Bike & Boat

Colors of India · India

From 4250 €

New 2026

Islandhopping
Cycling Tours
Bike & Boat India | Adventure with Comfort

Route
from Delhi / to Kochi

Duration
15 Days /
14 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 northern heritage and southern tropics

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.

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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

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

Itinerary

Namaste and Welcome to Delhi! We’re delighted to have you join us on this extraordinary journey through India. Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by our local team, who will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel and assist you with check-in. Take a moment to unwind before the adventure begins, then join your guides and fellow travellers for a delicious welcome dinner. Overnight stay in Delhi.

After a delightful breakfast, you’ll travel in comfort to Jaipur – the famed “Pink City” and capital of Rajasthan. Upon arrival, enjoy a photo stop at the picturesque Jal Mahal (Lake Palace), set serenely in the middle of Man Sagar Lake – an inspiring introduction to this vibrant city. Next, visit a renowned textile workshop, where you’ll gain exclusive insight into Rajasthan’s rich artisan traditions. Discover the intricate art of traditional block printing and even try on a saree for a truly immersive cultural experience. Afterwards, check in to your hotel and enjoy dinner on site. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

This morning is dedicated to Jaipur’s architectural wonders. Your tour begins with a stop at the impressive Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), famed for its intricate pink sandstone façade and delicate lattice windows—once allowing royal ladies to observe the lively streets below in complete privacy. Continue to the majestic Amber Fort, perched high above the city. Here, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, as well as beautifully ornate courtyards and the dazzling Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors). Your final visit takes you to the elegant City Palace, which still serves as a residence for Jaipur’s former royal family. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace—perhaps exploring the vibrant local bazaars or simply relaxing back at your hotel. In the evening, gather for a shared dinner in the refined setting of a carefully selected restaurant, the perfect way to round off your day in Jaipur. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

Today begins with a scenic three-hour transfer to Bharatpur. Along the way, you’ll stop in Abhaneri to visit the remarkable Chand Baori stepwell—an architectural masterpiece known for its striking symmetry and geometric precision. After arriving in Bharatpur, you’ll check in to your hotel and enjoy a short break to relax. In the afternoon, set off on a leisurely bike ride through the world-famous Keoladeo National Park. This gentle introductory ride is the perfect opportunity to get familiar with your bike, the terrain, and the local climate ahead of tomorrow’s longer cycling stage. As you pedal through this expansive UNESCO-listed sanctuary, keep an eye out for the park’s incredible diversity of birdlife. In the evening, enjoy a shared dinner at the hotel. Overnight stay in Bharatpur.

After breakfast, you’ll check out of your hotel and transfer to the starting point of today’s bike ride. The route takes you through peaceful, rural landscapes shaped by agriculture, passing small villages where you’ll gain authentic insights into everyday life in northern India. Following lunch at a local restaurant, continue by transfer to Agra (approx. 1 hour). Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. In the late afternoon, visit Mehtab Bagh (the “Moonlight Garden”), located on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River. From here, you’ll enjoy a truly unique view of the world-famous Taj Mahal, glowing softly in the golden light of sunset. Take in this magical moment - one of the true highlights of your journey through India. Dinner together at the hotel.

Your day begins early with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal—one of the most breathtaking monuments in the world. Stroll through its expansive gardens, admire the intricate details of Mughal architecture, and soak in the almost meditative atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After this unforgettable experience, return to your hotel in Agra for breakfast before heading to the train station for your journey back to Delhi. Along the way, enjoy views of India’s diverse rural landscapes and gain further insight into the country’s rich cultural tapestry. Upon arrival in Delhi, your luggage will be transferred directly to the hotel while you continue your exploration with a walk through the vibrant markets of Old Delhi and visits to additional highlights of the capital. Afterwards, transfer to your hotel and enjoy dinner. Overnight stay in Delhi.

After checking out of your hotel, you’ll transfer to Delhi Airport for your domestic flight to Kochi (approx. 3.5 hours). Welcome to Kerala—often called “God’s Own Country.” Upon arrival, enjoy a scenic one-hour drive to your hotel. In the afternoon, set out on a guided tour of Fort Kochi, where you’ll discover some of its most iconic sights, including the famous Chinese fishing nets, the historic synagogue, and St. Francis Church—once the original burial site of the legendary explorer Vasco da Gama. In the evening, return to your hotel and unwind over a shared dinner, reflecting on another day full of memorable experiences. Overnight stay in Kochi.

After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the starting point of today’s ride, set in the scenic countryside surrounding Kochi. The route follows quiet canal roads and peaceful back lanes, passing sprawling rubber plantations, pineapple groves, and small villages—offering a vivid glimpse into everyday life in Kerala. After lunch, continue with a three-hour transfer to Munnar. Along the way, enjoy a dramatic change in scenery as you leave the coastal plains behind and ascend into the lush, green mountain landscapes of the Western Ghats. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax. Dinner at the hotel. Overnight stay in Munnar.

Today’s panoramic ride begins right from your hotel, taking you deep into the stunning mountain scenery around Munnar. Starting along Lockhart Road, you’ll enjoy sweeping views across the rolling green hills of the Western Ghats. The route then winds through gently undulating tea plantations and into the picturesque Pallisaval Valley, where each turn reveals yet another breathtaking view. Return to the hotel around midday. In the afternoon, explore Munnar with visits to a tea plantation, a spice museum, and local temples. Dinner at the hotel. Overnight stay in Munnar.

After an early breakfast, check out and set off on today’s ride—considered the queen stage of your journey. This is where Kerala’s mountain landscapes truly shine, offering unforgettable views throughout the day. Along the way, you’ll pass the scenic Anayirangal Reservoir, whose waters nourish the endless, vibrant tea plantations that surround you. After lunch, transfer to Thekkady, with a stop at a spice plantation near Kumily en route. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel, followed by the optional chance to attend a traditional Kalaripayattu performance—one of the world’s oldest martial arts, practiced in Kerala for over 3,000 years. Overnight stay in Thekkady.

After checking out transfer to the starting point of your ride. Today’s route takes you along quiet country roads through traditional villages, past coconut palms, rice paddies, and narrow waterways—offering an authentic glimpse into daily life in Kerala. Following a short refreshment break, continue with a three-hour transfer to Alleppey, the gateway to Kerala’s famous backwaters. Here, you’ll be welcomed aboard your houseboat—your floating home for the next three nights. Settle in and enjoy a relaxing cruise through the winding canals and tranquil lagoons of the backwaters. Let the peaceful rhythm of the boat and the passing scenery work their magic. Dinner and overnight stay on board.

An early start is well worth it to witness a breathtaking sunrise from the deck of your houseboat. After breakfast, today’s ride takes you through charming villages, past canals, rice fields, and palm-fringed landscapes. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to interact with locals. You’ll visit one of the region’s impressive Catholic churches and stop for tea at a local café. A highlight of the day is the Ambalapuzha Temple, built in traditional Kerala style. From here, transfer back to your houseboat and enjoy lunch as you continue cruising through the serene lagoon landscape. Once anchored, there’s time for a leisurely walk in the surrounding nature. Dinner and overnight stay on board.

Today’s ride once again begins within the maze-like waterways of the Kerala backwaters, but soon leads you further inland—complete with a few gentle climbs for a change of pace. Enjoy a scenic picnic surrounded by lush tropical vegetation before continuing on to the day’s destination at the houseboat jetty. Back on board, relax with coffee or tea as you cruise towards your next anchorage. You may wish to take a stroll along the shore or simply enjoy the vibrant sunset from the water. Dinner and overnight stay on board.

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to your houseboat. Your final bike ride takes you through peaceful backwater villages and along narrow waterfront paths. At Alleppey Beach, enjoy a refreshing break with views over the Arabian Sea. Continue on to Marari Beach, where you’ll check in to your resort. Along the way, there are more opportunities to connect with local village life. Once in Mararikulam, the rest of the day is yours - perhaps for an introduction to Ayurveda or simply to unwind on the soft sands of Marari Beach. Overnight stay at the resort.

One final early start is well worth it! Around 6:30 a.m., you’ll be picked up by tuk-tuk and taken to a nearby fishing village. Watch as fishermen return at sunrise and sort their fresh catch right on the beach. You’ll also witness the lively fish auctions that follow—a fascinating glimpse into local life. Afterwards, your tuk-tuk brings you back to the hotel for breakfast. Around midday, check out and transfer to Kochi Airport for your onward journey home. If you wish, you can extend your stay at Marari Beach—an extra one or two nights here comes highly recommended.

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.…

Hausboot
Cabins
Hotels
Hotel rooms

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

Dates and Services

Travel dates for Fall 2026/Spring 2027 coming soon!

Has this special adventure sparked your curiosity? Send us your non-binding inquiry, and we will get back to you as soon as the exact dates and prices are confirmed. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Time Period	Tour	Country	Accommodation	Route	Availability	Price from The final price is dependent on the type of cabin, the number of guests staying in the cabin and any additional services booked.
November 2026
21.11. Comfirmed departure 21.11. – 05.12.	Bike & Boat Colors of India	India	India Houseboat & Hotel	Delhi bis Kochi	available	4250,00 €	To Booking
February 2027
13.02. Comfirmed departure 13.02. – 27.02.	Bike & Boat Colors of India	India	India Houseboat & Hotel	Delhi bis Kochi	available	4250,00 €	To Booking
27.02. Comfirmed departure 27.02. – 13.03.	Bike & Boat Colors of India	India	India Houseboat & Hotel	Delhi bis Kochi	available	4250,00 €	To Booking

15-day/14-night trip with 3 overnight stays on comfortable ships in air-conditioned twin cabins and 11 overnight stays in hotels (3-5 star rating)
Fullboard on the boat and halfboard in the hotels
Domestic flight from Delhi to Kochi
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 first and last day of the trip
Fees such as tourist taxes and port charges

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

Single occupancy	on request
E-Bike (availability on request)	320 euro/trip (limited availability)
Insurance against theft and damage of the rental bike (not insured: grossly negligent damages)	Hybrid bike: 14 euro/trip E-Bike: 28 euro/trip
Extra night in Delhi at the beginning of the tour	price on request
Extra night in Alleppey or Kochi at the end of the tour	price on request

Arrival - How to get there

Travel Preparations

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

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 Delhi (Indira Gandhi International Airport / DEL) and the return flight from Kochi (Cochin International Airport / COK).

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 northern heritage and southern tropics

Highlights

Itinerary

Accommodation

Houseboat Experience in Kerala

Houseboat Cabins

Our Hotels in India

Our Hotels in India

Rental Bikes

Our bikes in India

Good to know

Dates and Services

November 2026

February 2027

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: