Mekkarai to Achankovil to Konni: Heavenly Motorcycling Route through Pristine Forest

This motorcycling route is one of my top motorcycling holiday destinations in India. Now, why do I say that? It is offbeat and consists of a narrow highway that passes through dense jungles. You can come across many wild animals on this route. In fact, it is a common occurrence to see wild elephants standing in the middle of the road here. This route has steep hairpin bends, criss-crosses a meandering river, has many waterfall and river pit stops where you can bathe, enjoy and relax and it is home to some of the most pristine forest in this region.



The route begins at Mekkarai in Tamil Nadu and goes till Achankovil, about 16 kms away. This short route is for the people who wish for some civilization, decent roads and a safety road. However, for those who do not mind poor road conditions and love adventure, the route begins at Mekkarai and heads all the way to Konni covering a distance of 80 kms. This entire route is part of Konni reserve forest, which connects Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, Agasthyamalai biosphere reserve and Shendurney wildlife sanctuary with Ranni forest and Periyar tiger reserve. It is one of India’s largest contiguous forests and some of the best preserved tracts of jungle in the Western Ghats.



The typical route would be:

Mekkarai in Tamil Nadu –> Kerala Forest Check Post –> Manalar Falls –> Kambhavurutty Falls –> Achankovil Saastha Temple –> Chempanaruvi Temple and Falls –> Kalleli Bridge –> Kalleli –> Konni

When you are starting at Mekkarai, you will leave the plains with the paddy field views below and start to rapidly ascend into dense forest. A few hairpin bends will bring you to the Kerala forest check post and from there, the route gets denser and more beautiful. You will ascend initially and then rapidly descend. You will keeping crossing many some jungle streams and water bodies while getting fleeting glimpses of the vast and dense jungle in the yonder. Usually such far away views are rare as the road has dense green cover on both its sides. It is this dense cover that makes this route very difficult to navigate if wild animals happen to be around and therein lies the challenge and adventure.



Once you have completed your descent, you will come across Manalar waterfall, a stunning jungle waterfall with a natural swimming pool. You can park your vehicle here, get yourself the entry ticket and trek a short distance to reach the waterfall. This waterfall has multiple levels and you can choose to climb it, enjoy a refreshing dip and head back to your vehicle. Once you have crossed the Manalar falls parking lot, you will keep crisscrossing the Achankovil river all the way till Konni. The river is not fairly deep, but it can carry a fair amount of water during the rainy season. The next stop is Kambhavurutty falls, another gorgeous forest waterfall that falls from a much higher location and is located deeper in the forest from the main road. You can choose to take another refreshing dip here, before heading to Achankovil Dharma Saastha temple and see the lord’s blessings. Here, Lord Ayyappa is in a happy avatar and it seems like he is enjoying his stay in this pristine forest. When I was traveling this route, even I felt peaceful inside in this unsullied jungle.

Further west from Achankovil lies the Chempanaruvi falls. This waterfall is a bit far away from the main road, but the detour is totally worth it. The road beyond Chempanaruvi temple is in poor condition and you will hardly see any people or vehicles here. There is a very high chance to spot wild animals here. It is best to ride/drive slowly with a keen lookout for animals. This stretch is also the most raw and wild. You continue to cross the meandering Achankovil river at many places before reaching Kalleli bridge and Orekkar waterfall, which is a short deviation away. Once you cross the Njavanal forest check post, you can either take a detour to Chelikkuzhu waterfalls or head straight to Konni city. At Konni, do remember to visit the Konni Eco tourism elephant shelter and museum.



This route is one of my favourites in the Western Ghats owing to its pristine nature, dense forest cover, wildlife sightings and due to its offbeat nature. The roads are narrow here and it offer the perfect route for a jungle motorcycling experience coupled with scenic pit stops, waterfall and river stops, a temple and so much more. It is one of South Kerala’s hidden gems and one that I would recommend to all nature loving motorcyclists.



Timings:

This forest route is open from sunrise to sunset. However, the forest department might allow some vehicles to pass through. If you happen to travel in the early hours of the morning, in the late hours of the evening or during heavy rain or dense mist, be on the lookout for wild animals, especially elephants, as they might be standing next to the road or on the road. If you get to know that elephants have been sighted on the route, travel in a convoy with larger vehicles like jeeps, vans or buses.



Best season to visit:

This route looks the best during the rains when the waterfalls are in full flow, the rivers are in spate and the surroundings are dressed in fresh green. However, monsoon season can also bring along floods, landslides and road closures. One needs to plan for that.

The winter months from December through February are also magical as this is when there is the added cover of mist during the early morning hours and the late evening hours. This adds a whole new dimension to the route.

This forest route is open all year round. Summers can get quite warm and sticky, but it is also the best time to spot wildlife as all wild animals are attracted to the rapidly shrinking water bodies.



How to reach there:

If you are traveling from Konni, take the forest route to reach Achankovil. The road is narrow and in poor condition.

If you are traveling from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam or Punalur, take the road via Punalur –> Vettithitta –> Karavoor –> Cherukadavu check dam –> Chempanaruvi Falls –> Achankovil

If you are traveling from Thenmala, take the road via Ottakal –> Edamon –> Valacode –> Cherukadavu check dam –> Chempanaruvi Falls –> Achankovil

If you are traveling from Shenkotta, Tenkasi or Tirunelveli direction, take the road to Elathur –> Mekkarai –> Manalar Falls –> Kambhavurutty Falls –> Achankovil



Where to stay:

There are simple guest houses and hotels at Achankovil and these happen to be the best in terms of proximity. For decent hotels, head to Tenkasi.

If you prefer staying amidst nature, try the resorts in and around Courtrallam, the accommodation inside Thenmala Eco Zone (Kerala) or the forest accommodation inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.

For luxurious options, head to Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu or Kollam/Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.



Where to eat:

The nearest place to eat would be Achankovil. Here, you can find basic food options next to the temple. The temple also serves delicious vegetarian meals from time to time. For more diverse options, Tenkasi would be your nearest hub. Shenkottai and Aryankavu would also be decent hubs for meals in case you are traveling from either direction.



Other nearby tourist attractions:

1) Kutralam: The herbal bath holiday destination of Tamil Nadu

2) Sunderapandiapuram: Of lovely Brahmin agraharam houses, sunflower fields, windmills and mountain views

3) Puliyarai view point: Scenic pit stop on the Tenkasi – Kerala highway

4) Sivasailam Temple: 1000 year old temple surrounded by the lush mountains of the Western Ghats

5) Sivasailam: One of the wettest places during the North East monsoon in India

6) 13th century Kasi Visvanathar temple at Tenkasi

7) Mekkarai: One of the prettiest villages of Tamil Nadu

8) Manalar Falls: The gorgeous forest waterfall perfect for a family getaway



9) Kumbhavurutty Falls: Pristine jungle waterfall in the middle of dense forest

10) Thenmala forest: Offbeat nature and wildlife getaway

11) Vintage Pathimoonu Kannara Bridge: Colonial charm of the Indian Railways

12) Punalur Suspension Bridge: Historical gem of Kerala

13) Lesser known Kerala Mountain Railways: Treat for nature lovers

14) Achankovil Saastha Temple: That happy Lord Ayyappa in the middle of pristine jungle

15) Palaruvi Falls: Kerala’s herbal waterfall that drops like milk from the sky

16) Thenmala Dam: A monsoon pit stop view

17) Aryankavu Saastha Temple: Ancient temple located in the sacred forests of the Western Ghats



18) Rosemala: Spectacular view point of the Thenmala reservoir

19) Kudrevetty: The gorgeous windy station of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

20) Manimuthar Falls: The herbal waterfall inside a tiger reserve

21) Agastyar Falls: A gorgeous waterfall on the Thamirabharani river

22) Manjolai: The offbeat hill station of Tamil Nadu

23) Nalumukku: The wettest place of India during the North East monsoon

24) Kakkachi: The highest point inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

25) Scenic Iron Bridge of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve: Pristine nature overloaded

26) Karaiyar Dam: Offbeat wildlife and nature holiday destination in India’s deep south



27) Cycling through the backyards of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

28) Mannarkoil Rajagopalaswamy Temple: Magnificent 10th century temple with an ashtanga vimana

29) 10th century Brahmadesam Kailasanathar Temple: Lesser known architectural marvel of South India

30) 1000 year old Papanasanathar Temple: Where you can wash all your sins away

31) Kallidaikurichi: The village of the saaral season

32 Iruttu Kadai Halwa: Icon of Tirunelveli

33) Nellaiappar Temple: A 7th century cosmic dance wonder

34) Pattamadai Pai: GI Tagged beautiful handwoven mats from a tiny Tamil Nadu village

35) Thamirabharani river delta: A motorcycle route full of rustic gorgeousness



36) 10th century Valiswara temple at Thiruvaliswaram10th century Valiswara temple at Thiruvaliswaram: Hidden Chola gem in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu

37) Tiruchendur Murugan Temple: Sea shore magic

38) Kallidaikurichi to Manimuthar Dam: A top scenic and rustic cycling route

39) Garuda Sevai from the agraharams of Kallidaikurichi

40) Festival of Thiruvathirai from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

41) The festival of Karthigai Deepam from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

42) The exotic tropical fruits of Puliyarai

43) Kallidaikurichi Adi Varaha Temple Chariot Festival: Grand cultural spectacle in rural Tamil Nadu

44) Kallidaikurichi Anaicut: Gorgeous picnic spot nestled in the lap of nature

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10 Top Motorcycling Routes in the World

The joy of feeling the wind on your face, smelling the air, watching mother nature’s scenery go by while feeling your motorcycle engine roar below you is something that can be related by every single motorcycling afficionado around the world. It doesn’t matter whether you are a teenager riding his first motorcycle, someone going through their mid-life crisis or if you are an elderly pro who loves being on two wheels, each one will connect with this motorcycling love.

Such love can be felt while exploring these 10 top motorcycling routes across the world. Not only are some of these the most adventurous routes in the world, some of them happen to be the most scenic too. All you need to do is get your motorcycle in top condition, obtain an international driving permit, pack all your motorcycling travel gear and be ready to hit the road.

1) Ladakh, India



Home to some of the world’s highest motorable roads, the mountain roads of Ladakh in India’s Western Himalayas is for the die hard adventure enthusiast. Rarefied mountain air, stunning mountain panoramas, tough weather, gorgeous culture and lush valleys, the Himalayan roads of Ladakh has everything that a cold high altitude desert can offer and more. These roads are the mecca for all motorcyclists from across the world as they are home to some of the highest motorable passes in the world. Serene looking high altitude mountain lakes, 2nd highest astronomical observatory in the world, rich Buddhist culture are the icing on the cake. Below are some of the high mountain passes that you can visit in this region:

a) Khardung La – 18,380 feet – one of the most popular motorcycling routes in India

b) Marsimik La – 18,314 feet

c) Photi La – 18,124 feet

d) Kaksang La – 17,842 feet

e) Chang La – 17,586 feet

f) Tanglang La - 17,481 feet

g) Wari La – 17,216 feet

h) Umling La – 19,302 feet – getting a permit to ride on this road is tough due to its strategic location and proximity to the line of actual control between India and China.

2) Pacific Coast Highway, USA



The legendary Pacific coast highway covering over 900 kilometres of California’s rugged and beautiful coastlines takes you all the way from San Francisco to San Diego near the Mexico border. It is one of the world’s most astoundingly scenic roads and is meant to be explored slowly, while gasping at the mountains, towering trees, surfing villages, expansive beaches, local wine, Hollywood glitz and endless sky. Starting in San Francisco, the Pacific Coast highway takes you through:

a) Felton – a drowsy mountain town nestled among Redwood trees

b) Santa Cruz – a friendly beach town with a university, gorgeous redwood trees and waves that surfers from all over flock to ride

c) Big Sur – rugged mountains blanketed with dreamy redwood forests that drop into dramatic coastline

d) Cambria – a charming seaside village home to rocky shorelines, bluffs and tide pools teeming with sea life

e) Morro Bay – a small city by a large bay and estuary that is home to a diverse range of fauna including blue herons, monarch butterflies, hummingbirds and sea otters

f) San Luis Obispo – a mellow college town that is famous for its nearby wineries and lighthouse

g) Solvang – mini Denmark that is home to many Danish bakeries

h) Los Olivos – rustic charming town that is surrounded by expansive wineries

i) Santa Barbara – a city where beachy casual meets glitz

j) Los Angeles – home to Hollywood glamour, hipster cool, Disneyland and old fashioned food markets

k) San Diego – a border city famous for its Mexican food, surfing spots, a military outpost and a world famous zoo

3) Amalfi Coast, Italy



Originally built by the Romans, the intense 70 kilometre Amalfi coast road is cut into sheer rock face. On one side is the beautiful blue sea crashing beneath and on the other side is the massive rock face that you find yourself clinging to. Connecting the towns of Sorrento and Salerno, the Amalfi coast highway snakes and winds through endless hairpins and up and over steep hills. The famed Amalfi coast is exactly as you have always pictured: rugged coastline dotted with seaside towns whose classic, balconied buildings overlook the turquoise Tyrrhenian sea. The highlights of this route include:

a) Riding past vineyards that dot the countryside

b) Riserva Statale Valle delle Ferriere – a protected area with several waterfalls and lush plant life

c) Church of Santa Maria Assunta – offers views of opulent villas along the coast that hug the steep mountainside above a petite, sandy beach

d) Duomo Ravello – historic cathedral in Ravello with shops, lodging and dining nearby

e) Impossibly photogenic coast between Minori and Vietri Sul Mare

f) Lattari Mountain National Park – a great ecotourism site that offers some of the most stunning views in all of Italy

g) Fjord of Furore – special place fo artisans

h) Amalfi Cathedral – gorgeous 9th century building bearing the crypt of St Andrew

i) Sirenuse – a cluster of small islands off the coast, fulfilling all your idyllic beach dreams

j) Cetara – small fishing village located between the sea and lush green hills and that is home to affordable stay options and great dining avenues

4) Ceuta to Marrakesh Loop, Morocco



This 2,570 kilometre long exotic route offers an adventure of a lifetime. It takes you through a series of ancient citadels, souks, tall mountains and oodles of vibrant desert culture. The route starts in Ceuta (a Spanish island city on the north coast of Africa), passes through the Rif Mountains through Fez and then through the Atlas mountains to Erfoud and the mighty Sahara desert. From here, you pass through the Todra gorge to the palm groves of Ouarzazate and finally the city of Marrakesh where you get to experience the real flavour of old Morocco. From here, it is a short ride through the Tizi n’Test pass down to the Atlantic coast at Agadir, from where you can visit Casablanca and then Tangiers before returning to Ceuta.

Overall, it is a stunning desert ride where you can enjoy oodles of off roading, twisties and wide open roads, while experiencing the rich desert cultures of Morocco.

5) The Great Ocean Road, Australia



This is an Australian National Heritage listed 240 kilometre stretch of road along the South Eastern coast of Australia. The Great Ocean Road traverses rainforests, beaches, cliffs, natural limestone and sandstone rock formations to give you an experience of one of nature’s best spectacles. This motorcycle route starts at Torquay and travels westward to finish at Allansford near Warrnambool. Following are the highlights of the Great Ocean Road:

a) Surf coast – gorgeous coastline between Torquay and Cape Otway

b) Shipwreck coast – stunning coastline between Cape Otway and Port Fairy that is home to the famous limestone formations called the Twelve Apostles and that provides views of the Bass strait and the Southern ocean.

c) Anglesea – surfing town renowned for its eastern grey kangaroos, Coogoorah Park and the Angair wildflower festival

d) Lorne – seaside town on the Great Ocean Road popular for family bathing, surfing and fishing. It is known for its Falls Festival, 1.2 km Pier to Pub swim, the Great Otway National park, Otway Ranges National park and the Lorne Pier.

e) Apollo Bay – coastal town on the Great Ocean Road that plays host to the annual Apollo Bay seafood festival, Winter Wild and the Great Ocean Road Running festival. Southern right whales and humpback whales are spotted off the coast from winter through spring.

f) Port Campbell – coastal town on the Great Ocean Road that is famous for the following natural limestone and sandstone rock formations located in the Port Campbell National Park and around: Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, London Arch and the Twelve Apostles.

6) Kathmandu, Nepal to Lhasa, Tibet



This 1,250 kilometre ride will take you to the rooftop of the world while offering some surreal views of the Eastern Himalayas. The ride begins in Nepal’s capital city of Kathmandu and goes to Lhasa in Tibet while crossing scenic Tibetan landscapes, nomadic villages, snow capped mountains, pristine blue lakes, ancient Buddhist monasteries, historical cities and some of the highest mountain passes in the world. The motorcycling route would be:

a) Kathmandu to Shyabrubesi (125 kms and Elevation of 1,140 m) – Long journey through the remote areas of Langtang National Park

b) Shyabrubesi to Kerung (42 kms and elevation of 2,750 m) – Border crossing into Tibet and acclimatization day

c) Kerung to Tingri (244 kms and elevation of 4,300 m) – Ride to the highest plateau in the world and enjoy breath taking panoramas of Himalayan ranges: Mt Cho Oyu (8201 m), My Xishapagma (8012 m) and Mt Everest (8848 m)

d) Tingri to Xegar (185 kms and elevation of 3900 m) – Ride through the beautiful Tibetan countryside, explore Ronbuk monastery – the highest Buddhist monastery in the world and enjoy the day at Everest Base Camp

e) Xegar to Shigatse (244 kms and elevation of 3900 m) – Cross high altitude snow covered mountain passes and beautiful panoramas to arrive at Shigatse, the second largest Tibetan city

f) Shigatse to Gyantse (95 kms and elevation of 3950 m) – Head to Gyantse while visiting Tashilumpu monastery, Kumbum stupa and Phalkor monastery

g) Gyantse to Lhasa (261 km and elevation of 3650 m) – Full day picturesque drive crossing over Karola (5010 m), Kambala (4749 m) , colourful Yamdrok Tso lake and the Tibetan lifeline Brahmaputra or Yarlung Tsangpo river

7) Namibia, Southern Africa



Namibia is a jewel of Southern Africa. The vast expanses of Namib and Kalahari deserts offer remote solitude that is perfect for off-road adventure travel that includes national parks, impossibly tall dunes, rugged canyons, lush rivers, spectacular coastline, savannah, desert and much more. With the highest dunes in the world located in the legendary Namib desert, the infamous Skeleton coast and the wildlife-rich Etosha National Park, there’s something for everyone in Namibia. Following are the best motorcycle routes in Namibia:

a) Kaokoveld to Skeleton coast: Opuwo –> Palmwag –> Bergsig –> Cape Cross –> Swakopmund: 674 kms, good gravel roads

b) Around the Brandberg: About 220 km, all unpaved, very sandy in the Ugab river

c) Bosua Pass: Windhoek –> C28 –> Swakopmund: 322 km, all unpaved, but good gravel roads

d) The D707: Betta – Junction C 27/D707 – D707 to end/junction with C13: ~150 km, all unpaved, initially gravel, then sand

e) C13 along the Orange river: Rosh Pinah –> Sendering Drif –> C13 to Aubenkehr: 105 km, all unpaved, but good gravel road

8) Pamir Mountains, Tajikistan



The legendary Pamir mountains sit amidst the Hindu Kush, Karakoram, Himalayas and the Tian Shan mountain ranges, all whispering to and luring adventurers for thousands of years. The ancient Pamir highway runs between Termez in Uzbekistan and Kara Balta in Kyrgyzstan. The majority of the road however runs through the highlands of Tajikistan, cutting through the Pamir mountains. This gorgeous ride clocks in over 2000 km and climbs to a height of above 15000 feet at Ak-Baital pass. The entire route is one of the higher motorable routes in the world and hence altitude sickness is quite common. It is part of the ancient silk road and is rich in history, adventure and danger. 80% of the roads are paved and about 20% are gravel. The people of Tajikistan are very hospitable and will always help the tourist (musafir) even in the remotest or corners in Tajikistan.

The Pamir highway route is as follows: Dushanbe –> Qal’ai Khumb –> Khorog –> Bibi Fatima Hot Springs (Yamchun) –> Murgab –> Ak Baital Pass (4655 m) –> Khorog –> Qal’ai Khumb –> Dushanbe

9) North East India to Vietnam



A few years back, the Indian government opened the India-Myanmar border for overland travel. This opened the possibility of a lush forest motorcycling route spanning 5,200 kms and 5 countries. Starting in Siliguri in the Northern part of West Bengal, this route meanders through the dense jungles and tropical forests of North East India before entering Myanmar at Moreh. In Myanmar, the roads are mostly dirt tracks or gravel roads with wooden and metal bridges till you reach Mandalay. From Mandalay, you cut across Inle lake and into the mountainous province of Myanmar and Mae Hong Son in Thailand before you reach Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand. From here, you follow the Mekong river and head towards Luang Prabang in Laos. Then, you head further north into the mountainous region of Laos before you enter the Sapa region of Vietnam. From Sapa, you travel east to Hanoi and then kiss the coast to travel south all the way to the capital city of Ho Chi Minh city. This entire route is a lush tropical paradise. Except for parts of the India-Myanmar border, most roads are paved or in the worst case are good quality gravel roads. You criss cross mountains, rivers, forests and cities to explore this gorgeous part of the world.

Route map: Siliguri, India –> Moreh, India –> Mandalay, Myanmar –> Chiang Rai, Thailand –> Luang Prabang, Laos –> Hanoi, Vietnam –> Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

10) El Camino de la Muerte, Bolivia



Last, but not the least in this list is the world’s most dangerous road. Known as the ‘Death Road’, this 69 km winding road stretch connects the world’s highest administrative capital of La Paz in Bolivia to the small Amazonian rainforest town of Coroico. The journey begins at 12,000 feet high Laz Paz with its mix of indigenous and modern cultures. The winding route with a single lane ascends to La Cumbre pass (about 15,000 feet high) in the Andean mountain only to dip back down into the Amazon rainforest over the course of 65 kilometres. The road weaves back and forth as it descends, and the thick forest below tends to obscure the steep drop below. The road is a mix of paved, dusty to loosened rock. Extreme weather is the think to stay aware of. At the top, you might face blinding fog and bone chilling weather, while in the rainforest, you can face high humidity and/or pouring rain. The sheer diversity and extreme route makes it a special motorcycling route of the world.

Photo Courtesy: Some of the photographs in this article have been borrowed from wikipedia.org under the creative commons license. Each photograph has been linked to its host page on wikipedia.org.

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Top Tips for a Memorable Motorbike Road Trip Across India

India, with its diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich history, is a motorcyclist's dream destination. Embarking on a motorbike road trip across this vast and enchanting country is an experience like no other. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of Goa, and the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene backwaters of Kerala, India offers a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and flavours waiting to be explored. To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable journey, we've compiled a list of top tips for your motorbike road trip across India.

Plan Your Route Carefully



With countless destinations to choose from, planning your route is essential. Research the places you wish to visit and create a flexible itinerary that allows you to savour the diversity of each region. Take into account the distance between destinations, road conditions, and available accommodations.

Choose the Right Time to Travel



India's climate can vary greatly depending on the region and the time of year. Avoid extreme weather conditions and monsoon season, as heavy rains can make roads treacherous. The ideal time for a motorbike road trip in most parts of India is during the winter and early spring months (October to March).

Pack Light and Wisely



On a motorbike, storage space is limited, so pack only the essentials. Prioritise comfortable riding gear, weather-appropriate clothing, a first aid kit, basic tools, and any required documentation. Roll-up storage bags are a great option to maximise space on your bike.

Be Prepared for Diverse Road Conditions



India's roads range from smooth highways to challenging mountain passes and rugged terrains. Be prepared for varying road conditions, unexpected potholes, and chaotic traffic in urban areas. Ride at a moderate speed, especially on unfamiliar roads.

Ensure Your Motorcycle is Roadworthy



Before embarking on your journey, give your motorcycle a thorough check-up. Ensure all mechanical components are in good working condition, including brakes, tires, lights, and engine. A well-maintained bike will ensure a smoother and safer trip.

Observe Traffic Rules and Local Customs



Indian traffic can be chaotic, with a unique set of unwritten rules. Be patient, stay alert, and adapt to the local driving style. Respect local customs and traditions, and always seek permission before taking photos of people or religious sites.

Stay Hydrated and Mindful of Food Choices



India's cuisine is diverse and enticing, but it's essential to be cautious about what you eat and drink. Stick to bottled water and avoid consuming street food from unhygienic stalls. Staying hydrated is crucial, so carry water with you at all times.

Embrace the Beauty of the Journey



India is a land of stunning landscapes and captivating sights. Take frequent breaks to soak in the beauty of your surroundings and interact with the locals. Engaging with people from different backgrounds will enrich your journey and offer unforgettable experiences.

Get the Right Insurance Cover



Before hitting the road, ensure you have the appropriate motorcycle insurance coverage. Compare motorcycle insurance options online for a simple and convenient way to find the best policy that suits your needs and provides the necessary protection during your road trip.

Document Your Adventure



Capture the memories of your motorbike road trip across India through photographs and journaling. Documenting your journey will not only help preserve the experiences but also provide a way to share your adventures with friends and family back home.

Safety First



Above all, prioritise safety throughout your trip. Always wear proper riding gear, including a helmet, gloves, and protective clothing. Avoid riding at night in remote areas, and be cautious of wildlife on the roads, especially in national parks and reserves.

Embrace Spontaneity



While planning is essential, leave room for spontaneity. Some of the most remarkable experiences often come from unplanned detours and unexpected encounters along the way. Be open to new adventures and go with the flow.

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The Green Motorcycle Ride: A Photo Story

Late August and early September, I embarked on a 10 day monsoon motorcycle ride through the Western Ghats of India. I had gone on a couple of day rides to lesser known Hoysala temples after the lockdown, but this was my first long trip since 22nd March. And boy was I happy!

Monsoons happen to be my favorite season of the year. I love the rains, the freshness in the air, the lush green views, the richness of ecosystem and most important of all, I love getting wet. And what better place to enjoy the monsoons than the Western Ghats.

My 2000 kms motorcycle ride took me to the following places in the Western Ghats of Karnataka over 10 days. There was a lot of walking, trekking, getting wet, eating traditional foods and sleeping to petrichor in between all the motorcycle rides.

1) Sirsi – Yellapur region: Unchalli Falls, Magod Falls, Sathodi Falls, Bilihole Falls, Sonda Vadiraj Mutt

2) Kumta region: Devimane Ghat, Mirjan Fort

3) Karavali coast: Maravanthe Beach, Kota, Kallu Ganapati Temple, Mekkekattu Nandikeshwara Temple

4) Hulikal – Mastikatte region: Hulikal Ghat, Hulikal Falls, Talasi Abbi Falls, Kavaledurga Fort

5) Bisle – Sakleshpur region: Bisle Ghat, Bisle forest view point, Kukke Subramanya temple, Athihally

A few close friends gave me company for the first 4 days, but the remaining 6 days, I rode alone.

I had a ball on this trip and visited some gorgeous places with surreal experiences. This article aims to share my 10 day monsoon motorcycle ride with you as a photo story. Hope you enjoy the greens as much as I enjoyed it.

Above photo: The beautiful view point at Bisle state forest, one of the untouched stretches of forests between Coorg, Malnad and Dakshina Kannada.



Above photo: This was the view that greeted me after climbing up the 5 level Kavaledurga Fort, built in the 9th century by the Nayakas of Keladi. The uphill climb was tough, but the view was totally worth it.



Above photo: Located between Mastikatte and Teerthahalli is Talasi Abbi falls, a hidden tropical beauty in the middle of pristine nature. A short trek makes you sweat just enough to enjoy the water even more.



Above photo: Hulikal falls is a tall waterfall that is located right next to the beautiful Hulikal ghat highway and makes for a fantastic pit stop while riding on this ghat highway.



Above photo: Bisle Ghat is one of the most scenic ghat roads in Karnataka and the best part about it is that there is hardly any heavy vehicular traffic, making for a relaxing monsoon ride where you can be one with mother nature.



Above photo: Mirjan fort is a 16th century fort that is located between Kumta and Gokarna. During the monsoons, moss and other plants take over this fort and change it from a boring brown to a vibrant green colour.



Above photo: Maravanthe beach where the highway, the river and the Arabian Sea all co-exist in one view. It is one of the most famous pit stops for all highway riders.



Above photo: This is how the Devimane ghat looks early in the morning. It is a scenic pit stop on the Sirsi-Kumta ghat highway.



Above photo: One of Karnataka’s wettest places, the Hulikal ghat is a treat to the senses during the rains. It is home to many waterfalls, forests and wildlife.



Above photo: One of Karnataka’s most magnificent waterfalls, the Magod Falls on the river Bedti is a sight to behold during the monsoons. The triple bend on the river, the floating mist and the dense green forests make for a captivating sight.



Above photo: Located between Sirsi and Yellapur is the serene Vadiraj mutt near Sonda. Temples, rustic atmosphere, and oodles of scenery greet you here. This is a Digambar temple near the mutt.



Above photo: This waterfall resembling the trunk of Ganesha is located deep inside the untouched forests of the Kali Tiger Reserve. This is how Bilihole falls looks from the Jajjigudde village. A short trek through plantations and forests bring you to this cliff edge view point.



Above photo: Another monsoon gem, the Aghanashini river plummets 361 feet to form the Unchalli falls. A steep downhill trek and the heavy waterfall spray at the view point make this an amazing monsoon holiday destination.



Above photo: This was my pit stop location on the way back from Unchalli falls where we stopped for a much needed bite as we were all hungry. Don’t you think it is the perfect place to chomp on local snacks while admiring the beauty around?



Above photo: This narrow road is the Bisle ghat highway. Every hundred meters or so, there are mini waterfalls, stream crossings, hairpins, C, curves, S curves and more. And all around you are forests. It is like riding inside a blanket of green. It happens to be one of my favorite ghat roads in India.

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