#Kerala tours by Lock your trip

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Explore the Enchanting Tourist Places in Kochi, Kerala

Welcome to the captivating city of Kochi, nestled on the southwest coast of India in the beautiful state of Kerala. Known for its rich history, stunning waterfronts, and diverse cultural influences, Kochi is a traveller's paradise that never fails to leave a lasting impression. As a bustling cosmopolitan hub and a historical gem, Kochi offers an array of Kochi Kerala tourist places that cater to every interest and wanderlust. In this article, we will take you on a virtual tour of the must-visit attractions in Kochi, Kerala, as you prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey with "Lock Your Trip."

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Unlock the Wonders of India: Explore Incredible India with Alluring Tour Packages

Unlock the Wonders of India: Explore Incredible India with Alluring Tour Packages

India, a land of diverse cultures, enchanting landscapes, and rich history, beckons travellers from all corners of the world. Its mesmerizing beauty, bustling cities, and serene countryside make it an alluring destination for globetrotters. Unlock the wonders of India with our carefully crafted India tour packages, designed to offer you an unforgettable travel experience.

What Will You Experience In India Tour

India, the land of mystique and magic, has always been a dream destination for travellers seeking an extraordinary experience. From the majestic Himalayas in the north to the sun-kissed beaches of the south, India is a country that embraces diversity in every aspect. Its rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and landscapes makes it a fascinating place to explore. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the grandeur of India, our travel agency, Lock Your Trip, has curated a selection of India tour packages that cater to every traveller's preferences.

1. A Glimpse into the Culture

India boasts a captivating cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. Our India tour packages provide you with an opportunity to witness the cultural kaleidoscope of this vibrant nation. From the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, symbolizing eternal love, to the ancient temples of Varanasi, exuding spiritual mystique, every destination has a story to tell. Traverse through the royal palaces of Rajasthan, experience the energetic festivals, and savour the delectable cuisine that tantalizes taste buds. Our packages blend heritage sites, traditional performances, and local interactions to give you an immersive cultural experience.

2. Unraveling the Natural Beauty

Nature's abundance in India is awe-inspiring, with landscapes ranging from the snow-capped mountains to the lush green valleys and from the arid deserts to the pristine beaches. Explore the scenic beauty of Kerala, God's Own Country, with its backwaters and serene hill stations. Embark on a trek in the Himalayas, where adventure meets tranquillity, or indulge in wildlife safaris in the dense jungles of Ranthambore or Jim Corbett National Park. Our India tour packages offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation amidst nature's finest creations.

3. Journey to Spiritual Serenity

India is a melting pot of religions, and spirituality is deeply ingrained in its soul. Discover the spiritual side of India with our carefully curated packages that take you to sacred destinations like Varanasi, Haridwar, and Rishikesh, where the Ganges flows, washing away sins and bestowing blessings. Attend the evening Aarti (prayer ceremony) on the ghats of the Ganges, a spectacle that will stir your soul. Experience the spiritual aura of ancient temples, mosques, churches, and monasteries that stand as a testament to India's religious diversity.

4. Adventures that Thrill

For thrill-seekers, India has no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities. Whether it's paragliding in the picturesque hill stations, river rafting in the wild rapids, or experiencing the thrill of desert safaris, our India tour packages cater to the adventurous spirit in you. Explore the untouched beauty of Ladakh on a bike expedition or witness the breathtaking landscapes from a hot air balloon ride. India offers a plethora of adventurous experiences that will leave you with lifelong memories.

5. Basking in Luxury

If you seek opulence and luxury during your journey, India has a myriad of palatial hotels and resorts to pamper you. Our exclusive India tour packages include stays at some of the finest heritage hotels, where you can relive the royal past while enjoying modern comforts. Indulge in rejuvenating spa therapies, dine on delectable cuisine, and experience the regal treatment that the Maharajas once enjoyed. Let us curate a luxurious escape that caters to your every desire.

6. Embracing Festivities

India is a land of celebrations, where every festival is an explosion of colours, music, and joy. Experience the vibrant festivities of Diwali, Holi, Durga Puja, and more with our specially designed festival tour packages. Participate in traditional rituals, witness captivating performances, and savour the unique delicacies prepared during these celebrations. The exuberance of Indian festivals is an experience that will leave you spellbound.

Conclusion

Unlock the wonders of India with our diverse and captivating India tour packages. Bulls Travelism aims to provide you with an authentic and memorable journey through the enchanting realms of this incredible country. Whether you seek cultural exploration, natural wonders, spiritual enlightenment, or thrilling adventures, India has something to offer everyone. Let us be your gateway to discovering the essence of this beautiful nation, and embark on a transformational journey that will forever stay etched in your heart. Book your India tour package today and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of India!

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Unlock The Incredible India With Budget Tour Packages By Lock Your Trip

"Lock Your Trip, an experienced travel agency, presents affordable yet comprehensive budget tour packages tailored to give travellers a taste of India's remarkable heritage and vivid hues. With Lock Your Trip, your dream to experience the enchanting allure of India is just a booking away."

1. Incredible India: A Feast for the Senses

India, a nation as diverse as it is vast, offers countless enthralling experiences. From the tranquil backwaters of Kerala to the snow-laden peaks of Himachal Pradesh, the bustling bazaars of Delhi to the golden beaches of Goa, India, promises an immersive experience that caters to every wanderlust-infused heart.

2. Luxurious Adventures on a Shoestring Budget

We at Lock Your Trip believe budgetary constraints should not limit the joy of exploring. We curate budget tour packages designed to deliver a luxurious experience that is accessible to everyone. Whether it's savouring local cuisines, partaking in local festivals, or visiting historical monuments, our tours encompass every facet of the Indian culture that has the world entranced.

3. Unlock Destinations: The Lock Your Trip Way

Our budget tour packages incorporate the most coveted destinations across India. We take you on a magical journey through the palaces of Rajasthan, the temples of Varanasi, the forests of Sunderbans, and the tea plantations of Darjeeling, to name a few. With Lock Your Trip, you unlock experiences and create memories to cherish forever.

4. Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Comfort Meets Affordability

With our budget tour packages, you can rest easy knowing that comfort does not come at a premium. We assure accommodations that blend comfort with local charm, ensuring you enjoy the warmth of Indian hospitality without breaking the bank.

5. Local Cuisine: Savour the Flavors of India

We believe that tasting local cuisine is an integral part of travelling. Our budget tour packages include opportunities to indulge in India's diverse culinary landscape. From the spicy delicacies of the North to the tangy flavours of the South, the array of Indian cuisine will leave your taste buds dancing.

6. Ease and Convenience: Travel Hassle-Free with Lock Your Trip

Our packages are designed for your convenience. We manage everything, from airport transfers, accommodation, and sightseeing tours to your meals. With Lock Your Trip, your only task is to immerse yourself in the incredible journey that India promises.

7. Customer Support: We're with You All the Way

At Lock Your Trip, we're committed to providing stellar customer support. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you throughout your journey, ensuring a smooth and delightful travel experience. In conclusion: Lock Your Trip's budget tour packages present an unmatched opportunity to dive into India's mesmerising experience without worrying about expenses. Our attention to detail, excellent customer service, and penchant for curating unforgettable experiences make us your go-to choice for affordable yet enriching Indian travel escapades. With Lock Your Trip, unlock the magic of India and lock your memories for a lifetime.

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Travel To These 5 Romantic Honeymoon Destinations In July 2023

Blue skies, a cool breeze, and sporadic light showers are the specification of July. The perfect time to organise Romantic Tour Package with Lock Your Trip for newlyweds is now. It is the time of year when the monsoon season arrives in the nation's various regions. The habitat feels relief as the temperature starts to fall. While it's pouring heavily in some parts of the nation, the weather is pleasant and breezy in other parts.

July is the ideal month to spend private time with your loved ones, whether it be on the craggy mountains of Ladakh or the lush green slopes of Panchgani. We conducted extensive research and compiled a list of romantic vacation destinations that make the location interesting and pleasant to assist you in choosing romantic honeymoon destinations to add to your Romantic Tour Package. So read the full article to know about all the locations well.

List Of 5 Romantic Honeymoon Destination In July

Look over the list and choose the location that best suits you! For different types of travellers, each of these locations has something to offer. On this list, which extends from Shimla to Mashobra, are all charming locations.

1. Shimla

One of the most beautiful hill towns in India is Shimla. The scenic beauty, soothing breeze, less crowd, breathtaking hill view, and British magnificence of this location draw many tourists every year. There are many romantic things to do with your significant other in Shimla.

Some Romantic Tour Packages of Travel operators include taking a romantic stroll to Jakhu Hill, enjoying a cup of fine coffee, spending time watching the crest, dining on delectable Tibetan food at restaurants with a view of the hills, etc. Shimla is the best location to think about for the ultimate honeymoon because of all these attractions.

2. Andaman and Havelock Island

Visit the Andaman and Havelock Islands if you want to find a place with great weather, adventurous water activities, delectable food, and less crowded beaches. Visitors are mesmerised by this location's sea beaches, diverse flora and fauna, alluring marine life, and vibrant corals.

The Andaman and Havelock Islands are the best place to see spotted deer, geckos, wild boar, Pythons, and crab-eating macaques if you or your better half enjoy animals. A ferry ride from Port Blair will take you two to four hours to reach the amazing island of Havelock.

3. Dalhousie

Dalhousie's hypnotic and surreal beauty at the beginning of monsoon season greatly intoxicates newlywed couples. This makes it the perfect location for a July honeymoon in India and you can make the trip to this place with our Romantic Tour Package. In the shadow of the Himalayas, visitors can experience awe-inspiring tranquilly and natural splendour.

Paragliding, horseback riding, zorbing, a hike to Dainkund Peak, a thrilling trail in Kalatop Wild Reserve, and spending time near the Panchpula waterfalls, which are in full flow in July, are just a few of the adventure activities you can do in Dalhousie.

4. Wayanad

In July, Wayanad is among the most alluring honeymoon destinations. It is well known for having paddy fields. The border between Tamil Nadu and Kerala is where Wayanad is situated. This place is well-known for the Edakkal Caves, Banasura Dam, and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. With the lush green Western Ghats and the pristine lake surrounding it, the location is ideal for a peaceful honeymoon in July in India. Kayaking and a special boat ride are perfect at the Pookode Lake resort. Those who enjoy history will adore Edakkal Caves. They have Neolithic carvings that date back to between 5000 and 1000 BC.

Capturing the enchanting vista of the glittering Meenmutty Waterfalls, Soochipara Falls, and Thusharagiri Waterfalls is one of the most romantic things you can do on your honeymoon in Wayanad with our Romantic Tour Package. Spend some quiet time with your partner while sitting next to the Papanashini River. Engage in hiking at Banasura Hill and Lakkidi Viewpoints. You can even take a romantic boat ride in Pookot Lake or a terrifying expedition in Muthanga Wildlife Preserve.

5. Panchgani

A popular hill resort in Maharashtra is Panchgani. This stunning hill retreat, tucked between the imposing Western Ghats, will enchant you with its breathtaking beauty. The overflowing Krishna River, dense strawberry orchards, fresh-looking mountains, and monsoon breeze all contribute to the area's charm.

You have plenty of options in Panchgani to have romantic moments with the one you love. After a "light shower," these may be taking in the breathtaking view from Parsi Point and Sydney Point. It is a delightful experience to walk together while holding hands and enjoying Mapro Garden and strawberry farms.

Hope these 5 romantic perfect destinations for honeymoon help you to in any way to select one for you.

[arun1515]

Eastern Sojourns - Capturing Kerala Spirit

Imagine backwaters, spice gardens, mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets all in one place? Unbelievable, right? But trust us when we say you will find all of this in the land we call God’s Own Country- Kerala. From scenic and picturesque views to Kerala’s beach and backwater tours, from royal palaces to wildlife sanctuaries, from backwaters to tea and spice plantations – you will witness Kerala’s true spirits in your 10 days trip and take home some amazing memories for life.

DAY 01, Arrive Kochi

Your tour will immediately start from your arrival at Kochi. Airport where you will experience a warm welcome from our representative who will be arranging a comfortable vehicle for your whole journey. Before paying a visit to the best sights of Kochi, you will get to check in at your hotel.

After some relaxing time, we will take you on tour of Kochi city. This city is based at the middle of Western Ghats and Arabian Sea. It stands as the Commercial and Industrial capital of Kerala. However, it has enough pages written in its history which can be seen in the spots like Dutch Palace, St. Francis Church, Jewish Synagogue, Gunda and Willingdon Islands, Bolghatty, Hill Palace Museum, Kerala History Museum and Santacruz Cathedral.

In the evening proceed to a local theatre to see a Kathakali Dance performance. The extremely stylized gestures, the elaborate make-up, the masks and the splendid costumes of these all-male dancers, recreates an incomparable sense of pageantry.

Overnight at the hotel

2 DAY

Kochi To Munnar (Surface)

The second day of the tour takes you further from Kochi to one of the most popular hill stations of Kerala, Munnar (130 Kms / 4 hrs). Munnar attracts you with its beautiful tea plantations where some worldwide major tea companies have their operations. Rest of the day at Leisure.

Overnight at the hotel

3 DAY

Munnar

After having breakfast on the third day of tour, you will come out to experience the pleasing weather of Munnar and we will, as usual, make you visit some of the best places of this city. Here you would be seeing Mattupetty Dam and Farm, Pallivasal, Devikulam, lock Heart Gap, Nyayamakad, Eravikulam National Park, Rajamala, Echo Point, Power House Waterfalls and Thommankuthu Waterfalls. In the evening, we will drive you back to your hotel for another overnight stay.

Overnight at the hotel

4 DAY

Munnar To Thekkedy (Periyar)

On the fourth day of this pleasing journey, you will again move 100 km forward to reach Thekkedy, which is also known as Periyar, it is known as one of the best wild life sanctuaries of India. A wide range of flora, fauna and unique birds can be seen on its determined sights. However, a wild life sanctuary is not all there is to see. The huge spice plantation, where almost all the spices you use in your kitchen are available, attracts a big population from all over the world.

Addition to this excellent day will be the cruise through the waters of Periyar Lake, from where the view to its wild world full of elephants is much more pleasing.

Overnight at the hotel

5 DAY Thekkedy To Kumarakom (Surface)

This morning, we will drive 140 km to Kumarakom. This Vembanad Lake-based island cluster attracts more and more visitors through the essence of its lush vegetation and great climate. After arriving here, a short trip to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and a house boat jetty ride will do enough to refresh you for further journey.

Overnight at the hotel

6 DAY Kumarakom To Alleppy (By Boat)

On the sixth day of tour, you will be experiencing one of the most popular attractions of God’s own country. The Kerala backwater tours in this state are known to every second person and journey through these in a luxury house boat serves you with the lifetime of travelling pleasure. A boat comprising of private balcony, sun deck, kitchen and other attributes will take you on this ride from Kumarakom to Alleppy. With this, your whole day will go to a much desired water travel as we will assure you a comfortable overnight stay on the houseboat itself.

Overnight on the house boat

7 DAY Alleppy

On the very next morning of the seventh day of the tour, breakfast will be served to you on the boat itself. Afterwards, you will check-out of the boat to touch the land of immense natural beauty, Alleppy. After checking-in at the hotel here, you will get to visit the city's some famous or well known spots in order to feel the beauty of lagoons, lake and fresh water. With its backwater tourist destinations and places like Kuttanad and Alleppy Beach, it attracts many foreign travellers. An overnight stay at Alleppy hotel is scheduled for the day.

Overnight at the hotel

8 DAY Alleppy To Kovalam (Surface)

The eighth day of this package tour is scheduled to take you 160 km further southwards to Kovalam, which is also noted as ‘Paradise of South’. A typical Kerala experience can be grabbed here as coconut trees on some beautiful beaches explain the true Kerala story. The beach here is famous for its three different looks. One - the light house beach, Second - northern samudra and Third - the middle hawah. The Ayurvedic massage on the white sandy beach shore is just another attraction in this city. On the same day, you will also get the opportunity to visit Padmanabhapuram and Kaudiar Palaces, Napier Museum, Anchuthengu Fort and Kuthiramalika Palace Museum.

Overnight at the hotel

9 DAY Trip To Kanyakumari (Surface)

After having breakfast on the ninth day, we will make you travel to the southernmost point of India, Kanyakumari. During the British rule, this place was also known as Cape Comorin. Landscape photographers and nature lovers can spend a pleasing time here. On this one day tour, you will be able to see Kanyakumari Temple, Wax Museum, Vattakottai, Gandhi Museum and Vivekananda Rock, Return back to Kanyakumari in the evening

Overnight at the hotel 

10 DAY KOVALAM TO TRIVANDRUM & DEPART TRIVANDRUM

The tenth day will come as the last day of this tour when we will drop you to Trivandrum Airport for your onwards journey. 

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Famous things to eat in Kerala

Famous things to eat in Kerala - for an unforgettable journey with your family, check out the Kerala family tour packages on Lock Your Trip. The restaurant serves the greatest food in all of South India; you may sample traditional fare as well as some unique Kerala delicacies.

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Alleppey Tour Package for 3 Days

Alleppey Tour Package for 3 Days- Locks Your Trip Provides You With All of Nature's Amazing Bliss. Alleppey, Kerala, is also known as the "Venice of the East" because of its similar interconnected waterways and streams. Its local name is Alappuzha, and you should visit every corner of this well-known city by boat, like you would in Venice.

Read More: https://lockyourtrip.com/package-detail/alleppey-tour-package-for-3-days

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Travel smart: List of Things to Carry on Multi-day Trips

Most of them answer your question as “it may depend on the destination you choose”. But whatever kind of holiday trips you are planing, it can be a family tour, honeymoon tour package, it can be a beach destination or can be hiking, camping, etc, there are some common necessary lists for your trips.

As we all know, most of the time, all the trips happen unplanned. So you should be ready to pack the luggage with the necessary things as fast as possible.  Here I am mentioning such lists that you find useful. 

Basic travel Kit:

Travel guide/map- Take printouts

Tickets print out

Debit/credit card

Copies of ID proofs and photo- all the members

Medicines/ first-aid kit

Mobile and mobile charger

Powerbank

Camera kit

Multi-plug

Flashlight and spare batteries

Diary and pen

Backpack/handbag

Back locks- min 2

Travel pillow

Eye flaps

Earbud

Thermals if necessary

Rain/snow protection things

hats/caps

shoes

Eateries- chocolates, energy bars

Waterbottle

Watch

Shaving kit

Safety pin

Torchlight

Scissor and knife

Hand sanitizer

Plastic bags

Candles and matchbox/lighter

Sunglasses and spectacles with cover

Sunscreen lotions

Toiletries to carry

Toothbrush and paste

Soap, face wash, hair oil

Tissue paper

Comb and small mirror

Clothing kit

Necessary cloths only

Towels and handkerchiefs 

Slippers

One light jacket

Socks

Though the requirements may vary whether you are planning a honeymoon tour, holiday tour package and the activities you are planning. The above listed are the basic requirements and necessary items you should keep in the bag while planning long day holidays.

We are tour operators in Kochi and we provide domestic and international tour packages. Visit our Kerala tour packages with price to know more about the hot Kerala active packages. 

[asianadventuresindia]

This is a wonderful birding trip taking place in the untamed landscape and lush green forests of Goa and Kerala. The tour is a holy grail for those who wish to closely see the unique birdlife thriving in the region. White-bellied Treepie, Crimson-backed Sunbird, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Malabar Parakeet, Nilgiri Woodpigeon, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Ceylon Frogmouth, Colorful Malabar Tragon, Indian Pitta are some of the species commonly found in the surroundings that will surely lock your eyes in awe

https://www.junglelore.com/tour/birds-of-goa-and-kerala/

[lockyourtripy]

This harmonious combination of cultural landmarks and natural wonders makes Kanyakumari an indispensable destination for travelers who crave a serene and spiritually enriching experience for visiting tour for Kerala temples.

[3ennyj]

Randonneuring on a brakeless track bike.

I never knew what a randonneur is or does till about five months back. Heck I couldn’t even pronounce the damn name. A randonneur is a chap who rides long distances unsupported within a specified time frame, with distances starting at 200km unto 1200km. A seasoned randonneur would classify a 600km brevet as “difficult”, which usually entails two nights and a day of continuous riding, the idea being to complete the course within the 40 hours time frame. Me being the chap I usually am decided do a 600km brevet, my “first” brevet, on my everyday steed, a brakeless track bike in gods own country, Kerala, aptly called the Exotic Malabar Coast 600 BRM which runs from Cochin to Payyannur along the beautiful malabar coast of Kerala, known for a lot of amazing things, of which the one that really stood was the Biryani! To me Calicut was this place I’d always heard growing up, Thallaserry was a name of a restaurant in Bangalore, Mahe was Union Territory in Kerala that I read in my geography books and Payyannur was this quaint town up in the north of Kerala which I had only heard of since my friend was from there and that they we were famous for this crazy ritualistic dance called Theyyamm and that they love repeating letters in words there. In summary this is one gorgeous route to ride not to mention I rode an entire night in the rain, torrential thunderstorm type of rains. It’s monsoon season in this part of the land. That being said, this was going to be my only other long distance ride since my ride to Goa this New Years on the same track bike, difference being, the ride to Goa was a 600 kilometre trip spanning three days covering a little more than 200 kilometres each day with ample rest (in lodges) and an awesome ride partner and friend. While this time around, I was doing a solo, 600 kilometre trip (brevet) which was timed event with a time limit of 40 hours on an unknown route (though I am originally from Kerala).Unlike my Goa ride, I was using an easier gear ratio of 48x19, which meant that I’d have to spin more (more pedal rotations) as compared to the 48x18 to maintain a comparable average speed, based on my experience riding to Goa, I was hoping to benefit from this, I’d soon find out.

I never knew endurance riding is something I was going to get into, I mean I love riding bikes and I guess that’s the only pre requisite you need. You can basically do anything on a bike, be it commuting, racing, touring, tricks or just aimlessly riding. Riding a brevet is something else altogether, it needs a bit of preparation since you’re self supported and self sufficient, which means any sort of mechanical or biological failure, and well that’s the end of it! I had about three days to prepare for this as this was a last minute decision I made as with all my decisions. I borrowed lights, mud fenders, frame bag, saddle bag, and a drop bar from friends in Bangalore before I drove down to Kerala with my folks and my dog. Since my last training ride I did was way back in May, I decided to ride from my grandparents house in southern Kerala to Cochin which was a good 110kms, complete with hills, potholes, violent headwinds, cross winds, crazy traffic, mixed with city and highways and awesome flat sections. Training done! During the registration process the organisers and other folks there were quiet baffled when they learned this was my first brevet, more over the bike I was using had just one gear, a fixed gear and that it was brakeless, my beard length was probably secondary now. I checked into a motel nearby and had a sound nights sleep.

The first leg

Started with a final few checks to my bike with the mechanic at the LBS in cochin called The Bike Store which was also the start point for the Brevet. 4PM was departure time. Since the city routes were unknown to me, my new friends asked me to stick with the guys upfront, who planned to ride out fast and hard to beat the traffic, as checkpoint 1 and 2 were within the city itself. Ride hard and ride fast we did. I stuck to the wheel of the fastest kid on the block, this young lad who I feel has a very promising career in the Indian road cycling scene. We covered around 30 kilometres in an hour and 10 minutes in the thick of Cochin’s crazy traffic. The next checkpoint was a 100kms away at Ponnani, and so had begun the solo leg of my brevet. I rode close to 85% of my ride solo, the thing is you get to ride at your own pace which I feel is a very important requirement especially when you’re participating in an endurance sport which pushes you to your limits. My ride to Ponnani was a first of many sorts, it was the first time was riding in the night for such a long distance, fully loaded and it was also the first time I did an all nighter while it rained cats, dogs and fishes! It was definitely a night of firsts. I managed to reach Ponnani within four hours of leaving my last checkpoint, which was quiet frankly a decent pace as one of the volunteers admitted. I was amazed myself. I treated myself to a sumptuous dinner of boiled rice, dal and mixed veggies at a local restaurant near the check point. Since I was still high on energy I made this a quick dinner break, complete with an Instagram update and an excellent Kattan Kappi or black coffee. 

Next stop was Calicut which was a mere 70 kilometres away. I planned to reach Calicut by midnight, but that wasn’t going to happen. Little did I know the road to Calicut was 70 kilometres of potholes, narrow streets and off the grid sort of navigation through little unknown towns and villages. To top it all the rains picked up pace and I was literally caught in the middle of a thunderstorm. So here’s the thing, I love the rains, I love riding in the rain, and I hate the day after which means, cleaning my bike. So riding in the rains wasn’t much of a problem. Riding a fixie in the rains is way more comfortable and I swear way more controllable compared to a free wheeling bike as you can feel the road and thus gauge the traction off the wheels. There were sections that were pitch black with no working street lights, and since these were borrowed lights I had them in a single mode which gave me lighting of sorts such that I didn’t misjudge the sides of the roads and jeer off into the slush that was accumulating with the continuous downpour. The last 20 kilometres to Calicut we were back on the paved NH17, which fortunately/unfortunately had poor lighting, smooth roads and lots of truckers. For a brakeless city rider this wasn’t intimidating but it sure was high. A good fucking high! I would do mental computations in my head calculating distances and average speeds to my final destination by reading the milestones and check the time on my G-Shock as I did not use a Garmin for this ride. I wanted to keep the ride as equipment free as possible. Little did I realise this actually worked, and helped me with my concentration. A biker pulled up next to me and started talking to me, the rains had subsided now and was only a minute drizzle, the types you feel when you spray a perfume or something. I picked up my pace hoping that he’d understand that I want to be left alone, but he stuck to my side and started asking me questions. He turned out to be a good chap, and we spoke for the next 10 kilometres up until I reached Calicut limits. The outcome was fantastic as I had upped my pace, averaging a good 30-35km/h, and the biker was astonished for the fact that I was managing to pull off a speed like that, he was even more amazed that I was doing this on a bike with just one gear for 600 kilometres. He asked me the value and I told him it was worth 15,000 bucks, all I had to do was divide the original value by 25! Nonetheless, with the rains back I was now entering Calicut city, I asked an auto wallah for directions and here I was at checkpoint four, beach side, four hours later and drenched to my mittens! I love the beach. It gives me immense energy, just what I needed. The volunteers did a fantastic job of organising home cooked meals they had veggie options thankfully which I devoured, they they also gave a lot of inputs regarding the route, road conditions up until the turnaround point which was now just 120 odd kilometres away. This was the fastest time i had taken to complete 190 kilometres, just under 10 hours, which was record of sorts for me. I ate, rested and chatted with a couple of other riders who had reached before me which gave me  a total of 35 minutes off the bike. I did notice some of the riders were facing mechanical failures, snapped chains, slippery brakes, muck and sediment deposits on their derailleurs and of-course punctures. I had no so such issues, thankfully! Now energised I was on my way to checkpoint number five which was around 70 kilometres away at this place called Thallasery, known for its unique biryani, this route would take me via Vadakara and Mahe, as these were the waypoints I locked on to maintain my timing. It was around 0200 when I left Calicut and my objective was to reach Thallasery by 0400-0430 in the morning and reach the turnaround point by 0630-0700, thus giving me three hours of sleep by which I could hit the road by 1030. Such a wonderful plan I was thinking, except that it was still raining cats and dogs, it was pitch black with street lighting off and on, with truckers providing me three seconds of that glorious runway lights and that I was getting exhausted with every passing kilometre. I kept myself occupied with these mental math calculations to keep me focussed and awake. Believe me I suck at math, like I’m slow at calculating, and for the first time in my life, being slow to calculate actually helped! I was now going to pass Vadakara, and I remembered what the guys at Calicut told me, avoid the bypass and cut through the city. Cut through the city I did, it was like passing a ghost town, there wasn’t one soul on the street, no life absolutely. The road was like a roller coaster too, massive uphill climbs followed by rolling decents, this was just the start as the terrain was now changing from a moderately flat coastal route to hilly coastal route up until Payyannur. What I did notice entering Mahe was that being a Union Territory, the road which is also the NH17, it was littered with alcohol shops, I mean that one street would put Bangalore to shame! I breezed by Mahe just like every other town I was passing by, the rains had subsided by now,  it was funny, as though the gods were joking around with us. I was now nearing my next check point of Thalleserry, and I was well past my initially calculated time of arriving there by 0400-0430. I finally did reach Thallasery by 0515. On arriving the volunteers were fast asleep inside their car which was this gorgeous sea facing hill. I woke them up, stocked up on chocolates, water and was back on the road within 20 minutes. I was now less than 60 kilometres away from the turnaround point at Payyannur. Back to mental maths again, usually on a ride to the outskirts, I’d average around 30km/h which means two hours to the turn around point, so I gave myself time until 0800 to reach which would still give me two hours of sleep as I wanted to get back on the road by 1030. I was satisfied with the way things were panning out. My next point of interest was Kannur or Cannanore, I think that’s the place St Francis landed in India and brought Christianity to the sub continent, I was passing by some historical places on this route, but all I cared was to reach Payyannur and take a nice warm shower and sleep! By now my left knee started to pain. I had this pain while riding to Goa as well. Little did I know that this pain on my knee was going to hit a new threshold. I guess the pain was bound to happen, I mean I’ve ridden 260kms with no chance of coasting, basically I earned every kilometre by rotating my crank 46,000 times until now. By the time I reached Kannur, the sun had risen and I was now seeing people on the road, it’s so refreshing when you see life on the streets. I was watching the TV show last man on earth and I kind of know what he meant by seeing life on the streets. I had to do something about my knee pain, with the pharmacies all closed I was on the look out for a hospital en route. I finally found a hospital on my way out of Kannur and hurried to the pharmacy to get myself one of those pain reliving sprays. I didn’t know that if you spray this on a sweaty body it burns like it would burn Count Dracula! After a few minutes of jumping around I was back on the bike and, now just wanting to reach the turn around point at Payyannur. The organisers and the volunteers had told us riders about a detour via the inner roads that would bring us right back on NH17 onto the turnaround point which was a hotel on the highway, which could help us by shaving of 3kms and save us the cruelty of the hilly sections up ahead, on the contrary I missed out the left turn which was long gone as I had now stumbled across another rider who told me the left turn was up ahead instead. I took my phone out and swung right into Google Maps exploring the options I had, there was a left turn ahead, but and it was through the insides which I wasn’t sure of, I took it nonetheless as I was saving a good 3kms to reach my destination. The next 45 minutes was one of the most toughest times of my life, with an aching knee, a busted ass, exhausted and 300kms into my ride, I was navigating through some crazy hills and potholed ridden roads. I was now looking for a store that had some vaseline, as my ass was now sore. I remember seeing a board that said six kilometres to Payyannur, my mental maths was now telling me that’s the distance to MG road from home, 20 minutes more and you’re there, finally I see the board I’ve been looking for, Green Park Hotel, 500 metres away! Man the happiness I felt! Once I was 50 metres I could see the volunteers waiting with smiling faces directing me to get into the hotel. I finally reached at 0805. One of the guys helped me find my way into the convention hall which the organisers turned into a makeshift sleeping space for the riders, complete with a mattress, cooling fans, pillows and a nice warm blanket. I found my way to the showers, cleaned up, got into a set of new clothes and jumped right into bed. I set my alarm to 1030, with a planned departure by 1045. And boy did I pass out! Never have I slept so well!

The return

1030 the alarm goes off, I did a few calculations again and decided to sleep for another 1 hour, yeah right! I finally crawled out of bed only by 1200 after much hesitation. The three and a half hours of sleep was much needed. I later sync’d up with another rider who is a legend of sorts in the randonneuring business, and we left the hotel together in search of a lunch spot to carb up for the return journey to cochin, another 313 kilometres. I had 19 hours and 30 minutes until cutoff. Easy, I thought. We found a restaurant near by and belted a veggie thali that costed a mere 70 bucks! As we got back on the road we bid adieu as I really needed vaseline for the arse. Lubed up I now continued on the regular NH17 route, not the one I’d taken earlier in the morning, which had the most horrendous roads and an utter waste of time. This section did have some serious climbs, but hey nothing like a “bit” of climbing to start the day with. I find myself pushing much harder on climbs than on flats for obvious reasons, you’re on a fixed gear bike, with no option to gear down, so the only option is to push your ass off the seat and climb that hill. I love that feeling, and once on top, the best part is descending. Since I was on a 48x19, I was spinning out on a few sections, and that’s when we fixie fuck boys do something called “hill bombing”, get your feet of the pedals and just let the bike fly down. Deceleration is controlled by smashing your shoes above the tyre and burning rubber and synthetic. The feeling is surreal! I did get a boat load of stares by passerby’s, a few of them were quiet amused at the sight of a bearded guy going mental on a bike that they were recording this sight. I wonder if there’s any way of sourcing those videos. 20 kilometres of rolling hills and descents did an amazing job of setting the tempo for the rest of the ride, my legs were now in jello mode. However the searing pain which had started to develop on my knees was still there, in-fact my right knee started to develop this pain as well now. I was in for a beating as I still had close to 280 kilometres until Cochin. I had noticed a kid on a MTB up ahead, but he didn’t look like he was a part of the brevet, as I couldn't see his bib number, nonetheless this kid decided to draft behind me, which got me thinking why would he do that. I mean I was on this fixed gear bike battling it out on the climbs and here’s this kid riding off my wheel, which in a way helped me, as I started pushing really hard. The poor chap must have clung of for a few minutes before he dropped back. I didn’t stop pushing though, I passed by four other riders before entering Kannur, I was making a good progress. My next checkpoint was back in Calicut which was now 90 kilometres away. I planned to pit stop at Thallasery which was around 25 kilometres away to grab some of their famous biryani and get some rest. While leaving Kannur I found a tender coconut seller, it’s funny that I didn’t see anybody else selling tender till now. The guy was kind enough to give me route advice and told me to take an alternative route bypassing the highway which went through two small towns instead which would give a 3km advantage basically. Apparently couple of other cyclist had passed by him earlier this morning and he’d given them the same advice. Being a Sunday, these small towns were empty, hardly any one in sight, which was good, as there was virtually no traffic. In an event like this, every kilometre shaved off adds so much additional time over the long run. I had plans of reaching Thallasery by 1500, the time was around 1400 already. I had to step up pace. It was only now that I was able to yonder at the beauty of the Malabar! Rolling hills along the coast of the Arabian sea dotted with coconut tress on both sides, the sounds of the ocean which was drowned out last night because of the incessant rains, I was now witnessing the beauty. In an endurance event like this, I feel one of the key requisites is that you appreciate the beauty of your surrounding around you, it adds a whole new dimension to your ride. Every time I peeked into the horizon, I would temporarily feel free, thoughts of the remaining 250 kilometres would disappear and the searing pain on my knees would suddenly feel painless. These were the moments that kept me going. I finally arrived at Thallasery at quarter past three. 

I found a sea facing restaurant adjacent to the checkpoint I’d stopped last night, and ordered a veggie thallasery special. Took a few snaps of the bike facing the sea and I was back on the road within 20 minutes. It’s funny how fast a hungry, and tired human can gulp down a massive plate of biryani, even the waiters were looking at me in astonishment. I was now 70 kilometres away from Calicut. I planned to reach the checkpoint by 1800 effectively, but that for obvious reasons was not going to happen. By the time I reached Vadakara, my knees were literally felt they were going to pop open, I had to stop and get a painkiller, else this wasn’t going to work. The same quiet ghost town from last night was now bustling full of people. I found a pharmacy right next to the local government hospital and explained my situation to the pharmacist. He gave me four tabs and told me not to pop four within a days time, and that I should space the consumption of each tablet by a minimum of six hours. He also wished me luck and was thoroughly impressed with what I was doing. Within minutes of popping the first tab, I could feel a sense of relief. Once on the highway I noticed that traffic movement had slowed down. I mean the last thing you’d expect is a traffic jam on a single lane highway! Traffic jam it was. By the time I got myself out to the front, I had already lost 30 minutes of precious time, I couldn’t figure what caused the traffic jam, as there was no accident, I’m guessing however there must have been a VIP/minister going past one of those small towns out there. I was also quiet surprised that my bike was into shape, despite the muck on the chain from last nights downpour and the lack of lubrication, she was still moving, not as smooth though. No flats till now. I had well crossed 1800 and still no sign of Calicut, I pulled over next to a traffic cop and asked him how far was Calicut, his explanation was quiet simple, cross three bridges and take the right to head no to Calicut Beach Road. It’s always a love hate feeling when approaching a checkpoint, you’re happy for the fact that you’re so near, and you’re mad that despite being so near, you’re still not there yet, that sense of frustration keeps working against you and I swear that battle is worse than the physical battle. I usually get on to my drops and go full gas at moments like this, and that’s exactly what I did. I remember flying past these two riders who I’d later meet at the Calicut checkpoint and would end up riding with them until Ponnani. I finally did reach Calicut at 1900, one hour behind schedule. I had 13 hours and 173 kilometres to my destination and final checkpoint.

Sufferfest

The Urban Dictionary describes sufferfest as, “A workout or race in the arena of endurance sports that involves prolonged suffering on the part of all who participate”. I believe my sufferfest was only about to start now. In the next 20 kilometres to be precise. The two riders who I’d passed by and later met at the Calicut checkpoint were now riding partners, since they were local Calicut lads I decided to stick with them to guide me out of the city which is a disaster to ride in on a Sunday. We made a quick pitstop to carb up yet again at a local restaurant. By the time we left Calicut it was 2030, they were good company talking and telling me all about the routes and their experience so far on this brevet. They were mighty impressed with the fact that I was on a fixed gear bike, that too brakeless and were in disbelief when I told them this was my first brevet. The ride out from Calicut is quiet confusing, in-fact the previous night when I found myself self directing myself into Calicut, it all seemed so different now. It felt like a weird LSD trip in all honesty. I had no recollection of the number of turns, I had taken through the narrow winding roads that led to me to Calicut, all I remember was the road to Ponnani was atrocious and rigged with pot holes. I was ready for the challenge. Once we got onto the highway we bid adieu and I increased my pace as I was doing a moderate pace to keep with the guys guiding me out. Ponnani was now about 50 kilometres away. The thing about bad roads is when you’re riding a track bike which is built with the most stiffest aluminium composites and when you run 23c slick tyres, its asking for trouble. No trouble for the bike, but trouble for your bike. My back, my arse, my legs, my knees and my palms were at the receiving end of this torture. To top it all the rains were back and my front lights packed up too. My average speed dropped from a smooth 26km/h to less than 15km/h based on my awesome calculations I was doing. This felt like the longest 50 kilometres I had ever done my entire life, in-fact I didn’t really care if I reached Ponnani at all. All I wanted was good smooth roads. I cursed the Government of Kerala for the duration of my ride to Ponnani. I couldn’t understand how corrupt and useless they could be. I later learnt that the organisers had recce’d the route just two weeks prior and the roads were in perfect conditions. Within two weeks of the monsoons the roads were back to square one. Some sections were so bad that I was literally playing the game two dots. Finding the perfect link across a golf ball dimpled road. Believe me I’m not exaggerating on the road conditions. A lot of abuses were hurled. I finally reached Ponnani around  0100. It took me more than four hours to cover a distance less than 50 kilometres. I decided to stop over at the same restaurant I stopped over the previous night for food and a kattan kappi. To my surprise the two gents who escorted me out of Calicut also stopped by the same place. We were now 99 kilometres to completion. I entered the restaurant completely exhausted and left the place jumping with energy. My knees were clobbered by now. I popped my second painkiller. I offered a tab to one of the guys who passed the offer, while I later learnt he regretted doing so. The suffering and pain was getting real to be honest. The last 99 kilometres felt much like the opening stage of a trip on magic mushrooms. Everything felt different. I remember meeting the four riders who were ahead of me for the entire duration of the race, we teamed up and formed a pace-line. We must have been doing 33km/h for a good 20 kilometres, when I peeked back I realised I dropped the guys and was doing my own pace. It’s odd that in your last few kilometres, how the mind overcomes physical pain. The phrase “Shut up legs” makes absolute sense. In-fact it was more like shut up knees, shut up back and shut up arse! I finally reached the end of my ride at 0550 at The Bike Store, Cochin. I completed my first ever 600 brevet in 37 hours and 50 minutes on a brakeless track bike.

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List of Top 9 India Travel Tips

Colossal, multicultural, utterly gorgeous, spiritual and remarkable: these words summarize India. It's not just a destination but an experience. Nevertheless, if you are taking a trip to India for the very first time, it can be overwhelming and overwhelming. Stress not! We bring you some travel suggestions for visiting India, which might simply conserve your life and make your stay in India smooth, safe and extremely.

#1. Know the Entry Requirements

To go into India, you need to have a valid passport, an Indian visa and a return/onward ticket. If you're checking out as a traveler and your duration of stay is not than 30 days, apply for 'Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)'. To know more about ETA, visit the main site of Indian Government. Apply online prior to arrival.

#2. Take it Slow and Steady

India is large and incredibly varied. From the Himalayas in the north to the serene backwaters in the South to the coastal countryside in the East to the dry deserts in the West, India is brimming with places to be explored. Do not stuff whatever in a single trip, but explore it bit-by-bit.

It's a good idea to begin with the classics, i.e., the 'Golden Triangle' that includes Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. Or, follow your interests. If you're into spirituality, visit Varanasi; for travelling and experience, Himachal Pradesh; for shopping, Mumbai and Delhi; for Ayurvedic massages, Kerala; for a royal vacation experience, Rajasthan; for beaches, water sports and residues of Portuguese culture, Goa; for a French atmosphere, Pondicherry.

#3. Strategy According to the Weather

India experiences varied climate condition, although in basic the big country has four main seasons: summer, winter, monsoon and post-monsoon. Each area experiences different weather conditions, so there's constantly somewhere worth checking out, no matter the time of year. The Western Himalayas, such as Ladakh, and hill stations like Darjeeling, Shimla, Manali Nainital and Mussoorie can be visited in summer season, while the popular tourist destinations like Mumbai, Kerala, Hampi, Goa, Rajasthan, Agra and Varanasi are best visited in winter season.

Also Visit – Holiday packages in India offer by Swan Tours at best price

#4. Health is Wealth

To stay healthy, remember these standard preventative measures. Indian food is a bit tangy and it can be common to experience a swirling stomach; take in carefully by consuming freshly prepared food and drinking just from sealed water bottles. To protect versus pollution in the cities, wear a scarf and mask in the streets. It's also a smart idea to take a trip with medications for diarrhoea, headache and other typical disorders. Likewise make certain to obtain the necessary shots prior to your trip. Talk with your doctor about exactly what may be necessary for you, and where you're taking a trip. If you lack medications, don't stress as there are drug stores everywhere.

#5. Gown Modestly

In India you should likewise dress inning accordance with the location and customs. Some traveler spots, like a mosque, temple or other holy places require you to dress decently by covering your head with a scarf and removing your shoes prior to entering. In huge cities you can wear whatever you want, however when going to towns, gown modestly. It's excellent to aim to mix in with the remainder of the population.

#6. Know the Transportation

Flights, trains, local buses, taxis, auto rickshaws ... entering into and around India is smooth. India boasts one of the largest railway networks worldwide. To experience the genuine charm of India and conserve a few dollars, train is the optimal choice. When travelling by train, bring chains and locks to secure your travel luggage and make reservations ahead of time. Air conditioned buses also travel between cities every day. For brief trips within cities, use pre-paid taxi services, or utilize the Uber or OLA apps. Another way of browsing within cities is to utilize auto and cycle-rickshaws. Bear in mind that traffic on Indian roads can be excruciating, so leave your hotel a couple of minutes early to avoid being late.

#7. Stay within a Budget

Mid-range hotels have the tendency to offer the finest value for money in India. Store stays and Airbnb vacation leasings prevail. Local traveler workplaces in Kerala, Mumbai, Rajasthan and a number of other cities run 'Homestays' or 'paying guest' plans, positioning tourists with regional households. Expedition sites use dharamshalas, where travelers can stay for an inexpensive cost. Use trains and Volvo buses to circumnavigate India as they are low-cost, more affordable than flying. Also, discover the strategy of haggling when out shopping! This will assist you remain within a budget. Haggling is traditional in India, specifically at local markets.

If you're staying in India for a while, buying a regional SIM card makes good sense. The 4 primary business are Reliance, Airtel, Idea and Vodafone. All offer good bundles for both regional and worldwide calls. Otherwise, Skype calls are the finest choice.

#8. Loan Matters

Use travel cards, debit cards, credit cards, visitors' cheques and loan wallets for deals. You can exchange loan at the airport, banks or travel business. Access to global banks and ATMs is quite easy in Indian cities, however less so in little towns and towns. So, always have a reasonable amount of cash. If you need loan and for some factor cannot get it at an ATM, you can have it transferred to you by means of Western Union.

#9. Safety

Utilize your discretion while speaking with people. Avoid strolling or travelling by public transportation at odd hours, as you would anywhere in the world. Do not carry a large amount of cash around with you. Make a copy of your passport and bring that with you. Likewise, make note of emergency situation numbers are keep them convenient. In India, the all-in-one emergency situation number is 112. Otherwise, for fire-101, police-102 and ambulance-103.

For more information on India luxury tour packages contact Swan Tours one of the lading travel agents in India

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Sunset Serenity: Surreal Moments on Kerala Temple Tours in Kanyakumari 

This serene beach is a must-visit destination during your trip to Kanyakumari. Located near Bhagavathy Amman Temple, The region offers a plethora of popular tourist spots for Kerala temple tours, such as the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Bhagavathy Amman Temple, Kanyakumari Beach, Padmanabhapuram Palace, Vattakottai Fort, Mathur Aqueduct, and more. With its abundance of dams, beaches, waterfalls, and Kerala temples, Kanyakumari caters to various interests and provides an ideal setting for those seeking peace and a connection with nature that's why Lock your trip always suggests awesome tour packages for Kerala temples.

For a fulfilling day in Kanyakumari, kickstart your morning with a captivating sunrise experience. After that, pay a visit to the Devi Temple, followed by the Gandhi Memorial, Vattakottai Fort, Padmanabhapuram Palace, Suchindram Temple, and the Mathoor Bridge. Finally, conclude your day by embracing the breathtaking view of a mesmerizing sunset on a Kerala temple tours. This harmonious combination of cultural landmarks and natural wonders makes Kanyakumari an indispensable destination for travelers who crave a serene and spiritually enriching experience for visiting tour for Kerala temples.

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