Classic South India Tour2024-01-04T20:13:47+00:00

Classic South India and Goa Motorcycle Tours

Are you ready for an unforgettable 13-day motorcycle adventure through the tropical landscapes of South India? Hop on a legendary Royal Enfield and join us on a journey that brings you closer to the breathtaking beauty and fascinating culture of this region. Get excited about winding country roads and picturesque mountain routes as you enjoy the freedom of riding. South India will captivate you with its warm-hearted people, fascinating customs, and cultures. Immerse yourself in the distinctive flavors, lush tropical jungles, and unmistakable sound of the Enfield. Our carefully selected route guarantees a diverse experience that takes you deep into the heart of India. Indulge in exotic specialties like diverse curries and fresh seafood, and unwind with a cold drink and an impressive sea view after an eventful day.

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Our journey begins in Goa, the former Portuguese colony, which offers a perfect tropical beach atmosphere with its colonial flair, endless sandy beaches, beach shacks, and exhilarating music. After getting to know each other and a warming up ride, we follow the coast and ascend to the Deccan Plateau. Discover a piece of South Indian history by visiting magnificent temples and World Heritage sites from the 6th century. Be enchanted by the mystical Hindu cave temples in the medieval pilgrimage town of Badami and experience the magical 1,000 temple ruins of the abandoned Hindu metropolis Hampi. Our journey takes us deeper into the Western Ghats, where we explore winding roads through dense jungle and discover wild animals and untouched nature. In the Dandeli National Park, we encounter raging rivers for white-water rafting and rainforest explorations.

On the coast at Gokarna, we visit the sacred temple city and immerse ourselves in the vibrant life of colorful bazaars where modern and medieval India meet. Breathtaking sunsets at stunning locations create unforgettable moments. Before returning to Goa, we follow the rushing Kali River to waterfalls and the Ganeshgudi Wildlife Park. Here, we get up close to fascinating wildlife on a safari. To conclude this tropical adventure, there’s plenty of time to relax on Goa’s beautiful white sandy beaches. Join us on this captivating journey through an exotic world, with a diverse and professionally designed program that leaves no highlight unexplored and takes you into an unforgettable, exotic realm.

AT A GLANCE

AT A GLANCE

17.11. – 29.11.2024
Enfield Bullet 500: 2.790€
Enfield Himalayan 411: 2.790€
Pillion 2.290€
Single Room +490€

RE Himalayan only on request, please specify.

13 days / 12 nights / 10 riding days / 1550km
Overnight stays at beach resorts and handpicked mid-range hotels
02.02. – 14.02.2025
16.11. – 28.11.2025
Enfield Bullet 500: 2.790€
Enfield Himalayan 411: 2.790€
Pillion 2.290€
Single Room +490€

RE Himalayan only on request, please specify.

13 days / 12 nights / 10 riding days / 1550km
Overnight stays at beach resorts and handpicked mid-range hotels

South India Motorcycle Tours – Highlights

  • The idyllic beaches of Benaulim and Agondain South Goa with 3 nights stay in beach resorts
  • UNESCO World Heritage sites and temples of Pattadakal, Mahakuta & Banashankri
  • Exploration day in the ruins of Hampi, the last Hindu kingdom
  • Jungle excursion in Dandeli Wildlife Park, with rafting or swimming in the Kali River
  • Winding mountain regions of the Western Ghats, natural spectacle and home to wild animals
  • The pilgrimage city of Gokarna with temples and bazaars
  • The magical caves of Badami and the breathtaking sunset
  • The tropical Goan hinterland and its quiet country roads
  • Pristine nature and biodiversity in Ganeshgudi
  • Visit to a crocodile farm and an elephant outpost in the jungle
  • Journey through the protected area of Mollem National Park
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The Classic Goa and South India Bike Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Paradise

Individual airport transfer to Goa to the idyllic beach hotel at Benaulim beach. Here you can expect miles of white beaches and a perfect introduction to the tour for all those who are travelling to India for the first time or have been there several times. Once you arrive at the beach resort, you will get to know the guide and crew during a joint “Welcome Dinner” after some relaxation. The breathtaking sunset on the beach invites you to enjoy a cool beer.

Benaulim beach, Goa
On the road in South Goa

Day 2: “Warming Up Ride” in South Goa

After breakfast, you will get the keys to your Royal Enfield and an introduction to the motorcycles and Indian road traffic. We head off on our first riding day tour towards southeast Goa, into the mountainous hinterland, until we reach Netravali Wildlife Park. The Netravali area is a main attraction for nature lovers in India, as it is home to a rich and diverse wildlife, such as the black panther. After this discovery, we will immerse ourselves in the world of India’s famous spices on one of the renowned Spice Farms. On our way back to Benaulim, and if time permits, we will visit the viewpoint Cabo de Rama, an old Portugese Fort overlooking the bay. In the evening, we let ourselves be pampered by the sea, beach,  and good local food.

Distance covered: approx. 130 km, Benaulim

Day 3: Over the Deccan Plateau to Belgaum

We ride through Goa on narrow, mostly quiet country roads to the Deccan landscape – a huge plateau that covers the majority of South India and is surrounded by three mountain ranges spanning eight Indian states. We pass by rushing rivers, waterfalls, lush rainforests and rugged landscapes into the old trading town of Belgaum at the foot of the Sahyadri Mountains, where we will spend the night.

Distance covered: approx. 150 km

On the road to Malvan
Roadside shop near the Goa Belgaum border

Day 4: The Cave Temples of Badami

A special highlight awaits us today! We ride on small country roads through the fertile farmland of Karnataka to the sacred cave temples of Badami. Badami was once the capital of the early Chalukya dynasty and was founded in 540 AD. Here we will be able to observe a special spectacle in the hour before sunset, as the rocky region around this magical place is embraced by the sun and shimmers in golden colors. If time allows, we will not only visit Badami’s ancient temple complex, but also optionally the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of South India – Pattadakal, Mahakuta and Banashankri! These impressive temple sites include several Hindu and Jain temples as well as Buddhist caves. They are important cult sites for Hindus and date from the 6th or 7th century AD. There’s a lot to discover! Part of the visit program can also take place the next day.

Distance covered: approx. 150 km

Day 5: Hampi, the Last Hindu Kingdom

On small country roads, we head to the rock region around the old capital of Hampi – the last Hindu kingdom. This famous World Heritage site will impress us, because the magical ruins of this city are spread over 26 km² amidst giant rock blocks and green shrubs. Remnants of palaces and gates tell a mysterious story. In the evening, we hike in time for sunset to Matunga Hill, the famous monkey temple. Here we will enjoy a breathtaking view of this enchanted city.

Distance covered: approx. 160 km

The cave temples of Badami
On the way to UNESO world culture heritage in South India

Day 6: Exotic India: Temples & Bazaars

Our discovery tour continues! Today we take the whole day to explore the temples, the old bazaar, and the palace ruins. We dive into a mysterious world and not only get to know the fascinating history of India, but also the people behind it. We will experience the exotic life and exciting culture of India up close. In the evening, we relax with a cool beer by the pool, before a long drive awaits us the next day.

Distance covered: approx. 50 km

Day 7: Elephant Blues in Shivamogga

Our discovery tour continues! From Hampi, we continue towards Davanagere, also known as the “Manchester of Karnataka”. It’s the perfect place to explore the Western Ghats and try the most famous dish of this region: the authentic “Benne Dose”. The road takes us through the fertile plains of the Tungabhadra River, and we drive along banana, coconut and betelnut plantations, and green rice fields to Shivamogga.

Our destination, Shivamogga, is a small town on the Tunga River where we can once again experience the authentic lifestyle of South India. Here we discover the Sakrebyle Elephant Camp hidden in the pristine jungle and can interact closely with these majestic elephants. We spend the night in the jungle camp.

Distance covered: approx. 250 km

rocky region around Hampi
Old bazaar at Hampi

Day 8: Sharavati Wildlife Sanctuary

Today we drive even deeper into the Western Ghats, right through the Sharavati Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Our destination will certainly provide a welcome cool-down from the heat of the ride as we can dip into the pristine water of the Sharavati Lake. After lunch, the watersports station offers various activities, as well as a boat trip to the dam.

Distance covered: approx. 130 km

Day 9: Glide along the Coast

After a hearty breakfast, we visit the famous Jog waterfalls, the second highest waterfall in India. The mist rising from the falling water creates a fascinating atmosphere, which will surely offer a welcome change from the heat of the ride. Subsequently, we have a 150 km ride along the coast from Sharavati to Gokarna. We drive through the Sharavati Wildlife and Tiger National Park on the most beautiful roads in South India. The landscape is breathtaking with coconut palms and fishing villages with their thatched roofs lining the coast. We also visit the Yana caves, a surreal rock formation made of karst limestone, mysteriously nestled in a glorious green environment. Our destination is the pilgrimage town of Gokarna. It is famous for its iconic Shiva temple and also has beautiful beaches where you can relax at the end of the day. However, we will spend more time exploring the ancient city of Gokarna and discovering its heritage.

Distance covered: approx. 150 km

Bridge on Kali river
View of Kali river

Day 10: Rumble in the Jungle

Our morning walk takes us to the holy temple complex of Gokarna, which includes one of the oldest and most revered temples in India. This temple site is believed to house the original image of Lord Shiva’s Lingam (an abstract representation of the deity Shiva). Today’s journey takes us even deeper through the jungle of the Western Ghats. We follow the raging Kali River to the picturesque village of Ganeshgudi in the Dandeli Wildlife Park. Ganeshgudi is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and is a must for any adventurer and explorer! We can look forward to the next morning, as the morning view of this place is simply stunning when the mist rises from the Kali River and creates a magical backdrop.

Distance covered: approx. 190 km

Day 11: Pure Adventure and Nature Experience

Welcome to Ganeshgudi, a place known for its lush biodiversity and untouched nature. Here, motorcyclists and adventure seekers can experience a unique opportunity to witness the flora and fauna of the Western Ghats in all their glory. We start the day with a guided hike into the jungle to experience India’s wild wildlife up close – from elephants to panthers and jackals to cobras and crocodiles. For a cool-down, we have the opportunity to conquer the wild Kali River by river rafting or simply swimming. Optional and not included in the price. In the afternoon, we head to the crocodile farm and the elephant base in the jungle, optionally by motorcycle or jeep.

Distance covered: approx. 70 km

Agonda Beach, Goa

Day 12: Goa Calling

Today we head back to South Goa, past the breathtaking beauty of the Western Ghats and through the protected area of the Mollem National Park, which lies on the border between Goa and Karnataka. Along the way, we visit the spectacular Dudhsagar Falls, a multi-tier waterfall high above the Mandovi River. From the falls, we traverse the familiar terrain of Goa to then reach our destination on the beach of Agonda. Once there, we can relax in the sun, sea, and sand, and end the day in a paradise atmosphere. We end this magnificent and unforgettable motorcycle tour through South India with a final joint dinner with traditional Indian dishes and a beer while watching a fantastic sunset on the beach.

Distance covered: approx. 150 km, Agonda

Day 13: Return Home or Stay Longer

Today, it’s time to say goodbye to South India and the unforgettable travel experiences. Individual transfer to the airport.

If you can’t get enough of the Goan lifestyle, why don’t you extend your trip? Discover the market in Margo, visit the Royal Enfield flagship store and Portuguese villas, or simply enjoy beach life. Other sights include the Basílica of Bom Jesus with the tomb of the holy Francisco de Xavier, the monastery of St. Francis of Assisi, and the adjoining monastery church of the Holy Spirit, and the church of St. Cajetan (modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome).

Palolem beach, Goa

Don’t Miss Out On a Wonderful Experience

Book your Tour Now – Classic South India Motorcycle Tour

We can accommodate only 14 motorbikes on this tour.

Since our tours get filled up fast, please book our Classic Goa and South India Motorcycle Tour now to avoid disappointment.

Our Next available tours are as follows:

2024
17.11. – 29.11.

2025
02.02. – 14.02.
16.11. – 28.11.

Book Now

Included Services

  • 12 nights in mid-range hotels and guesthouses
  • Experienced English-speaking motorcycle tour guide during the tour
  • Support vehicle for luggage and passengers
  • Guaranteed seat in the support vehicle for passengers
  • Breakfast, midday snacks, and dinner during the tour (excluding drinks)
  • Mineral water in the support vehicle
  • Royal Enfield motorcycle including gasoline & spare parts
  • Experienced motorcycle mechanic (and backup rider)
  • Entrance fees to sights during the joint program including safari
  • All airport transfers to/from Goa airport

Excluded services

  • International flight from to Goa, domestic flights (if any)
  • Drinks, except mineral water (in the support vehicle)
  • Optional tips, shopping and souvenirs
  • Indian tourist visa (about €65)
  • Travel cancellation insurance, travel health insurance
  • Rafting in Dandeli National Park

Question & Answers

What additional clothing should I pack?2019-12-18T06:25:01+00:00

Whatever you need for temperatures between 15° and 30°C, including swimwear.
Rugged clothing is advisable. Formal evening attire will definitely not be required.
A flashlight – ideally a headband-mounted one – can be very handy. A Leatherman tool or Swiss army knife can be useful. Sunglasses are absolutely essential. A personal drinking bottle is also a good idea.
You should keep medication (diarrhea and cold meds, vitamins, etc.) and other personal items (sun blocker, insect repellant) within reach.
Sun protection – including a hat and sunscreen (which is often unavailable or extremely expensive in our destination countries) and SPF 30+ lip balm against chapped lips – is a must-have.

Do I need a visa for India?2019-12-18T06:33:21+00:00

Visitors to India need a tourist visa, which you must obtain in advance.
Visas are not issued on arrival.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the period of your stay.
The e-Tourist Visa costs around 20 to 80 euros and you can apply for it online.
Important note: The terms for the e-Tourist Visa can be found here: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html
The visa application itself can be found here: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/info1.jsp

What do I need to bring along for a motorcycle tour?2020-01-06T11:30:46+00:00

You will definitely want to bring your riding suit with protectors and a helmet. You will also need motorcycle boots or lighter riding shoes and gloves. While your gear should be breathable in hot climates, you need to be ready for anything at high altitudes and in the Himalayas. We recommend winter gloves, warm socks, liners for jackets and trousers, a scarf and face protection. Rain gear is a good idea if your riding suit is not waterproof.
Please note that we do not hire out clothing. We believe that your own riding gear will fit best and thus give you the best protection. If you forget anything, we’ll find a solution, however. We often have spare gear with us, or we can point you in the direction of a shop.

Do I need travel insurance and travel health insurance?2019-12-18T06:24:21+00:00

We always recommend that you take out travel insurance to cover costs incurred if you need to cancel the trip due to illness or other reasons. When shopping for travel health insurance, make sure the policy covers the potentially high cost of medical evacuation to your home country. Both forms of insurance can save you a lot of money in an emergency and we recommend them unreservedly. In many countries, your national motoring organization can provide the coverage you need.

What should I keep in mind when riding with a passenger?2019-12-18T06:24:20+00:00

Riding two-up is almost always possible. In difficult terrain or on rough tracks, every passenger has a guaranteed seat in the support vehicle to keep things relaxed for both rider and pillion.

Do pillion passengers have a guaranteed seat in the support vehicle?2019-12-18T06:24:16+00:00

Yes, all passengers have a guaranteed seat. In bad weather or challenging riding conditions, they can switch to the support vehicle at any time – and back to the bike when conditions improve.

How big are the groups? What’s the minimum number of participants?2019-12-18T06:24:15+00:00

Groups generally consist of 8 to 14 riders and 2 to 6 passengers. The minimum number of participants is 6 riders.

What’s the Classic Bike Adventure travel team like?2022-04-14T10:41:11+00:00

Our European tour guides are skilled motorcyclists and inveterate travelers who love India. They’re resilient in the face of stress and know the history and culture of the regions they cover. Our Indian mechanics are experienced Enfield specialists who all speak English and are happy to help with any technical problem, great or small.
A stand-in rider is always available. More information on our travel concept is available here.

What kind of bikes will we ride?2019-12-18T06:24:12+00:00

We ride 500cc Royal Enfield Bullets manufactured from 2014 to 2017 that feature electric starters, 5-speed gearboxes with the gearshift on the left, front disk brakes, roomy and rugged leather saddlebags, crashbars, 19” tires and twin horns.

What do I need in the way of documents?2019-12-18T06:24:09+00:00

You will need your passport, national driving license, international driving license and flight ticket. Please be sure to make photocopies of all of your important travel documents and carry them separately. They can be invaluable in an emergency.

What are the import regulations for India?2019-12-18T06:32:08+00:00

Up to 200 cigarettes and 2 liters of alcohol may be imported duty-free. All international cigarette and spirits brands are available in India. Customs checks of arriving tourists have become considerably less strict in recent years.

Do I need a driving license?2019-12-18T06:24:05+00:00

All riders must have a valid motorcycle driving license issued in their home country. An international driving license is also required. Be sure to contact the relevant authorities in your home country well in advance for more information on obtaining an international driving license.

Will I need maps?2019-12-18T06:31:37+00:00

Simple street maps are often available locally. The best road maps are available from the German publishers Reise Know How and Nelles. These are only available in specialized bookstores or online.

Where can I stow my bags?2019-12-18T06:24:02+00:00

Your baggage will be carried by the support vehicle. Please don’t pack too much – remember: less is more. From time to time, we’ll have to carry our baggage over short distances to the hotel. Baggage is not insured, so please be sure to purchase your own baggage insurance for the trip if necessary. Your personal items for the day are best kept in the saddlebags or your daypack. Tank bags – including magnetic ones – can be used on the Enfields, but we don’t provide them.

Do I need to buy an Indian SIM card for my phone?2019-12-18T06:30:59+00:00

European SIM cards now work almost everywhere in India. You’ll need patience if you want a local SIM card, as the registration takes a minimum of three days, and in some regions it is not possible at all.

How much is the deposit for the bike?2019-12-18T06:24:00+00:00

Riders must make a deposit of USD/EUR 500.00 in cash for their bikes. The deposit will be refunded when the bike is returned in good condition. The deposit corresponds to the comprehensive insurance deductible for damage to the rented bike and damage or injuries to third parties caused by the rider.
(The deductible is payable in such cases!)

Important note: The deductible also applies to damage or injury to third parties. In practice, the rider is initially liable for the full damages. The costs are later refunded by the insurance company, minus the deductible.

What are the specs of the bikes?2019-12-18T06:23:59+00:00

Technical specifications: Single-cylinder four-stroke, 499 cc, 16 kW (28 bhp) at 4,600 rpm, 178 kg, 80 cm seat height, 123 kph max.

Our Enfields were manufactured from 2013 to 2017 and are well-maintained. Naturally, some of them bear the minor battle scars typical of touring motorcycles. Technically, they are all in top shape and perfectly suited to the planned tours. They’re tremendous fun to ride, and their handling is safe and predictable after a brief familiarization period. Our average speeds on the tour range from 40 to 60 kph, depending on the road conditions and traffic.

On which side do you ride in India?2022-04-14T10:40:16+00:00

Indians drive on the left. The flexible and generally considerate driving style of the locals makes it easy to adjust to riding on the “wrong side” and coping with traffic conditions that initially seem chaotic. The behavior of pedestrians and cyclists, and the frequent presence of animals on the road call for considerably more attention, however. Extreme caution is required around children.
Further information on traffic and riding can be found here and here.

What kind of food and drinks will we be having in India?2019-12-18T06:29:54+00:00

Western food is generally not available, so we’ll be having simple, often vegetarian meals as well as regional specialties throughout the tour. Hearty breakfasts will not always be available. We can promise you a wide range of cuisine, with a special emphasis on local specialties. In general, a lot of curry is served in India, and little meat – chicken being the most common non-vegetarian food – but plenty of vegetables, legumes and rice. Indian cuisine is generally well-spiced, easily digestible and not overly hot. Vegetarians will have no problems in India.
Indian beer is not always up to international standards. The most common brands are Kingfisher, Castle and San Miguel. The local Chang beer is quite effective but requires a bit of getting used to. Wine – when it’s available – is even more of an acquired taste than Chang. Mineral water and beverages such as Coca Cola can be purchased anywhere and must be carried individually.

Should I bring Indian rupees to India, or are US dollars preferable?2019-12-18T06:29:18+00:00

You are not allowed to bring Indian currency into the country or take it out. You may bring the equivalent of up to US$ 5,000 in foreign currency into the country without prior notice. We recommend bringing euros in €50 and €100 notes. Please make a note of the daily exchange rate to avoid getting a bad rate at the airport. American Express Traveler’s Cheques are no longer in common use and will cause unnecessary hassles. Credit cards (Maestro, Visa and MasterCard) with PINs can be used for cash advances from ATMs in many towns.
You will need the equivalent of around €100 to €150 for drinks, lunch and tips per week.

What’s a typical day on the road like?2019-12-18T06:22:49+00:00

A travel day normally begins at 8 am with breakfast. Around 9 am, after a short briefing by the road captain, it’s time for the day’s riding, the mileage of which can vary quite a bit. Plenty of time will be available for lunch and coffee breaks, of course. Depending on the day’s mileage, we’ll reach the destination hotel between 3 and 4 pm.
Since our tours vary considerably, we may also hit the road at 8 am on high-mileage days – which is also nice, because then we have the whole day ahead of us.

What’s the time difference?2019-12-18T06:28:18+00:00

Indian standard time is 5.5 hours ahead of GMT.

Tour Concept by RC Vinod

About RC Vinod