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Kayaking in Kerala, India - Bike, Hike & Kayak South India, India
Kayaking in Kerala, India
Cycling the backroads to Mangalore, India - Bike, Hike & Kayak South India, India
Cycling the backroads to Mangalore, India  | Els van Veelen
Tea plantations near Munnar - Bike, Hike & Kayak South India, India
Tea plantations near Munnar  | Sue Badyari
Visiting local tea plantations enroute to Munnar - Bike, Hike & Kayak South India, India
Visiting local tea plantations enroute to Munnar  | Kate Baker
Amazing red sunset over Southern India - Bike, Hike & Kayak South India, India
Amazing red sunset over Southern India  | Jaclyn Loft
Cycling group in Karnataka State in Southern India - Bike, Hike & Kayak South India, India
Cycling group in Karnataka State in Southern India  | Kate Baker
Sailing the vibrant Southern India by Kerala houseboats - Bike, Hike & Kayak South India, India
Sailing the vibrant Southern India by Kerala houseboats  | Jaclyn Loft
Breathtaking views while trekking Southern India - Bike, Hike & Kayak South India, India
Breathtaking views while trekking Southern India  | Jaclyn Loft

Bike, Hike & Kayak South India

Immersive, multi activity experience of an iconic region

India
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 6 reviews

14 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: SIA
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 14 Days
Activities
  • 8 day cycle
  • 1 day kayak
Accommodation
  • 12 nights hotel
  • 1 night houseboat
Meals
  • 8 Dinners
  • 10 Lunches
  • 13 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
4 / 10

Introductory to Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

74kg of CO2-e PP per day

(968kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

South India Multi-Activity Adventure Trip highlights

  • Cycle the backroads of Southern India through tea plantations and quaint hillside villages
  • Embark on jeep safaris in search for wild Asiatic Elephants, Bengal Tigers, Sloth Bears and other wildlife
  • Depart on a UNESCO heritage train ride between Coonoor and Ooty
  • Experience the delightful backwaters of Kerala
  • Explore the historic and culturally rich town of Kochi
  • Visit the splendid Mysore Palace

Overview

Southern India delivers no end of pleasant surprises on this multi-activity trip. Our carefully crafted itinerary offers the highlights of the magnificent hill country of the Western Ghats at handle bar level. With a healthy mix of cycling and walking we pause to savour Bandipur and Periyar wildlife parks where a keen eye may spot tiger and elephant, the English hill station of Ooty and the fine tea plantations at Munnar. As the sweet smell of spices fill the air we descend to the coast and the delightful backwaters of Kerala, where we kayak and cruise through a myriad of channels observing the relaxed lifestyle of rural India. Our final bike ride follows palm lined beaches to the historic town of Fort Kochi where this action packed adventure comes to an unforgettable conclusion.

Itinerary

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Upon arrival in Bengaluru (Bangalore), you will be met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to our group hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure, allowing time to relax after your journey or explore the city at your own pace. This evening, we gather for our first group dinner, a wonderful opportunity to meet your fellow travellers and get acquainted before our South India adventure begins. Overnight accommodation: Chancery (MG Road) Hotel or similar.

Meals: Nil

After breakfast, we depart Bengaluru and drive to Mysore (approx. 3 hours), a historic city nestled at the foothills of the Chamundi Hills. Known as the 'City of Palaces', Mysore is celebrated for its magnificent royal architecture, rich cultural heritage and colourful traditions. Upon arrival, we embark on a sightseeing tour, beginning with a visit to the magnificent Mysore Palace, one of India's most impressive royal residences, renowned for its ornate architecture, intricate carvings and lavish interiors. We also visit the Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery, home to an impressive collection of traditional Indian paintings and royal artefacts. Later, we make our way to the Chamundi Hills, where we explore the historic temples and enjoy sweeping panoramic views across Mysore and the surrounding countryside. Cccommodation: Sandesh the Prince Hotel or similar.

Meals: B

After breakfast, we transfer a short distance outside Mysore to avoid the busy city traffic before beginning our cycling adventure towards Bandipur and Mudumalai, two of South India's most renowned wildlife reserves. Our route takes us through the scenic countryside towards the foothills of the Nilgiri Hills, also known as the Blue Mountains. This remarkable region forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, an important conservation area renowned for its rich biodiversity and diverse landscapes. The surrounding forests provide a natural habitat for Asian elephants, gaur (Indian bison), spotted deer, langurs and macaques, as well as more elusive species such as tigers, leopards and sloth bears. We also enjoy a jeep safari through the reserve, offering an exciting opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat while exploring the region's beautiful forests and landscapes. The area plays an important role in wildlife conservation, particularly in protecting India's tiger and elephant populations. Following our safari, we make our way to our accommodation near Mudumalai. Cycling distance: Approx. 55km Accommodation: Bamboo Banks or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we make our way towards Ooty (Udhagamandalam), a charming hill station nestled high in the Nilgiri Hills, also known as the Blue Mountains. Our journey takes us through the spectacular Kallatti Ghats, a winding mountain road renowned for its dramatic hairpin bends and sweeping views across the surrounding valleys. We transfer by vehicle along the steepest sections before continuing our cycling journey through the picturesque mountain landscapes towards Ooty, situated at approximately 2,240m (7,349ft) above sea level. Once a popular summer retreat during British colonial times, Ooty retains much of its old-world charm, with English-style cottages, red-tiled roofs, beautifully maintained gardens and a pleasantly cool mountain climate. During our visit, we have the opportunity to explore the town's renowned Government Botanical Garden, established in 1848 and home to an impressive collection of exotic plants, towering trees and colourful flowers. The gardens also provide a peaceful setting for observing some of the region's birdlife. Cycling distance: Approx. 35km Accommodation: Accord Hotel or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we board the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed railway affectionately known as the 'Toy Train', for a scenic journey from Ooty to Coonoor. Travelling through the beautiful Nilgiri Hills, we enjoy spectacular views of lush tea plantations, forested valleys and rolling mountains as the train winds its way down to the charming hill station of Coonoor. From here, we begin our cycling adventure, following a predominantly downhill route of approximately 40km through the picturesque mountain landscapes to Mettupalayam, a bustling town at the foothills of the Nilgiris. On arrival, we leave our bikes behind and transfer by vehicle to Pollachi (approx. 2.5 hours), a town near Coimbatore known for its lush coconut plantations and rural landscapes. Our accommodation tonight is a beautiful resort nestled among coconut groves, providing a peaceful retreat after an active day. In the evening, we enjoy a leisurely walk through the surrounding farm and nearby village, offering a glimpse into everyday rural life in Tamil Nadu. Cycling distance: Approx. 40km Accommodation: Coco Lagoon or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we set off on one of our longer and most scenic cycling days as we make our way towards the picturesque hill station of Munnar. Our journey takes us through the changing landscapes of the Western Ghats, passing the dry deciduous forests and scrublands of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and the fragrant sandalwood forests of Marayur. As we continue towards Munnar, the terrain becomes increasingly mountainous, with winding roads leading us through lush valleys, forested hillsides and expansive tea plantations. The climb is rewarded with spectacular views across the surrounding mountains, with plenty of opportunities to pause and appreciate the scenery along the way. Situated at approximately 1,500m (4,921ft) above sea level, Munnar is renowned for its cool mountain climate, rolling green hills and extensive tea estates. After a rewarding day in the saddle, we arrive at our hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in this beautiful hill station. Cycling distance: Approx. 70km Accommodation: Eastend Hotel or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we transfer to the starting point of our trek at Yellapetty, nestled in the scenic highlands surrounding Munnar. Beginning at an elevation of 1,840m (6,037ft), we venture off the beaten track, following picturesque trails through lush tea plantations, rolling grasslands, mountain ridges and pockets of shola forest, the unique high-altitude cloud forests of the Western Ghats. Along the way, we are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of Kerala’s dramatic mountains and valleys. Our trail gradually ascends to its highest point at 2,115m (6,939ft), before descending to finish at 1,950m (6,398ft), with spectacular scenery throughout. This rewarding 9km (5.6-mile) trek offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the natural beauty and tranquillity of Munnar’s lesser-visited highlands. At the end of our walk, we are met by our vehicle and transferred back to our hotel in Munnar. Trekking distance: Approx. 9km (5.6 miles) Elevation: Start 1,840m (6,037ft) | Highest point 2,115m (6,939ft) | Finish 1,950m (6,398ft) Accommodation: Eastend Hotel or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we set off on a scenic cycling journey through the Cardamom Hills, a beautiful region of the Western Ghats renowned for its lush landscapes and extensive spice plantations. Our route takes us around the picturesque Anayirankal Lake and along winding mountain roads, passing through dense forests, cardamom estates and fragrant spice gardens that have made this region famous for centuries. Surrounded by rolling green hills and valleys, we enjoy spectacular views as we make our way towards Nedumkandam, where we stop for lunch. In the afternoon, we transfer by vehicle to Periyar, home to one of South India's most renowned wildlife reserves. Periyar Tiger Reserve is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, with forests providing a natural habitat for Asian elephants, gaur, deer and a variety of birdlife, as well as more elusive species such as tigers and leopards. On arrival, we check into our accommodation, with the remainder of the afternoon at leisure to relax or explore the surrounding area and experience the local culture. Cycling distance: Approx. 60km Accommodation: Forest Canopy Hotel or similar.

Meals: B,L

This morning, we set out to explore Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of South India's most renowned wildlife sanctuaries, celebrated for its lush forests, rich biodiversity and important conservation efforts. The reserve is also home to the Mannan community, one of the region's indigenous groups who have maintained a close connection with the forest for generations. Traditionally relying on fishing, small-scale farming and forest resources, the Mannan people now play an important role in protecting the reserve and preserving its natural heritage. We also enjoy a bamboo rafting experience on the reserve's tranquil waterways, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding forests and an opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. In the afternoon, we visit the Natural History Museum to learn more about the region's wildlife and ecology, before exploring local cardamom and pepper plantations. Here, we gain an insight into the cultivation of the aromatic spices that have made Kerala famous for centuries. Accommodation: Forest Canopy Hotel or similar.

Meals: B

After breakfast, we set off on one of the most rewarding cycling days of our journey, travelling through the spectacular landscapes of the Western Ghats towards Vagamon. Our route follows winding mountain roads through lush tea plantations, forested hillsides and picturesque valleys, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Along the way, we experience the changing scenery of Kerala's highlands, passing through peaceful rural communities and enjoying plenty of opportunities to pause and appreciate the magnificent mountain landscapes. Our destination is Vagamon, a charming hill station renowned for its rolling green meadows, cool climate and tranquil atmosphere. The town is also known for its unique cultural and religious heritage, reflected in its three prominent hills: Thangal Hill, Murugan Hill and Kurisumala, each holding significance for different religious communities. After a rewarding day in the saddle, we arrive at our resort, where we can relax and enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings. Cycling distance: Approx. 80km Accommodation: Wintervale Hotel or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we begin our cycling journey with a scenic descent from the cool highlands of Vagamon towards the tropical plains of Kerala. Our route follows winding mountain roads through lush forests, picturesque villages and the rolling countryside of Palai, a region renowned for its extensive rubber plantations. As we descend, the landscape gradually transforms from misty mountain hillsides to fertile lowlands dotted with coconut palms and traditional villages. After completing our ride, we transfer by vehicle to Alappuzha (Alleppey), often referred to as the gateway to Kerala's famous backwaters. This beautiful region is renowned for its intricate network of tranquil canals, lagoons and palm-fringed waterways. Here, we enjoy a kayaking excursion through the peaceful backwaters, paddling past traditional villages, lush coconut groves and waterside homes, offering a unique glimpse into everyday life along Kerala's waterways. Following our kayaking adventure, we make our way to our resort, where we can relax and enjoy the tropical surroundings. Cycling distance: Approx. 55km Accommodation: Lake Canopy Hotel or similar.

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, we set out on a kayaking adventure through Kerala's enchanting backwaters, exploring a network of narrow canals and tranquil waterways surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Paddling at a relaxed pace, we pass traditional villages, coconut groves and waterside homes, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience everyday life along the backwaters, where local communities have lived and worked alongside these waterways for generations. By late morning, we complete our kayaking excursion and board a traditional Kerala houseboat for a leisurely cruise through this beautiful region. Once used to transport rice and other goods, these beautifully converted boats now offer a unique and comfortable way to experience the backwaters. As we relax on board and drift along the peaceful waterways, we pass emerald-green paddy fields, swaying coconut palms, traditional villages, local markets, toddy shops, colourful temples and churches. With plenty of time to soak up the tranquil surroundings and watch daily life unfold along the canals, this is a memorable way to experience one of Kerala's most iconic landscapes. Tonight, we enjoy the unique experience of staying aboard our traditional houseboat, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the backwaters. Accommodation: Traditional Kerala houseboat.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we set off on our final cycling journey, following a scenic coastal route towards the historic town of Fort Kochi. Our ride takes us through picturesque fishing villages, palm-fringed landscapes and stretches of Kerala's beautiful coastline, offering a wonderful conclusion to our cycling adventure through South India. On arrival in Fort Kochi, we have time to freshen up and enjoy lunch before setting out to explore this fascinating historic town. Fort Kochi is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, shaped by centuries of maritime trade and Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial influences. Once an important trading port on the Malabar Coast, Kochi attracted merchants from across the world, creating a unique blend of cultures, religions and architectural styles. As we explore the historic streets of Fort Kochi and neighbouring Mattancherry, we discover beautifully preserved colonial buildings, the iconic Chinese fishing nets, historic churches and the impressive Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace. The area is also home to the historic Paradesi Synagogue, reflecting the city's longstanding Jewish heritage. In the evening, we have the opportunity to experience Kerala's vibrant performing arts traditions, including Kathakali, a classical dance-drama renowned for its elaborate costumes, expressive movements and colourful makeup. This is a wonderful way to conclude our journey and celebrate the rich cultural traditions of southern India. Cycling distance: Approx. 60km Accommodation: Dutch Bungalow Hotel or similar.

Meals: B,L

After breakfast, our South India adventure comes to an end. From the scenic highlands of the Western Ghats and lush tea plantations to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala and the historic streets of Fort Kochi, we hope you leave with wonderful memories of this diverse and beautiful region. You will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey, or you may choose to extend your stay and continue exploring the many wonders of southern India.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

4 scheduled departures between 5 Jan 2027 and 23 Oct 2027.

  • Departs 5 Jan 2027 – ends 18 Jan 2027 (14 days)
  • Departs 15 Feb 2027 – ends 28 Feb 2027 (14 days)
  • Departs 25 Sep 2027 – ends 8 Oct 2027 (14 days)
  • Departs 23 Oct 2027 – ends 5 Nov 2027 (14 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 13 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 8 dinners
  • 12 nights in a range of comfortable hotels from safari bungalows, to modern and boutique hotels in cities and character hotels in smaller towns all provided on a twinshare basis with private facilities - some hotels have swimming pools.
  • 1 night on a comfortable houseboat - twin cabins have private facilities
  • airport transfer on day 1 and day 14
  • all internal transport and support vehicle whilst cycling
  • local specialist guides
  • backwaters cruise
  • sightseeing and entry fees as listed in the itinerary
  • good quality Cannondale, Trek (or similar) branded bikes

Not included

  • International flight & departure transfer
  • bottled water, aerated & alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry etc.
  • tips
  • airport & departure taxes
  • visas
  • travel insurance

Reviews (6)

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Well planned and executed trip.

W. Keegan|OH, USA
7 Feb 2019
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Our whole family loved the trip, it had a great variety with all the activities involved. We all came home pretty fit as the cycling was hard through the hills. We were very well looked after by our guide and driver and really enjoyed everything southern India had to offer.

A. Hayward|Western Australia
5 Feb 2019
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I had an amazingly wonderful time on my World Expeditions vacation to Southern India! The itinerary was super (active, fun, fascinating), our guide, Francis, did everything possible to help us feel happy, comfortable and as though we were in good hands, the accommodation was far beyond expectations, the food was out-of-this-world, and everywhere we went we were made to feel like visiting dignitaries! This is my fourth World Expeditions trip, and every one of them has been far better than I imagined. And they seem to keep getting better!

J. Pascoe|VT, USA
22 Nov 2018
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I just wanted to give some feedback to World Expeditions about our trip! And to say thank-you for your excellent organisation for our last minute booking. The trip was fantastic! A special thanks also to our team leader in South India, Shabeeb Kamarudhem, who was excellent. A great organiser, team-builder, attentive, friendly and fun, as well as champion bike maintainer. Also our driver, Thalikan, was great. The trip itself ran well in terms of building up to harder activities then winding down just as you needed it — appropriate time for activity, shopping, relaxing etc. I loved the variety of activities we had. The bikes were excellent too, most of them were new. Perhaps a bell on the bike would be appropriate, especially for the nature of travel in India! Everyone used and expected you to use a horn. I hope you pass this feedback on — a big thank-you for an absolutely terrific time! Even though we’ve been back for over a month the memories linger...

Gail and Mick Ingram|Christchurch, New Zealand
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The trip was fantastic! A special thanks also to our team leader in South India, who was excellent. A great organiser, team-builder, attentive, friendly and fun, as well as champion bike maintainer. Also our driver, was great. The trip itself ran well in terms of building up to harder activities then winding down just as you needed it — appropriate time for activity, shopping, relaxing etc. I loved the variety of activities we had. The bikes were excellent too, most of them were new. A big thank-you for an absolutely terrific time! Even though we have been back for over a month the memories linger...

G and M Ingram|Christchurch, New Zealand
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Gregory|NSW, Australia
4 Feb 2026

Extra trip info

BikesWill My Trip Run?

E-Bikes Available

Cycle hassle-free and climb mountains effortlessly, enjoy nature and landscapes without physical limitations. E-bikes make it possible and are available to hire on this trip for an additional fee (see prices below). The E-bikes available are touring e-bikes and are perfect for those concerned about cycling distances.

*For safety reasons, we also insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.

Mountain Bikes

The bikes used on this trip are modern aluminium-framed, front suspension Trek, Cannondale, or Giant mountain bikes. Consistent and safe braking is ensured by disc brakes, and the wide range of gears provides the ability to ride up and down the hills in comfort and confidence. If you have a saddle and clip-in pedals you wish to bring and use, the mechanic would be more than happy to fit them.

*For safety reasons, we also insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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