Cycling routes for fitness holidays

So if you are looking for healthy and fun break before the scorching sun becomes unbearable, then try these four cycling routes across south India.

Goa is always fun. But how about taking a cycling trip from Mangalore to Goa? It’s one of the most relaxed and laid-back cycling tours. NH17 is the major highway that directly connects Goa and Mangalore and it is about a 382 km ride. This trail will take you through pristine clean beaches, holy temples, chattering cascades, and enchanting national parks, far away from the hustle-bustle of the city. Vistas and landscapes vary immensely, from calm stretches to the lush green jungles. Towns that one may explore throughout the journey are Kaup, Udupi, Bhatkal, Gokarna and Karwar. Give your bike a break at Maravanthe Beach and enjoy the serene view of the Arabian Sea.

For an authentic feel of Kerala, be out in the open and experience an unforgettable holiday on a bicycle. Start your trip from the colonial Kochi Fort and head out to Alleppey/ Allapuzha famous for its luxury rice barges, back water tours and the numerous Coir (coconut fibre) factory units. The route is south of Fort Kochi and leads you through very rustic and deep country. You will come across fishermen waiting for the right catch, their women washing clothes and making lunch on an open fire, the kids either partner you on their cycles or wave out happily. Take pit stops at monuments and places of historical monuments through the way.

This one is obviously the most accessible option for Chennaiites. One of the easiest cycling routes in India, this stretch linking Chennai to Pondicherry is renowned for its seaside sights and views. Clear roads with sparkling beaches and undulating roads make this a dream ride to take. Over the weekends many cycling trips are organised from Chennai, that usually have a breakfast package included. One can meet many people who share a passion for cycling during such organised trips. There are many places to stopover during the cycling expedition like Dakshinachitra Museum, Murundeswarar Temple and Mahabalipuram.

How about taking a trip in lush green forest and spotting some great flora and fauna? Smooth and flat roads on the outskirts of Mysore will take one to the green jungles of Bandipur. You never know, while cycling, one might spot tigers or any other wild animals. Further, the roads will take you to Masinagudi and finally after passing through the challenging hairpin bends, the trip will end at captivating hill station Ooty. Adding more grace to the trail are the attractions like Ooty Botanical Garden, Deer Park, Rode Garden and Ooty Mountain Railway that one can see on the cycling expedition.