboat — a true highlight of the trip.
Meals on Tour
Most meals are included in your tour price, except on rest days and a few other occasions.
Please check the itinerary for all meals provided.
Dietary Requirements
If you have any special dietary needs, please let us know at the time of booking.
We can cater for most diets, but advance notice is essential to ensure the best experience.
Taste of India
South Indian and traditional Keralan cuisine is predominantly vegetarian and features richly spiced (but not overly hot) dishes. Meals often include rice, vegetables, fish, and a wide array of fresh fruits.
Support Vehicle
On-Ride Support
Helmet Policy
For this tour we have Trek 4300 or Scott Aspect 750 model 2022 in a range of sizes.
What’s Included with Bike Hire
Customising Your Bike
Yes, most bikes are suitable for this tour and include; Hybrid, Cyclocross, Gravel or Mountain bike with slick tyres.
Pre-trip bike servicing
We strongly recommend having your bike fully serviced before travelling. Please make sure:
What to bring
We recommend packing the following essential items:
Travelling with your bike
Your bike will need to be packed within your luggage allowance. A bike packed in a cardboard box typically weighs between 15–20 kg, and some airlines may charge excess baggage fees.
If you would prefer not to travel with your own bike, bike hire is available — simply request this when booking.
Currency
The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR or ₹). You’ll need rupees for all transactions—foreign currency is not accepted in shops, restaurants, or hotels.
We recommend bringing:
Where to Exchange
Spending Money
How much you spend depends on your personal preferences for dining, shopping, and activities. For a 14-day trip, we estimate £350 is more than enough for day-to-day expenses.
Tipping
Travel Insurance
Mandatory for all participants and must cover:
Health & Vaccinations
Kerala has 3 sessions. They are Summer (February – May), Monsoon (June – August and October – November) and Winter (December – January) with some mild weather between August and October. During the period February to May the temperature rises and if gets increasingly hot, and temperature reaches up to 35 degree centigrade.
Staying Hydrated on Hot Rides – 6 Tips for Cyclists
As a cycling company, we know how important proper hydration is—especially when you’re out riding in hot conditions. Below are some general hydration tips that riders find helpful for staying fuelled and feeling strong on the bike.
Please note: We are not medical professionals and this information should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Each cyclist is different, so if you have specific health concerns or conditions, it is always best to consult your doctor and adhere to their advice.
1. Prioritize Gut Health
2. Time Your Hydration
3. Hydrate Beyond Water
4. Don’t Forget the Minerals
5. Absorb Water Better
6. Keep Your Electrolytes in Check
In terms of clothing this is clearly up to you and we can only supply a rough guide as to what to take. This guide is entirely flexible and should be tailored to your specific needs. The weather can be very hot, so light weight cotton clothes are recommended.
Essential Cycling Gear
Clothing
Personal First Aid Kit
Our guides carry basic first aid supplies, but we recommend you bring a personal kit with the following:
Extras
In India, the standard voltage is 230 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz, which is compatible with most appliances from Europe, Asia, and other countries that use similar standards. India primarily uses Type C, Type D, and Type M plugs:
Type C: Two round pins (common in Europe)
Type D: Three round pins in a triangular formation (used mainly in India)
Type M: Similar to Type D but with larger pins, used for heavy appliances
Republic of India – Capital: New Delhi
Our professional cycling tops are designed with three rear elasticated pockets to give you plenty of space for your cycling essentials and comes with a silicone bottom hem. Lined with COOLMAX ® to keep you cool and comfortable and ensure moisture wicking. Available in varies sizes so please refer to size charts for more information.

The Kerala cycling tour offers a good standard of accommodation throughout, staying mostly in comfortable hotels, heritage properties and scenic resorts. Nights range from seaside hotels in Trivandrum, to boutique stays in Kodaikanal, spice-country lodges in Thekkady, and a peaceful night aboard a traditional Alleppey houseboat.
Rooms generally include private bathrooms and reliable facilities, though standard varies slightly in more rural areas such as Mangal Kumbha, Palani and Marayur where properties are simpler.
Expect:
Here are a selection of videos for our ‘India – Kerala’ Cycling holiday.