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The journey begins at the airport for your overnight flight to Cochin. Your Charity Challenge Cycling Leader will meet you at the airport and assist with the check-in and any last minute questions.
There will be a full challenge briefing after you check in at the hotel. Depending on your flight arrival time If there is some time before dinner, we will explore Cochin, a ascinating and beautiful city founded by the Portuguese in the early 16th century. After a little bit of sightseeing, you may then choose to unwind with an ancient and relaxing aryuvedic massage. Overnight in hotel.
Saddle up for the first day of cycling! Leave the city behind as we head towards Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, one of India’s richest bird habitats. Here more than 270 species are found in just 25 square kilometres. Look out for the rare mottled wood owl, spot-bellied eagle owls and rusty-tailed flycatchers, during the afternoon. Onwards to the outskirts of the Kokanad Elephant Rescue Centre before overnighting at camp.
Today we pass through the Western Ghats of south-western India, known locally as the Sahyadri Hills. The route meanders through rich ecosystems, so look out for the endangered Indian elephants, bison, monkeys and birds of prey. Munnar is the gateway to the mountains and home to some of the world’s highest tea-growing estates and spice plantations, which combined make this former hill station an ideal retreat. Overnight in Munnar
Our third day of pedalling takes us to Vandanmedu. Once there, we plan to visit the tribal inhabitants of the area and the village’s incredible cardamom and pepper spice plantations. Our route follows tea estate tracks through eucalyptus forest and tea bushes, inviting us to interact with many tea pickers along the way. Overnight on a boutique eco resort.
Today we will cycle to Periyar, one of India’s greatest tiger reserves. Altogether 62 different kinds of mammals have been recorded in Periyar. There are up to about 40 tigers, but also some 1,000 Indian elephants too. The reserve, which extends over 777 square kilometres, is also home to wild boar, leopards, monkeys and much more. Forest guides will provide an amazing insight into the unique flora and fauna. Overnight on the outskirts of Periyar Wildlife Park.
the final day on the bike and definitely one to remember! The route to Vagamon is a scenic one, passing through Alleppey, a vast network of waterways. We will pedal hard past miles of palm trees, small villages, lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals. Tonight we celebrate this fantastic achievement with a victors’ meal and a night on our resort on the backwaters.
Transfer back to Cochin Airport for the return flight to London. Be sure to swap details with new-found cycling pals on the flight home.
BELIEVE >> ACHIEVE >> INSPIRE