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Cycling along the Spice Trails involves scenic routes peppered with spice gardens and rubber plantations. Starting from Kochi, this family cycling holiday in Kerala covers almost every aspect of the culture and natural beauty that draws people to the place. From rendezvous in Fort Kochi and bird watching in Thattekkad, to country houses and farms, local village rides and houseboat cruise, this cycling tour encompasses unique experiences. An eight day family cycling holiday, it leaves you relaxed and fresh at the end.
Day 1: Kochi
Your first day of this exciting cycling holiday in Kerala will be spent at Fort Kochi. Once you arrive at the Kochi International Airport, you will be transferred to a hotel at Fort Kochi. Set on a cluster of islands and narrow peninsulas, Kochi is a city of cultural diversity. After you check and fit your bikes, you can spend the rest of the day exploring Fort Kochi, visiting the synagogue and the Dutch palace, buying a few knick-knacks at Jew street and spending the evening gazing out at the Chinese fishing nets at the harbour mouth. Your evening will end with the performance of a myriad of classical dancers from various parts of Kerala.
Day 2, 3: Thattekkad
Today, you will begin your cycling adventure from Kochi, to the destination, Thattekkad, a bird Sanctuary. This beautiful biking route in Kerala passes through spice gardens, and rubber and coconut plantations, driving into you a sense of adventure. You will reach the famed Thattekkad by noon. Thattekkad is located on the banks of the River Periyar and is one of the best birding destinations in India. It boasts of a large number of endemic species and you can also join a naturalist-led trip to learn the basics of bird watching. This place is an ideal and quiet retreat into nature, where you will spend two days, allowing you to observe wildlife in its natural habitat, go on kayaks into the river exploring the rain forests, walk through the tropical lowland forests and visit the elephant rescue centre at Kodanad.
Day 4, 5: Thodupuzha
From Thattekkad, this cycling tour of Kerala continues along the banks of the Periyar River, and up to Thodupuzha, a picturesque little town. The roads meander through spice farms and large rubber plantations. You will cycle along this scenic route to the working farm. This is a beautiful farm on the banks of Kannadipuzha, in the lower ranges of the Western Ghats. You will get to walk through spice belts located here, getting a chance to spot spices like nutmeg, cinnamon and pepper vines. The farm is littered with herbal gardens and is located behind a rubber plantation. You can visit these and even the forest surrounding it, topping the visit with a stop in the nearby village.
Day 6: Alleppey - Rice boat
The day’s cycling begins from Thodupuzha and continues through the countryside and 'bunds' of the vast waterways of the backwaters. Bunds are low walls that contain the flow of the backwaters. You will get to absorb the local culture as your route is through the village roads and paddy fields, till your destination, Alleppey. Alleppey is a town in Kerala, known for its waterways that range from canals backwaters, beaches and lagoons. You will finish your ride here, and embark on the unique experience that is cruising down the backwaters in a luxurious rice boat.
Day 7: Alleppey - Heritage Villa
A breathtaking sunrise will be what you wake up to on the backwaters. You get to watch the villagers go about their lives as you cruise these tranquil waters, towards the shore. Once you disembark, you will again make your way through the narrow country roads to a backwater heritage villa, located along the shores of the backwaters near the ancient city of Alleppey. This also happens to be a perfect place to enjoy a Kerala Ayurvedic massage, letting you unwind and bask in the serene atmosphere.
Day 8: This marks the end of this exciting family cycling holiday along the spice trails. You will depart to Kochi from the heritage villa.
Visa
Visitors to India must obtain a Visa before departure. You can consult the nearest Indian Embassy/ High Commission/ Consular Office for the same.
Safety
Our guides have been adequately trained in first aid and always carry a comprehensive first-aid kit. In case of any medical emergency we have facilities to transfer you to the nearest hospital immediately.
Airport Tax
Airport or departure taxes are not applicable if you depart from Kochi.
Accomodation
You will be put up in Heritage Hotels, Villas, eco-lodges & camps.
Climate
The weather is tropical and warm. Monsoons months are June to September.
Transportation Guides
Transportation (sometimes including airport transfers) are included in the cost. The vehicle with roof top carriers will accompany throughout. We provide qualified cycling guide for the tour.
Food
Food is a very important part of these journeys and we have ensured that the local Cuisine is a part of this adventure. Refreshments and bottled mineral water are provided on all cycling days. Any special food requirements can be met if sufficient notice is given.
Spending Money
During the cycling there will be opportunities to do some shopping and money spent along the way goes directly into the hands of the local communities.
What to bring
Clothing:
Cottons
Warm Clothes (Fleece, Jackets, Gloves, Caps)
Biking shorts
Camelbacks
Waterproof jackets
Casual Shirts/T-shirts
Others:
Binocs & Camera (optional)
Torch
Insect repellent
Sunglasses, cap
Sun screen lotion
Canteen
Day pack
Bike Specifications
Bike type: Cannondale/ Trek / MERIDA
Number of gears: 21-24
Brakes: V-Brakes
Suspension: Front
Pedals: Standard
frame range: 16 - 21
Bike bag provided: No
Water bottle holder provided: Yes
Water bottle provided: No
Adjustable handlebars: No
Female saddles provided: No
Gel saddles provided: No
Option to fit own saddle: Yes
Option to fit own pedal: Yes
Bar ends : No
