Cycle Kerala & Tropical India
Experience Overview
Jump on the saddle to discover laidback southern India on this cycling group adventure. Accompanied by an expert tour leader and a support vehicle, we are on the saddle most days, riding from the cool Western Ghats to the quiet backwaters of Kerala. Expect some challenging rides – there are high fives all round at the top of the Ooty hairpins! – plus off-the-saddle adventures, including a traditional houseboat stay and a 4x4 safari in Bandipur National Park. We finish in Varkala, on the old hippie trail, for downtime at the beach.
Profile
— Accommodation: 4 Superior nights (hotel), 8 Classic nights (7 hotel, 1 houseboat), 1 Simple night (jungle lodge) — 10 days of cycling (including one optional ride) with full vehicle support — Group normally 4 to 14, plus local cycling leader and driver. Minimum age: 16 — E-bikes available for an additional cost
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 4 Superior nights (hotel), 8 Classic nights (7 hotel, 1 houseboat), 1 Simple night (jungle lodge) — 10 days of cycling (including one optional ride) with full vehicle support — Group normally 4 to 14, plus local cycling leader and driver. Minimum age: 16 — E-bikes available for an additional cost
Trip For You
This cycling adventure is classified Activity Level 4 (Moderate & Challenging). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
It is ideal if you’re a competent cyclist, ideally with at least one or two cycling trips under your belt. The temperature and humidity can be challenging but we schedule plenty of water and comfort breaks. A support vehicle, which can take a maximum of five passengers with bikes, is available if you wish to take a break from cycling.
10 days of cycling (including one optional ride)Average 34mi (55km) per day with vehicle support
Route: We aim to cycle door-to-door for most of the route, with only a few transfers needed due to longer distances, national park restrictions and busier roads. The cycling is mainly on surfaced roads with a few rough, potholed sections. Please bear this in mind if you are bringing your own pedals and clip-in shoes. Day 3 is the longest ride day at 56mi (90km), mostly on good roads with some gentle undulation.
Terrain and traffic: This is a good all-round trip with plenty of flat riding, lots of downhill and a challenging climb. We mainly follow backroads with little traffic, but traffic does increase when approaching towns. The roads can be busy and you must be a confident rider who has cycled in traffic before. Tour leaders will brief you on the rules of the road; please listen carefully and follow the instructions.
Sights and monuments: Please note, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India and very occasionally this may mean that work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI schedule is never published, so it is impossible to forewarn our clients of when work will be taking place.
Group Description
Our Indian team of leaders has proved very popular with their incredible knowledge, passion and hospitality adding greatly to the experience. There is no better way to experience Indian culture than letting an Indian guide show you around their country.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, 10 lunches and four dinners are included.
Lunches on riding days are usually taken in roadside cafes, allowing us to sample typical 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 but a (large) bottle of beer is approximately 410 rupees (US$5). Please note, 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.
Generally, you can eat out very cheaply in India. Where food is not included, you should allow at least 1,650 rupees (approximately US$20) per day for lunch and dinner.
Please note, service in restaurants can be quite slow.
Drinking water is provided in the support vehicle, where you can fill your bottle from the containers.
Transportation
All your luggage and personal belongings will be carried by the support vehicle, which is a minibus.
The main transfers are using private mini-buses/coaches depending on the group size. The support vehicle follows the riders most of the time, allowing you to cycle as much or as little as you like. However, there is limited seating in the vehicle, and it is not possible to accommodate the whole group at the same time. On occasions, it is not possible for the support vehicle to follow the group, but we still meet the vehicle at regular intervals to replenish water supplies etc.
Please note, there are two short (approximately five to 10 minutes) ferry crossings on Day 8 where life jackets are not available; however, there are life rings available on all ferries.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel Sandesh The Prince, No. 3, Nazarbad Main Road, Mysore, 570010, Karnataka, India
Phone: +91 821 243 6777
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today, check-in is usually from midday
Airport: Bangalore Airport (BLR)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately four hours’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
It’s possible to reach the start hotel by public transport, but the journey is complicated. We therefore recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If not, a cab from the airport to the start hotel costs approximately 7,500 Indian rupees (US$90). On arrival at the hotel, please make the reception staff aware that you are part of an Exodus group and they will have more details on meeting with your leader and group.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Trivandrum Airport (TRV) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
The ideal time to visit is during the dry season from October to March. Days are hot and the nights warm, the average range of maximum daytime temperatures is 21C-35C (70F-95F) and 6C-20C (43F-68F) at night. Expect rain showers on November departures; however, they are usually quick and the sun normally comes out afterwards.
Mid-April to the end of May is the hottest time of the year with highs of 32C-36C (89F-97F) plus high humidity. The most important feature of the Indian climate is the monsoon. The main monsoon strikes the Kerala coast in late May and sweeps northward over the next month or so into July, but this reduces the humidity and temperatures drop to 27C-30C (75F-86F) making August and September a pleasant time to visit with lush fields and forests and lower rainfall to the previous months.
Please note, swimming in the sea at Varkala is not always possible, depending on recent weather conditions.
Spending Money
Many sites now charge a small fee for camera use. Allow at least 600 rupees (approximately US$7) per day for personal expenditures such as snacks and soft drinks.
India has very good shopping opportunities, especially for locally made goods. During your trip, it is highly likely your local guides will take you to emporiums and workshops where these goods are made. Many find this a great opportunity to buy local handicrafts, silk and carpets. Guides often assume visitors want to shop; if you do not wish to go, please make this clear to your local guide at the time.
Optional Activities
Additional optional activities available are as follows:
Fort Kochi:
— Kathakali dance show: 700 rupees (US$9) per person, based on a minimum of four people
Tipping
Tipping is part of the culture in India. However, it can often be an awkward affair, especially when you’re in an unfamiliar country. As such, your tour leader will offer to arrange and look after a tipping kitty, which will be used to tip hotel staff, local guides, airport transfer drivers and other support staff on the trip.
Your leader will suggest how much to contribute, depending on group size, but it is usually in the region of 5,700-6,300 rupees (approximately US$70) per person. At any time during the trip, your leader will be happy to show you an account of how the kitty is being distributed.
Tips for the tour leader and drivers and cycle crew are not included in the kitty and are at your own discretion. Our local leaders and staff are paid well and fairly for their work; however, if you wish to show your appreciation, our recommendation is as follows:
For the driver, assistant leader, and mechanic: Around 400 rupees (US$5) per passenger per dayFor your tour leader: Around 400 rupees (US$5) per person per day
Where possible, please tip in the local currency.
Highlights
— Discover idyllic southern India by bike, the most immersive way to experience the friendly people and incredible landscapes — Challenge yourself to climb the fabled hairpins of Ooty — Cruise the backwaters of Kerala on a traditional rice barge – a classic experience in South India! — Search for monkeys and elephants on a 4x4 safari in Bandipur National Park — Finish at the beach, relaxing in the old hippie trail town of Varkala
Trip Details
Product Code: 4392
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: ferries.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: MIK
Starts: Mysore, India
Finishes: Mysore, India
Duration: 14 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Unknown
Includes
— All breakfasts, 10 lunches and four dinners — All accommodation — Monument entrance fees as per itinerary — One jeep safari — Local bike hireAccommodation
Hotels, lodge and houseboatThe accommodation on this trip includes 11 nights in hotels, one night in a safari lodge and one night on a houseboat. The accommodations typically used are found on the day-to-day itinerary. However, below are a few of the places we stay on this trip. Bandipur: Bandipur Safari Lodge (night 4) With an enviable position close to the national park entrance, Bandipur Safari Lodge is ideally placed for our adventures. We can be one of the first groups to take a game drive in the park, beating some of the crowds. The accommodation itself includes 22 rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant and campfire setting. Ooty: Fortune Resort Sullivan Court (night 5) Named for John Sullivan, who founded Ooty in 1821, this 67-room resort has a scenic spot in the Nilgiri Hills. Food and drink options include the multi-cuisine Pavilion Restaurant and Selbourne’s Bar, where you can gather with the group over a wine, beer or mocktail. It’s also well located, close to the Botanical Gardens and Rose Gardens. Trikunnapuzha: Traditional houseboat (night 11) 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. They are comfortable and unique. 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 will be available. Worth knowing Hotels in India usually do not have heating as there are only a couple of months when the weather can get cooler. You can request more blankets or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room. Please ask your tour leader if you need help in this matter.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4,560 ($326 /day)
Itinerary
The adventure begins in Mysore. After checking into our hotel, we have a short introductory briefing and time to relax (we may have to wait until around noon if rooms are not ready). We meet at lunchtime and have a short post-lunch walk around the markets. In the late afternoon, we have a bike briefing and fitting in the hotel courtyard. In the evening, we have a full trip briefing before an optional group dinner. Accommodation: Hotel Sandesh The Prince (or similar)
We start with a leisurely morning ride to Srirangapatna, the ruins of Tipu Sultan’s capital, which were destroyed by the British in 1799 during their final battle to secure control of southern India. The fortress stands on an island in the middle of the Cauvery River; once over the bridge, we cycle around the old ramparts, enter Tipu Sultan’s Mosque and the Ranganathaswamy Temple before riding back to Mysore for lunch. For lunch, you get your first taste of thali, the southern Indian meal of rice and multiple small curries on a plate, or the typical south Indian masala dosa, a thin pancake made with fermented rice and lentil batter. In the afternoon, we have a guided tour around Mysore Palace. Also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, it is the official residence of the Wodeyars, the former royal family of Mysore, which ruled the princely state of Mysore for more than seven centuries. The decor is stunning, if a little bit over the top, and the former maharaja is still in residence in his private quarters. Accommodation: Hotel Sandesh The Prince (or similar)
We leave the hotel and cycle out of Mysore town up to Chamundi Hill to view the 16.5ft (5m) rock carving of Nandi, Shiva’s celestial bull. There are also good views over the whole of Mysore. We then cycle back down the hill and continue along the quiet backroads, along with the children riding a bike or bus to school. We also share the road with herds of white oxen and women in colourful saris carrying waterpots on their heads. Our ride takes us through the backroads to a quaint little village where we stop to enjoy a picnic lunch. After a comfortable lunch, some rehydration and rest, we continue to Chamarajanagar. We should arrive at our hotel in Chamarajanagar by late afternoon to relax by the pool or enjoy a cold drink. Accommodation: Nijaguna Resort (or similar)
After breakfast, we ride along the villages outside the forest areas to witness village life and continue along the backroads to the outskirts of Bandipur Sanctuary. We should arrive at our hotel in Bandipur National Park in time for lunch. In the late afternoon, we take a 4×4 safari in the park to see lots of peacocks, spotted deer and monkeys, with the chance to see wild elephants, Indian bison, and, at certain times of the year, the elusive tiger. Accommodation: Bandipur Safari Lodge (or similar)
Today is the highlight of the trip for some, ascending 4,104ft (1,251m) to Ooty (Ootacamund), a resort town in the Nilgiri Hills and the former summer capital of the Raj. After an early breakfast, we take local transportation to Kalhatty, a small village on the way up. Due to cycling restrictions to mitigate animal-human conflict, we start our ride just outside the forest area, from the 20th hairpin of the 36 bends. It’s a very steep ride up with stunning vistas at every turn; we have plenty of photo opportunities along the way, which double as rest stops. Reaching the top is a huge achievement and we should all take a moment or two to bathe in our success! Alternatively, enjoy a relaxed morning and journey up the hill in the support vehicle. After tea and cake at the top, we have an undulating ride into Ooty. Ooty is called the Queen of the Hill Stations and, although it is now a busy little town, there is lots to see and do. Originally occupied by the tribal Todas, the area came under the East India Company at the end of the 18th century. The British introduced tea, and the hillsides around Ooty are covered in tea gardens. Arriving late morning, we take lunch in our hotel. The afternoon is free to explore town and sample the local cardamom tea. Both the Botanical Gardens and the Rose Gardens are a short walk from our hotel. In town, there are many shops selling locally grown tea and oils and homemade chocolate. Accommodation: Fortune Resort Sullivan Court (or similar)
After breakfast, we have a stunning ride across the rolling Nilgiri Hills, the backdrop for many Bollywood movies, before starting the dramatic descent, dropping 6,560ft (2,000m) through the hills and tea-covered slopes of the Western Ghats. The ride offers fantastic views over the hills below and there are spectacular viewpoints. After 34mi (54km), we reach Gadalur, a typical Indian town with one long high street selling everything, with shop fronts covered in colourful adverts and cheap children’s toys. We have a tea break here before heading towards Kerala with the final 12.5mi (20km) descent through tropical rainforest and bamboo-covered slopes to our end point at a typical Keralan roadside restaurant. The bikes are loaded as we enjoy lunch and then transfer (3hr 30min) to Guruvayoor to avoid busy roads. Please note that although the road is not very busy the road surface today is probably the worst of the trip. There are many potholes and the road surface is not even. Please take care and concentrate while cycling. Arriving in Guruvayoor, we have time to relax before wandering into town to sample delicious Keralan street food and have an evening stroll outside the temple, which comes alive at night. It is one of the most important places of worship for Hindus in Kerala and the fourth-largest temple in India. The town is filled with devotees dressed in traditional Keralan costume, who come here in their thousands to offer rice, flowers and gold to Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Accommodation: Sopanam Heritage (or similar)
Today, we cycle by the Shree Krishna Temple. A little further is another religious centre, Palayur Church, one of the oldest churches in India and founded by Saint Thomas the Apostle, who landed in India in 52 CE. From here, we head towards the coast, cycling along country roads lined with mango and coconut trees. There are plenty of photo opportunities as we observe traditional life. Later, crossing bridges, we cycle onto Vypin Island, arriving at Cherai Beach early afternoon. The rest of the day is free to enjoy this stunning location and swim in the Indian Ocean. Cherai is known for mouth-watering fresh seafood, so for dinner, you could try jhinga kachcia aam kari, a speciality dish from Kerala made with green mango and prawns simmered in coconut milk and spices. Accommodation: Sea Lagoon Health Resort (or similar)
We set off from our beach location towards the port city of Kochi (formerly Cochin), cycling south and passing through small fishing communities where colourful boats are hauled up along the sands. Turning inland, we see grand houses built with the remittance money from the Gulf States workforce, plus older houses constructed during the British colonial period. Please note, the traffic levels are high for the last 5mi (8km) as we arrive at the main road to board the ferry to the Fort Kochi neighbourhood. This has a unique place in Indian history, and to soak up the atmosphere we spend the next two nights here. After hotel check-in, we wander down to one of the restaurants in the old harbour area for lunch. Those wishing to visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum should do so today, as it is closed on Mondays. Accommodation: The Dutch Bungalow (or similar)
Today is a free day to explore Kochi with its bazaars and old harbour area. The Portuguese established a base here, followed by the Dutch, who were forced to hand it over to the British in 1841. A potpourri of Indian and international communities, it is now the bustling commercial capital of Kerala and consists of several islands connected by ferries. Most of the major sights are close by in the neighbouring areas of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. Warehouses that smell of tea and spices are lime-washed bright green, yellow and blue; rickety old bikes and hand-painted trucks piled high with goods fill the narrow streets and food stalls stand on every corner. St Francis Church is close to the hotel. Built by the Portuguese in 1503, it is the burial place of explorer Vasco da Gama and his tomb is inside the church. Further along, you come to Mattancherry and the Dutch Palace. 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 Jewtown and the Paradesi Synagogue. Built in 1568 for the Jewish members of the Kochi 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, Jew Street, is a heritage zone with many antique and handicraft shops and is excellent for shopping. For a culinary experience, try the fish market near the Chinese fishing nets, where you can buy the day’s catch and have it cooked to your taste. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities here. Accommodation: The Dutch Bungalow (or similar)
Riding from Fort Kochi, we pass 500-year-old Portuguese villas, a striking contrast to the tiny fisherman huts dotted along the beach road. Many of these fishing villages are Christian; at the coastal town of Arthunkal, the old stone church dominates the surroundings and is best viewed from the shade of a coconut tree while we have a tea break. Continuing along the coast road, we head to Muhamma, the start point for backwater trips, and spend the night in a lakeside resort. The tranquil gardens are as relaxing as the Ayurvedic massage and treatments on offer to guests. In the afternoon and early evening, relax on the veranda as backwater life unfurls before you. Accommodation: Deshadan Backwater Resort (or similar)
After a lie-in, enjoy an optional 13.5mi (22km) bike ride to explore the village or relax. Around midday, we board a backwater houseboat for an unforgettable trip to Trikunnapuzha. These converted rice barges have two-berth cabins and come with their own cook. With our bikes stacked on the side of the boat, you won’t see the saddle for another 19 hours, so just relax and watch the world pass. Vessels of all sizes use the lakes and canals that make up this fascinating network of waterways. On one side of the canal, vast paddy fields of iridescent green stretch as far as the eye can see; on the other are fishing nets and coconut trees. As the sun begins to set, the boats are moored together and we gather on deck for sundowners. Accommodation: Overnight houseboat
We have breakfast on the houseboats as they move from their overnight mooring point to our disembarkation point. Here we meet the support vehicle and set off along a quiet coastal road, passing by Amrithanadamayi Ashram, better known as the Hugging Mama Ashram, a spiritual retreat overlooking the backwaters. We then join the main road to Quillon and have lunch at a seaside guesthouse: the fish is bought fresh from the market and cooked in mild spice and served with poratta, a favourite Keralan bread. After lunch, we are back on quiet roads for the last 18.5mi (30km) to Varkala, a small laid-back community with coffee bars and yoga schools perched along the clifftop. We spend the next two nights here. Accommodation: Sajjoys Hotel (or similar)
Today is free to relax and enjoy the beachside location. There are several beach shack restaurants for lunch, serving excellent seafood. Try the tandoori dishes, the clay ovens give a more authentic taste to breads and curries. The last night’s meal is generally at the hotel with a fusion of all your favourite Keralan dishes. Accommodation: Sajjoys Hotel (or similar)
The adventure comes to an end today. Those catching the group transfer to the airport will have a very early departure this morning. For everyone else, the trip ends after breakfast. If you’d like a little longer to explore, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Jo Ronald - Traveled, January 2024
A trip offering a rich variety of experiences Was quite nervous about going as it was my first trip to India. Once we arrived, I realised my nerves were unfounded. Our leader Safi and his two assistants Dipin and Sanjeed were all amazing. Everything was organised beautifully. They led the rides expertly, and made sure that we had a varied and authentic experience of India. The Indian people were fantastic – friendly, curious, helpful. And the children … wow! Lovely. Most Inspirational Moment Getting to the top of the hairpins at Ooty on a bike was a major personal achievement. However, there was so much to choose from - temples, holy rivers, stunning landscapes, amazing food, the warm ocean, three states, all very different, tuk tuk rides, seeing elephants and a leopard in Bandipur. Seeing a monitor lizard. And the backwaters cruise is stunning. Thoughts on Group Leader Safi was amazing, as were Dipin and Sanjeed. They were brilliant. Can't praise them enough. Advice for Potential Travellers Don't count on the ATMs, they don't always work and are only available in the bigger places. Safer to take cash to exchange as this gives you more options. Take plenty of hand sanitiser and use it. Only drink filtered or bottled water and drink in cans or bottles. We took chlorine tablets just in case, but only used them to keep our water bottles clean overnight.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/13/2024
Claire Norfolk - Traveled, November 2019
So colourful! I did this trip in Nov 2019 and did a review but cannot see any reviews from our trip for some reason. This was an amazing trip, so much to see, stop, photograph and take in the views and scenery. Tamil Nadu, tiger reserve (only saw elephants but that was great) we had a great guides and a fab group. I was definitely taken with the whole cycle trips to see more of the real country and life going on. Ooty hill was an amazing achievement for me though a lot of swear words kept me going! The Ooty train trip was great too. The colours, smells, madness of the traffic all terrific memories. Eating a typical Karelian meal from banana leaves in a local house was the best food. Vegetarians very well catered for and I wasn’t ill like many of the others in the group. Most Inspirational Moment Loved it all but cycling up Ooty hill I guess. Also loved the overnight boat trip. Thoughts on Group Leader Fantastic, couldn’t be more helpful Advice for Potential Travellers Do it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/20/2023
Sally Jennings - Traveled, October 2023
Tropical India I loved the holiday, the people, the food, the adventures however, I think whoever put the description of the holiday together needs to go on the tour and rename it. There is a lot more cycling on main roads and highways than I expected. We didn’t get to experience the tea plantations. We simply sped past them. The Tropical bit didn’t occur until the final few days. Most Inspirational Moment Definitely seeing a tiger stalking a baby elephant. We watched it for about an hour. The Granny and mummy elephants were so close to us and it was amazing to watch them protect their baby. Getting a Tuk Tuk to drive us round Kochin. The Jewish quarter is just lovely. The houseboat experience was fun. Loved sitting back playing Name that Tune with our new cycling buddies and chilling out. Thoughts on Group Leader Safi was great. Always there with a big smile and he was brilliant at keeping us together which is not an easy task in India! And of course, Dipin with his very positive encouragement at the back and Sandeep who didn’t say a lot but always turned up with the van in time for us to top up our water bottles. Advice for Potential Travellers Be aware, the traffic and noise is crazy. If there is a gap in the traffic, it will soon be filled with scooters! You will acclimatise but it is so different from the western world! Suggestions Great way to experience a fantastic Country and don’t forget to try one of the Auryveda treatments! The massages are great after a long cycle.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/16/2023
Amanda Sewry - Traveled, September 2023
Abundance Was trying to think of one word to sum up this trip and India, and it’s Abundance. Abundance of people, noise, traffic, colour, friendliness, food, wildlife etc. It was everything I hoped it would be: the places we cycled to and through, the friendliness of the people, outstanding food and the legend of a guide that is Safi! Cycling in the traffic on the busier roads I never felt unsafe, they’re actually better, more attentive drivers than in the UK, and the seeming chaos of the roads makes complete sense in a country with sooo many people and modes of transport. Safi takes great care to look after his group, keeping us safe. He’s informative, kind and funny and goes above & beyond to make sure we’re happy and having a good time. A huge credit to Exodus. We had a fabulous group and along with our leader and the support guys made this a superb trip, feeling like we’d really immersed ourselves in India. Most Inspirational Moment So many to choose from, but a couple were: the people; always so friendly. The wildlife; couldn’t get over the sheer volume of dragonflies, butterflies and eagles/kites. Thoughts on Group Leader Safi was exceptional and helped make the trip memorable. I’d read reviews of the trip before I went and saw the positive feedback about Safi, so was hoping he would be our leader. So I was pleased when he appeared. He has all the qualities you would want in a guide and super cool with it! Advice for Potential Travellers Take cash to change up, some of our group struggled to find ATMs that would give out money. There were plenty of places that would exchange cash. You can only get clothes washed in a couple of places, one is at Ooty, but it’s not cheap.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/19/2023
Jennie Mc - Traveled, January 2023
Wonderful, well organised trip This was such a memorable trip, there was such a variety of experiences. From cities and temples, to rainforest and jungle safari to the tea plantations and stations in the hills. Cycling allowed us to get close to it all and be properly off the beaten track. The group all got on well and the organisation from Safi and Franklin was amazing, nothing was too much trouble or hadn’t been planned for. The food was amazing too. Most Inspirational Moment There were so many, but i just loved cycling through the countryside and seeing the amazing wildlife. Thoughts on Group Leader Safi was fantastic, everything that you would want in a leader. Incredibly organised, friendly, insightful, with a wealth of knowledge. Franklin, our driver, was also lovely and couldn't be more helpful. Advice for Potential Travellers Don't take too much, you can get washing done relatively cheaply. There is no issue with wearing normal lycra cycling kit. Take uk sterling-it is easy to change, we had real problems finding working ATMs that accepted our cards and had cash still left, having said that you will need relatively little money, it is cheap by our standards. The climb to Ooty was much steeper than I had imagined but there was no shame in putting your bike on the bus and walking up-still a massive sense of achievement. Be prepared for lots of selfies, we were a relative novelty and saw no other European tourist for the first week-lots of people wanted photos! Suggestions We could have no reservations about recommending this holiday particularly now the bureaucratic nightmare of in-person visas has finished!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/28/2023
Eddie Irlam - Traveled, February 2020
A trip for your bucket list. I have done many cycling trips with Exodus and without doubt, this is the best of the lot. If you want a good mix of cycling with plenty of time for afternoons by the poolside, this is the trip for you. The climb to Ooty is exactly as described on the tin and it’s tough. The rest of the tour is all within the average cyclists capabilities. Only one 4 hour bus transfer during the trip, the rest pretty much involved finishing the days ride at your destination hotel. The whole trip ran like clockwork and that’s no accident all thanks to our first class tour guide Joseph, Maneesh and Kam, our excellent bike team. We were a mixed group of 13 like minded people and it worked perfectly. Most Inspirational Moment For me, cycling through the villages in Karnataka where sometimes time seems to simply stand still and the rice barge trip on the backwaters of Kerala. Thoughts on Group Leader There is simply no better guide than Joseph. Absolutely faultless and a truly nice bloke. Advice for Potential Travellers If you only ever do one cycling tour in Asia, do this one.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/25/2020
Will Hamilton - Traveled, December 2019
Wonderful experience This was a fantastic couple of weeks. Joseph and his team are absolutely first class. The cycling is easy apart from that climb up to Ooty! Lots of magical memories. Most Inspirational Moment The visit to the temple at Guruvayoor. Farm walk and chai at the farmhouse. Seeing elephants in the wild. Home stay lunch. Houseboat. Thoughts on Group Leader First class.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/12/2020
Ray Salim - Traveled, February 2023
Kerala Cycling Great variety of riding, lots of different terrain and views. Excellent guide. Most Inspirational Moment Down hill from Ooty!! Thoughts on Group Leader Safi was extremely knowledgeable and very experienced. Was always calm and gave a great briefing for next days program and before each section of the rides. Advice for Potential Travellers Get a local sim card on arrival. Do some hill training for the 19 switchbacks up to Ooty! Suggestions The food was fantastic throughout the trip, so varied and tasty. One observation...some group lunches, too much food, leaving lots to go to waste.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/23/2023
Michael Weeks - Traveled, January 2023
Kerala review A great very well organised trip. Thoughts on Group Leader Safi was pretty much faultless. He gave very clear instructions, was remarkably knowledable on items we passes from mud bricks to plants. He was impressively patient with even the dumbest questions.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/14/2023
Tim R - Traveled, January 2023
Wonderful trip It was great. 3rd time lucky after 2 cancellations due to Pandemic. And no more visa hassles now evisa up and running again. Excellent trip. Cycling was an easy level 4 especially with Ooty climb truncated. Roads are nuts but actually pretty safe. Didn’t see any accidents. A lot of variety, cities, rural villages, beach, stunning Nilgiri hills, wildlife. Food was excellent. Hotels good. Very well led by Safi and his team. People were lovely. One of the best exodus trips I have done. Most Inspirational Moment Ride down from Ooty. Varkala is a surprisingly beautiful and calm beach resort Hotel at Cherai between lake and sea Houseboat - birdwatching Dolphins Thoughts on Group Leader Terrific. Safi has done this trip over 100 times. Makes it flow beautifully Advice for Potential Travellers Watch your waistline You might want to take a jar of good instant coffee Stay a few days at Varkala end of trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/10/2023
Joe Scarborough - Traveled, January 2023
One of a Kind Cycle Tour Kerala India My wife and I had a fabulous trip on the Cycle Kerala & Tropical India tour. I think with any cycling trips the key thing is the trip leader and accompanying maintenance staff and co leader. Safi the trip leader did a fantastic job along with Frank and Shaker who helped Safi with all the various jobs required to make things run smoothly. Safi was extremely organized and dealt efficiently with anything that came up. The food and excursions were all very good and very interesting with great cultural involvement . I think this trip was absolutely a “bucket list ” scenario for myself and my wife. The trip stands above many that I have done. Most Inspirational Moment I wouldn't pin it down to one moment as the interaction with many local people on the trip and interesting conversations was a highlight . The people are very friendly and open to many topics of conversation. I enjoyed the climb to Ooty with all the hair pin turns. Thoughts on Group Leader I would give Safi 10 out of 10. Great guy, smart, organized, fit, and calmly dealt with any issues that came up. Can't say enough positives about him. Advice for Potential Travellers I would suggest that someone best suited for this would be flexible with any issues that come up, a decent cyclist (only moderate fitness is required as only 1 day requiring a higher fitness state) , likes riding in warm weather, and does a bit of homework before trip on what to expect in India as far as traffic, culture, food , etc... Suggestions Just add it to your bucket list as a one of a kind cycling/cultural experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/19/2023
David Wilford - Traveled, March 2019
Wow! This really was a holiday of heightened senses: the most brilliant colours, the noisiest roads, the most intense flavours, the brightest smiles, the biggest views – and everything experienced in the thick of it, either from a bike or on foot. Vehicle transfers are few and far between, meaning there’s nothing between you and your environment (including a tiger, if you’re lucky enough to see one – which sadly we weren’t). The great thing about Exodus at their best is that they can organise things we could never do on our own: not just carefully picked hotels and restaurants, but also temple and palace tours, a safari, a houseboat trip, a bespoke lunch in a bay of the Indian Ocean – and much more. That not only makes this trip great value – it also makes a lifetime memory. And then, of course, there are the guides. The unfailing cheerfulness and knowledge of Joseph and our support driver Maneesh were a constant bonus that contributed to this being not only our best Exodus trip to date (it was our fourth) but one of the best holidays of our lives. Cycling aside, in fact, a highlight was a lesson in Bollywood dancing from Joseph – who is incredible at it! Most Inspirational Moment One of two: getting up Ooti hill without passing out, and Joseph's Bollywood lesson - see above! Thoughts on Group Leader Joseph and Maneesh were both fantastic - anybody who gets this team in future is very lucky. Advice for Potential Travellers Just book it...
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/18/2019
Keri L - Traveled, February 2019
Wonderful cycle trip through Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala This was my first trip to India and it was a fabulous experience. I loved the cycling, which was mainly moderate with a few tough days, and we packed in so much that it felt like an amazing introduction to the country. We had wonderful guides, our group got on famously and the food was delicious. It was a very memorable holiday. Most Inspirational Moment That's genuinely hard to narrow down, as there was so much to be inspired by. Getting to the top of Ooty ( sooo hard) watching the sun rise from the houseboat, Mysore palace illuminations, the temple at Guruvayor, the beach at Varkala - there were so many lovely moments. Thoughts on Group Leader Shibu, Shegar and Sandosh (apologies for spelling) were a great team that looked after us so well. There's no way we would have packed so much into our limited time without their guidance, and we certainly never went hungry or thirsty. One of our group was celebrating a big birthday and they made it a very special experience for us all. Advice for Potential Travellers Really I'd just say go for it. There are challenging days on the bike so be as prepared as possible, but with some training, you can do it. I'd been worried about stomach upsets and mosquito bites and wasn't troubled by either. In fact as a vegetarian I've never eaten so well in my life - the food was glorious, and plentiful - we all worried whether we'd squeeze into our Lycra by the end of the holiday. I honestly don't have any notes of caution. One of our group did the whole trip on a Brompton, so anything is possible! Suggestions Just to thank our guides, and the rest of our group, for one of the best holidays I've been on. It was a total blast and I wish I was there now!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/18/2019
Sue Jones - Traveled, December 2019
An unforgettable experience The cycling was challenging at times due to ascent and temperature but the local guides were realistic and supportive. The trip through three Indian states showcased the amazing friendliness of the local Indian people. The trip demonstrated the wildlife of Indian, the heritage of the area, history and heritage of the locals and the cycling challenges. Recommended as a great way to see the real India. Please don’t see each day as a race and get into the Indian time zone and slow down and enjoy the time cycling rather than try and finish first. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing tigers and elephants in the wild. Thoughts on Group Leader Joseph is a Kerala local who cares deeply about his clients and has great local knowledge.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/14/2019
David Netherwood - Traveled, November 2018
Tough in places, but a great holiday This is a really good holiday with chance to see some very different bits of India, from the illuminated palace of Mysore to the tigger reserve (we saw a tigger), to the 36 hairpin bends on the mountainous road to Ooty (1200m accent), the glorious tea plantations (that actually smell of tea), then Kerala itself, with its palm trees, beaches and backwaters. If you are worried about the recent flood (2018), don’t be everything is open, schools, roads, hotels, pools, etc. In fact there is no trace of it at all and we stayed in places that had flooded. You do need to be prepared, some parts (especially Mysore) are dirty, smelly and noisy. The driving in India is downright scary – you will find vehicles coming round bends on the wrong side of the road, but it all somehow works,and speeds are lower that the UK. The food (I’m vegetarian) with very few exceptions was outstanding. Worth booking for the food alone. The bikes were perhaps not maintained as well as I would have liked, and were a little heavy, but were mostly up to the job. Some sections of the cycling are tough! We had rain in the mountains were it got quite cold, but left it behind as we descended. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the top of Ooty hill, at last. Spotting a tiger on the jeep safari The hindu temple at night, with dancing, fire and elephant. Swimming in the brakes of the Arabian sea The food! The glorious tea plantations, they are so pretty Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent Advice for Potential Travellers Put in a bit of training. Pack warm clothing too. Bring a pen! Book it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/15/2018
Samantha Rapp - Traveled, March 2024
India cycling This was an excellent trip with 14 other people I did not know who are now friends, we had three guides Safi, Sandeep and Dipkin, Safi was our cycle leader, Dipkin cycle as well and bike mechanic and Sandeep our van driver and water man. We had daily briefings and how to navigate roads where to eat, our guides were knowledgable with local envionmental information such as trees, fruits and temples overall a really good trip, with some challneging cycling which was great Most Inspirational Moment Climbing Hooty cycling and completing this as well as the back waters boat and good distances covered as well as teh safari I saw a tiger and other fab wildife teh only thing was the safari guides good have made it more interesting with some commentary but overall good it was lovely to see animals being protected and the echo emaphisis although India has a long way to go they have states taht are plastic free and look after the wildife its a sjhame about teh street dogs as there is a problem with that as dogs are pregant and no way to stop this but India and this trip has been fab Thoughts on Group Leader Safi was very good he gave us a daily briefing the only thing I would say is taht he needed to be a bit clearer with instructions, and keep up with the female members to check welfare as a few times men would come close to us on mopeds, which he needed to be more aware abaout, apart from taht he was excellent friendly nice and had local knowldge the trip was brillent thanks to Safi and his team Advice for Potential Travellers Book this trip if you like a challenge cycling and also to see hardly any tourists you see the real india with teh villages and friendly people I havve not been to India before and will definatley book another trip the accommodation was good teh food teh cycling and you had time to socialise and shop for gifts etc with our leader telling us what a good price would be for tuc tuks and shops etc in a nutshell I loved this trip Suggestions Thank you for an amazing trip can't wait to book the next adventure
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/02/2024
Vicki Nunn - Traveled, February 2017
5000 miles away from my life in rural England!!! What a shock to the senses arriving in Mysore on the first day of what was to be an amazing 2 weeks! The colour and noise of India was exhilarating! Such a brilliantly varied trip – I loved it! So much more than just a cycling holiday! A real snapshot of Southern India that I would recommend to anyone who loves to see and do a lot whilst away. Most Inspirational Moment Just arriving in India and realising that my 2 week adventure was about to begin! Against all odds, seeing a tiger drinking at the waterhole in Bandipur National Park! Mysore Palace at night (I nearly didn't go cos it was the first night and I was SO tired!) Thoughts on Group Leader Safi was a nice enough guide but could have been a bit more forthcoming with info about places visited and things seen along the route. Advice for Potential Travellers Take: a bag for front of your bike to avoid bumbags/rucksacks (it's too hot!), shower gel if you don't like soap (that's what most of the hotels provide), loo roll (not provided in loos out of hotels), electrolyte tabs for your drink, concentrated squash (makes that warm water a little more interesting!) and BINOCULARS for the safari (a must!) Add as many extra days in Varkala at the end of the holiday as you can (one day just isn't enough!) but book it yourself (Exodus charged us double the going rate!!). We used the group flight but left 2 days later than everyone else and were so glad we did!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2017
Gerry Roberts - Traveled, November 2018
Fabulous experience India remains much as I saw it almost forty years ago; more traffic though! The people are lovely and the food is fantastic Kerala itself is well over the recent floods, so don’t let this hold you back. It’s truly beautiful. Our guide, Joseph, was lovely; calm, confident and informative at all times. Thoroughly recommend this trip. Most Inspirational Moment Descent from Ooty Quite stunning Thoughts on Group Leader Thoroughly good man Knew just how to keep the group together and safe. Reliable and calm Advice for Potential Travellers Don’t worry about the recent floods The food is fabulous and safe!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/19/2018
Kathy Williams - Traveled, April 2018
A fantastic trip! A wonderful cycling holiday, superb organisation and led and supported by a great team who were friendly and efficient. The itinerary was very varied from towns and palaces to the jungle, beaches and backwaters, and the cycling linked it all perfectly. The big hill climb up to Ooty was certainly a challenge, (but well worth it) and added an extra dimension to the tour. Despite staying in excellent hotels, we felt we had an insight into the real India as or routes took us through back roads and villages. I would thoroughly recommend it! Most Inspirational Moment Seeing the animals in the tiger reserve, including spotting a leopard and a tiger! Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader, Safi, was excellent and contributed hugely to the success of the trip. He was friendly, with a sense of humour, interesting and knowledgeable and very efficient with briefings and organisation. A great guy! Advice for Potential Travellers Go for it! Suggestions The food was superb, and plentiful. A perfect holiday!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/23/2018
Steven Elliot - Traveled, November 2017
Cycle Kerala an Tropical India We loved this. India just hits you in the face – sights, smells,sounds,tastes. Exotic and spicy, just like a good curry. Cycling is such a great way of seeing a country and we traveled deep into rural areas where tourists don’t go; we often felt like creatures from another planet and the locals seemed to agree judging by the number of selfies they took with us in them. Most Inspirational Moment So many: Riding through Mysore in the rush hour - at the same time both exhilarating and bowel loosening. The ride up to Ooty even though we went through rain and mist and didn't see a thing. The ride the next day down through tea plantations and rain forest Walking round Guruvayoor at night during a Hindu festival and realizing we were the only foreigners. The welcome we received from Muslims on the day they celebrated the birth of the Prophet - sweets,food,ice cream,smiles. Sighting a tiger at Bandipur. The food - piled on weight. Thoughts on Group Leader Safi was a star. Advice for Potential Travellers You do need to be confident of cycling in traffic. The route takes you through some busy towns/cities and along some highways. Indians allegedly drive on the left but the evidence for this is weak. Motor cycles seem to routinely travel on the hard shoulder in the wrong direction and tuk tuks and mopeds just do their own thing. Cars and lorries don't so much overtake each other as play chicken. The cycling is pretty easy - once you get to Kerala there is a near total absence of hills. The ride up to Ooty is an aberration - similar to but harder than Alpe d'Huez. The altitude of Ooty is over 7000 feet and we were very cold at the top because of the rain ( we were there at the time of a cyclone which caused flooding and loss of life in southern Kerala). Suggest you take full wet weather gear. Take hand gel and if you you expect a high level of toilet cleanliness then this is not the trip for you. Suggestions We were a happy group and mixed well which has not always been our experience on Exodus trips. This sort of holiday is best suited to the sociable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/19/2017
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