Explore romantic India on a cycling tour from the classic cities and history of Rajasthan to the laid-back west coast, cycling through Kerala, Karnataka and Goa.
The enchanting northern province of Rajasthan is awash with all the colours of India. On our cycling adventure we see all sides of this fascinating state. Cycling means that everything is slower and up close in India. Interact with the wonderful local population of small towns, drink chai under a roadside tree with friendly locals. From the opulence and splendour of Maharajahs' palaces to Holy Lakes and the beauty of the Taj Mahal this cycling adventure has it all. Beyond the crowded sights of northern India lies another world, one where the rhythms of daily life are that bit slower and the surroundings that bit greener - a place that lends itself to leisurely exploration by bike. Take a two-week cycling adventure up the west coast of India, on roads that are sandwiched between the lush forests of the Western Ghats and the golden sands of the Arabian Sea. Ride through incredible countryside with the chance to swap bike for boat and enjoy a river cruise. Explore towns where Portuguese and French influences sit alongside Hindu and Muslim monuments. In this spiritual place, the bike is a place of active meditation, a place to let the brain relax and refresh while roads are navigated and gorgeous surroundings are absorbed. The rewards of hot days in the saddle lie in beautiful beaches, the welcoming waters of the Arabian Sea and the taste of fresh coconut.
Take the road less travelled as you cycle through the rural villages and majestic countryside of Rajasthan
Discover the rich history and architecture of Amber Fort, just outside of Jaipur, with the expertise of a local guide
Search for wildlife in the jungle of Ranthambhore National Park, the best place to see wild tigers in Rajasthan
Relive the legacy of the Rajput warriors by spending a night in a 400-year-old fort, which is now a family-run hotel surrounded by mango orchards
Marvel at the Taj Mahal, one of the most recognisable buildings in the world with the power to surprise even the most jaded traveller
Cycle to the idyllic backwaters of Kerala, where children often learn to row boats before they ride a bike.
Experience a unique way of life on the water by spending time on a Keralan houseboat
Encounter life along the west coast of India with a ride through four different states: Kerala, an enclave of Pondicherry, Karnataka and Goa
Explore Kochi, a fascinating blend of Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and English influences, and witness the peak of local culture in an incredible Kathakali dance performance
To complete this trip it is important that you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
This trip covers anywhere between 25 to 90 km of cycling each day, so a reasonable level of fitness is required, although you’ll have plenty of rest breaks.
While the cycling distances on this trip are relatively short and the terrain relatively flat, the climate is usually warm so you’ll need a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy the trip – but remember, there will always be a support vehicle on hand if you need to take a break for an hour or a day.
As most of the riding is done on sealed roads with the occasional gravel cycle path there are no technical cycling skills required, but given the hills we do suggest practicing riding downhill so you are comfortable with this once the trips begins.
There’s the possibility of a few hiccups along the way – a puncture here and there maybe – but there’s no doubt this is an incredibly rewarding adventure.
The weather in this region can be varied depending on the season. Be prepared to get sweaty and for the occasional rainstorm, which may require a change of plans.
We visit a number of temples on this trip, which requires a certain level of modesty. Please bring clothes that cover the arms and pants/skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot.
The Taj Mahal is currently undergoing mud pack therapy to restore its original colour. It is expected the dome will be covered in iron scaffolding during the process.
Day 15 of the itinerary (in Trivandrum) is un-escorted - your leader will arrive the following day.
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There are currently no scheduled departures on our Cycle India North & South trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.
1. The flight and transfers from New Delhi to Trivandrum on Day 15 are not included. See the Transport section for more details.
2. Day 15 of the itinerary (in Trivandrum) is un-escorted - your leader will arrive the following day.
3. A single supplement is available on this trip, please see trip notes for details.
4. Bicycle hire is included in your trip price. Please advise your height at time of booking so as we can organise a suitable sized bike.
5. Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home.
6. TAJ MAHAL DOME RESTORATIONS
Using mud pack therapy the Archaeological Survey of India is planning to clean the four small canopies around the main dome of the Taj Mahal from the start of April 2018. This will be followed by the cleaning of the main dome but that could take some time as ASI is yet to calculate its load bearing capacity. The ASI’s science branch officials have stated that cleaning the four canopies will take approximately 2 months while main dome cleaning will be completed in phases. We will continue to update as information becomes available.
