Your Kerala cycling adventure begins and ends at the gateway to God’s Own Country – Cochin International Airport (COK).

On day one, we’ll transfer you from the airport to Fort Kochi, a one hour drive. Here, you’ll get cozy with your two-wheeled companion during a personalized bike fitting session. We’ll then have our pre-tour briefing, giving you the lowdown on the spicy adventures ahead. After that, it’s time to settle into your hotel and perhaps indulge in a rejuvenating ayurvedic foot massage before we gather for a welcome dinner that’ll tantalize your taste buds.

Fast forward to the finale of your journey, and we’ll ensure you’re deposited back at Cochin International Airport, your panniers bursting with memories and your spirit infused with the essence of Kerala. From touchdown to takeoff, we’ve got your Kerala cycling sojourn covered!

What type of weather should I be ready for?

When cycling in Kerala, India, in January, you should be prepared for pleasant and dry weather conditions. January is part of the winter season in Kerala, which is the driest time of the year, making it an ideal period for outdoor activities like cycling. The average daily temperature in January is around 28°C, with daytime highs reaching up to 32°C and cooling down to a comfortable 23°C in the evenings. The climate is generally comfortable with less humidity, providing a refreshing environment for cycling. Additionally, January offers about 9 hours of sunshine per day, ensuring plenty of daylight for your cycling adventures. Overall, the weather in January is delightful and conducive to exploring the scenic landscapes of Kerala.

When cycling in Kerala, India, in January, you should be prepared for pleasant and dry weather conditions. January is part of the winter season in Kerala, which is the driest time of the year, making it an ideal period for outdoor activities like cycling. The average daily temperature in January is around 28°C, with daytime highs reaching up to 32°C and cooling down to a comfortable 23°C in the evenings. The climate is generally comfortable with less humidity, providing a refreshing environment for cycling. Additionally, January offers about 9 hours of sunshine per day, ensuring plenty of daylight for your cycling adventures. Overall, the weather in January is delightful and conducive to exploring the scenic landscapes of Kerala.

When cycling in Kerala, India, in January, it’s important to pack appropriately for the warm and occasionally humid climate. Here is a list of recommended clothing and gear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable cycling experience:

Clothing

• Lightweight and Breathable Fabrics: Opt for clothing made from lightweight, breathable materials such as cotton or linen to stay comfortable in the warm weather.
• Moisture-Wicking Jerseys: Bring moisture-wicking jerseys to manage sweat and keep cool during rides. Consider packing multiple pairs to ensure you have fresh clothing each day.
• Padded Cycling Shorts: Padded cycling shorts are essential for comfort during long rides, helping to reduce friction and provide cushioning.
• Quick-Drying Cycle Tops: These tops are ideal for managing sweat and drying quickly, ensuring comfort throughout your cycling journey.
• Layered Clothing: Although January is generally warm, evenings can be cooler, so pack a lightweight layer or fleece jacket for added warmth.

Gear

• Cycling Gloves: Bring cycling gloves to protect your hands and improve grip on the handlebars.
• Cycling Helmet: A helmet is crucial for safety and should be worn at all times while cycling.
• Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brim sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Rain Protection: Although January is typically dry, it’s wise to carry a lightweight rain mac or umbrella for unexpected showers.

Accessories

• Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes suitable for cycling and walking.
• Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, so bring a refillable water bottle for your rides.
• Cycling Torch and Tail Lamp: These are useful for visibility and safety during early morning or late evening rides.
• Daypack: A small daypack is useful for carrying essentials like snacks, personal items, and purchased souvenirs.

Your Kerala cycling adventure offers a truly unique and diverse range of accommodations that will immerse you in the rich history and culture of the region. You’ll experience stays in:

• A 150-year-old ancestral country house, steeped in local heritage
• A grand 200-year-old portuguese mansion, offering a glimpse into Kerala’s opulent past
• Charming colonial cottages that blend historical architecture with modern comforts
• Luxurious glamping sites, allowing you to connect with nature without sacrificing comfort
• A traditional Kerala houseboat, providing a serene experience on the famous backwaters

Regarding roommates, we typically arrange shared accommodations to foster camaraderie among cyclists. However, we understand that some travelers prefer more privacy. For those who wish to have their own space, we offer an optional single room supplement for an additional fee. This allows you to enjoy private accommodations throughout the tour, giving you the flexibility to choose the arrangement that best suits your preferences and budget.

Side note: If any accommodation is not available, we will provide alternative ones.  This is because of the high peak season in January.

This Kerala cycling tour covers a substantial distance of 400km (250mi) with a cumulative elevation gain of 4,200m (13,780ft), indicating a moderate to challenging level of physical activity. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Daily Cycling: You’ll be on the saddle most days, exploring the diverse landscapes of Kerala . This includes riding through the Western Ghats, along beaches, and through lush backwaters.
2. Varied Terrain: The route encompasses a mix of terrains, from coastal roads to hilly areas, providing a diverse and sometimes challenging cycling experience.
3. Regular Exercise: This tour is aimed at regular cyclists who have a good level of fitness. While it’s not an extreme endurance event, you should be comfortable spending several hours on a bike each day.
4. Support Available: A support vehicle accompanies the group, offering assistance if needed . This allows you to take breaks or opt out of particularly challenging sections if necessary.
5. Cultural Immersion: Beyond cycling, you’ll have opportunities for other activities such as exploring villages, visiting spice and tea plantations, and potentially wildlife spotting in places like Periyar National Park.
6. Relaxation Periods: The tour isn’t all about intense cycling. There will be time to relax and enjoy Kerala’s famous backwaters, beaches, and cultural sites.

While the tour requires a good level of fitness, it’s designed to be enjoyable rather than grueling. The pace is generally relaxed, allowing you to soak in the beauty of “God’s Own Country”. However, given the distance and elevation, it’s advisable to prepare with some cycling training before the trip to ensure you can fully enjoy the experience.

Absolutely! We pride ourselves on providing comprehensive support to ensure you have the most enjoyable and worry-free cycling experience in Kerala. Here’s what we offer:For groups of 13 people or more, we have enhanced support services tailored specifically for larger groups. Our team is well-equipped to handle the unique needs and dynamics of bigger parties, ensuring everyone receives personalized attention and care throughout the journey.We can provide a customized package that includes:

• Dedicated support vehicles to accompany your group
• Additional experienced guides to maintain an optimal guide-to-cyclist ratio
• Tailored meal plans to cater to various dietary requirements
• Flexible itineraries to accommodate group preferences
• Enhanced logistical support for smooth transitions between activities and locations

By opting for our comprehensive support services, you and your group can focus entirely on the joys of cycling, walking, kayaking, and immersing yourselves in the breathtaking beauty of Kerala. Our goal is to handle all the responsibilities and logistics, allowing you to pedal freely, explore confidently, and fully embrace this beautiful experience without any worries.We’ll work closely with you to create a customized budget that offers high-quality services while meeting your group’s specific needs and expectations. This way, you can leave the planning and execution to us and dedicate yourself entirely to enjoying the adventure.Remember, whether you’re gliding through the serene backwaters, cycling along spice-scented routes, or exploring charming villages, our enhanced support services ensure your group, small or large, can make the most of every moment in God’s Own Country.

While we strongly recommend completing the full cycling tour to fully experience the beauty and diversity of Kerala, we understand that unexpected circumstances may arise. Here’s our policy on leaving mid-tour:

Completing the Tour: We highly encourage you to complete the entire 10-day cycling adventure. The itinerary is carefully crafted to provide a comprehensive experience of Kerala’s landscapes, culture, and attractions. Each day builds upon the last, creating a cohesive and memorable journey.

Leaving Mid-Tour: If you absolutely need to leave the tour before its conclusion:

1. Advance Notice: Please inform us as soon as possible. The more notice you can provide, the better we can assist you with arrangements.
2. Logistical Considerations: Departing mid-tour may involve complex logistical adjustments, especially given the rural nature of some locations in Kerala.
3. Transportation: We will help arrange transportation to the nearest major city or airport, but additional costs may apply.
4. Refunds: Please note that leaving the tour early may affect any potential refunds for unused portions of the trip. Refer to our cancellation policy for details.
5. Group Dynamic: Your early departure might impact group activities or shared costs. We’ll do our best to minimize disruptions for other participants.
6. Safety: We prioritize your safety, so if your reason for leaving is health-related, we’ll provide all necessary assistance.

Remember, Kerala’s charm unfolds gradually, and each day of the tour offers unique experiences. We strongly advise staying for the full duration to truly immerse yourself in this incredible cycling adventure. However, if leaving early is unavoidable, we’re here to help make the process as smooth as possible.

Absolutely! Kerala’s culinary delights are as diverse as its landscapes, and we’re committed to ensuring that your dietary needs and preferences are met with the utmost care. Whether you have allergies, intolerances, or specific dietary requirements, our team will work closely with local chefs to adapt the menus accordingly. We strive to provide delicious and safe meal options that will fuel your cycling journey without compromising on taste or tradition. Just let us know in advance, and we’ll make sure your food is not just a meal, but a highlight of your Kerala cycling experience.

Absolutely! We’re more than happy to help you extend your Kerala adventure beyond the 10-day bicycle tour. Here’s how we can assist:

• Pre or Post-Tour Stays: We can arrange additional nights at the hotel either before or after your cycling tour, allowing you to settle in early or unwind after your ride.
• Advance Notice: To ensure we can secure your preferred accommodations, please inform us of your extension plans at least 30 days before your tour start date. The earlier you let us know, the better we can serve you.
• Flexibility: Whether you want to arrive a few days early to acclimate or stay longer to further explore Kerala’s wonders, we’ve got you covered.
• Seamless Process: Once you provide us with your desired dates, we’ll:
  1. Check availability with the hotel
  2. Confirm the booking
  3. Provide you with payment instructions promptly
• Consistent Quality: The additional nights will be at the same quality of accommodation you’ll enjoy during the tour, ensuring a seamless experience.
• Local Insights: We can also offer suggestions for activities or day trips to enhance your extended stay, helping you make the most of your extra time in Kerala.

Remember, January is a popular time to visit Kerala, so the sooner you can confirm your extension, the better chance we have of securing your preferred dates. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or special requests – we’re here to make your Kerala cycling adventure as enjoyable and stress-free as possible!

Tipping in India, including Kerala, is a common practice in the tourism industry, but it’s important to approach it with cultural sensitivity and awareness. It is also important to get it right (not too much, not too little). We recommend the offerings below (if your budget allows):

Typical Currency Exchange from USD to INR (Indian Rupee): $1 USD to ₹84 INR

Use XE.com to convert currencies.

1. Tour Guides and Leaders:
   • It’s customary to tip your main tour guide or leader.
   • A suggested amount is around 750-1000 INR (Indian Rupees) per day, per person (if he is with you throughout)
   • For a 10-day tour, this would amount to approximately 7500-10000 INR per person.
2. Support Staff:
   • Consider tipping support staff such as drivers, mechanics, and assistants.
   • A typical amount would be 500 INR per day, per person, for each support staff member, especially when he is also a guide for the tour.
   • Otherwise, 300 INR per person per day.
3. Hotel Staff:
   • Houseboat crew – INR 100 – 200 per person per day.
   • For porters, a tip of 20-50 INR per bag is appreciated.
   • For housekeeping, consider leaving 50-100 INR per night in your room upon checkout.
   • At some hotels, there is central tipping – try to calculate how much you would have tipped individuals and then round it up if you have enjoyed your stay. If you know that the gardeners and cleaning staff are also getting a share, then it is nice to be generous as you know that your money is helping the lower-paid workers.
4. Restaurants:
   • Many restaurants include a service charge. If not, a 5-10% tip is generally sufficient.
   • In more upscale establishments, 10-15% is appropriate if service charge isn’t included.
5. Group Tipping Pool:
   • Often, tour leaders will organize a group tipping pool for shared staff.
   • This simplifies the process and ensures all support staff are fairly compensated.
6. Timing:
   • Tips are usually given at the end of the tour or when leaving a particular service.
7. Currency:
   • Always tip in Indian Rupees (INR). Foreign currency can be difficult for locals to exchange.
8. Discretion:
   • While tipping is appreciated, it’s not mandatory. Base your tipping on the quality of service received

Remember, these are guidelines, and you should feel comfortable adjusting based on your experience and the level of service provided. If you’re unsure about tipping in a specific situation, don’t hesitate to ask your tour leader for advice. They can provide context-specific guidance to ensure your gratuities are both appropriate and appreciated.

Visit our Explore Page of India[LINK] and Kerala[LINK] for more planning, important info, additional resources, and inspiration!