This trip is certainly an insight into real India, we definitely felt we were in at the deep-end! We’ve previously cycled in Vietnam and Sri Lanka with Exodus and this trip was very different. Our previous holidays included a lot of information about the abundant flora, fauna and history of the countries, this trip not so much. However, it is very interesting to cycle through the villages and towns to see how the people are living and the people were very friendly towards us.
Don’t under-estimate he climb up Ooty Hill, it’s an unrelenting slog, but well worth the pain for the sense of pride at the top and the lovely stop at the Highland Cafe.
Some people in the group had asked for electric bikes and 2 of them were small-wheeled and, in my opinion, looked quite poor and not up to the job. However, our non-electric bikes were absolutely fine.
The roads are very busy and we had some sections cycling on the highway so I would say that this isn’t cycling for the faint-hearted. However, our guide was excellent at keeping the group together through the ‘dodgy’ bits! The cycling for the first few days does include a fair few hills so don’t expect it to be flat! Also, some of the road surfaces can be a bit rough, or even non-existent in some places, so don’t forget your padded cycling shorts!
Eating out is very cheap in the south and we had some delicious food. Also as far as I’m aware no-one in our group suffered with any tummy upsets.
In the main, the hotels were good. We had a couple which were a bit basic, but our guide explained that this was because there wasn’t anything else in the area, but other hotels were excellent so it’s swings and roundabouts.
All in all, a very good trip and we definitely feel like we’ve seen real, incredible, India.
Cycling Holidays in India
Cycling Holidays in India
Top 5 Experiences on Cycling Tours in India
Stay on a Traditional Houseboat in Kerala
Often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala is home to serene backwaters, which are made up of a tangle of lagoons and canals. The best way to explore its natural beauty is by houseboat. These traditional vessels, known as kettuvallams, glide through the tranquil waters to local villages. Enjoy authentic Keralan cuisine, watch the sun set over the water and fall asleep to the gentle rocking of the boat.
4×4 Safari at Bandipur National Park
Embark on an exhilarating 4×4 safari through Bandipur National Park in Karnataka to discover India’s rich biodiversity. Accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll learn about the diverse habitats and go in search of a vast array of wildlife, including elephants, deer, monkeys and a variety of bird species. As you head deeper into the park, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger, which inhabit the wetlands and forests.
Watching the Sunset Over the Taj Mahal
Playing host to the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is a must-visit site when cycling in India. The ivory mausoleum is filled with history and romance and was built between 1631 and 1648 by Mogul emperor Shah Jahan for his wife. As the sun sets, its marble exterior glistens with warm, golden shades, adding to its romantic setting on the Yamuna River. You can also stroll among the tree-fringed gardens and soak up the Persian history.
Search for Leopards at Sariska National Park
Nestled in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, Sariska is one of the most spectacular national parks in India. The park is renowned for its significant population of leopards, and an evening 4×4 game drive across its rugged terrain adds an extra element of adventure to your wildlife experience. As you head through dense forests and open grasslands with your professional guide, look out for jackals, antelopes, hyenas and wild boar. This guided safari will also increase your chances of spotting the elusive leopard, an experience that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.
Exploring Amber Fort and the Pink City of Jaipur
Rajasthan’s vibrant capital, Jaipur is referred to as the Pink City owing to its distinctive terracotta-coloured buildings. Soak up the colourful mix of culture, history and architecture as you ride through the meandering lanes and visit one of the bustling bazaars. Perched on the hilltop, Amber Fort is a magnificent site that looms above the city and boasts views that will take your breath away. Its Rajput architecture combines both Hindu and Mughal styles and the building dates back to the 16th century. Stroll through the ornate Sun Gate that opens onto the grand courtyard, Jaleb Chowk, and discover the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past.
Kathryn Boast Cycle Kerala & Tropical India
Nancy Arbogast Cycle Kerala & Tropical IndiaIndia is an over-the-top experience for all the senses, bright colours, constant noise, strong flavours, heat and cold. The cycle routes provided a wonderful opportunity to explore a wide variety of landscapes and lifestyles — farmland, plantations, villages and small cities. We experienced the busyness of the traffic and the quiet of the beaches. Shibu was a wonderful guide who answered all our questions and explained the economic activities of the backwaters of Kerala. The challenges of this route include the heat and humidity combined with the long distances in the coastal section of the trip, and the demands of intense traffic conditions and poor roads on some days. The climb up Ooti is challenging, but accounts for only 90 minutes of one day. I used an e-bike for the first time on this trip and it would have been helpful except that it was so poorly fitted.
Trev Jones The Tropical SouthEvery single day was a new exciting experience. A fantastic insight to the culture and history of the region, made easy by an excellent well planned itinery.
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