Itinerary

Day 1: WELCOME TO THATTEKKAD - You will arrive at Cochin airport and be met our ground crew. You will then be transferred to the lowland forests at Thattekkad, on the banks of the Periyar River - the longest river in Kerala. On arrival, you will check into Hornbill Camp, located on the riverside. This is a birder’s paradise surrounded by coconut groves and spice plantations. The camp has comfortable, large airy cottages with beds and an en-suite. Your night will be echoing with the peaceful sounds of the forest. Overnight at Hornbill Camp.

Day 2: CYCLING ALONG THE RIVERBANK TO MUTHUVAN KUDI - Today, after breakfast, you will start your holiday in India, along the Periyar riverbank, through the dense low altitude forests of Neriamangalam. These are the forests where reed is extracted for the manufacture of traditional household items like baskets and mats. The spectacular view is filled with redwood trees and mountain peaks, making it a very scenic journey. Towards the end of the day the ride can get a little challenging as the roads get much steeper however it will be worth it for the divine accommodation you will be heading to. Cycle through different settlements to reach Muthuvan Kudi, where the beautiful eco boutique resort, Ecotones Camps is located. Here you will get some well-deserved rest. You can either explore the local village or simply rest at the locally-run hotel. If you opt to visit the village, you can go for a guided walk to learn about the culture, tradition and the spices they are cultivating. You can spot many varieties of birds and fruit trees and just ask our friendly staff to point them out. Learn from the locals how to cook authentic Indian food as they show you their traditional methods. Overnight at Ecotones.

Day 3: A DAY AT PERIYAR TIGER RESERVE - Your next destination is the Periyar Tiger Reserve. It is a famed protected area that is home to large herds of Asiatic Elephants, the Indian Bison, and the Tigers that India is renowned for. Periyar cycling roads are surrounded by spice gardens and tea plantations. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you can take a walk with the local guides into the rainforest. The reserve is a treat for wildlife enthusiasts and ornithologists, with its rich fauna, which apart from the elephants, tigers and bisons, also includes over 300 species of birds. Overnight at Cardamom County, a beautiful nature retreat in Thekkady.

Day 4: MEETING THE MANNANS AT PERIYAR TIGER RESERVE -The Mannans are among the oldest indigenous group of people to inhabit the Periyar Tiger Reserve. As late as the 1940s, they lived in the remotest areas of the Tiger Reserve. Their lifestyles were simple, and they made their living by fishing and cultivating crops. Today, they are the main conservators of the forest. You will get to meet with them, as they will show you the tropical rainforests, wildlife and the way they live. Overnight at Cardamom County.

Day 5: CHALLENGING BUT FUN CYCLING DAY TO MUHAMMA - Today is the longest and most challenging day of your cycling tour. After an early breakfast, start your ride through the beautiful mountainous countryside of forests, small villages, tea estates and spice plantations. Your next destination will mesmerize you for its beauty and the tranquility of the backwater. Overnight at The World Backwaters, a perfect place for a weary traveller. The sprawling green plantations and paddy fields soothe your eyes and please your soul. The pristine view of the lake, the emerald green backwaters, the tranquil surroundings give you a chance to rejuvenate your spirit and tired body and ensure that you are ready for the next day.

Day 6: DISCOVERING HISTORICAL COCHIN - After breakfast you will head towards Cochin, popularly known as “Queen of the Arabian Sea.” Fort Cochin is known for its cultural and historical charm. Discovering Fort Cochin is a delight with its cobbled streets and brightly colored houses. Its importance as a port for trade is visible in the multitude of churches, colonial bungalows, Chinese fishing nets, a synagogue and a Portuguese Palace. There are plenty of museums that trace the rich history of Fort Cochin which you will get to visit. In the evening, you will be treated to performances of traditional dances of Kerala ‘Kathakali’. Overnight at the Killians, a beautiful boutique hotel located in Fort Cochin and an exemplification of elegance, ecstasy and comfort.

Day 7: GOODBYE KERALA - It’s time to say goodbye to Kerala. After breakfast transfer to Cochin International Airport for your flight home.

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