UPDATED October 21, 2026 BY Michael Coo IN Tea Route no comments More Than Just A Cuppa On The Tea RouteOn our Tea Route Cycling Adventure through southern India & Sri Lanka, the traditional TDA Global Cycling coke stops are often replaced by cuppa stops. During these breaks, the riders can sample the various types of tea available locally, like Nilgiri in the Indian states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu and Sri Lankas famous Ceylon varieties.The ride itself, however, is much more than just a chance to try out some of the local teas, it is an opportunity to visit some of the worlds most amazing sights, from ancient temples to stunning national parks. Here are a few highlights we suggest you pencil in to visit along the way.Fort CochinChinese fishing netsThe tour begins in Kochi, Kerala, a historic spice trading port that has been influenced by visiting Dutch, Portuguese and British merchants over the years. Riders should explore the older European area of Fort Cochin where they can wander past the iconic Chinese fishing nets, visit the 450 year old Pardesi Synagogue, marvel at the incredible array of spices on offer and then end the day with a performance of the traditional Kathakali dance which reenacts stories from the Hindu epics.Meenakshi Temple in MaduraiEven in a country like India, where gorgeous temples seem to be everywhere, Madurais Meenakshi Temple stands out. I remember visiting it for the first time way back in 1990 and being floored by the complexity and beauty of the structures. Over 2000 years old, it covers almost 6 hectares and has 14 colourful towers (gopurams) decorated with numerous gods and demons, heroes and mystics.Be sure to wear appropriate clothes the dress code is strictly enforced.Temples of MahabalipuramThe area around the town of Mahabalipuram is sprinkled with amazing temples, caves and rock carvings. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features the famous open-air rock relief, Arjunas Penance, which relates the story of the descent of the sacred Ganges River to earth from the heavens. In all there are about 40 monuments, most dating from the 7th and 8th centuries, that showcase the religion, culture and legends of the Hindu religious pantheon.Sacred City of AnuradhapuraOnce Sri Lankas capital city, Anuradhapura is the birthplace of the countrys Theravada Buddhism. When we were scouting the route I remember being awed by the emerging vision of its 3 towering domed dagobas (shrines) as we approached the city. It is also home to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sapling taken from the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Planted in 236 BC, it is widely accepted as the oldest human planted tree in the world.Lions Rock SigiryaIt is hard to explain how striking this UNESCO World Heritage Site actually is. The photos of it are stunning but nothing compares to seeing it close up and in person. This fortified palace was constructed in the 5th century BC and within the protective moats and defensive walls, there was a beautiful landscaped garden with pools and fountains. Riders with the energy to climb up to the top can stop at the Mirror Wall, where over the course of centuries, visitors left their thoughts etched into the rock face.Yala National ParkIf you are looking to see a leopard, Yala National Park might be your best bet. This area of forests, grasslands, lagoons and coastline has the highest density of these beautiful animals in the world. There is also an excellent chance to encounter an Asian elephant or a sloth bear. Birders will also rejoice as the park features over 200 species, including seven that are endemic to Sri Lanka (Sri Lanka grey hornbill, Sri Lanka jungle fowl, Sri Lanka wood pigeon, crimson-fronted barbet, black-capped bulbul, blue-tailed bee-eater and brown-capped babbler).RELATEDTOURTea Route Tea. It wasnt until the British arrived that this wild plant was turned into a commercial crop both in India and in Sri Lanka, creating those... Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "More Than Just A Cuppa On The Tea Route" Cancel reply