Goa Cycling Challenge

Tour Overview

The Konkan region situated in the western coast of peninsular India is a narrow stretch of land spanning almost a thousand kilometres from Bombay in the state of Maharashtra to Mangalore in Karnataka. Geographically it is cut off from the rest of the nation by the Sahyadri range also known as the Western Ghats in the East. On the west is the Arabian Sea. The close proximity of the hills to the coast makes for a green tropical paradise with unending stretches of pristine beaches. The People of the Konkan are close to their fishing roots and one can find innumerable fishing villages dotting the coast. The other main occupation of the people is Mango Farming. The Peculiar terrain mainly made up of laterite makes this region famous for its ‘Alphonso’ Mangoes. Laterite is the main construction material of the region; one can see numerous Forts dotting the hills and even the sea made of Laterite blocks. The Marathas have undoubtedly the most inaccessible forts in the sub-continent. The forts of Janjira,Vijaydurg and Devgad are prime examples of the Marathas architectural brilliance.

Goa Cycling Challenge

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Day 1: Arrive Mumbai: Upon arrival, we will transfer to Lonavala, a scenic hill station in Pune district, Maharashtra. Lonavala offers a variety of attractions including old temples, forts, peaks, and valley viewpoints. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the local sights.
Day 2: Dapoli: After breakfast, we will transfer to Dapoli, a journey of approximately 220 km that should take around 5 hours. In the evening, we will have a cycle fitting session, which will take about 2 hours.
Day 3: Dapoli to Chiplun: Our first day of cycling is the shortest of the challenge, covering approximately 58 km. The route takes us through diverse terrain including dense evergreen forests, farmland, and mango orchards.
Day 4: Chiplun to Ganapatipule: This day features some of the best coastal cycling of the entire challenge. From Guhagar onwards, we ride mostly along the sea, passing lonely beaches, neat coves, fishing villages, island forts, temples, and markets. We will also experience our first ferry crossing at Jaigad. Despite the scenic beauty, the route is undulating and challenging.
Day 5: Ganapatipule to Mithgavane: As we depart from Ratnagiri, we will cross the Gautami River at Puranagad and head towards our camp on a small hill, just half a kilometer from the seashore, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. The route passes through paddy fields, coconut, and beetle nut groves, all thriving on the region's characteristic laterite soil. We will stay overnight in cottage tents at an organic farm.
Day 6: Mithgavane to Devbag: Today is the longest day of the challenge. We will cycle through the temple town of Kunkeshwar and the coastal towns of Mithbav and Munage. After lunch, we continue to our resort at Devbag, where we can rest on one of the most beautiful beaches in Malvan, with picturesque ocean views right at our doorstep.
Day 7: Devbag to Goa: This is our last day cycling in Maharashtra. We start early, riding along the undulating coast past the beaches of Vengurla until we reach the Terekhol River, the border between Maharashtra and Goa.
Day 8: Free Day at Goa: Enjoy a free day in Goa to explore at your leisure. In the evening, we will regroup for a special meal and share our experiences from the challenge.
Day 9: Depart: After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure. Your Konkan Coastal Cycling Challenge ends here. Safe travels!