Kerala Backwater Cycling Holiday

Arrival in Fort Kochi and Cultural Immersion
Upon your arrival at Cochin International Airport, we’ll whisk you away to your hotel in Fort Kochi, where your cycling adventure begins. After checking into your accommodation, you’ll meet your guide and driver, get fitted with your bike, and prepare for the journey ahead. If time permits, step out to explore the historic Fort Kochi, known for its captivating colonial architecture. Walk through streets where the past lingers in the form of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Visit the 16th-century St. Francis Church, where the legendary Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama was once buried. Don’t miss the impressive Chinese Fishing Nets, a rare sight in India, and stroll by the ancient synagogue and Jain Temple. In the evening, we will go for 10kms of bike ride to check the bike, return to your cozy hotel to rest for the start of your cycling journey.

Hotel: Abad Dutch Bungalow / Hotel Arches or similar

Cycling Along the Arabian Sea to Marari Beach
We have an early breakfast and begin our cycling for the day. Leaving behind the bustling town of Fort Kochi, we hit the beach road that takes us through a picturesque country, with endless sea on one side and fishing villages and coconut plantations on the other. Cycling through this stretch should be a breeze, given the bracing air, the good road, friendly people, and pretty sights.We expect to reach our destination for the day, Marari, by afternoon, and check into the hotel for lunch. If delayed, we will lunch at a mid-way restaurant. The afternoon and evening will be reserved for the gorgeous Marari beach, after which we dine at the hotel to call it a day.

Hotel: Abad Turtle Beach Resort / Azure Tides or similar

Cycling to Alleppey and Houseboat Stay
This day’s ride is leisurely and filled with interesting sights. After a relaxed breakfast, you’ll check out of your hotel and begin cycling through the coastal villages, where you can see locals crafting coir ropes and mats from coconut husks. You’ll soon reach Alleppey, the Venice of the East, where the famous Kerala backwaters await. Check into your luxurious houseboat, which will serve as your floating home for the night. Spend the afternoon drifting through the tranquil backwaters, watching local life unfold along the banks. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board, and if you’re a seafood lover, don’t miss the chance to buy fresh catch from local vendors and have it prepared for dinner. This is a unique way to experience the backwaters, surrounded by Kerala’s lush greenery.

Hotel: Ac Premium Houseboat or similar

Cycling to Kumarakom and Canoe Rides
After breakfast on the houseboat, you’ll cycle towards Kumarakom, veering off the usual tourist routes to pass through paddy fields and backwater canals. Along the way, you’ll stop to visit the ancient Champakulam Church, first built in AD 427. This church, steeped in history, is one of the oldest in India and holds special significance for both religious pilgrims and history enthusiasts. By afternoon, you’ll arrive at your destination in Kumarakom, where the evening brings the opportunity to experience the narrow backwater canals in a traditional canoe. Drift silently through these waterways, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and watching local life up close.

Hotel: LakeSong Resort or similar

Return to Kochi or Transfer to the Airport
Your cycling adventure comes to an end after a hearty breakfast. You may choose to return to Kochi to spend more time in the city or you can opt for a direct transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey. Either way, this unforgettable cycling holiday will leave you with cherished memories of Kerala’s backwaters, beaches, and vibrant culture.