Green Earth Trails · Kerala & South India
Cochin · Thattekad · Munnar · Thekkady · Vagamon · Kumarakom · Alleppey
Program Overview
An immersive cycling journey through Kerala's hills, forests and backwaters, built for travellers who want to see the state at the pace of a turning wheel. Eleven days move you from the coastal plains of Cochin into the high tea country of Munnar, across the cardamom slopes of Thekkady, through the pine meadows of Vagamon, and down to the backwaters of Kumarakom and Alleppey before returning to Fort Kochi. Nine cycling days, two off-bike experiences, and a guided trek to one of South India's highest accessible peaks. Every cycling day is supported by an experienced English speaking cycling guide, a backup van with mechanic, spares and unlimited drinking water, and a route chosen for scenic value over distance. Riders cover between 35 and 80 kilometres depending on terrain and elevation, with breaks every 20 kilometres or at scenic viewpoints. Non-cycling partners are welcome to travel in the support vehicle and join all destinations and activities. The route reaches its high point on Day 4 with a guided trek to Meeshapulimalai at 2,640 metres, the second highest peak in South India, before descending through the Western Ghats and finishing with a private houseboat cruise across Vembanad Lake. This is a cycling holiday for travellers who appreciate the difference between riding through a place and being driven past it.
Day by Day
Welcome day · Pre-tour briefing
A warm welcome at Cochin International Airport followed by a short transfer to your airport hotel. The day is yours to settle in, rest after the flight, and prepare for the ten days of cycling that follow. Your guide meets you in the evening for a short briefing on the route ahead, the daily rhythm of the tour, and an introduction to the cycle you will be riding for the next eleven days.
Cycling 45 to 55 km · Easy to moderate · Low altitude
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 Thattekad, the environment becomes greener and more serene, perfect for easing into multi-day cycling. The route starts at the Cochin airport hotel at roughly 10 to 15 metres altitude and ends at Thattekad at around 60 to 70 metres. Terrain is flat to gentle rolling. An optional river kayaking experience at Thattekad is available in the evening or the following morning, subject to season. The activity operates from monsoon through winter and is unavailable in summer.
Cycling 60 to 70 km · Hard · Major high altitude climb
This is the most demanding climbing day of the tour. The route winds past river valleys, spice plantations, waterfalls and cool forest patches as the altitude rises gradually from 70 metres at Thattekad to 1,600 metres at Munnar. The final stretch into Munnar opens into vast tea gardens with panoramic views of the high ranges. Total ascent is between 1,500 and 1,700 metres with very minimal descent. The climb is continuous and steady as you move into the Western Ghats, with hairpin bends, waterfalls and tea plantations defining the landscape. Riders should expect a long but rewarding climb. The backup van remains close throughout for guests who prefer to ride sections rather than the full distance.
Full day guided trek · 2,640 m peak · Off-bike day
A highlight of the tour, this full day guided trek leads you through shola forests, rolling grasslands and high altitude ridges to Meeshapulimalai, the second highest accessible peak in South India. The trek offers dramatic panoramas across the Western Ghats and a chance to see the region's high altitude flora and fauna at close range. No cycling today. The trek covers steep gradients and reaches roughly 2,640 metres. Sturdy walking shoes, a windproof layer and sunscreen are essential. Guests who prefer to rest after Day 3's climb may opt out of the trek and use the day for relaxation in Munnar, with shorter local walks available on request.
Cycling 70 to 80 km · Moderate to hard · Undulating high altitude
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 fragrant cardamom hills, passing through rural settlements and scenic viewpoints. Arrive by afternoon and rest for the remainder of the day. The route descends from 1,600 metres to around 900 metres and then climbs again to 1,050 metres at Thekkady. Total ascent for the day is 400 to 600 metres with a descent of 900 to 1,000 metres. Despite the net descent, multiple climbs through the cardamom belt make this a more demanding day than the elevation profile suggests. Tea gardens give way to cardamom forest as you approach Thekkady.
Half day forest walk and rafting · Off-bike day
Spend the morning inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve on a half day bamboo rafting program that combines a soft trek with a slow raft journey across calm forest waters. The experience offers opportunities to observe wildlife, birdlife and the rich ecosystem of one of South India's most respected tiger reserves. The pace is unhurried and the silence inside the forest is part of the experience. No cycling today. The afternoon is at leisure for optional cultural shows in Thekkady, a spice garden visit, or simply rest before the next cycling day. The bamboo rafting is operated by the Periyar Tiger Reserve in partnership with local tribal communities, and is one of the more responsibly run forest experiences in Kerala.
Cycling 50 to 60 km · Moderate · Steady climbing
Today's ride leads you toward the rolling meadows and pine forests of Vagamon. The route is scenic and less travelled than the main highway alternatives, offering open landscapes, quiet country roads and refreshing highland air. Vagamon's peaceful ambience makes it a perfect mid-tour retreat. Elevation rises from 900 metres at Thekkady to 1,100 metres at Vagamon. Total ascent is 400 to 500 metres with 150 to 200 metres of descent. The climb is steady but not as intense as Day 3 or Day 5. Cool highland air, pine forests and open meadows define the route, with several quiet stretches where the only sound is your own breathing.
Cycling 50 to 70 km · Easy to moderate · Long descent
Descend from the hills as the terrain transitions from cool meadows to warm lowland plains. The ride passes through plantations, paddy fields and quiet villages before reaching the backwater region of Kumarakom on the shores of Vembanad Lake. The change in landscape is dramatic, from highland pine to coconut palm and rice paddy in the space of a single day. The route drops from 1,100 metres to roughly 5 metres. Total ascent is just 50 to 100 metres while descent crosses 1,000 metres. Riders enjoy smooth pacing with warm tropical scenery replacing the hill country. By late afternoon you are at lake level, with the rest of the day free for a sunset walk along the Kumarakom waterfront or a visit to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Cycling 35 to 40 km · Easy · Houseboat overnight
A gentle cycling stretch brings you to Alleppey, after which you board your private houseboat for a slow cruise through Kerala's iconic backwaters. Glide past village life, coconut groves and paddy fields while enjoying freshly prepared meals on board. An evening kayaking session is included, offering a quieter way to experience the canals at sunset. The cycling is flat with elevation barely changing from 5 metres to 1 metre. A simple, relaxed ride through paddy fields and lakeside villages, ideal for recovery after the previous days. The houseboat is privately yours for the night, with the boat docking from 5 PM until 8 AM the following morning. Air conditioning operates from 9 PM to 6 AM, in line with backwater regulations. Meals on board feature local Kuttanad cuisine.
Cycling 50 to 55 km · Easy · Coastal route
Disembark after breakfast and cycle the final stretch to Fort Kochi along coastal roads. The terrain is flat with minimal elevation change and slight urban undulations as you approach the city. The cycling portion of your tour concludes at your Fort Kochi accommodation, where the rest of the day is yours to explore the colonial era streets, art galleries, antique shops and the seaside promenade at Vasco da Gama Square. A relaxed ending to the tour. Total ascent and descent are both low. Recommended Fort Kochi visits include the Dutch Cemetery, St Francis Church, the Mattancherry spice markets, and an evening at the Chinese fishing nets to watch the sunset over the harbour.
Transfer to Cochin Airport
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey. Your cycling adventure through Central Kerala ends with a checklist of forests, mountains, backwaters and warm hospitality, and a level of familiarity with Kerala's geography that few travellers experience. Safe travels and we hope to see you back in South India before long.
Accommodation & Pricing
| Day | Route | Starting Elevation | Ending Elevation | Approx Ascent | Approx Decent | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Cochin Airport to Thattekkad | 5 m | 70 m | 120 - 150 m | Minimal | Easy - Moderate |
| 3 | Thattekkad to Munnar | 70 m | 1600 m | 1500 - 1700 m | Minimal | Hard |
| 4 | Trek day | 2450 m | ||||
| 5 | Munnar to Thekkady | 1600 m | 1050 m | 500 - 600 m | 900 - 1000 m | Moderate Hard |
| 6 | Hiking day | |||||
| 7 | Thekkady to Vagamon | 900 m | 1100 m | 400 - 500 m | 150 - 200 m | Moderate |
| 8 | Vagamon to Kumarakom | 1100 m | 5 m | 50 -100 m | 1000 plus m | Easy - Moderate |
| 9 | Kumarakom to Alleppey | 5 m | 1 m | Minimal | Minimal | Easy |
| 10 | Alleppey to Fort Kochi | 1 m | 5 m | Low | Low | Easy |
The route covers a total ascent of approximately 3,000 metres across nine cycling days. Elevation profile by day is shown below.
All accommodation is on a half board basis with breakfast and dinner included. Three categories are available depending on budget and travel style.
| Destination | Property of Stay | Meal Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Cochin Airport Hotel - 1 night | Quality Airport Hotel | Breakfast & Dinner |
| Thattekkad - 1 night | Bird's Murmur Camp | Breakfast & Dinner |
| Munnar - 2 nights | Aranyaka Resort | Breakfast & Dinner |
| Thekkady - 2 nights | Citadel Boutique | Breakfast & Dinner |
| Vagamon - 1 night | Winterwale | Breakfast & Dinner |
| Kumarakom - 1 night | Lakesong | Breakfast & Dinner |
| Fort Kochi - 1 night | Fort House | Breakfast & Dinner |
| Tour price per person on twin sharing basis | ₹ 170,000 per person |
What's covered
Included
Not included
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of fitness is required for the Kerala cycling tour?
A moderate level of fitness is sufficient. The pace is flexible, breaks are taken every 20 kilometres or at scenic viewpoints, and the support vehicle is always available for guests who want to rest or skip a section. The tour does include one demanding climbing day from Thattekad to Munnar, with around 1,500 metres of ascent over 60 to 70 kilometres. Riders comfortable with multi day cycling at recreational pace will find the rest of the tour well within reach.
What is the best time of year for cycling in Kerala?
October to May. The window from October to February is ideal, with cool dry weather and pleasant cycling conditions across all altitudes. March to May is tropical summer in Kerala, with hot and humid days. Cycling remains possible in this period but requires more frequent breaks and increased hydration. We do not operate cycling tours during the monsoon months from June to September.
Are the cycles owned by Green Earth Trails?
Yes, the entire fleet of cycles belongs to Green Earth Trails and is maintained in our own workshop. We use Trek Marlin 5 Gen 3 hybrid cycles or equivalent models, sized to fit each rider before the tour begins. This avoids the variable quality of rental fleets and ensures we know exactly what condition every cycle is in before it leaves our base.
What does the backup van carry?
The support vehicle stays close to the riders throughout each cycling day. It carries a portable cycle repair kit, puncture tools, spare tubes and essential spares, a basic medical aid kit, unlimited drinking water, snacks and refreshments. The van has comfortable air conditioned seats for guests who want to rest or skip a section, and a foldable table and chairs for break stops. It also has space to load all cycles when needed.
What should I bring for the cycling tour?
We recommend bringing your own gel padded cycling shorts, cycling gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, a personal first aid kit, and any prescription medication. A breathable cycling jersey and lightweight cycling shoes are also useful. Helmets are provided by us. For the Meeshapulimalai trek on Day 4, sturdy walking shoes and a windproof layer are essential.
Can I customise the itinerary?
Yes. The 11 day itinerary above is our recommended framework, but every cycling tour we operate is fully customisable. You can add extra days in Munnar or the backwaters, shorten the program, replace cycling days with cultural experiences, or build a completely different route across Kerala or neighbouring states. Share your preferred dates and interests and we will design the right tour for you.
Can non cycling partners join the tour?
Yes, and they often do. Non cycling partners travel in the support vehicle, enjoy all the destinations and accommodation, and join all the off bike experiences such as the Periyar bamboo rafting, the houseboat cruise and the Fort Kochi exploration. The Meeshapulimalai trek is also open to them. Many couples travel this way, with one partner cycling while the other reads, photographs or simply watches the landscape pass.
How often do we take breaks during cycling?
Breaks are taken roughly every 20 kilometres or at scenic viewpoints, whichever comes first. Your guide adjusts the frequency based on weather, terrain and the comfort of the group. On hot days or steep climbs, breaks are more frequent. The pace is set by the slowest rider in the group, never the fastest.
Can I skip the trek or any cycling segment?
Yes. All trekking and hiking segments are optional. The Meeshapulimalai trek on Day 4 can be replaced with rest in Munnar or shorter local walks. On cycling days, riders can travel any portion of the route in the backup van without affecting the tour structure. We do not refund unused services, but we also do not expect every guest to cycle every kilometre.
What happens in a medical emergency?
The backup van is on standby throughout each cycling day. In the event of a medical situation, our guide and driver take you directly to the nearest hospital or medical centre. Continuation of the tour depends on professional medical advice. For minor incidents we carry a basic first aid kit in the van. Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is strongly recommended for all cycling guests.
Can you organise cycling tours outside this route?
Yes. Beyond the Central Kerala circuit described here, we organise cycling tours across South India including the Konkan Coast in Karnataka and Goa, the Coromandel Coast through Tamil Nadu, the Western Ghats heritage routes, and shorter weekend rides around Kochi. Share your preferred destinations and travel dates and we will curate a customised route.
How do I book the cycling tour?
Use the Enquire button on this page to send us your travel dates, group size and any specific preferences. We respond within 24 hours with availability, pricing and a proposed itinerary. Once you confirm, we secure all reservations and send you a confirmation voucher. A 70% advance deposit is required to guarantee the tour, with the balance payable on arrival. We accept credit cards and international wire transfers. Cancellation terms are governed by our standard cancellation policy linked in the footer.
Also available · Small group tour
If you are travelling solo or as a couple and want the convenience of a ready-made program with fixed dates and transparent pricing, our small group fixed departure is designed for you.
From ₹24,000 per person · Single supplement available
Get in touch
Tell us your travel dates, group size and any specific requirements. We will come back to you within 24 hours with a detailed proposal.
We respond within 24 hours · hello@greenearthtrails.com · +91 94009 46800 (WhatsApp)
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