Top

Kuttanad cashes in on cycle tourism

Tourists show interest in taking up cycle expeditions along river banks

ALAPPUZHA: Cycling expeditions are gaining momentum in Kuttanad with many foreign tourists flocking to the region to enjoy its natural beauty as well as experience its unique village life. Tour operators offer special packages to the tourists and take them for trips through narrow roads along the banks of backwaters, beside lagoons and areas covered with coconut palms. It was in 2013, a small cycling facility was introduced in Kuttanad by a tour operator, Binu Joseph.

He says tourists cycled their way to the interiors of Kuttanad for the first time and rested under the cool shade of coconut trees. “Kuttanad is an unexplored place where one can go swimming, cycling and cruising,” he adds. “Last season, 50 couples utilised the facility. The 11-hour package through the villages of Pallathuruthy, Kidangara, Chakulathukavu, Edathva and Kavalam costs '3000-5000 per couple. The tourists will have lunch at hygienic toddy shops,” he says.

Recently, a UK couple Michael Brockmann and Tara Jowers, who conducted a cycling tour of Kuttanad were amazed by the slow pace of life in the villages and the simple lives of the people. “Cycling to Kuttanad is one of the most enjoyable experiences and an ideal way to spend a holiday as the entire area is tranquil and filled with greenery,” the tourists said.

In November last year, the National Geographic Channel filed a report titled, “Free-wheeling India: Kerala by bike,” saying that Kerala was one of the best places to embark on bicycle journey as it had India's most diverse and changing landscapes. According to an international cyclist Peter Bluck, who made a journey in 2013 throughout Kerala, autumn’s cooler days allow visitors to go through Kerala by bicycle or bike.

( Source : Deccan Chronicle. )
Next Story