Nilgiri cycling with tiger and leopard safari
What’s included in your Wildlife cycling tour:
Everything from guided rides to local entry fees, stays, and meals – all taken care of so you can focus on the ride.
India
Time: 10D/9N
$2825 per person on twin share basis
Book the full itinerary or contact us to customize your cycling tour.
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This immersive 10-day cycling and cultural journey through South India takes you from the vibrant cityscape of Bangalore to the cool, misty highlands of the Nilgiris. Along the way, you’ll ride through royal Mysore, explore the wildlife-rich forests of Kabini and Mudumalai, and pedal across lush plantations and ancient cave sites in Wayanad. The trip culminates in a dramatic climb to Ooty- one of India’s most iconic hill stations- followed by a nostalgic ride on the UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway. With heritage stays, jeep safaris, archaeological wonders and interactions with indigenous cultures, this tour offers a rare and rewarding blend of adventure, nature and history.
Upon arrival at the Kempegowda International Airport, our representative will pick you and transfer you to the hotel at Bangalore. Welcome to Bangalore, India’s vibrant tech and garden city- a comfortable and cosmopolitan place to rest before your adventure begins. In the evening, you’ll meet the tour leader for a quick orientation covering the route, safety and logistics for the journey into the Nilgiris.
Distance- 12km
Accommodation- Goldfinch Retreat
Meals- L & D
Upon arrival at the Kempegowda International Airport, our representative will pick you and transfer you to the hotel at Bangalore. Welcome to Bangalore, India’s vibrant tech and garden city- a comfortable and cosmopolitan place to rest before your adventure begins. In the evening, you’ll meet the tour leader for a quick orientation covering the route, safety and logistics for the journey into the Nilgiris.
Distance- 12km
Accommodation- Goldfinch Retreat
Meals- L & D
Upon arrival at the Kempegowda International Airport, our representative will pick you and transfer you to the hotel at Bangalore. Welcome to Bangalore, India’s vibrant tech and garden city- a comfortable and cosmopolitan place to rest before your adventure begins. In the evening, you’ll meet the tour leader for a quick orientation covering the route, safety and logistics for the journey into the Nilgiris.
Distance- 12km
Accommodation- Goldfinch Retreat
Meals- L & D
On your second day, you will be transferred to the famous Somanathapura Temple, a remarkable example of Hoysala architecture dating back to the 13th century (approx. 3-hour drive). After exploring the temple, you’ll continue on to Mysore, the cultural heart of Karnataka, renowned for its royal heritage, vibrant markets, and the majestic Mysore Palace.
Lunch will be enroute, and upon check-in, you can unwind at your hotel. In the evening, you’ll head out for a sightseeing tour of the city, including a visit to the Mysore Palace and the bustling, colorful Devaraja Market. Overnight in Mysore.
Distance- 180km
Activity- Sight-seeing
Meals- B, L, D
Accommodation- Raddison Blu
On your second day, you will be transferred to the famous Somanathapura Temple, a remarkable example of Hoysala architecture dating back to the 13th century (approx. 3-hour drive). After exploring the temple, you’ll continue on to Mysore, the cultural heart of Karnataka, renowned for its royal heritage, vibrant markets, and the majestic Mysore Palace.
Lunch will be enroute, and upon check-in, you can unwind at your hotel. In the evening, you’ll head out for a sightseeing tour of the city, including a visit to the Mysore Palace and the bustling, colorful Devaraja Market. Overnight in Mysore.
Distance- 180km
Activity- Sight-seeing
Meals- B, L, D
Accommodation- Raddison Blu
On your second day, you will be transferred to the famous Somanathapura Temple, a remarkable example of Hoysala architecture dating back to the 13th century (approx. 3-hour drive). After exploring the temple, you’ll continue on to Mysore, the cultural heart of Karnataka, renowned for its royal heritage, vibrant markets, and the majestic Mysore Palace.
Lunch will be enroute, and upon check-in, you can unwind at your hotel. In the evening, you’ll head out for a sightseeing tour of the city, including a visit to the Mysore Palace and the bustling, colorful Devaraja Market. Overnight in Mysore.
Distance- 180km
Activity- Sight-seeing
Meals- B, L, D
Accommodation- Raddison Blu
You’ll begin the day with a short transfer out of town before starting your ride toward Kabini. The route takes you through scenic farmlands, villages, and small towns, eventually leading to your hotel located along the Kabini Reservoir. You’ll arrive in time for lunch, and later in the afternoon, head out on a jeep safari in the national park, accompanied by a guide in search of the region’s majestic wildlife. Sightings may include Elephants, Gaur, Langurs, and various species of deer- and with a bit of luck, even a tiger or leopard!
You’ll be staying here for two nights and will go on two jeep safaris- one in the morning and one in the evening. A final safari is scheduled for the day of departure, before the next cycling leg.
Please remember to bring a shawl or bandana to cover your face and neck during the drives, along with warm clothing for the cooler morning sessions.
Cycling distance on day 03- 55km
Activity- Morning safari (02) & afternoon safari (02)
Meals- All meals
You’ll begin the day with a short transfer out of town before starting your ride toward Kabini. The route takes you through scenic farmlands, villages, and small towns, eventually leading to your hotel located along the Kabini Reservoir. You’ll arrive in time for lunch, and later in the afternoon, head out on a jeep safari in the national park, accompanied by a guide in search of the region’s majestic wildlife. Sightings may include Elephants, Gaur, Langurs, and various species of deer- and with a bit of luck, even a tiger or leopard!
You’ll be staying here for two nights and will go on two jeep safaris- one in the morning and one in the evening. A final safari is scheduled for the day of departure, before the next cycling leg.
Please remember to bring a shawl or bandana to cover your face and neck during the drives, along with warm clothing for the cooler morning sessions.
Cycling distance on day 03- 55km
Activity- Morning safari (02) & afternoon safari (02)
Meals- All meals
You’ll begin the day with a short transfer out of town before starting your ride toward Kabini. The route takes you through scenic farmlands, villages, and small towns, eventually leading to your hotel located along the Kabini Reservoir. You’ll arrive in time for lunch, and later in the afternoon, head out on a jeep safari in the national park, accompanied by a guide in search of the region’s majestic wildlife. Sightings may include Elephants, Gaur, Langurs, and various species of deer- and with a bit of luck, even a tiger or leopard!
You’ll be staying here for two nights and will go on two jeep safaris- one in the morning and one in the evening. A final safari is scheduled for the day of departure, before the next cycling leg.
Please remember to bring a shawl or bandana to cover your face and neck during the drives, along with warm clothing for the cooler morning sessions.
Cycling distance on day 03- 55km
Activity- Morning safari (02) & afternoon safari (02)
Meals- All meals
After concluding the morning safari and enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the starting point of the day’s cycling route, located about 45 km away in the direction of Wayanad. Today’s ride takes you through rolling hills and forested landscapes, dotted with small towns and plantations, you’ll cycle past lush tea and coffee estates, dense forest patches, and charming rural villages. The route also offers the chance to spot birds, monkeys, and other small wildlife along the way. Known for its scenic beauty and cool climate, Wayanad will be your destination and base for the next two nights.
Cycling distance- 60km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Wayanad Wild
After concluding the morning safari and enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the starting point of the day’s cycling route, located about 45 km away in the direction of Wayanad. Today’s ride takes you through rolling hills and forested landscapes, dotted with small towns and plantations, you’ll cycle past lush tea and coffee estates, dense forest patches, and charming rural villages. The route also offers the chance to spot birds, monkeys, and other small wildlife along the way. Known for its scenic beauty and cool climate, Wayanad will be your destination and base for the next two nights.
Cycling distance- 60km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Wayanad Wild
After concluding the morning safari and enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to the starting point of the day’s cycling route, located about 45 km away in the direction of Wayanad. Today’s ride takes you through rolling hills and forested landscapes, dotted with small towns and plantations, you’ll cycle past lush tea and coffee estates, dense forest patches, and charming rural villages. The route also offers the chance to spot birds, monkeys, and other small wildlife along the way. Known for its scenic beauty and cool climate, Wayanad will be your destination and base for the next two nights.
Cycling distance- 60km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Wayanad Wild
We begin the day with a short 15 km vehicle transfer to the starting point of today’s ride. From here, you will cycle through rolling tea and coffee plantations, forest trails, and along scenic lake views as you make your way toward the Edakkal Caves.
The route offers a refreshing experience, thanks to the cool and pleasant climate of the Wayanad hills- perfect for a mid-morning ride. As you pedal through this lush landscape, keep an eye out for birds, butterflies and panoramic views of the valleys below.
Your ride concludes at the Edakkal Caves, a site of immense archaeological significance. Believed to be over 8,000 years old, the caves contain Neolithic-era petroglyphs (rock engravings), which are among the earliest examples of human settlement in South India. These etchings include human and animal figures, tools and ancient symbols- an extraordinary window into early human life.
Visiting the caves requires a moderate uphill walk of about 1.5 km along a paved path and stairways. The final section includes steep steps and narrow passages, but it is manageable for most visitors with average fitness. The climb is well worth the effort, rewarding you with not just the historical carvings but also breathtaking views of the surrounding hills from the top.
After exploring the caves, you will be transferred back to your hotel where you can unwind and relax for the rest of the day.
Cycling distance- 30km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Wayanad Wild
We begin the day with a short 15 km vehicle transfer to the starting point of today’s ride. From here, you will cycle through rolling tea and coffee plantations, forest trails, and along scenic lake views as you make your way toward the Edakkal Caves.
The route offers a refreshing experience, thanks to the cool and pleasant climate of the Wayanad hills- perfect for a mid-morning ride. As you pedal through this lush landscape, keep an eye out for birds, butterflies and panoramic views of the valleys below.
Your ride concludes at the Edakkal Caves, a site of immense archaeological significance. Believed to be over 8,000 years old, the caves contain Neolithic-era petroglyphs (rock engravings), which are among the earliest examples of human settlement in South India. These etchings include human and animal figures, tools and ancient symbols- an extraordinary window into early human life.
Visiting the caves requires a moderate uphill walk of about 1.5 km along a paved path and stairways. The final section includes steep steps and narrow passages, but it is manageable for most visitors with average fitness. The climb is well worth the effort, rewarding you with not just the historical carvings but also breathtaking views of the surrounding hills from the top.
After exploring the caves, you will be transferred back to your hotel where you can unwind and relax for the rest of the day.
Cycling distance- 30km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Wayanad Wild
We begin the day with a short 15 km vehicle transfer to the starting point of today’s ride. From here, you will cycle through rolling tea and coffee plantations, forest trails, and along scenic lake views as you make your way toward the Edakkal Caves.
The route offers a refreshing experience, thanks to the cool and pleasant climate of the Wayanad hills- perfect for a mid-morning ride. As you pedal through this lush landscape, keep an eye out for birds, butterflies and panoramic views of the valleys below.
Your ride concludes at the Edakkal Caves, a site of immense archaeological significance. Believed to be over 8,000 years old, the caves contain Neolithic-era petroglyphs (rock engravings), which are among the earliest examples of human settlement in South India. These etchings include human and animal figures, tools and ancient symbols- an extraordinary window into early human life.
Visiting the caves requires a moderate uphill walk of about 1.5 km along a paved path and stairways. The final section includes steep steps and narrow passages, but it is manageable for most visitors with average fitness. The climb is well worth the effort, rewarding you with not just the historical carvings but also breathtaking views of the surrounding hills from the top.
After exploring the caves, you will be transferred back to your hotel where you can unwind and relax for the rest of the day.
Cycling distance- 30km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Wayanad Wild
After a short transfer(15km) You will begin the day cycling to Masinagudi. The cycling route from Wayanad to Masinagudi is a scenic cross-border ride from Kerala into Tamil Nadu, covering a distance of approximately 58 km through undulating terrain. The journey begins in the misty hills of Wayanad, winding through tea estates, forest patches, and small hamlets before gradually climbing to the highlands near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border.
As you ride, you’ll experience a mix of rolling climbs and thrilling descents, making it moderately challenging. One of the most striking features is the transition in landscape and culture as you cross into Tamil Nadu- from Kerala’s lush, moist forests to the drier but equally scenic surroundings near Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Wildlife sightings, especially birds and monkeys, are common along this forested stretch. The route ends near Thorappally, a peaceful village located at the edge of the Mudumalai forest.
Cycling distance- 60km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Bamboo Banks
After a short transfer(15km) You will begin the day cycling to Masinagudi. The cycling route from Wayanad to Masinagudi is a scenic cross-border ride from Kerala into Tamil Nadu, covering a distance of approximately 58 km through undulating terrain. The journey begins in the misty hills of Wayanad, winding through tea estates, forest patches, and small hamlets before gradually climbing to the highlands near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border.
As you ride, you’ll experience a mix of rolling climbs and thrilling descents, making it moderately challenging. One of the most striking features is the transition in landscape and culture as you cross into Tamil Nadu- from Kerala’s lush, moist forests to the drier but equally scenic surroundings near Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Wildlife sightings, especially birds and monkeys, are common along this forested stretch. The route ends near Thorappally, a peaceful village located at the edge of the Mudumalai forest.
Cycling distance- 60km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Bamboo Banks
After a short transfer(15km) You will begin the day cycling to Masinagudi. The cycling route from Wayanad to Masinagudi is a scenic cross-border ride from Kerala into Tamil Nadu, covering a distance of approximately 58 km through undulating terrain. The journey begins in the misty hills of Wayanad, winding through tea estates, forest patches, and small hamlets before gradually climbing to the highlands near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border.
As you ride, you’ll experience a mix of rolling climbs and thrilling descents, making it moderately challenging. One of the most striking features is the transition in landscape and culture as you cross into Tamil Nadu- from Kerala’s lush, moist forests to the drier but equally scenic surroundings near Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Wildlife sightings, especially birds and monkeys, are common along this forested stretch. The route ends near Thorappally, a peaceful village located at the edge of the Mudumalai forest.
Cycling distance- 60km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Bamboo Banks
This is one of the highlight rides of the entire journey and a popular route among cycling enthusiasts in India for good reason. The ascent from Thorappally to Ooty is a true test of endurance and spirit, gaining over 1,745 meters in elevation across a stretch of winding mountain roads. The route carves its way through the lush Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, passing iconic viewpoints like Needle Rock and the tranquil Pykara lake. The ever-changing scenery- from dense forests and grassy meadows to misty ridgelines- makes every pedal stroke worth the effort.
Crossing into the Nilgiris, the route culminates at Ooty (Udhagamandalam), the “Queen of Hill Stations”, celebrated for its colonial charm, cool climate and cultural significance as a former British summer retreat. Here, riders will check in at the Taj Savoy Hotel, a historic 19th-century heritage property that once hosted British aristocrats and continues to echo old-world elegance. Set in colonial-era bungalows with manicured lawns and fireplaces, the Savoy offers a luxurious and atmospheric stay- making it the perfect place to unwind after a memorable day’s climb.
Cycling distance- 50km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Taj Savoy
This is one of the highlight rides of the entire journey and a popular route among cycling enthusiasts in India for good reason. The ascent from Thorappally to Ooty is a true test of endurance and spirit, gaining over 1,745 meters in elevation across a stretch of winding mountain roads. The route carves its way through the lush Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, passing iconic viewpoints like Needle Rock and the tranquil Pykara lake. The ever-changing scenery- from dense forests and grassy meadows to misty ridgelines- makes every pedal stroke worth the effort.
Crossing into the Nilgiris, the route culminates at Ooty (Udhagamandalam), the “Queen of Hill Stations”, celebrated for its colonial charm, cool climate and cultural significance as a former British summer retreat. Here, riders will check in at the Taj Savoy Hotel, a historic 19th-century heritage property that once hosted British aristocrats and continues to echo old-world elegance. Set in colonial-era bungalows with manicured lawns and fireplaces, the Savoy offers a luxurious and atmospheric stay- making it the perfect place to unwind after a memorable day’s climb.
Cycling distance- 50km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Taj Savoy
This is one of the highlight rides of the entire journey and a popular route among cycling enthusiasts in India for good reason. The ascent from Thorappally to Ooty is a true test of endurance and spirit, gaining over 1,745 meters in elevation across a stretch of winding mountain roads. The route carves its way through the lush Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, passing iconic viewpoints like Needle Rock and the tranquil Pykara lake. The ever-changing scenery- from dense forests and grassy meadows to misty ridgelines- makes every pedal stroke worth the effort.
Crossing into the Nilgiris, the route culminates at Ooty (Udhagamandalam), the “Queen of Hill Stations”, celebrated for its colonial charm, cool climate and cultural significance as a former British summer retreat. Here, riders will check in at the Taj Savoy Hotel, a historic 19th-century heritage property that once hosted British aristocrats and continues to echo old-world elegance. Set in colonial-era bungalows with manicured lawns and fireplaces, the Savoy offers a luxurious and atmospheric stay- making it the perfect place to unwind after a memorable day’s climb.
Cycling distance- 50km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- Taj Savoy
Today marks the final day of your cycling in the Nilgiri hills, after breakfast you’ll begin the days ride from the hotel, this 20 km ride through the highlands of Ooty offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural depth. The terrain is a mix of gentle rolling slopes and high-altitude plateaus, passing through shola forests, grassland ecosystems, and patches of eucalyptus and wattle plantations introduced during colonial times. Along the way, riders will experience sweeping views of terraced farms, mist-laced valleys and serene lakes. This region is also home to the Toda people, one of the oldest indigenous tribes of the Nilgiris, known for their unique barrel-vaulted huts, traditional weaving, and deep-rooted connection with the land. The sparse population and pristine surroundings make this a serene and immersive ride into the ecological and cultural heart of the Nilgiris.
Concluding the 20 km ride, you officially wrap up your cycling journey in India! After finishing the ride, we’ll load the bikes and head to the Nilgiri Mountain Railway station for a memorable afternoon ride on this UNESCO World Heritage site, winding through the scenic highlands of the Nilgiris. Upon completing the train journey, you’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch before driving back to the hotel. The rest of the evening is free for you to unwind or take a leisurely stroll around Ooty’s charming town center, with optional visits to the Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, or the local market.
Cycling distance- 20km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- taj Savoy
Today marks the final day of your cycling in the Nilgiri hills, after breakfast you’ll begin the days ride from the hotel, this 20 km ride through the highlands of Ooty offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural depth. The terrain is a mix of gentle rolling slopes and high-altitude plateaus, passing through shola forests, grassland ecosystems, and patches of eucalyptus and wattle plantations introduced during colonial times. Along the way, riders will experience sweeping views of terraced farms, mist-laced valleys and serene lakes. This region is also home to the Toda people, one of the oldest indigenous tribes of the Nilgiris, known for their unique barrel-vaulted huts, traditional weaving, and deep-rooted connection with the land. The sparse population and pristine surroundings make this a serene and immersive ride into the ecological and cultural heart of the Nilgiris.
Concluding the 20 km ride, you officially wrap up your cycling journey in India! After finishing the ride, we’ll load the bikes and head to the Nilgiri Mountain Railway station for a memorable afternoon ride on this UNESCO World Heritage site, winding through the scenic highlands of the Nilgiris. Upon completing the train journey, you’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch before driving back to the hotel. The rest of the evening is free for you to unwind or take a leisurely stroll around Ooty’s charming town center, with optional visits to the Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, or the local market.
Cycling distance- 20km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- taj Savoy
Today marks the final day of your cycling in the Nilgiri hills, after breakfast you’ll begin the days ride from the hotel, this 20 km ride through the highlands of Ooty offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural depth. The terrain is a mix of gentle rolling slopes and high-altitude plateaus, passing through shola forests, grassland ecosystems, and patches of eucalyptus and wattle plantations introduced during colonial times. Along the way, riders will experience sweeping views of terraced farms, mist-laced valleys and serene lakes. This region is also home to the Toda people, one of the oldest indigenous tribes of the Nilgiris, known for their unique barrel-vaulted huts, traditional weaving, and deep-rooted connection with the land. The sparse population and pristine surroundings make this a serene and immersive ride into the ecological and cultural heart of the Nilgiris.
Concluding the 20 km ride, you officially wrap up your cycling journey in India! After finishing the ride, we’ll load the bikes and head to the Nilgiri Mountain Railway station for a memorable afternoon ride on this UNESCO World Heritage site, winding through the scenic highlands of the Nilgiris. Upon completing the train journey, you’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch before driving back to the hotel. The rest of the evening is free for you to unwind or take a leisurely stroll around Ooty’s charming town center, with optional visits to the Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, or the local market.
Cycling distance- 20km
Meals- All meals
Accommodation- taj Savoy
After a leisurely breakfast, you will check out and begin your scenic drive down from the Nilgiri highlands to Coimbatore (approx. 3.5 to 4 hours). The route winds through forested hills and tea estates, offering a final glimpse of the landscapes that have defined your journey. On arrival at Coimbatore International Airport, you’ll be assisted with your departure formalities. We wish you a safe flight and hope to see you again for another unforgettable adventure in India!
Transfer distance- 85km
Meals- B
After a leisurely breakfast, you will check out and begin your scenic drive down from the Nilgiri highlands to Coimbatore (approx. 3.5 to 4 hours). The route winds through forested hills and tea estates, offering a final glimpse of the landscapes that have defined your journey. On arrival at Coimbatore International Airport, you’ll be assisted with your departure formalities. We wish you a safe flight and hope to see you again for another unforgettable adventure in India!
Transfer distance- 85km
Meals- B
After a leisurely breakfast, you will check out and begin your scenic drive down from the Nilgiri highlands to Coimbatore (approx. 3.5 to 4 hours). The route winds through forested hills and tea estates, offering a final glimpse of the landscapes that have defined your journey. On arrival at Coimbatore International Airport, you’ll be assisted with your departure formalities. We wish you a safe flight and hope to see you again for another unforgettable adventure in India!
Transfer distance- 85km
Meals- B
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