Coast to Coast Cycling Holidays- South India

Upon your arrival at Chennai International Airport, your cycling guide for South India coast to coast, will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel in Mahabalipuram approximately 1hr 30minutes away. Mahabalipuram is famous for its shore temples and rock carvings. Carving in stone is still a living art here and we will see stonemasons chipping away along the roadside, practicing skills that have flourished for centuries. Relax for the day as you start the expedition the following day.

After a hearty breakfast, you will start your Coast to Coast South India Cycling from the hotel towards Pondicherry, a former French colony that still carries its Europea charm. The ride today takes you through picturesque fishing villages, coastal landscapes, and busting village farms where you witness the culture and vibrant life of Tamil Nadu. By afternoon, you arrive Pondicherry, the area still a retain its European charm, the buildings, street and art all of it tells the story of a remarkable period in history. In the evening, you’ll wander through the streets, visit local landmarks such as the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, or simply relax by the beach.

Leaving behind the beautiful Pondicherry, you will set off towards Tharanganpadi, once a renowned Danish port during the colonial era. Today’s ride takes you through cultivation fields, fishing villages and coastal landscapes, experiencing the culture richness of Tamil Nadu. By late afternoon, you arrive in Tharangambadi, the Danish East India Company established a trading hub here in 1620, and remnants of its colonial legacy can still be seen in its architecture and fortifications. As the evening sets in, a peaceful walk along Tranquebar Beach offers a mesmerizing view of the old fort silhouetted against the sunset, bringing a perfect close to the day’s journey.

Today, you will leave the coast and head inland to the vast, lush Tamil plains. Kumbakonam, often referred to as a “temple town,” is renowned for its numerous historic temples. The town is a treasure trove of history and spirituality, home to famous temples such as Adi Kumbeswarar and Sarangapani. It is also known for the Mahamaham festival, held once every 12 years, which attracts devotees from all over the country. The terrain is predominantly smooth, making it suitable for cyclists of all levels. As the route winds through the fertile Cauvery Delta, riders will pass through picturesque rural landscapes, expansive paddy fields, and charming villages. This region boasts a rich cultural heritage, and the ride offers a glimpse into traditional Tamil Nadu life, with roadside vendors, ancient temples, and bustling local markets enhancing the experience.

The cycling route from Kumbakonam to Thanjavur on Day 5 is mostly flat, making for a relatively easy and comfortable ride. The journey takes cyclists through the heart of Tamil Nadu’s temple belt, passing lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and small villages that showcase the region’s traditional lifestyle. Thanjavur is one of South India’s most historic cities, renowned for the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswarar Temple, a masterpiece of Chola-era architecture. The town is also a vibrant center for classical art forms that continue to thrive. As you explore, you can admire exquisite stone sculptures dating back to the 9th to 12th centuries. Another highlight is the Saraswati Mahal Library, established in the 1700s, which houses ancient palm-leaf manuscripts, medical texts, and rare treatises.

In local language Chettinad means land of Chettiars. Chettinad is the home of the Nattukottai Chettiars, a prosperous banking and business community, and they are known to be traders in salt and spices and this is reflected in the famous Chettinad cuisine. Chettinad is specially known for its traditional mansions, some of which have more than 100 rooms. Leaving Thanjavur, the ride passes through vast agricultural lands, with paddy fields slowly giving way to dry scrublands and more arid landscapes typical of the interior regions of Tamil Nadu. The transition is visually striking, as the lush green fields of the Cauvery Delta are gradually replaced by open plains with scattered vegetation, palm trees, and small villages. The roads are mostly well-paved, but some sections may have occasional rough patches, especially in more rural areas.

Leaving behind the grand mansions and quiet streets of Chettinad, the landscape quickly transitions to open countryside dotted with small villages and agricultural fields. This region is known for its dry, rugged beauty, with stretches of palmyra trees and traditional Tamil Nadu farmland. The ride takes cyclists through a mix of rural roads and occasional highway stretches, with plenty of opportunities to experience local life along the way. Small roadside tea stalls and markets provide excellent spots to take short breaks and soak in the surroundings. Madurai has been a major settlement for over two millennia, with a documented history spanning more than 2,500 years. Often called Thoongatha Nagaram, meaning “the city that never sleeps,” it is best known for the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a stunning example of Dravidian architecture with intricately carved towers and deep spiritual significance. The city is also renowned for Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music, which have flourished here for centuries. Beyond the temple, Madurai offers a rich historical experience, from the grand 17th-century Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace to its lively streets filled with shops and bustling vegetable and fruit markets.

The cycling route from Madurai to Athoor takes riders on a gradual ascent, The terrain is mostly a steady incline rather than steep climbs. Leaving behind the bustling streets of Madurai, the landscape transitions to quiet rural roads, passing through small villages and farmlands. The route offers an authentic glimpse into Tamil Nadu’s countryside, where traditional agriculture thrives. The roads are generally well-paved, though there may be some uneven stretches in more remote areas. Athoor is a charming and lesser-known destination, offering a peaceful retreat from the urban energy of Madurai. Located near the foothills of the Western Ghats, it is known for its lush landscapes, lakes, and small plantations.

The route begins at approximately 242 meters above sea level and steadily climbs, the ride starts on relatively flat terrain, passing through small villages and farmlands, but as the journey progresses, the landscape gradually transforms into rolling hills and dense plantations. The final stretch is the most demanding, with a steep climb leading into the heart of the Western Ghats, which is optional to cycle here since the ghat road is quite busy with few hairpin bends. However, the effort is well worth it, as cyclists are greeted by breathtaking views of mist-covered hills and the plains at the bottom. On the second day in Periyar you will explore the rich biodiversity of the reserve. In the morning, a guided nature walk offers an intimate experience of the forest, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as Malabar Giant Squirrels, Indian Gaur, Nilgiri Langurs, and a variety of bird species, including Hornbills and Woodpeckers. The trail leads you through dense evergreen patches, revealing hidden streams and vibrant flora that thrive in the protected environment of Periyar. In the evening, guests embark on an evening boat safari in the Periyar Lake. Drifting through the lake provides a unique setting for watching wildlife, as herds of Elephants, Sambar Deer, and wild Pigs often gather at the water’s edge.

After breakfast, we set off towards Vagamon. Known for its rolling meadows, tea plantations, and pine forests, Vagamon offers a striking contrast to the dense forests of Periyar. The ride to Vagamon takes you through undulating terrain, presenting a rewarding challenge after a day of exploration and relaxation in Periyar. As you ascend through winding roads, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of mist-covered hills, deep valleys, and vibrant tea estates. This route is a favorite among cycling and nature enthusiasts, offering countless opportunities for photography and moments of serenity in Kerala’s highlands.

Today, you leave the hills behind and descend into the plains as you make your way towards Alleppey, one of Kerala’s most enchanting backwater destinations. The day’s ride covers 30 km, starting from your hotel and featuring a thrilling 16 km downhill stretch, where you’ll glide past towering hills and lush forests, enjoying breathtaking views of the landscape as it transforms from highland terrain to the tropical plains. As you ride further, the scenery changes once more, passing rubber plantations, small villages, and sections alongside the Meenachil River. The journey gives a fascinating glimpse into Kerala’s diverse ecosystems, rural life, and agricultural landscapes. You will reach houseboat for lunch, upon your arrival, the crew will welcome you and invite you aboard the boat for the rest of the day. All your meals will be served on the boat as you cruise through the backwaters, gliding through spectacular waterways that offer a wonderful opportunity to witness the region’s natural beauty and the unique lifestyle of the local people. By evening, the boat anchors as fishermen lay their nets for the night’s catch. The next morning, you will continue cruising through the serene backwaters, taking in the tranquil surroundings. After breakfast, you will be dropped off, bringing your unforgettable journey to a close.

As you set off from Alleppey, you’ll soon find yourself riding alongside serene beaches. The gentle sea breeze will keep you cool as you pedal past quaint fishing villages, and you may spot Chinese fishing nets, a hallmark of Kerala’s coastal heritage. Along the way, you can take short breaks to savor fresh coconut water or sample local snacks from roadside stalls. Fort Kochi renowned for its rich history, multicultural heritage, and colonial-era architecture, Fort Kochi is a prominent tourist destination for both domestic and international travellers. In fact, it was ranked ninth among the top 25 in National Geographic’s Top Tourist Destinations to Explore In 2020.

After a memorable journey through South India’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich biodiversity, it’s time for the final transfer to the airport. Following breakfast at your stay in Fort Kochi, you will be driven to Cochin International Airport for your departure. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours, upon arrival at the airport, your tour concludes with warm farewells.