Mumbai Xpress
July 31- Aug 13, 2009
PLANNED ROUTE:
The Rickshaw challenge MUMBAI XPRESS- 2009 will follow an extensive route through the four states of India – Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra. With a dauntless army of fellow adventurers, you will follow a 13-stage course that will take you over 1900 kilometers (roughly 1180 miles). Your auto rickshaw will cut through hills, valleys and beaches, cruising thought the most exotic and scenic places in the whole Indian countryside.
Chennai
Chennai is the automobile capital of India - and aptly – as it is from here that with an exuberant start the challenge begins for an unrelenting journey through the west coast of India. Chennai is a perfect slice of timeless India: a kaleidoscope of moods, rich in the treasures of history, from temples and shrines to forts and palaces. The landscape of the past lives easily with the present… more>
Vellore
After accomplishing your day’s challenge, you will make it to Vellore. It is the Fort City of Tamil Nadu; Vellore has the blend of rich heritage and culture representing the ancient Dravidian civilization. Vellore is renowned for the famous Christian Medical College and Hospital which attract patients and research scholars from all corners of the world… more>
Bangalore
The tranquil and picturesque “Garden City of India” with its many gardens and boulevards is India’s silicon city. Bangalore is the most hip and happening city in India. It’s the capital of the Indian IT industry, and of course what is Bangalore without all its Pubs? This is a town that has well earned its nickname ‘Pub City’, with over 200 Pubs all over the place. Bangalore is also a popular venue for Western rock concerts… more>
Hassan
The tranquil town of Hassan is the oldest town of the Hoysala Empire. (This city was earlier named Simhasanapura and with time this name got abridged to Hassan). The Hoysalas brought world wide acclaim to the district through their unique style of architecture. Hassan has recently become a tourist destination on account of its proximity from Belur, Halebid and Sravanbelagola. It is a forest-clad, gently hilly region with a heavy rainfall. Hassan is also sometimes referred to as ‘a poor man’s Ooty’… more>
Mangalore
Mangalore is a city of vivid contrasts. On one hand you see narrow winding streets with cozy, red-roofed houses and on the other there are lofty coconut trees lining the beautiful beaches. Yakshagana, a spectacular night long dance-drama with richly clad dancers performing vibrantly to the beat of drums is unique to Karnataka, and attracts a lot of international visitors… more>
Bhatkal
Bhatkal is a picturesque beach. Bounded by the shimmering sea and rolling hills, this place is a favourite tourist spot and known for the gorgeous temple perched on a hillock by the shore. With the roaring sea to the west, the towering hills to the east and the coconut and areca groves nearby, the temple attracts a lot of devotees and tourists as well… more>
Panjim
The ‘paradise of India’! Panjim has beautiful beaches and always a good reason to party. You will have a day’s rest to revel in the stunning picturesque setting of the coast. Golden beaches, fairy tale mansions and churches, wonderful food, and of course, friendly people – this is a destination that has it all. With beautiful and scenic locations Panaji invites tourists from all over the world to explore its charm… more>
Malvan
The rocky terrain of Malvan holds two mighty forts: Sindhudurg and Padmagad. It is said that there was even an underground route joining them – maybe you can rediscover the lost passage! Formerly a trading zone, Malvan is today known for its salt pans, Chinese clay pottery and the special Malvani cuisine which is quite distinct from Konkan food. Roam on the seashore collecting shells while soaking in the delicious smells and sounds of the area. Or simply laze it out…listen to the sound of the Malvan waves… more>Ratnagiri
Sandwiched between the Arabian Sea in the west and the Sayhadri or the Western Ghats range to the east, Ratnagiri has great importance as a district head quarters and is famous for its delicious Alphanso mangoes. This place is blessed with some of the finest fruit trees in the world, and on every street corner and café you will be able to buy a variety of local preparations. Ratnagiri is an ideal hangout for both the history and leisure lovers… more>
Mahad
Mahad is famous for its scenic beauty and the splendid views of the valleys and the sea, which is quite breathtaking on clear days. If you have no head for heights, try a more modest vantage point with the pony rides through the lanes of Mahad. It also houses a splendid lake called Venna Lake where boat rides and fishing are an exhilarating experience. This also happens to be one of the wettest places on the planet, and receives more than 6m of rainfall during monsoon… more>
Alibagh
Alibagh is an idyllic town where you can rest your weary feet. It’s a small town with a beautiful beach and the green hills on the other side, free of pollution and noise. The rains, greenery, tourist attractions, peace and even a reliable signal for your cell phone makes Alibagh a very attractive monsoon getaway. Alibagh is famed for its fresh air, clean waters and pristine sands… more>
Mumbai
Ancient yet modern, fabulously rich yet achingly poor, Mumbai is India in microcosm. It is a commercial hub of an old civilization seeking to find its place in the New World Order. Here you will celebrate the end of a fabulous journey at a world class hotel. We will enjoy magnificent final party in the buzzing heart of India… more>

