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- Bikes, Hikes & Rafting tour
- 13 Nights / 14 days
Bikes, Hikes & Rafting tour
Overview
Adventure enthusiasts will enjoy our thrilling Bikes, Hikes, and Rafting Tour in South Kerala. This tour offers the chance to bike through stunning tea estates, hike through lush rainforests, and experience kayaking in the beautiful Edamalayar River. You will also enjoy rafting on the scenic Periyar Lake, surrounded by lush landscapes. In addition to these activities, you will have the opportunity to witness captivating traditional dances, enjoy an overnight houseboat cruise, and unwind with some relaxing time on the beach. The tour combines adrenaline-pumping activities with cultural experiences and serene moments, ensuring a well-rounded and memorable adventure. With breathtaking landscapes and diverse experiences, it is a perfect blend of thrill, nature, and culture.
Read full itinerary
Average temperature and rainfall
29
Temperature
150
Rainfall
Tour Highlights
- Experience the vibrant Kathakali dance performance in Cochin.
- Explore the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary.
- Go kayaking on the scenic Edamalayar River.
- Embark on a hiking adventure to Chokramudi in Munnar.
- Cycle through the picturesque tea estates of Kerala.
- Take part in trekking and rafting activities at the Periyar Wildlife Reserve.
- Enjoy a memorable overnight stay on a houseboat cruise.
Tour Route - Where you'll visit
1Cochin
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Cochin, or Kochi as it is now called, is divided into Old Cochin (comprising Fort Cochin and Mattanchery) and Ernakulam, which is a bustling metropolis and is considered the commercial capital of Kerala. It is the only district in Kerala where you can experience urban comforts on a par with other major cities in India and also the history of many centuries bygone.
2Thattekad
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Thattekad, also known as Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, is a renowned bird sanctuary located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. Named after the famous ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, the sanctuary is situated along the banks of the Periyar River and is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and avian diversity.
3Munnar
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Munnar is a picturesque hill station located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, known for its stunning landscapes, tea plantations, and cool climate. Nestled at an altitude of around 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) above sea level, Munnar is characterized by rolling hills, lush greenery, and mist-covered valleys.
The region is famous for its sprawling tea gardens, which produce some of the finest tea in India. Visitors can explore tea estates, visit the Tea Museum to learn about the history of tea cultivation, and enjoy tea-tasting sessions. Munnar is also home to several natural attractions, such as the Eravikulam National Park, which is known for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, Anamudi Peak (the highest peak in South India), and picturesque waterfalls like Attukal and Lakkam.
4Thekkady
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Thekkady is a picturesque town located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India, renowned for its lush landscapes, wildlife, and serene environment. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering a range of activities in the heart of the Western Ghats.Periyar National Park: The most prominent attraction in Thekkady, this wildlife sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds. The park features a picturesque lake and offers boat safaris that provide opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding forest.
5Alappuzha
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Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a picturesque town in of Kerala, renowned for its intricate network of canals, backwaters, and lagoons. Often referred to as the "Venice of the East," Alappuzha is famous for its houseboat cruises that offer a tranquil journey through lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages. The town hosts the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, a vibrant and competitive event featuring traditional snake boats. Alappuzha's scenic beaches, historic lighthouse, and charming colonial-era architecture add to its appeal, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
6Mararikulam
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The picturesque fishermen's village of Mararikulam is tucked away inside quiet and lush coconut groves and the resorts here are set by the pristine white sand beaches that offer you unparalleled quiet in astoundingly beautiful settings. Marari has been inhabited by fishermen for millennia and here you will find the authenticity and the breathtaking natural surroundings have been preserved carefully
Detailed Itinerary
- Day 01: Arrival Cochin
Welcomed by a Globe Travel Centre representative at the airport and transported to your hotel. A port town since early centuries, Cochin, also known as the spice coast of India, attracted traders and invaders from the world over. Needless to say, Cochin offers you some fascinating snippets of history and culture. Relax and unwind at the hotel. In the evening go for a relaxing sunset cruise. Overnight at the Secret Garden.
- Day 02: Cochin
On your first day, you will go on a sightseeing tour to explore the many fascinating highlights of Cochin. Including the Jewish Synagogue, in what is locally called the Jew Town, St. Francis Church, the oldest European Church in India, the Santa Cruz Basilica, built in 1557 by the Portuguese, the Dutch Palace, and the Spice market, where you will see the 15th century Chinese fishing nets believed to have been brought by Chinese traders. In the evening, immerse yourself in the captivating traditional dance drama of Kerala, Kathakali. This art form is renowned for its compelling storytelling, vibrant costumes, and elaborate makeup. Overnight at the Secret Garden.
- Day 03: Cochin - Thattekkad (75 Km/ 2.5 hrs)
Drive to Thattekkad, a lowland forest with several types of ecosystems including the riverine, grassland, evergreen and lowland forest - making it one of the best bird watching destinations in India. Here you will check into the resort. Thattekkad is also home to most of the endemics of the Western Ghats. You should be able to sight the White-bellied Treepie, Rufus Babbler, Crimson Backed Sunbird, White Bellied Blue Flycatcher, Wayanad Laughing Thrush, Malabar Parakeet, Malabar Grey Hornbill and owls like the Mottled Wood Owl, Oriental Bay Owl, Oriental Scops Owl, Brown Fish Owl, and Spot-bellied Eagle Owl. You should also be able to sight the Red Spur Fowl, Grey Jungle Fowl, Indian Pitta, Black-throated Munia and the Grey-Headed Fishing Eagle. Spend the evening to explore the campsite and its surrounding area. Overnight at the Birds Murmur Camp on a full-board plan.
- Day 04: Thattekkad
This morning visit the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary with an experienced naturalist. Designed by the renowned ornithologist, Dr Salim Ali. The Bombay Natural History Society has identified 253 species in Thattekkad. This bird sanctuary set in a peninsular land of 25 sq. km is covered with deciduous forests and plantations of rosewood and teak. Rare birds like the Crimson-Throated Barbet, Bee-eater, Sunbird, Shrike, Black Winged Kite and the Night Heron are also commonly sighted. This rare haven offers picturesque landscapes and is a nature lover's paradise. Midday is free for walks in and around the camp or take a cycle ride through the local village. In the afternoon embark on a second visit to the bird sanctuary. Overnight at the Birds Murmur Camp on a full-board plan.
- Day 05: Thattekkad
With the river running through the property, Birds Murmur offers one of the best kayaking experiences in Thattekkad. The lush evergreen forests of Edamalayar across the water make this experience truly special. Start your kayaking adventure early in the morning, accompanied by an instructor, as you paddle through the Periyar River. This 3-hour experience provides an excellent opportunity to observe some of the wildlife up close. Spend the rest of the day at leisure or explore the local village on a cycle ride. Overnight at the Birds Murmur Camp on a full-board plan.
- Day 06: Thattekkad - Munnar (70 km / 2.5 hrs)
Drive to Munnar, a hill station located 1,600 metres above sea level. Once the summer resort of the British administration in South India, it still retains its colonial charm and is famous for its tea plantations, most of which are privately owned. With its sprawling estates, rolling hills, sparkling waterfalls, picture postcard hamlets and undulating valleys, Munnar is an ideal getaway destination. Check into your hotel and unwind. Overnight at the Ambady Estate.
- Day 07: Munnar
This morning, enjoy a guided trek to Chokramudi, a distinctive and popular peak in the Munnar landscape. Begin with a one-hour drive from your hotel to the trek's starting point. The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, beginning with tea plantations and gradually transitioning into shola forests, grasslands, and bald rock faces. As the route is not circular due to limited accessibility, both the ascent and descent follow the same path. This moderate-level trek takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete and rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the Munnar region, making it an experience not to be missed. Overnight at the Ambady Estate.
- Day 08: Munnar
After breakfast enjoy a cycling trip through the tea country. The Pothamedu View Point, situated on Bison Valley Road, and to reach the viewpoint, you will take various scenic routes that showcase the beauty of the region. Your cycling journey will take you through vibrant parts of Munnar town, the picturesque Head Works Dam, and the lush Chokkanad estate. Along the way, you will get a chance to observe the daily lives of Munnar's residents, explore the local culture, and witness the stunning landscapes that define this hill station. On a clear day, the view from the Pothamedu viewpoint offers a breathtaking sight of endless green tea fields stretching out to the horizon, creating a truly memorable visual experience. Return to your hotel to spend the afternoon at leisure. Overnight at the Ambady Estate. .
- Day 09: Munnar - Periyar (95 Km / 3.5 hrs)
Drive to Periyar an area known for its undulating hills, spice plantations, and elephant sightings. One of the 27 tiger reserves in India, the Periyar valley in Thekkady is the oldest. Check into your hotel. There are over 320 species of birds in Periyar, including Nilgiri Wood Pigeons, Blue-winged Parakeets; White-bellied Tree Pies, Laughing Thrushes and Fly Catchers. Go on a spice garden visit in the afternoon where you will be enticed by not only the aroma of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, pepper and nutmeg but will also get to know how they are grown, harvested and processed before they reach the supermarkets. Overnight at the Cardamom County.
- Day 10: Periyar
Embark on a hiking and rafting adventure this morning. This dawn-to-dusk hiking and rafting program takes you through some of the richest forest tracts of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The adventure begins at 8 AM from the boat landing, traversing a variety of habitats before boarding bamboo rafts. The forests are teeming with bird life and arboreal animals such as the giant squirrel and Nilgiri langur. The rafting experience lasts about three hours, offering panoramic views of forest-clad hills reflected on the serene lake. Wildlife like elephants, gaurs, and sambars can often be seen along the lake's edges. The team returns to the boat landing by around 5 PM. The program is led by an armed guard and 4 guides, accommodating a maximum of 10 tourists. Tea, snacks, and packed lunch are provided en route. Overnight at the Cardamom County.
- Day 11: Periyar - Houseboat (140 Km/ 4 hrs)
Drive to Alleppey, and embark on your private houseboat. Cruise on the backwaters, a splendid area full of canals, lakes and coves. Your houseboats, or Kettuvalloms, are luxurious boats with well-appointed bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms. You can sunbathe on the deck or observe the palm-fringed landscape from your cabins. Apart from the mesmerizing surroundings, its the life along the backwaters that makes this a fascinating experience. The locals travel in canoes, and you will find vegetable sellers, fishermen and other traders bringing household goods door-to-door in small, wooden boats. As you cruise along the backwaters, you can ask your captain to stop at villages, paddy fields and other places enroute. Overnight stay on board with full-board.
- Day 12: Alleppey - Mararikulam (20 km / 45 Min)
Disembark in the morning, and drive to the picturesque fishermen's village of Mararikulam. Check into your resort. Tucked away inside quiet and lush coconut groves, the resort is set in the pristine white sand beaches of the Marari and offers you unparalleled quiet in astoundingly beautiful settings. Marari has been inhabited by fishermen for millennia, and here you will find the authenticity and the breathtaking natural surroundings have been preserved carefully. Overnight at the Xandari Pearl.
- Day 13: Mararikulam
Enjoy a day at leisure on the beach. You can hire bicycles from the resort to explore the scenic coastal backroads of Marari, passing through picturesque fishermen's villages and experiencing the local charm. In the afternoon, you can unwind with a soothing Ayurvedic full-body massage. Overnight at the Xandari Pearl.
- Day 14: Mararikulam - Cochin - Departure (80 Km/ 2.5 hrs)
In good time you will be transferred to Cochin airport to board your onward flight.
When Should I go?
Being a coastal state surrounded by the Arabian Sea and because of its proximity to the equator, Kerala has a more or less consistent temperature pattern in the summers and the monsoons alike. The temperature hovers around 29°C throughout the year with varying levels of humidity.
Average temperatures and rainfall
Monsoon Months in Kerala
June and July are monsoon months in Kerala, the showers being heavy at first and then easing off gradually. Whilst these are not the best months for tours, interestingly, this happens to the best time for travellers seeking the therapeutic Ayurveda treatment which is said to be most effective in these months.
Best months for travel to Kerala
The months of October through to March are considered to be the most favourable months to travel to Kerala when the weather is sunny and pleasant. The months of April and May are also favourable for travel but the humidity tends to be comparatively higher. August and September are also good months for travel.
Pricing Information
The indicative price for this 14-day Bikes, Hikes & Rafting Tour is
From £ in low season (May – September)
From £ in high season (October – April)
The prices do not include flights.
The above mentioned price is per person based on double/twin sharing. The price includes accommodation, meals, transportation as well as sightseeing and activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
The above mentioned high season rates may not be applicable during some of the peak dates in December, January and February.
This is a private tour, which can be customized to suit your specific needs, whether you wish to adjust the accommodation options, add a different destination, or make any other changes. Prices may vary based on factors such as group size, tour duration, accommodation preferences, and the season.
Kindly share your preferred travel dates, and we will be happy to provide a personalized itinerary and an accurate quote.
From £ in low season (May – September)
From £ in high season (October – April)
The prices do not include flights.
The above mentioned price is per person based on double/twin sharing. The price includes accommodation, meals, transportation as well as sightseeing and activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
The above mentioned high season rates may not be applicable during some of the peak dates in December, January and February.
This is a private tour, which can be customized to suit your specific needs, whether you wish to adjust the accommodation options, add a different destination, or make any other changes. Prices may vary based on factors such as group size, tour duration, accommodation preferences, and the season.
Kindly share your preferred travel dates, and we will be happy to provide a personalized itinerary and an accurate quote.
Tour Image Gallery
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Image Gallery
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Travel Brochures
KERALA BROCHURE
With 230 pages our Kerala brochure is the largest of its kind globally and features;
Extensive regional information
20+ itinerary ideas
More than 100 hotels
Maps and images
Travel Brochures
With 230 pages our Kerala brochure is the largest of its kind globally and features;
Extensive regional information
20+ itinerary ideas
More than 100 hotels
Maps and images
Community Projects
Every time you book a holiday with us, we donate to a tangible cause at the destination - from our profits. Not only that, at the time of booking a holiday, we give you a choice of projects that we support and you can choose one that's closest to your hearts.
Ask our local experts to tailor-make this tour
Call Freephone 020 3924 2880 to speak with one of our regional experts based at the destination. Our specialists will share their expertise and also understand, in-depth, what you like on your holidays so as to be able to offer a tailor made itinerary that best meet your requirements and budget.
Get in touch with us
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Speak with our specialist team of local experts
When you are a 100% satisfied with an itinerary that our expert has tailored for you and are ready to book, we will request a booking deposit of £250.00 per person.
(If your booking involves International flights, we request flight charges at the time of booking). Your balance becomes payable 8 weeks before departure.
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Choose the community project you’d like to support
Globe Travel Centre’s business ethos is centred around benefitting communities- which is why every time you book, we donate to a cause from our profits.
At the time of booking, we will give you options of various causes we support at the destination. You can let us know which cause you want us to donate to against your booking.
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Receive your travel documentation
8 weeks before you travel, you will be sent a detailed and customised jute travel pack in our award winning recycled tyre tube bag which also includes other travel essentials.
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Relax, you’re in safe hands
We will be in touch with you on an on-going basis, both before you travel (to check if you have any last minute questions) and also while you are at the destination, where our local offices ensure you have no problems during the holiday.
What’s more, you’ll receive a complimentary mobile phone for the duration of your visit so you can contact us wherever you are.
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