Best bike trip routes in Kerala

Long story short: Discover the best & top bike ride trip routes & destinations in Kerala and embark on an unforgettable ride through scenic places and vibrant culture.

The Western Ghats in Kerala, known as the Sahyadri mountains, are rich in natural beauty and biodiversity. Picture a stunning mountain range, covered in lush greenery, that runs along the coast of India. The Western Ghats are stunningly beautiful, boasting diverse ecosystems and a rich cultural heritage.

Whether you’re looking for excitement, serenity, or a deeper connection with nature, motorcycle trips provide a truly memorable experience. So, how about exploring the Western Ghats by motorcycle? That is what this article is all about. We suggest various best and top bike trips, tour routes, and destinations in Kerala to explore nature directly.

Please note that places within Tamil Nadu like Valparai, Ooty, Coonoor, Kotagiri and Kodaikanal require a mandatory e-pass for all vehicles. Please checkout this website for more details.

Key Takeways

1. Kerala has many scenic motorcycle routes in the Western Ghats. Riders can enjoy lush greenery, tea plantations, waterfalls, and forests, making the journey both exciting and peaceful.
2. Some popular routes are Chalakudy-Valparai, Thrissur-Valparai, Nilambur-Masinagudi, Wayanad-Masinagudi, Munnar-Vattavada, and Attappadi-Kotagiri. These routes range from 40 to 150 km and usually take 1.5 to 4.5 hours to complete.
3. Many routes pass through state borders, such as Tamil Nadu, where an e-pass must be obtained in advance for entry to destinations like Valparai, Ooty, and Kotagiri. These e-passes are required for all travelers crossing into these regions. Riders will also encounter checkpoints with specific opening hours, where they must present their e-pass and provide details about their vehicle and themselves.
4. Be prepared for rough roads, many hairpin bends, remote areas, wildlife, and sudden weather changes along the way.
5. For safety, carry your vehicle documents, ride carefully, service your motorcycle before the trip, and bring extra fuel, snacks, water, and offline maps, as network coverage may be limited.

Best bike ride trip routes/destinations in Kerala

1. Chalakudy to Valparai: Bike ride trip routes/destinations in Kerala

The route from Chalakudy to Valparai is a paradise for photographers and a dream for nature lovers. Each bend in the road reveals a new and breathtaking view, from stunning waterfalls to lush rainforests and vast tea plantations. Get ready for an exhilarating journey full of natural beauty and a hint of excitement.

1. Distance: 112kms
2. Time: 3hrs and 36mins (approx)
3. Best time for the Bike Ride: November to February
4. Rooms in Valparai: – Checkout this link

Bike route map from Chalakudy to Valparai

Things to note in Chalakudy – Valparai route

1. E-pass mandatory to enter Valparai. Please checkout this website for more details
2. Some parts of this road might be narrow, dilapidated and winding. Be cautious while navigating these sections.
3. This route has an Athirappilly Check Post (Kerala-Tamil Nadu Border). This check post has opening hours as follows – Opening Time: 6:00AM – 7:00AM, Closing Time: 6:00PM
4. Make sure the checkpost is closed before planning your trip, and check whether two-wheelers are allowed.
5. Obey what checkpost officials say. Note your details in the register book before leaving the checkpost.

2. Thrissur to Valparai (Via Kollengode – Anamalai route)

Driving from Valparai to Kollengode offers a picturesque journey through Tamil Nadu & Kerala. You can enjoy stunning views of tea plantations and waterfalls, or opt for a route surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking panoramas. This drive provides a rejuvenating getaway and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

1. Distance: 146kms
2. Time: 3hrs and 52mins (approx)
3. Best time for the Bike Ride: November to February 
4. Rooms in Valparai: – Checkout this link 

Bike trip route map from Thrissur in Kerala to Valparai

Things to note in Thrissur – Valparai route

1. E-pass mandatory to enter Valparai. Please checkout this website for more details
2. The route takes you via SH 78, known for its scenic beauty, including hills and tea plantations.
3. This route has an Anamalai Tiger Reserve entry checkpost. This checkpoint operates during the following hours.
   Opening Time: 7:00 AM, Closing Time: 6:00 PM
4. There are restrictions for taking single-use plastics into the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. So keep this in mind.
5. Make sure the checkpost is closed before planning your trip, and check whether two-wheelers are allowed.
6. Obey what checkpost officials say. Note your details in the register book before leaving the checkpost.
7. There are around 40 hairpin curves from Pollachi to Valparai, a breathtaking ride experience.
8. Be careful while riding on narrow roads with hairpin curves. Use horns, defensive riding, and hairpin mirrors.

3. Nilambur to Masinagudi: Bike ride trip routes/destinations in Kerala

Travelling from Nilambur to Masinagudi takes you on a captivating adventure through the landscapes of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Explore the aromatic spice plantations and lush paddy fields in Nilambur, then venture into the wildlife-filled forests of Mudumalai National Park. This journey offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant and diverse natural beauty of southern India.

1. Distance: 72kms
2. Time: 2hrs and 18mins (approx)
3. Best time for the Bike Ride: November to February 
4. Rooms in Masinagudi: – Checkout this link

Bike route map from Nilambur to Masinagudi

Things to note in Nilambur – Masinagudi route

1. The route takes you via Gudalur, known for its scenic beauty, including hills and curves.
2. This route has a Mudumalai Tiger Reserve Forest Check Post. This check post has opening hours as follows – Opening Time: 6:00AM, Closing Time: 8:30PM
3. Make sure the checkpost is closed before planning your trip, and check whether two-wheelers are allowed.
4. Obey what checkpost officials say. Note your details in the register book before leaving the checkpost.
5. There are a few hairpin curves from the Nilambur – Masinagudi route, a breathtaking ride experience.
6. Be careful while riding on narrow roads with hairpin curves. Use horns, defensive riding, and hairpin mirrors.

4. Wayanad to Masinagudi

The journey from Wayanad to Masinagudi is a truly enriching experience, revealing the stunning landscapes of three South Indian states. It’s a road trip combining lush green hills, rich cultural diversity, and the excitement of a possible wildlife sighting in Bandipur National Park.

1. Distance: 108km
2. Time: 2hrs 58mins (approx)
3. Best time for the Bike Ride: November to February 
4. Rooms in Masinagudi: – Checkout this link 

Bike trip route map from Wayanad in Kerala to Masinagudi

Things to note in Wayanad – Masinagudi route

1. The route takes you via Muthanga, known for its forests and plantations.
2. This route has a Moolehole and Bandipur Check posts. Both check posts have opening hours as follows – Opening Time: 6:00 AM, Closing Time: 9:00 PM
3. Make sure the checkpost is closed before planning your trip, and check whether two-wheelers are allowed.
4. Obey what checkpost officials say. Note your details in the register book before leaving the checkpost

5. Munnar to Vattavada

Experience a picturesque journey from Munnar to Vattavada, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Western Ghats. Watch as the lush tea plantations give way to colourful vegetable fields, showcasing the diverse landscape of this region. Embrace the cool mountain air as you travel through this scenic route.

1. Distance: 43.6km
2. Time: 1hr 38mins (approx)
3. Best time for the Bike Ride: November to February 
4. Rooms in Vattavada: – Checkout this link 

Bike route map from Munnar to Vattavada

Things to note in Munnar – Vattavada route

1. The route takes you via a scenic route with rolling hills, tea plantations, and stunning views.
2. This route has a forest check post, Pampadum Chola. This check post has opening hours as follows: Opening Time: 6:00 AM, Closing Time: 6:00 PM
3. Make sure the checkpost is closed before planning your trip, and check whether two-wheelers are allowed.
4. In Vattavada, you can expect a colder climate than in Munnar. So prepare your trip with this in mind.
5. Obey what checkpost officials say. Note your details in the register book before leaving the checkpost.

6. Wayanad to Coorg

The road from Wayanad to Coorg offers a breathtaking sight for those who appreciate nature. The gradual shift from Wayanad’s aromatic spice and coffee farms to Coorg’s renowned coffee plantations is remarkable. The vibrant green landscapes, picturesque waterfalls, and chance encounters with wildlife make this trip memorable.

1. Distance: 43.6km
2. Time: 1hr 38mins (approx)
3. Best time for the Bike Ride: November to February 
4. Rooms in Coorg: – Checkout this link 

Bike trip route map from Wayanad in Kerala to Coorg

Things to note in Wayanad – Coorg route

1. The route takes you via the Tholpatty—Kutta—Coorg road, a scenic route with rolling hills, a chance to spot wildlife and stunning views.
2. You might encounter check posts along the route, especially at the Kerala-Karnataka border.
3. Officials at the checkpost may check your vehicle documents, and it is recommended that you provide valid proof of identification.

7. Iritty to Coorg

Exploring the Iritty to Coorg route is an enchanting experience as you travel through the landscapes of two unique states. From the lush rubber plantations and fertile paddy fields of Kerala to the dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and the picturesque coffee plantations of Coorg in Karnataka, this journey offers a stunning contrast to nature’s beauty. Take in the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and witness the varied agricultural traditions of the area along the way.

1. Distance: 72.3km
2. Time: 1hr 58mins (approx)
3. Best time for the Bike Ride: November to February 
4. Rooms in Coorg: – Checkout this link 

Bike route map from Iritty to Coorg

Things to note in the Iritty – Coorg route

1. The route takes you via the Thalassery—Mysore road, a scenic route with rolling hills, a chance to spot wildlife and stunning views.
2. The route passes through Perambadi churam, which contains many hairpins and steep curves. Drive safely and slowly.
3. This route has two checkposts, one at Iritty and the other at Makkuta. Both are open 24 hours.
4. Officials at the checkpost may check your vehicle documents, and it is recommended that you provide valid proof of identification.

8. Munnar to Kollengode

The route from Munnar to Marayoor, Chinnar, and Kollengode is a gem for showcasing nature’s beauty. Get ready to be spellbound by the variety of landscapes along the way, from the lush tea gardens in Munnar to the one-of-a-kind ecosystem of Chinnar. This trip offers a glimpse into the rich history of Kerala and an opportunity to witness the marvels of its diverse wildlife.

1. Distance: 72.3km
2. Time: 1hr 58min (approx)
3. Best time for the Bike Ride: November to February
4. Rooms in Chinnar: – Checkout this link

Bike route map from Munnar to Kollengode

Things to note in the Munnar – Kollengode route

1. The route takes you via the Munnar – Udumalpet road, a scenic route with rolling hills, a chance to spot wildlife and stunning views.
2. The route passes through the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can trek through a sprawling wildlife reserve with a diverse range of mammals, amphibians & plants.
3. This route has a Chinnar check post near the Chinnar trekking entry zone and a Chemmanampathy check post on the Kerala side on the way to Kollengode.
4. Officials at the checkpost may check your vehicle documents, and it is recommended that you provide valid proof of identification.

9. Kottayam to Vagamon

The road from Kottayam to Vagamon is a picturesque 63-kilometre route that links the town of Kottayam in Kerala to the charming hill station of Vagamon via Pala and Erattupetta. It is a delightful journey with stunning vistas of verdant hills, tea gardens, and serene valleys.

1. Distance: 63km
2. Time: 1hr 41mins (approx)
3. Best time for the Bike Ride: October to March
4. Rooms in Vagamon: – Checkout this link

Bike trip route map from Kottayam in Kerala to Vagamon

Things to note in the Kottayam – Vagamon route

1. The route takes you via the Erattupetta—Vagamon road, a scenic route with lush green hills, tea plantations, and valleys. Watch for these as you drive.
2. There are many beautiful spots and viewpoints along the way where you can capture many videos and photos. Be sure not to miss any.
3. The road is in good condition but could be narrow, with steep curves in certain areas. Drive carefully, especially during the rainy season, when landslides are a possibility.

10. Kumily to Munnar

The drive from Kumily to Suryanelli, through Ramakkalmedu and on to Munnar, is a real treat for nature lovers. Along this route, you’ll see the stunning variety of landscapes that Kerala has to offer – from the lush spice plantations in Kumily to the picturesque hills in Munnar, with a quick stop at the one-of-a-kind grasslands and viewpoints in Ramakkalmedu. Prepare for some jaw-dropping scenery changes to make this road trip one for the books.

1. Distance: 129km
2. Time: 4hr 30mins (approx)
3. Best time for the Bike Ride: October to March
4. Rooms in Munnar: – Checkout this link

Bike route map from Kumily to Munnar

Things to note in the Kumily – Munnar route

1. The route takes you via Kumily to Suryanelli, Ramakkalmedu, and Munnar. The route offers breathtaking views of lush green hills, tea plantations, cardamom hills, and valleys.
2. There are many beautiful spots and viewpoints along the way where you can capture many videos and photos. Be sure not to miss any.
3. The road is in good condition but could be narrow, with steep curves in certain areas. Drive carefully, especially during the rainy season, when landslides are a possibility.
4. Use your horn judiciously around corners and tight turns, as you can expect a vehicle to appear unexpectedly from the other side anytime.

11. Attappadi to Kotagiri

The usual bike route from Attappadi to Kotagiri goes through Attappadi, Mulli forest, Manjoor, and then Kotagiri. Along the way, you’ll ride through scenic woods and tea estates, especially in the Mulli and Manjoor areas. The roads are beautiful but can be challenging, with some tough stretches and hairpin bends near Mulli.
Many riders take the route from Attappadi through Mulli forest, then to Manjoor, and finally to Kotagiri. From Kotagiri, you can continue on to Ooty or Mettupalayam if you want. Some parts of the road near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border are rough, so use a low gear and ride carefully there.

1. Distance: 99kms
2. Time: 2hr 57mins (approx)
3. Best time for the Bike Ride: October to March
4. Rooms in Kotagiri: – Checkout this link

Bike route map from Attappadi to Kotagiri

Things to note in the Attappadi – Kotagiri route

1. Hairpin Bends and Steep Climbs: The stretch from Mulli to Manjoor has around 43 narrow hairpin bends. You’ll need good cornering skills and should be extra careful if the roads are wet or foggy.
2. Scenic but Isolated Terrain: The area between Mulli and Manjoor is remote and has few facilities. Make sure to carry spares, enough fuel, and keep your phone charged.
3. Wildlife: Elephants often cross the road in the forest areas, especially in the early morning and evening. Try to avoid riding at night and stay alert around dawn and dusk.
4. Check Posts and Permits: You’ll find check posts at Mulli. Always carry your vehicle documents and ID. The process can vary each time, so please be patient and polite.
5. Road Conditions: The road quality changes along the way. It’s smooth in towns but can get rough and narrow in between. Watch out for gravel, sharp bends, and traffic.
6. Weather: Mist and rain are common here, which can make the roads slippery. Check the forecast and be ready for rain.
7. Limited Amenities: Outside the main towns, there aren’t many places to stop. Fill up your fuel early and bring snacks and water with you.

What are the common things to note for motorcycle riders in Kerala?

1. Mobile networks are minimal on most scenic bike trip destinations, so download offline maps on your mobile device for a smooth journey.
2. Be aware of potential wildlife activity anywhere on the route, especially in the early morning and late evening, when animals seek water and food.
3. Pack for all weather conditions, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
4. Always carry your motorcycle’s registration papers, insurance documents, and a valid driver’s license.
5. Properly service and do necessary checks before the start of your journey. Repair shops and roadside assistance are very limited in hilly areas.
6. Also, try to have a full petrol tank as petrol pumps are minimal in hilly areas.
7. Use defensive riding techniques throughout the trip.

How can motorcycle riders obtain the e-pass for crossing into Tamil Nadu, and what is the process involved?

Motorcycle riders must obtain an e-pass from the official online portal before entering Tamil Nadu, particularly when visiting hill stations such as Valparai, Ooty, and Kodaikanal. This helps manage vehicle entry and reduce congestion.

Tamil Nadu E-pass Official website link: https://www.tnepass.tn.gov.in/home

Process to Obtain an E-Pass for Motorcycle Riders

1. Go to the Tamil Nadu ePass website (https://www.tnepass.tn.gov.in/home).
2. Choose if you are travelling from inside or outside India.
3. If you are from India, enter your mobile number and verify with an OTP. Foreign tourists use email for verification.
4. Pick your destination, like Ooty or Kodaikanal.
5. Fill in your details, travel dates, motorcycle info, and purpose. Upload necessary documents.
6. Read and accept the rules. Submit your application.
7. Get your e-pass instantly or soon after. Download or screenshot it for checkpoints.

Important Notes

1. The number of vehicles entering Nilgiris and Kodaikanal is limited by court order from April to June each year. E-passes are required.
2. Public transport, residents, and essential goods vehicles are exempt.
3. Electric vehicles may get preference for e-passes.
4. Apply at least 48 hours before travel for smoother processing.
5. Show your e-pass at entry points for verification.

By getting an e-pass online before your trip, you can enter Tamil Nadu’s restricted tourist areas legally and without hassle.

FAQ related to best bike ride trip routes/destinations in Kerala

1. What makes Kerala a popular destination for motorcycle trips?

Kerala is a paradise for motorcycle enthusiasts due to its winding roads, lush greenery, and breathtaking landscapes. The state’s diverse terrain, including hilly and coastal regions, offers a unique riding experience.

2. When is the best time to plan a motorcycle trip in Kerala?

The best time to visit Kerala on a motorcycle is from October to February. This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring hill stations and coastal areas.

3. What should I consider regarding road conditions and safety?

Kerala’s roads can be narrow and have occasional potholes, so it’s important to be cautious. It’s also advisable to check road conditions and be prepared for diverse terrains.

4. What cultural experiences can motorcyclists enjoy in Kerala?

Motorcyclists can explore Kerala’s rich cultural heritage by visiting temples, churches, and palaces. Additionally, traditional Ayurvedic massages and treatments are popular activities.

5. What are some must-visit attractions along the bike trip destinations in Kerala?

Must-visit attractions include the backwaters of Alleppey, the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, and the spice plantations in Thekkady. These sites offer a glimpse into Kerala’s natural beauty and cultural richness. 

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Conclusion

There are many more best & top bike trip, tour routes & destinations in Kerala. Our team will update you about these bike ride routes in Kerala soon in this same article. As you explore these bike routes, follow defensive riding practices throughout the trip while riding. Let me describe all the best & top bike trips, tour routes & destinations in Kerala.

1. Chalakudy to Valparai
2. Thrissur to Valparai
3. Nilambur to Masinagudi
4. Wayanad to Masinagudi
5. Munnar to Vattavada
6. Wayanad to Coorg
7. Iritty to Coorg
8. Munnar to Kollengode
9. Kottayam to Vagamon
10. Kumily to Munnar
11. Attappadi to Kotagiri

If you have any other questions or queries, email us at bikeleague2017@gmail.com. You can also share your doubts or opinions in the comments section below. We are always eager to help and assist you. Additionally, there are several social media platforms associated with Bikeleague India that may raise your suspicions.