Spices & Temples

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  Tour Operator  TDA Global Cycling

  India

 19 days (Bike: 12 days)

  1065 km  (~89km per day)

 Active

 Mixed on/off-road

Guided

Supported

A cycling exploration of tea culture in Southern India. Section 1 of the Tea Route adventure tour.

This section begins in historic Kochi, where colonial charm, bustling spice markets, and vibrant streets set the tone for the ride. The route heads south to Alleppey, renowned for its beautiful backwaters and lush paddy fields. As the riders approach the Western Ghats the rolling hills will take them to Kumily, home to Periyar National Park, before spinning through spice growing villages and cardamom plantations. Manicured tea gardens of the high ranges provide a stunning backdrop for riders.

Descending from the hills, the route now takes the cyclists to the plains of Tamil Nadu and the vibrant city of Madurai, celebrated for the iconic Meenakshi Temple and its legacy as a hub of Tamil language and literature. In Pondicherry, we take a rest day to soak in its French colonial charm and relaxed vibe. The cycling leg of the section concludes in Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures.

Highlights

  • Kerala backwaters
  • Western Ghats
  • Pondicherry
  • Temples of Mahabalipuram

Tour Information

From

Kochi

To

Mahabalipuram (Chennai)

Cost From

Guided   US$ 8200

Departure(s)

January 16 - February 1, 2026

Inclusions

  • 18 Nights in hotels
  • Food
    • Most dinners
    • Most breakfasts
    • All roadside lunches
  • On-tour support
    • Vehicle to carry your bags
    • GPS tracks & route notes
    • Experienced tour leader
    • Sweep rider
    • Bike mechanic
  • Tour jersey
  • Pre-tour information bulletins
  • Pre-tour rider discussion forum

Options

  • Ride the full Tea Route or one or more stages
  • For this tour, we recommend a touring or gravel bike with 40c tires.
  • Full tour entry fees will receive an early payment discount of US$500 if full payment is received 6 months before the start of the tour
  • TDA alumni get special alumni discounts.

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