Mysore to Goa - Friday 16th November 2018
Cycle from the stunning palace of Mysore to the sandy beaches of Goa
A fascinating journey through the great kingdoms and civilisations of southern India. From the stunning palace of Mysore to the sandy beaches of Goa, this trip offers the chance to cycle on rural roads through colourful villages, where rural life has remained little-changed for centuries. We explore ancient ruins, elaborate temples and fortified cities, allowing time to explore the sites and sample delicious food along the way.
Highlights
Key information
What's included
A fascinating journey through the great kingdoms and civilisations of southern India. From the stunning palace of Mysore to the sandy beaches of Goa, this trip offers the chance to cycle on rural roads through colourful villages, where rural life has remained little-changed for centuries. We explore ancient ruins, elaborate temples and fortified cities, allowing time to explore the sites and sample delicious food along the way.
Highlights
- Cycle through villages and lively market towns
- Sample delicious south Indian cuisine such as dosa
- Marvel at the stunning Mysore Palace
- A full day to explore the ruins of Hampi
- Time to relax on the sandy beaches of Goa
Key information
- 11 nights hotels and 1 night lodge
- 10 days cycling, plus 1 optional ride, with 100% vehicle support
- Group normally 4 to 14, plus local cycling leader and driver. Min. age 16 yrs
What's included
- All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 6 dinners
- All accommodation
- Transfer for group flights
- Local bike hire
Trip Overview
A fascinating journey through the great kingdoms and civilisations of southern India. From the stunning palace of Mysore to the sandy beaches of Goa, this trip offers the chance to cycle on rural roads through colourful villages, where rural life has remained little-changed for centuries. We explore ancient ruins, elaborate temples and fortified cities, allowing time to explore the sites and sample delicious food along the way.
At a Glance
Trip Highlights
Is This Trip for You?Activity Level: 3 (Moderate)
This trip is classified 'Road'
No. of days cycling: 10, plus 1 optional ride
Vehicle support: 100%
Average daily distance: 56km/day (34 miles)
Terrain and route: mostly surfaced roads including plenty of quiet backroads with low levels of traffic, but this does increase when approaching towns. Indian roads can be busy so it helps if you are confident and cycled in traffic before. Leaders will brief clients on the rules of the road and we ask that you please listen to them carefully and follow their instructions. Goa is not flat, with generally undulating roads and there are long sustained climbs on 6 and 9 (climbing 10km and gaining 300m), but this is not a steep climb. The support vehicle is available at all times if required. The cycling consists of mostly half-day rides, allowing time to explore the sights and relax at your hotel.
Road surfaces can be rough in some places, with potholes. Please bear this in mind if you are bringing your own pedals and clip-in shoes. For those on the group flight, please note that there is a 3.5hr transfer to Mysore upon arrival at Bangalore. Rooms may not be ready immediately once we reach our hotel (check-in is usually noon). Once at the hotel, you are free to relax before some sightseeing int he afternoon.
This itinerary is great for a first time bike trip or your first visit to India, but there is also plenty of interest for those who have done bike trips with us before in India and want to see a different part of the country.
Please note that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India and very occasionally this may mean that work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI's schedule is never published so it is not possible to forewarn our clients of when work will be taking place.
GroupOur Indian team of leaders have proved very popular with their incredible knowledge, passion and hospitality adding greatly to the experience. There is no better way to experience Indian culture than letting an Indian guide show you around their country.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 14
At a Glance
- 11 nights hotels and 1 night lodge
- 10 days cycling, plus 1 optional ride, with 100% vehicle support
- Group normally 4 to 14, plus local cycling leader and driver. Min. age 16 yrs
Trip Highlights
- Cycle through villages and lively market towns
- Sample delicious south Indian cuisine such as dosa
- Marvel at the stunning Mysore Palace
- A full day to explore the ruins of Hampi
- Time to relax on the sandy beaches of Goa
Is This Trip for You?Activity Level: 3 (Moderate)
This trip is classified 'Road'
No. of days cycling: 10, plus 1 optional ride
Vehicle support: 100%
Average daily distance: 56km/day (34 miles)
Terrain and route: mostly surfaced roads including plenty of quiet backroads with low levels of traffic, but this does increase when approaching towns. Indian roads can be busy so it helps if you are confident and cycled in traffic before. Leaders will brief clients on the rules of the road and we ask that you please listen to them carefully and follow their instructions. Goa is not flat, with generally undulating roads and there are long sustained climbs on 6 and 9 (climbing 10km and gaining 300m), but this is not a steep climb. The support vehicle is available at all times if required. The cycling consists of mostly half-day rides, allowing time to explore the sights and relax at your hotel.
Road surfaces can be rough in some places, with potholes. Please bear this in mind if you are bringing your own pedals and clip-in shoes. For those on the group flight, please note that there is a 3.5hr transfer to Mysore upon arrival at Bangalore. Rooms may not be ready immediately once we reach our hotel (check-in is usually noon). Once at the hotel, you are free to relax before some sightseeing int he afternoon.
This itinerary is great for a first time bike trip or your first visit to India, but there is also plenty of interest for those who have done bike trips with us before in India and want to see a different part of the country.
Please note that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India and very occasionally this may mean that work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI's schedule is never published so it is not possible to forewarn our clients of when work will be taking place.
GroupOur Indian team of leaders have proved very popular with their incredible knowledge, passion and hospitality adding greatly to the experience. There is no better way to experience Indian culture than letting an Indian guide show you around their country.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 14
Itinerary
Start City: Mysore
End City: Goa
End City: Goa
Day one
Day Two
Start Mysore; thali lunch and explore the main bazaar
Those on the group flight arrive in Bangalore early in the morning and transfer by coach to our hotel in Mysore (3.5 hr drive). Please note that we may have to wait until around noon if rooms are not ready. Those travelling independently should meet us in Mysore. Our hotel is a charming place to relax, in the city of Mysore. After checking in at the hotel, we'll have a short tuk tuk drive to the city centre for a traditional southern Indian thali lunch; a selection of small dishes served on one plate. A short walk from here is the main bazaar of Mysore, a fascinating old market area. After exploring this area, we'll return to the hotel for our bike fitting. For those who wish to do so, we can go and see the Mysore Palace lit up at night.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Lunch
Those on the group flight arrive in Bangalore early in the morning and transfer by coach to our hotel in Mysore (3.5 hr drive). Please note that we may have to wait until around noon if rooms are not ready. Those travelling independently should meet us in Mysore. Our hotel is a charming place to relax, in the city of Mysore. After checking in at the hotel, we'll have a short tuk tuk drive to the city centre for a traditional southern Indian thali lunch; a selection of small dishes served on one plate. A short walk from here is the main bazaar of Mysore, a fascinating old market area. After exploring this area, we'll return to the hotel for our bike fitting. For those who wish to do so, we can go and see the Mysore Palace lit up at night.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Lunch
Day Three
Mysore Palace; afternoon leisurely ride to Srirangapatna
Today we start with a guided tour around Mysore Palace (also known as the Amba Vilas Palace), the official residence of the Wodeyars - the former royal family of Mysore, which ruled the state of Mysore for over seven centuries. The Wodeyar kings first built a palace in Mysore in the 14th Century but it was demolished and constructed multiple times. The current palace construction was commissioned in 1897 and completed in 1912. It was later expanded around 1940. The décor is simply stunning if a little bit over the top and the former maharaja is still living in his private quarters. We then return to our hotel and check-out. From the hotel, we ride through the backstreets of Mysore and into the surrounding countryside, passing fields of dahl and sugar cane, the main crops associated with Mysore. Traditional oxen and cart usually line up outside the villages, which are used to transport the harvested crops. Our leisurely ride continues to Srirangapatna, the ruins of Tippu Sultan's capital. Srirangapatna was destroyed by the British in 1799 during their final battle to secure control of southern India, which consequently led to the death of Tippu Sultan (also known as 'the tiger of Mysore'). The island fortress stands in the middle of the Kaveri River and is held sacred as one of the abodes of Lord Vishnu. We cycle over the bridge to the ruins and explore the old ramparts. We also visit Tippu Sultan's Mosque and the Hindu Ranganathaswamy Temple, which is considered one of the most important Vishnu temples in southern India. After cycling around the ruins, we continue for another 20km to Brindavan Gardens. Our hotel, the Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden Palace & Spa, overlooks the gardens and is a charming place to relax or enjoy an evening stroll around the gardens.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance covered: 37 km / 23 miles
Altitude gain (m): 366
Altitude loss (m): 351
Today we start with a guided tour around Mysore Palace (also known as the Amba Vilas Palace), the official residence of the Wodeyars - the former royal family of Mysore, which ruled the state of Mysore for over seven centuries. The Wodeyar kings first built a palace in Mysore in the 14th Century but it was demolished and constructed multiple times. The current palace construction was commissioned in 1897 and completed in 1912. It was later expanded around 1940. The décor is simply stunning if a little bit over the top and the former maharaja is still living in his private quarters. We then return to our hotel and check-out. From the hotel, we ride through the backstreets of Mysore and into the surrounding countryside, passing fields of dahl and sugar cane, the main crops associated with Mysore. Traditional oxen and cart usually line up outside the villages, which are used to transport the harvested crops. Our leisurely ride continues to Srirangapatna, the ruins of Tippu Sultan's capital. Srirangapatna was destroyed by the British in 1799 during their final battle to secure control of southern India, which consequently led to the death of Tippu Sultan (also known as 'the tiger of Mysore'). The island fortress stands in the middle of the Kaveri River and is held sacred as one of the abodes of Lord Vishnu. We cycle over the bridge to the ruins and explore the old ramparts. We also visit Tippu Sultan's Mosque and the Hindu Ranganathaswamy Temple, which is considered one of the most important Vishnu temples in southern India. After cycling around the ruins, we continue for another 20km to Brindavan Gardens. Our hotel, the Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden Palace & Spa, overlooks the gardens and is a charming place to relax or enjoy an evening stroll around the gardens.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance covered: 37 km / 23 miles
Altitude gain (m): 366
Altitude loss (m): 351
Day Four
Ride to Shravanabelagola; transfer to Hassan
This morning we cycle from our hotel along quiet backroads to Shravanabelagola, a Jain shrine famous for its giant 57ft stone statue of Gommateshvara Bahubali, the spiritual leader of Jainism. The shrine is perched on top of a hill and depicts the spiritual leader standing in a meditation pose, which he maintained for a whole year, hence the vines growing around his legs. The statue is thought to be the largest in the world and was built in 981AD by his followers. It is reached by climbing 614 steps from the small bustling town nestled at the bottom of the hill, which has a lively spiritual atmosphere due to the numerous Jain pilgrims. Every 12 years a spectacular purification ceremony takes place, where the statue is anointed with water and turmeric before being garlanded with flowers. For lunch, we try roasted Bajra Methi Poori, a local bread made of millet flour and fenugreek leaves. We then transfer 70km to Hassan. If you still have the energy, there is the option to ride this part.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Distance covered: 61 km / 37 miles
Altitude gain (m): 715
Altitude loss (m): 620
This morning we cycle from our hotel along quiet backroads to Shravanabelagola, a Jain shrine famous for its giant 57ft stone statue of Gommateshvara Bahubali, the spiritual leader of Jainism. The shrine is perched on top of a hill and depicts the spiritual leader standing in a meditation pose, which he maintained for a whole year, hence the vines growing around his legs. The statue is thought to be the largest in the world and was built in 981AD by his followers. It is reached by climbing 614 steps from the small bustling town nestled at the bottom of the hill, which has a lively spiritual atmosphere due to the numerous Jain pilgrims. Every 12 years a spectacular purification ceremony takes place, where the statue is anointed with water and turmeric before being garlanded with flowers. For lunch, we try roasted Bajra Methi Poori, a local bread made of millet flour and fenugreek leaves. We then transfer 70km to Hassan. If you still have the energy, there is the option to ride this part.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Distance covered: 61 km / 37 miles
Altitude gain (m): 715
Altitude loss (m): 620
Day Five
Evening
Cycle from Hassan to Belur (Karagada).
After breakfast, we get on our bikes and cycle 31km towards Halbeedu, the 12th Century capital of the Hoysala Kingdom. We explore the ornate Hoysaleshwara temple, with carvings of Hindu mythology and two shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. We spend time exploring the temple before riding another 17km to the old capital of Belur, arriving in time for lunch. The afternoon is free to explore the old city before we ride another 9km to our hotel.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance covered: 58 km / 36 miles
Altitude gain (m): 648
Altitude loss (m): 602
After breakfast, we get on our bikes and cycle 31km towards Halbeedu, the 12th Century capital of the Hoysala Kingdom. We explore the ornate Hoysaleshwara temple, with carvings of Hindu mythology and two shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. We spend time exploring the temple before riding another 17km to the old capital of Belur, arriving in time for lunch. The afternoon is free to explore the old city before we ride another 9km to our hotel.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance covered: 58 km / 36 miles
Altitude gain (m): 648
Altitude loss (m): 602
Day Six
Cycle to Chickmangalore.
Today we cycle on village roads towards Chickmangalore, the centre of India's coffee growing region. As we cycle, we'll see that the lower forested hills of the Mullayanagiri mountain range are covered with coffee plantations. Introduced in 1670, Sufi priests used coffee as a medicinal drink before the local population caught on to its revitalising properties. Arriving at our hotel for lunch, the afternoon is free to relax or explore the town. Those interested in coffee can either ride or drive to the coffee museum situated on the outskirts of town, to learn more about the history of the coffee bean in India. The town's cinema is a great place to experience a Bollywood movie, and later enjoying some street food at the town canteen.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance covered: 42 km / 26 miles
Altitude gain (m): 479
Altitude loss (m): 370
Today we cycle on village roads towards Chickmangalore, the centre of India's coffee growing region. As we cycle, we'll see that the lower forested hills of the Mullayanagiri mountain range are covered with coffee plantations. Introduced in 1670, Sufi priests used coffee as a medicinal drink before the local population caught on to its revitalising properties. Arriving at our hotel for lunch, the afternoon is free to relax or explore the town. Those interested in coffee can either ride or drive to the coffee museum situated on the outskirts of town, to learn more about the history of the coffee bean in India. The town's cinema is a great place to experience a Bollywood movie, and later enjoying some street food at the town canteen.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance covered: 42 km / 26 miles
Altitude gain (m): 479
Altitude loss (m): 370
Day Seven
Descend and leave to Western Ghats and cycle to Hampi.
Riding from our hotel well gradually climb for the first 7km before winding our way along forested roads to a small coffee estate for a break. The estate is surrounded by natural beauty, with over 150 bird species recorded in the area. From here we begin a stunning roller-coaster descent out of the Western Ghats with a final drop of 500m to the drier plains below. Ending our ride with some roads side snacks, followed by a 225km transfer to Hampi (5 hrs drive). Hampi is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site and the 2nd largest after Rome and one of the largest cities from the ancient world and capital of the Vijayanagara Kingdom 1500AD. We stay here for two nights to explore this incredible city cut out from rock city.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Distance covered: 57 km / 36 miles
Altitude gain (m): 685
Altitude loss (m): 1125
Riding from our hotel well gradually climb for the first 7km before winding our way along forested roads to a small coffee estate for a break. The estate is surrounded by natural beauty, with over 150 bird species recorded in the area. From here we begin a stunning roller-coaster descent out of the Western Ghats with a final drop of 500m to the drier plains below. Ending our ride with some roads side snacks, followed by a 225km transfer to Hampi (5 hrs drive). Hampi is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site and the 2nd largest after Rome and one of the largest cities from the ancient world and capital of the Vijayanagara Kingdom 1500AD. We stay here for two nights to explore this incredible city cut out from rock city.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Distance covered: 57 km / 36 miles
Altitude gain (m): 685
Altitude loss (m): 1125
Day Eight
Explore Hampi by bike Today we explore Hampi by bike. Starting at the Talhari Gatta Gate, we enter the outer city and ride along the old streets, which are lined with thousands of stone pillars. They'll lead us to the Vitthala temple, one of the most iconic temples in India. The famous stone chariot carved from a large rock is found here. We then head to the Courtesan Street and Hampi Bazaar, passing more stone pavilions and temples en route. We can leave our bikes with one of the tea stall vendors, taking time to walk inside the buildings. We then move on towards the river, passing trinket sellers, food stallholders and small dwellings made of brick and boulder.
In the afternoon we explore the Moghul Quarters. The Vijayanagara Kingdom was defeated in 1565 during a power struggle with the Expanding Moghul Empire, who then controlled the region and built a new city. The Mohamaddean Palaces and the military building are still standing today. After a busy day exploring Hampi, we'll eat some delicious street food in the modern part of the town.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance covered: 27 km / 16 miles
Altitude gain (m): 290
Altitude loss (m): 290
In the afternoon we explore the Moghul Quarters. The Vijayanagara Kingdom was defeated in 1565 during a power struggle with the Expanding Moghul Empire, who then controlled the region and built a new city. The Mohamaddean Palaces and the military building are still standing today. After a busy day exploring Hampi, we'll eat some delicious street food in the modern part of the town.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance covered: 27 km / 16 miles
Altitude gain (m): 290
Altitude loss (m): 290
Day Nine
Train ride and cycle to Dandeli.
This morning we begin with a train transfer to Hubulli, a busy market town. In India, there is a lot of activity to be experienced at railway stations. People carrying all sorts of goods on their heads, and a constant flow of food and smiles. Re-joining our vehicle, it’s a short drive to the outskirts of town and our local restaurant for lunch. Early afternoon we set off cycling on village roads towards Dandeli (some may want to skip the first climb and more or less decent 42km to Dandeli). Dandeli is a small hill station retreat on the banks of the Kali River, and it's also a recognised wildlife sanctuary. The rest of the afternoon is free to either relax, explore the town, enjoy a nature walk or an optional white water rafting trip along the river.
Standard Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance covered: 65 km / 40 miles
Altitude gain (m): 568
Altitude loss (m): 1125
This morning we begin with a train transfer to Hubulli, a busy market town. In India, there is a lot of activity to be experienced at railway stations. People carrying all sorts of goods on their heads, and a constant flow of food and smiles. Re-joining our vehicle, it’s a short drive to the outskirts of town and our local restaurant for lunch. Early afternoon we set off cycling on village roads towards Dandeli (some may want to skip the first climb and more or less decent 42km to Dandeli). Dandeli is a small hill station retreat on the banks of the Kali River, and it's also a recognised wildlife sanctuary. The rest of the afternoon is free to either relax, explore the town, enjoy a nature walk or an optional white water rafting trip along the river.
Standard Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance covered: 65 km / 40 miles
Altitude gain (m): 568
Altitude loss (m): 1125
Day Ten
Cycle from Dandeli to Mollem.
Leaving our forest resort, we enjoy the scenery as we cycle along teak plantation roads towards Castlerock, a village close to Bhagwan Mahaveer National Park. The area is beautiful, with little or no traffic. There are a couple of long but gradual 300m climbs, followed by an undulating section. We are rewarded with a tea and dosa stop at Castlerock, with time to wander around the village. With one more regroup at the highest point It is then a lovely 500m long descent to the state of Goa, crossing the state border to Mollem. We spend the night at an adventure camp on the Goan side of Bhagwan Mahaveer National Park. The resort can arrange a jeep safari inside the park to Dudhasagar Waterfalls, which cascades 310m down a rocky cliff. The jeep ride takes approx 2-3hrs.
Standard Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance covered: 73 km / 45 miles
Altitude gain (m): 1242
Altitude loss (m): 1811
Leaving our forest resort, we enjoy the scenery as we cycle along teak plantation roads towards Castlerock, a village close to Bhagwan Mahaveer National Park. The area is beautiful, with little or no traffic. There are a couple of long but gradual 300m climbs, followed by an undulating section. We are rewarded with a tea and dosa stop at Castlerock, with time to wander around the village. With one more regroup at the highest point It is then a lovely 500m long descent to the state of Goa, crossing the state border to Mollem. We spend the night at an adventure camp on the Goan side of Bhagwan Mahaveer National Park. The resort can arrange a jeep safari inside the park to Dudhasagar Waterfalls, which cascades 310m down a rocky cliff. The jeep ride takes approx 2-3hrs.
Standard Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance covered: 73 km / 45 miles
Altitude gain (m): 1242
Altitude loss (m): 1811
Day Eleven
Ride to Varca Beach, Goa
Today we cycle all the way to the coast on mostly quiet backroads (there are some unavoidable busy roads), as we pass through lively market towns. Stopping for tea at an old Portuguese villa built in 1789, the owner happy to give you a tour of his house and gardens with drinks on the veranda. The last part of the ride down narrow country lanes, with large white churches and the Portuguese mansions before ending at Varca Beach, where we'll stay for the next two nights.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance covered: 57 km / 36 miles
Altitude gain (m): 590
Altitude loss (m): 670
Today we cycle all the way to the coast on mostly quiet backroads (there are some unavoidable busy roads), as we pass through lively market towns. Stopping for tea at an old Portuguese villa built in 1789, the owner happy to give you a tour of his house and gardens with drinks on the veranda. The last part of the ride down narrow country lanes, with large white churches and the Portuguese mansions before ending at Varca Beach, where we'll stay for the next two nights.
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance covered: 57 km / 36 miles
Altitude gain (m): 590
Altitude loss (m): 670
Day Twelve
Free morning to relax; optional afternoon ride to explore the coast.
Today is free to relax and enjoy what Varca Beach has to offer; local shops, a swim in the sea or the hotel's swimming pool. There is an optional 32km bike ride in the afternoon, exploring some of the other coves south of Varca Beach. We'll return in time for sundown drinks before dinner. The Goan vindaloo curry is certainly worth a try!
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance covered: 32 km / 20 miles
Altitude gain (m): 104
Altitude loss (m): 104
Today is free to relax and enjoy what Varca Beach has to offer; local shops, a swim in the sea or the hotel's swimming pool. There is an optional 32km bike ride in the afternoon, exploring some of the other coves south of Varca Beach. We'll return in time for sundown drinks before dinner. The Goan vindaloo curry is certainly worth a try!
Comfortable Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance covered: 32 km / 20 miles
Altitude gain (m): 104
Altitude loss (m): 104
Day Thirteen
Ride to Panjim, the capital of Goa. Afternoon free to explore.
In the morning we cycle to Panjim, the capital of Goa. We pass old Portuguese villas before heading inland to avoid busy roads ending the ride at the old ferry point and transfer the last 15 km to town. Our hotel is located in the heart of the old quarter of Panjim, where the Portuguese influence is strong. Narrow streets are lined with yellow houses and restored mansions, with wrought iron balconies and terracotta roofs. The afternoon is free to wander around Panjim and enjoy the sites, such as the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, built in 1619 and was once frequently visited by the sailors from Lisbon. Whilst wandering around Panjim, you'll find that colonial-era buildings and old bookshops stand side by side with modern shopping malls and backstreet bars.
Standard Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance covered: 30 km / 19 miles
Altitude gain (m): 175
Altitude loss (m): 175
In the morning we cycle to Panjim, the capital of Goa. We pass old Portuguese villas before heading inland to avoid busy roads ending the ride at the old ferry point and transfer the last 15 km to town. Our hotel is located in the heart of the old quarter of Panjim, where the Portuguese influence is strong. Narrow streets are lined with yellow houses and restored mansions, with wrought iron balconies and terracotta roofs. The afternoon is free to wander around Panjim and enjoy the sites, such as the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, built in 1619 and was once frequently visited by the sailors from Lisbon. Whilst wandering around Panjim, you'll find that colonial-era buildings and old bookshops stand side by side with modern shopping malls and backstreet bars.
Standard Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance covered: 30 km / 19 miles
Altitude gain (m): 175
Altitude loss (m): 175
Weather & Seasonality
Mysore, India
Goa, India
Other Information
Accommodation
Hotels and Lodge11 nights hotels, 1 night lodge. The majority of the hotels we use are of a comfortable standard (4-star) with en suite facilities, whilst the lodge brings a different flavour to the trip. In Dandeli, we stay in a comfortable forest lodge surrounded by wilderness. In Molem we stay in a rustic nature retreat, which is equipped with an outdoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre.
Single supplement from £680.00
Food & Transport
Eating & DrinkingAll breakfasts, 5 lunches and 6 dinners included.
Generally you can eat out very cheaply in India. South India is an ideal destination if you are a vegetarian. Lunches on riding days are usually taken in local roadside cafes, allowing us to try typical south Indian dishes such as poori (deep fried bread served with curry), dosa (thin pancake made with fermented rice and lentil batter) and Goan vindaloo curry (milder than the UK version). Tea and soft drinks are very cheap, and there'll be plenty of tea stops so that you can enjoy a cold can, a cup of chai or refreshing coconut water. A (large!) bottle of beer is approximately £3 (approx. US$5). You should allow approximately £10 (approx. US$16.00) per day for lunch and dinner.
Transportation
All your luggage and personal belongings will be carried by the support vehicle. Transfer sections are done in the support vehicle or a separate vehicle depending on the group size.
The support vehicle will follow the riders at all times, allowing you to cycle as much or as little as you like (there is plenty of space - the whole group can be accommodated).
On day 8 we have a short train transfer, which usually takes no more than 2 hrs.
When to go
The most important feature of the Indian climate is the monsoon. The main monsoon strikes the south western coast in late May and sweeps its way northward over the next month or so. The ideal time to visit this area of India is during the dry season (from October to March), but monsoons have been known to be late, so there can still be rain in November. We therefore ask you to note that rain can be expected on November departures. However, it is usually of a short duration and the sun normally comes out fairly quickly afterwards. Days will be hot and the nights warm: the average range of maximum daytime temperatures being between 21ºC and 35ºC and from 6ºC to 20ºC at night. Temperatures can be considerably cooler in the hills and you can expect temperatures to drop to a few degrees above zero at night.
Local Bike Details:
21 Montra Blues 1.2
Specialized Cross Trail hybrid bikes with front suspension.
Hotels and Lodge11 nights hotels, 1 night lodge. The majority of the hotels we use are of a comfortable standard (4-star) with en suite facilities, whilst the lodge brings a different flavour to the trip. In Dandeli, we stay in a comfortable forest lodge surrounded by wilderness. In Molem we stay in a rustic nature retreat, which is equipped with an outdoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre.
Single supplement from £680.00
Food & Transport
Eating & DrinkingAll breakfasts, 5 lunches and 6 dinners included.
Generally you can eat out very cheaply in India. South India is an ideal destination if you are a vegetarian. Lunches on riding days are usually taken in local roadside cafes, allowing us to try typical south Indian dishes such as poori (deep fried bread served with curry), dosa (thin pancake made with fermented rice and lentil batter) and Goan vindaloo curry (milder than the UK version). Tea and soft drinks are very cheap, and there'll be plenty of tea stops so that you can enjoy a cold can, a cup of chai or refreshing coconut water. A (large!) bottle of beer is approximately £3 (approx. US$5). You should allow approximately £10 (approx. US$16.00) per day for lunch and dinner.
Transportation
All your luggage and personal belongings will be carried by the support vehicle. Transfer sections are done in the support vehicle or a separate vehicle depending on the group size.
The support vehicle will follow the riders at all times, allowing you to cycle as much or as little as you like (there is plenty of space - the whole group can be accommodated).
On day 8 we have a short train transfer, which usually takes no more than 2 hrs.
When to go
The most important feature of the Indian climate is the monsoon. The main monsoon strikes the south western coast in late May and sweeps its way northward over the next month or so. The ideal time to visit this area of India is during the dry season (from October to March), but monsoons have been known to be late, so there can still be rain in November. We therefore ask you to note that rain can be expected on November departures. However, it is usually of a short duration and the sun normally comes out fairly quickly afterwards. Days will be hot and the nights warm: the average range of maximum daytime temperatures being between 21ºC and 35ºC and from 6ºC to 20ºC at night. Temperatures can be considerably cooler in the hills and you can expect temperatures to drop to a few degrees above zero at night.
Local Bike Details:
21 Montra Blues 1.2
Specialized Cross Trail hybrid bikes with front suspension.