'Tour of Thekkady' season 5 on March 14: Race through Kerala's postcard routes

Kerala's annual scenic Gran Fondo cycling race, 'Tour of Thekkady,' is back for the 5th season. The race, organised by the Kottayam KEG Bikers, will be held on March 14 this year, and the registrations are open till February 15. This year, for the first time, the event will be conducted in a timed category format. The event is also introducing 'winner's jerseys' for the winners of all categories. The event has a 145 km competitive race and a 160 km endurance tour. 

Three categories
'Tour of Thekkady' will be held in three categories for those aged 18 and above: Men-Elite, Men-Masters, and Women. The 145 km competitive race has an eight-hour cutoff time for men and a nine-hour cutoff for women. The cutoff time for the Men-Elite is 8 hours, and the Men-Masters and Women will get 9 hours. The 160 km endurance race has a leisurely 14-hour finish window. 

What the tour offers
Cyclists get to experience a Tour De France-style terrain, more than 3,000 metres of elevation and camaraderie from riders from across the country and outside, at the event. This year, the top six riders in all individual categories of 'Tour of Thekkady' will also be awarded entry into the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge 2027. "The organisers are also committed to providing an experiential treat to all the participants through unparalleled rider support services," says race director Philip Kuruvilla. The event will also award its first 'King and Queen of Calvary Mount' title for the quickest cyclists to climb the gruesome 8 km stretch to the Calvary Mount summit.

Timing, flag off, route, finishing points
'Tour of Thekkady' will be flagged off from Nagampadam in Kottayam around 5.30 am and will follow the route Kottayam - Ettumanoor - Pala - Neeloor - Muttam - Kulamavu - Cheruthoni - Kattappana - Puliyanmala - Anakkara - Thekkady. The finishing point of the race is near the gate of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. For details and for registration, visit the Tour of Thekkady website. 

What's in it for tourists?
A picturesque Kerala route awaits those who wish to sign up for the event solely to explore the state. Here are a few scenic highlights to watch out for and what they have to offer:
1) Kulamavu Dam and forest
The beautiful dam is around 75 km into the cycling race and is built on a tributary of the Periyar River, known as Kilivillithode. From the Killivali viewpoint, tourists can view its vast scenery, diverse bird species, and greenery. The Kulamavu Forest is also around the 85th km point of the route. 
2) Cheruthoni
This misty Idukki village, around the 103 km mark, is also home to Cheruthoni Dam. Its high-range charm and crisp air can charm any visitor.

3) Idukki Dam
Kulamavu, Cheruthoni and Idukki Dams together form the Idukki Hydel Project. Check out the Idukki dam around the 105 km mark of the route. Idukki is one of the highest arch dams in Asia. 
4) Calvary Mount
If you want to know the spot, along with trying to be the 'King or Queen of Calvary,' this hilltop viewpoint has quite a bit to offer. It's primarily a devotional site that also offers a scenic view of the surrounding valleys and high ranges. The spot, which is around the 116 km mark of the route, is at its stunning best during sunrise and sunset. 

5) Thekkady Reserve Forest
A part of the renowned Periyar Tiger Reserve, this dense forest and the boating along its lake are a major tourist attraction. The forest is home to elephants, leopards, guars, wild boar, lion-tailed macaque and more.
6)Tea and cardamom plantations
From about 132 km onwards, riders get to check out various spice plantations of the Idukki district. Visitors enjoy the earthy aroma, take short walks amid the shrubs, take photos, and learn a bit about the plants.