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From US$ 2,890
Per Person
South India Unleashed
Kerala or “God’s own Country” as it is aptly known, lies on a narrow strip of land in the South-West of India, wedged between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. It is a UNESCO world heritage site due to a remarkably high level of biological diversity. From the impressive Backwaters, a phenomenal network of brackish canals and lakes covering hundreds of square miles and renowned for the famous overnight houseboats, to the Nilgiri Mountains (Blue Mountains) which are part of the Western Ghats, the vibrant cultures, natural resources and wildlife are bountiful in Kerala. Let the lovely serpentine roads through tropical jungles, the majestic Nilgiri Mountains and the infamous tea plantations mesmerize you. Prepare to have your palate enchanted by Kerala’s divine delicacies including the freshest of seafood. After 3000 years of attracting visitors, motorcycle tours in Kerala are only a recent occurrence. Phoenicians, Arabs, Romans and Chinese were all trading with this region of India for millennia. It was via the Malabar District that oriental spices and technologies first reached the West from India and China, by the Portuguese, Dutch, British and French traders. The strong influence of these Western immigrants remains on display in coastal cities such as Kochi, still a hub of spice, textile and hand craft export.
Tour at a Glance
| Region of Country | South India (Kerala & Tamil Nadu) |
| Period | September – March |
| Duration | 12 Days 11 Nights |
| Riding Days | 9 Days |
| Accommodation | Hotels, Houseboats |
| Motorbike | Royal Enfield Himalayan |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
| Average Daily Distance | 133km |
| Total Distance | 1200km |
| Fitness Level | Moderate |
Highlights
- Backwater excursion on super deluxe traditional Kerala house boat, Lodging and Boarding (full board)
- Explore the vibrant, bustling cities of Southern India
- Excursions in the national parks
- Gaze upon the pristine and picturesque Arabian Sea
- Witnessing the traditional martial arts Kalaripayattu
- Breathtaking scenery of the Indian tropical region
- A walk in the old orthodox British Tea Gardens
- Exploring aromatic spice gardens and the best coffee plantations
Day 01 – Arrival Kochi or Cochin (Kerala)
A representative of Motorcycle Expeditions will meet and greet you at Kochi International Airport (in India). Welcome to heaven on earth, otherwise known as Kerala or ‘God’s Own Country’. You’ll be transferred to a hotel which is located in Fort Kochi in the heart of the ancient town. In the afternoon, we will do some sightseeing in Kochi. Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 02 – Kochi to Munnar (137km, 4hrs)
After a safety briefing and introduction to the crew, we’ll ride through Kochi’s lively streets, heading towards Munnar, famous for its lush tea plantations. On arrival, we’ll check into the hotel and then enjoy a relaxing evening stroll through the plantations, taking in one of the most beautiful sunsets in the region, surrounded by the stunning hills and tea fields. Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 03 – Munnar and its surrounds
We’ll visit Kolukmailai and tour one of the oldest tea factories, where tea is still made using traditional methods, followed by a delightful tea-tasting ceremony. Next, we’ll head to the misty Top Station, offering stunning views of nearby lakes and tea plantations. Munnar truly is the heart of India’s tea region, with its scenic beauty and rich tea heritage. Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 04 – Munnar to Periyar (100km, 3-4hrs)
Leaving Munnar, the ride takes us through scenic gap roads and lush tea plantations, leading to Periyar, the land of cardamom. Upon arrival, we’ll explore one of the finest spice gardens and witness a captivating Kalaripayattu performance, Kerala’s traditional martial art. Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 05 – Periyar to Kodaikanal (156km, 4hrs)
After crossing vibrant villages and winding hairpin bends, we enter Tamil Nadu and continue our ride towards Kodaikanal, perched at 2,000 meters. Our stay is at Elephant Valley, just 20 km from town, where we’ll immerse ourselves in the breathtaking beauty of nature, surrounded by lush landscapes and serene surroundings. Dinner and overnight stay in Elephant Valley.
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Day 06 – Kodaikanal and its surrounds
Staying at Elephant Valley, known for its coffee plantations, we’ll learn about traditional coffee production in the morning. A stroll along the Tevankarai River, flowing past the hotel, offers a peaceful escape, while nearby avocado farms add to the charm. Afterward, we’ll head into Kodaikanal for a delicious lunch, enjoying the city’s unique atmosphere. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 07 – Kodaikanal to Ooty (240km, 7hrs)
Day 08 – Ooty to Wayanad (111km, 4hrs)
In the morning, a visit to Ooty’s chocolate factory awaits. From there, we’ll ride through a scenic jungle of eucalyptus trees, crossing Mudumalai on our way to Wayanad, where lush landscapes and tranquil beauty will greet us. Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 09 – Wayanad to Thrissur (174km, 5hrs)
The route to Nattika Beach, Thrissur, is stunning, with views of lush plantations of pepper, cinnamon, cumin, and nutmeg as we descend. Our accommodation is a health and wellness centre, beautifully located right on Nattika Beach, offering a serene and rejuvenating stay. Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 10 – Thrissur to Alleppey (131km, 4hrs)
Passing through a fishermen’s village, we arrive in Alleppey. In the evening, embark on a traditional houseboat to explore Kerala’s iconic backwaters and experience the vibrant village life from the water. After a delicious dinner, enjoy an overnight stay aboard the houseboat, soaking in the serene surroundings.
Day 11 – Allepey to Kochi (64km, 2hrs)
Riding past towering coconut trees along the shore, we head towards the tranquil Marari Beach. Continuing along the beautiful coastline, we’ll reach the vibrant city of Kochi, rich in history and culture. Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 12 – Kochi to Airport
You’ll be transferred to Kochi International Airport for your flight back home. Hopefully, you will have had a life changing motorcycling experience with us in Southern India. Certainly, if you want to extend your trip and see more of India, that can be arranged. We will gladly help you sort out hotels, travel arrangements etc. You have come so far so why not make the most of it!
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IncludedAll ground transfers in India, Kochi International airport to Kochi International airportRoyal Enfield motorcycle and fuel for the entire tripAccommodation (twin sharing in standard 2*, 3* & 5* hotels / similar) neat and cleanBreakfast and dinner in the hotel and lunch on the way in local restaurantsMineral water will be provided during the expeditionsEnglish speaking guide, a motorcyclist by profession and passionMedical kitMechanics with all the necessary spare partsSupport vehicle (if riders suffer from a sore @$$, they may jump into our backup jeep to relax!!)All monument entrance fees during the tour, excl. camera feesBack-water boating (South India Expedition)
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Not IncludedVisaInternational flights to Kochi International airportAny medical / travel insurance coverage and personal expensesAny telephone calls / internet chargesAny tips for the guide, driver and mechanic (suggested at $100)Any items not mentioned in included sectionAlcoholic beveragesAny damage to the motorcycle must be covered by the rider in fullCosts incurred or expenses arising due to natural calamities, strikes, breakdowns and any other unforeseen calamities beyond the control of Motorcycle Expeditions Adventure Tour Pvt Ltd and its associates (force majeure)Any itinerary extensions will be subject to additional cost