Bike & Boat

Colors of India · India

From 3750 €

New 2026

Islandhopping
Cycling Tours
Bike & Boat India | Adventure with Comfort

Route
from Kochi / to Dehli

Duration
13 Days /
12 Nights

Distance
approx. 140 km

Level 3 / 5

Level 1 / 5
Cycling tours through predominantly flat terrain, mostly on paved bike paths or well-maintained roads. Suitable for cyclists who can handle several-hour-long bike tours.

Level 2 / 5
Cycling tours through gently rolling terrain with ascents of up to approximately 150 meters. Mostly on paved bike paths and low-traffic roads. Suitable for cyclists who enjoy multi-hour tours and can confidently handle descents.

Level 3 / 5
Cycling tours through hilly terrain with longer ascents of up to approximately 250 meters. Mostly on paved roads, occasionally on unpaved gravel paths. Suitable for cyclists who ride regularly and can confidently navigate varying surface conditions.

Level 4 / 5
Cycling tours through hilly to mountainous terrain with some steeper ascents of up to approximately 400 meters. Requires confident riding on winding descents, uneven asphalt, and occasionally gravel paths. Suitable for experienced cyclists accustomed to longer daily stages.

Level 5 / 5
Cycling tours through mountainous terrain with demanding ascents exceeding 500 meters. Requires excellent bike handling, even on descents with steep hairpin turns and unpaved paths. Suitable for highly experienced cyclists accustomed to challenging routes.

A symphony of southern tropics and northern heritage

India enchants with a unique symphony of colors, breathtaking landscapes, and countless cultural highlights. Our new journey through India takes you right into the heart of this fascinating melting pot of cultures – all while enjoying the highest level of comfort. Carefully selected boutique hotels, authentic encounters with local people and traditions, and an unforgettable river cruise aboard a luxurious houseboat are all part of this exceptional itinerary.

This journey combines two very different regions: Kerala in the lush, tropical south – known for its palm-lined backwaters, tea plantations, and tranquil charm – and the famous Golden Triangle in the north, where Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur await with some of India’s most iconic cultural treasures, including the world-renowned Taj Mahal. A truly extraordinary trip for anyone who wants to experience India in an authentic, active, and multifaceted way.

Book Now

Highlights

Culture: Explore Jaipur’s Amber Fort with its ornate palaces and stunning views

Nature: Cruise Kerala’s tranquil backwaters by traditional houseboat

Activity: Cycle through the lively streets of Old Delhi at sunrise

Culinary: Join a cooking class in Mararikulam and taste your creations

Souvenir: Shop handmade textiles and spices at Alleppey’s market

Itinerary

Namaste and Welcome to Kerala, India - God’s Own Country! We are delighted to have you join us on this incredible journey. Upon your arrival at the airport, our dedicated representative will warmly greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. They will also ensure a smooth check-in process, so you can settle in comfortably. Relax and unwind as you enjoy a delightful dinner, followed by a restful overnight stay at the hotel. We look forward to an unforgettable experience together!

After breakfast, check out and explore Fort Kochi by Tuk Tuk, visiting highlights like the Chinese fishing nets, Jewish Synagogue, and Vasco da Gama’s tomb at St. Francis Church. Then, transfer by car or bus to Alleppey (about 2 hours). After a tea break, enjoy a 14 km warm-up cycle through scenic rice fields to the houseboat dock. Board your traditional houseboat, meet the crew, and savor a delicious late lunch on board. Cruise through the peaceful backwaters of Kuttanad – Karthikapally – Thrikkunnapuzha, arriving at your anchoring spot by evening. Relax with a sunset walk or explore nearby shores before dinner. Spend a restful night on the houseboat, immersed in the serene beauty of Kerala’s backwaters.

Wake up early to enjoy a stunning sunrise from your houseboat. After breakfast on board, set off on a cycling adventure from Thrikkunnapuzha along a scenic coastal route. Ride past Valiazheekal Beach, feeling the sea breeze and ocean views. Continue through the peaceful Kayamkulam Kayal, lined with charming villages that showcase local life. Stop for photos at a historic church and visit the culturally significant Karimarathinkal Devi Temple. Arrive at Kumarakodi anchor point, where you can explore, take a leisurely walk, and capture beautiful photos. End the day with a delicious dinner and a restful overnight stay on the houseboat, surrounded by the tranquil backwaters of Kerala.

After breakfast, disembark the houseboat and begin a cycling journey starting at the Lord Krishna Temple in Ambalapuzha. Interact with locals and temple devotees to experience their vibrant culture. Cycle along narrow canals through Kuttanad and the Pumba River, witnessing fish markets and daily life by the waterways. Pause for a tea break at a local shop to soak in the relaxed atmosphere. Continue to St. Mary’s Basilica, a serene white church, then enjoy a picnic lunch amid lush rice fields for an authentic Kerala experience. In the afternoon, return to the houseboat for tea or coffee before cruising to the Boat Jetty. Take a leisurely walk or relax while watching the stunning sunset over the backwaters. End with dinner and an overnight stay on the houseboat.

After breakfast, check out from the houseboat, thank the crew, and drive to Alleppey city. Explore local markets and pick up souvenirs to remember your journey. Then, embark on the final cycling stretch to Mararikulam, riding through scenic coastal roads and charming villages. Upon arrival, settle into the resort and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. The rest of the day is free to unwind—book a 1-hour Ayurveda massage for rejuvenation, take a peaceful stroll along Marari Beach, or simply relax by the coast. End the day with a stunning sunset by the shore, the perfect finale to your cycling tour through South India.

India has been renowned for Yoga since ancient times, and there’s no better way to start your day than with a refreshing morning yoga session, surrounded by serenity. This practice nurtures the mind, body, and soul, bringing a deep sense of inner peace and balance. After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely day at the beach—unwind, bask in the sun, or take a peaceful stroll along the shore, soaking in the tranquil coastal ambiance. In the evening, take part in a hands-on cooking workshop, where an expert chef will guide you in preparing traditional local dishes. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner, savoring the authentic flavors of your own creations—an unforgettable culinary experience!

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the resort, soaking in the serene coastal ambiance of Mararikulam. After a relaxing morning, check out and set off for Thattekad, a breathtaking destination renowned for its lush greenery and vibrant birdlife. Upon arrival, settle into your camp hotel along the tranquil riverbanks. Stroll through a small plantation, where you‘ll discover traditional farming methods and their role in daily life. For those seeking adventure, an optional cycling tour takes you through charming villages and scenic landscapes, leading to a nearby resort. This immersive ride offers a glimpse into rural life, showcasing the rich local culture and natural beauty. Unwind and enjoy a peaceful overnight stay at the camp hotel, surrounded by nature’s tranquility.

Start your day early (around 5 AM) with a transfer to the airport, enjoying a packed breakfast on the way. Board your flight to North India, where your journey continues with an exploration of the region’s highlights, beginning in Delhi, the vibrant capital of India. Upon arrival, embark on an orientation tour of New Delhi, pausing to capture stunning photos of iconic landmarks like India Gate and the majestic Government Buildings. Later, check in at your hotel and relax in comfort. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Indian dinner at a local restaurant.

Start your day with a guided bike tour through Old Delhi’s historic streets. Cycle past vibrant markets, ancient temples, and Mughal architecture, including Chandni Chowk and Jama Masjid. After soaking in the morning energy, enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast. Then, take a scenic drive to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s Pink City, passing rural villages and the Aravalli Hills. Upon arrival, visit a magnificent palace to experience royal grandeur and rich history. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely rickshaw ride through Jaipur’s lively streets, colorful bazaars, and stunning architecture. End the day with an overnight stay, embracing the city’s regal charm.

Start your day with an optional early morning Leopard Safari at Jhalana Leopard Reserve, spotting leopards, hyenas, jackals, and birds amid the Aravalli Hills sunrise. For a relaxed morning, enjoy leisure time at the hotel. After breakfast, explore Jaipur’s architectural gems, beginning with Amber Fort, a UNESCO site with grand palaces and stunning views. Visit Jantar Mantar, the 18th-century astronomical observatory, and the iconic Hawa Mahal, known for its intricate façade and royal windows. In the afternoon, take an optional guided walk through Jaipur’s vibrant bazaars to shop for textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. End the day with an authentic Rajasthani dinner and cultural dance performance before returning to your hotel for an overnight stay in Jaipur.

After breakfast, travel to Bharatpur, home to the renowned Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its diverse birdlife. En route, stop at the charming village of Paharsar for a scenic 30 km cycling adventure through rural North India. Ride along narrow country roads, passing lush farmlands, mud-brick homes, and vibrant village markets, experiencing authentic village life. Depending on your hotel location, the ride may extend to your accommodation. In Bharatpur, explore the stunning Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary, home to hundreds of migratory and resident birds, including painted storks, pelicans, kingfishers, and the rare Siberian crane. Stroll or cycle the peaceful trails surrounded by lakes and dense vegetation, ideal for birdwatching and photography. End the day with a relaxing overnight stay in Bharatpur.

Start your day with breakfast before cycling through scenic rural landscapes and charming villages from Bharatpur to Fatehpur Sikri, covering about 30 km (optional 43 km for a longer ride). Enjoy refreshing stops, explore historical sites, and have lunch at a local eatery. Then, board the support vehicle for the final journey to Agra. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. As sunset approaches, savor high tea at a scenic spot with breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal. Enjoy fine teas and snacks while watching the golden light reflect on the iconic monument—an unforgettable experience. Return to your hotel afterward for a restful overnight stay in Agra.

Start your day early with a magical sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, as its white marble glows golden in the morning light. Wander the gardens, admire the intricate Mughal architecture, and soak in the serene ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to your hotel for breakfast, then travel by train back to Delhi, enjoying scenic views of rural India along the way. Once in Delhi, enjoy free time to shop for souvenirs, relax at your hotel, or visit local attractions. In the evening, gather for a special farewell dinner at a renowned restaurant, celebrating the journey and friendships made. A shared wash-and-change facility will be available at the hotel before departure. Wash & Change Facility: A shared wash-and-change room will be available at the hotel for freshening up before departure. After an unforgettable journey through India, You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight, carrying with you cherished memories and incredible experiences. Safe travels!

Accommodation

Houseboat Experience in Kerala

Step aboard your exclusive houseboat, where traditional thatched-roof design meets stylish, modern comfort. The spacious lounge is filled with natural light and tastefully furnished, creating the perfect space to relax. Enjoy cozy seating, panoramic windows, and air-conditioning — ideal for shared meals, great conversations, or simply unwinding as the peaceful landscapes of Kerala drift by.…

Houseboat Cabins

Our houseboat cabins are spacious and elegantly designed, offering a touch of luxury on the water. Depending on the boat, there are up to five double cabins — all air-conditioned, with private en-suite bathrooms. Large windows let in plenty of natural light and offer direct views of the passing scenery. Each cabin also includes a TV for added comfort, blending modern amenities with a relaxing atmosphere.…

Our Hotels in India

In Kochi, Mararikulam, Delhi, Jaipur, Bharatpur, and Agra, you'll stay in carefully selected 3- to 5-star hotels, all featuring en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning. Most hotels also offer wellness areas or pools for extra relaxation. A generous breakfast buffet with local specialties awaits you each morning.
You’ll receive a complete hotel list with addresses and contact details shortly before departure.…

Our Hotels in India

In Kochi, Mararikulam, Delhi, Jaipur, Bharatpur, and Agra, you'll stay in carefully selected 3- to 5-star hotels, all featuring en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning. Most hotels also offer wellness areas or pools for extra relaxation. A generous breakfast buffet with local specialties awaits you each morning.
You’ll receive a complete hotel list with addresses and contact details shortly before departure.…

Naturcamp in Kerala

Reconnect with nature at the Amritara Riverside Camp in Thattekad — a stylish glamping retreat on the banks of the Periyar River. Each spacious tent (approx. 46 m²) features a king or twin bed, a separate sitting area, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. A private veranda with views of the river, mountains, or garden invites you to slow down and soak in the serenity. All tents also include a private bathroom with shower and toilet for maximum comfort.…

Rental Bikes

Our bikes in India

For this tour, we’ll provide you with a Cannondale Trail 6 or a comparable rental bike. The Cannondale Trail 6 is a versatile hardtail mountain bike with a lightweight aluminum frame and modern geometry — perfect for touring, gravel roads, and beginner trails. It comes equipped with a front suspension fork with lockout, a reliable Shimano 2x9-speed drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes for safe handling. Durable wheels and grippy tires ensure stability across a variety of surfaces.…

Good to know

As these bikes typically don’t come with racks, we recommend bringing a hydration backpack to stay well-hydrated during the rides. Your tour guide will also carry some extra water for refills.

If you'd prefer to use your own saddle (without seat post) or clip-in pedals, feel free to bring them along — your guide will help fit them to your rental bike.…

Rental bike
Good to know

Prices, Dates and Services

Planned travel dates:
January 31 – February 13, 2026 / February 14 – 27, 2026
Base price: 3.750 Euro / Person

We are currently finalizing the tour planning. All final travel dates will be posted here soon and open for booking. Can’t wait that long? If this trip has caught your eye, just drop us a line using the contact form – we’ll keep you informed!

Contact us

13-day/12-night trip with 3 overnight stays on comfortable ships in air-conditioned twin cabins and 9 overnight stays in hotels (3-5 star rating)
Fullboard on the boat and halfboard in the hotels
Additional lunch at Marari, Lunch at Sikri, High Tea in Agra
Domestic flight from Kochi to Delhi
Train journey between Agra and Delhi
Guided bicycle tours and walks according to program
City tours and entrance charges to National Parks, Taj Mahal etc.
English speaking guides
Rental bikes (Cannon Dale Trail 6 or similar)
Airport transfers on the official arrival and departure day
Fees such as tourist taxes and port charges

Inbound flight to Kochi and outbound flight from Delhi
Camera fees payable at the monuments
Beverages on board and in hotels
Meals not described in itinerary
Tips

Insurance against theft and damage of the rental bike (not insured: grossly negligent damages)	14 euro/trip
Extra night in Delhi at the end of the tour	price on request

Arrival - How to get there

Travel Preparations

Please note: This trip starts in Kochi and ends in New Delhi.

Travel to India requires some advance preparation, especially regarding entry requirements.

To avoid last-minute stress, we recommend booking your trip at least two months in advance.

Arrival by Air

We recommend booking flights through a travel agent. Please note that you must book the outward flight to Kochi (Cochin International Airport / COK) and the return flight from Delhi (Indira Gandhi International Airport / DEL) .

The earlier a flight is booked the better the chances are of finding a reasonably priced ticket. Please let your travel agent inform you of the best possibilities for your specific situation.

Visa Requirements

All citizens from USA, Canada and UK require valid visa or e-visa, which can be obtained from the Indian embassy or also online. You can apply for an e-visa in English via the following link: Electronic Visa system - India

A passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry and contains at least two free pages for endorsements is required for entry. It is recommended that you carry proof of your return or onward journey (e.g. flight ticket) and a booking confirmation for your accommodation, as these documents may be checked on entry.

Preparation
Flights
Visa

Important information

LEVEL 3 / 5
Cycling tours through gently rolling terrain with ascents of up to approximately 150 meters. Mostly on roads with little traffic, but sometimes also on unpaved paths. The difficulty of cycling tours in India is primarily due to the unfamiliar climatic conditions.

	Distance: 14 - 45 km per day
	Elevation in total: 80 - 400 meters of elevation per day
	Road condition: The cycling routes include a mix of paved roads, gravel paths, and rural tracks. On the asphalt roads in India, you can expect to encounter chippings and small potholes. For this reason, our rental bikes are also equipped with good tires and suspension to compensate for the unevenness.
	Traffic: Most rides take place away from busy roads, leading through quiet countryside areas with minimal traffic.One exception is the early-morning bike tour through Old Delhi, which passes through denser city traffic. However, thanks to the early hour, this section is manageable with attentive and cautious riding.While the majority of the route runs along calm country roads, we regularly share the road with local traffic such as cars, motorcycles, tuk-tuks – and occasionally a cow or two.
	Infrastructure: Dedicated bike lanes are rare in India, so our tours primarily follow public roads, preferably quiet side streets through farming regions and villages, which are generally in good condition and suitable for cycling.

Relevant for all levels:
Safe cycling skills and familiarity with road traffic are prerequisites for taking part in our tours.

Individual cycling
This tour is primarily a guided group tour. Upon consultation with your tour guides, the possibility to cycle on your own along recommended, suitable routes, may present itself. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend on board the boat, instead of taking a planned bike tour.

All citizens from USA, Canada and UK require valid visa or e-visa, which can be obtained from the Indian embassy or also online. You can apply for an e-visa in English via the following link: Electronic Visa system - India. The e-visa is particularly suitable for tourist trips, business stays or conferences and can be applied for directly via the official portal of the Indian government:

Please note: The e-visa must be applied for at least four days before the planned date of entry. The length of stay and validity vary depending on the visa category. Regular e-tourist visas generally entitle the holder to a stay of up to 90 days per visit within a validity period of 365 days (multiple entries possible).

Important: Holders of temporary passports are excluded from the e-visa. In this case, the visa must be applied for via the relevant Indian diplomatic mission abroad. A printout of the so-called Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) must be carried and presented on request upon entry.

General Requirements
A passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry and contains at least two free pages for endorsements is required for entry. Accompanying children also require their own passport and visa. It is recommended that you carry proof of your return or onward journey (e.g. flight ticket) and a booking confirmation for your accommodation, as these documents may be checked on entry.

Additional Information
For up-to-date information and details on other visa categories (e.g. work visas, volunteer work, longer stays), please contact the relevant offices directly:

BoatBikeTours accepts no liability for any incorrect information.

No compulsory vaccinations are currently required for direct entry into India from Canada, the USA, or the United Kingdom. However, there is an exception for travelers arriving from a yellow fever endemic area — in such cases, proof of a valid yellow fever vaccination must be presented and documented in the International Certificate of Vaccination. Special regulations also apply in connection with poliomyelitis (polio): individuals residing in countries where polio is still present must provide proof of vaccination in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) standards before entering India.

We recommend that you consult your family doctor or a travel medicine specialist at least two months before your trip for detailed medical advice. Additional useful information and guidance can be found on the website of the Federal Foreign Office.

Due to our international audience all Islandhopping tours are conducted bilingually, in English and German.

We reserve the right to make changes to the route in the case of changing wind and weather conditions as well as for reasons of organizational necessity.

At Islandhopping, one thing is especially important to us when it comes to our cycling tours: this is your vacation – your enjoyment and relaxation. That’s why we never want you to feel pressured while biking. There is always plenty of time to complete each tour at your own pace.

Helmet use is mandatory on all cycle tours. It is advised to bring your own, well fitted, helmet with you or reserve a rental helmet within your booking (numbers are limited).

Please do not forget that the ship is your hotel as well as a machine, which has to be maintained and operated – day and night. A certain level of noise is therefore inevitable.

Colors of India · India

A symphony of southern tropics and northern heritage

Highlights

Itinerary

Accommodation

Houseboat Experience in Kerala

Houseboat Cabins

Our Hotels in India

Our Hotels in India

Naturcamp in Kerala

Rental Bikes

Our bikes in India

Good to know

Prices, Dates and Services

Arrival - How to get there

Travel Preparations

Arrival by Air

Visa Requirements

Important information

Additional InformationFor up-to-date information and details on other visa categories (e.g. work visas, volunteer work, longer stays), please contact the relevant offices directly:

Other Tours you might enjoy

Additional Information
For up-to-date information and details on other visa categories (e.g. work visas, volunteer work, longer stays), please contact the relevant offices directly: