Cycling Yogis Launch 14th Annual Republic Day Heritage Ride Along Cauvery River
Cycling Yogis, a Chennai-based collective renowned for merging long-distance cycling with heritage exploration, commenced its three-day Cauvery river trail on Saturday. This event marks the 14th edition of the group's annual Republic Day heritage ride, which has become a cherished tradition in the cycling community.
A Non-Competitive Journey Through Tamil Nadu's Cultural Heartland
The Republic Day heritage ride is designed as a non-competitive leisure tour that highlights the rich cultural and natural landscapes of the regions it traverses. Based in Trichy for the 2026 edition, the ride has attracted approximately 40 cyclists from diverse professional backgrounds, including doctors and lawyers, who share a passion for cycling and heritage.
Exploring the Cradle of Tamil Civilisation
Covering a distance of around 225 kilometers, the ride meticulously traces historical spots in the Cauvery delta, often celebrated as the cradle of Tamil civilisation. The route offers a captivating blend of riverside scenery, significant irrigation landmarks, and sacred places of worship, reflecting centuries of engineering prowess, deep-rooted faith, and human settlement along the river's banks.
Detailed Itinerary of the Three-Day Adventure
On the inaugural day, Saturday, the cyclists visited the rock-cut Swastik well at Tiruvellarai, followed by a spiritual stop at the renowned Srirangam temple. Sunday's journey took them through the picturesque rural hinterland, where they explored the Poondi Matha Basilica, the Koviladi (Appakudathan) temple, and the historic Kallanai, also known as the Grand Anicut, before returning to Trichy. The final leg on Monday will include a visit to the Mukkombu (Upper Anaicut) dam, completing the immersive experience.
Cycling Yogis: A Legacy of Heritage and Exploration
Founded in 2012, Cycling Yogis has established itself as a pioneer in curating heritage cycling tours across Tamil Nadu. Beyond organizing rides, the collective has published insightful books on the history of Madras, hosted vintage bicycle exhibitions, and led Indian cyclists on international heritage trails to countries such as Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. Their efforts continue to promote a unique blend of fitness, culture, and historical awareness through cycling.
