SpiceRoads explores the backroads of Kerala

July 6, 2010 - PRLog -- SpiceRoads Cycle Tours is launching a new tour to explore the backroads and backwaters of the southern Indian state of Kerala. Sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the mountainous Western Ghats, Kerala is known for its tropical greenery, backwaters, wildlife reserves, beaches, tea and spice plantations. This bicycle tour loops from the port town of Kochi  through all the best sites of Kerala and offers stunning scenery along the way.

Cycling on paved country roads this tour starts with a visit to the Thatekkad bird sanctuary, one of three wildlife reserves visited on this tour. Then the climbing begins up to the highlands and to the hill station town of Munnar, known for its tea plantations and spice estates. After taking in the amazing views from Top Station, it’s an exhilarating descent to Periyar and time for a rest day to explore the national park that is home to herds of elephants and up to 40 tigers. The tour then heads towards Kumarakom where we switch from bicycle to boat and spend a relaxing afternoon plying the backwaters, an intricate network of canals that are teeming with birds. Then it is a flat ride to Kochi with time to explore this fascinating historic town that was influenced by the Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese.

Along the way riders will be staying at beautiful heritage hotels, eco-lodges and spend a night on a converted rice barge. They’ll have their fill of ethnic food, seasoned by the local spices.

Cycling 555 kilometers in 10 cycling days this tour of Kerala’s Backroads is an exploration of the culture and nature of southern India. Kerala’s location near the equator combined with the sea breezes and cooler temperatures in the highlands makes it perfect for bicycling and lives up to its tagline – God’s Own Country.

Departures in 2010 for this 14 day/13 night adventure are October 17, November 14, December 5. In 2011 our January 30 tour is guaranteed to depart, and there are also departures scheduled for February 13 and March 13.

A special introductory rate of US$1,825 is being offered for the inaugural tour that departs on October 17.

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SpiceRoads is a specialist bicycle tour operator based in Bangkok offering a range of two-wheel tours throughout Asia. SpiceRoads tours cater for every level of cyclist and range from day-trips to complete country explorations. Participants are invited to join tours with fixed date departures scheduled throughout the year, while private or tailor-made tours can be arranged for groups or individuals on request. The professional operations set-up includes a fleet of well-maintained mountain bikes and support vehicles. All tours are led by experienced cycle guides and drivers double as bike mechanics.