Malabar Rampage 2017: Photo Highlights (Part 1)

David — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 16:17:40 +0000

The Malabar Rampage 2017 has been a lot of fun so far, and we have the photos to prove it.

The Malabar Rampage 2017 has begun, and from the start it has been another excellent rickshaw challenge, with teams assembled from from all across the globe, and participants of all ages. Uniting them is journey of over 1000km, along a gorgeous stretch of coastline, visiting some of Southern India’s most fascinating sites. And, of course, they had to learn to drive, and stay alive in, rickshaws. Let’s let the participants own photos guide us through the first of challenge:

Firstly, Time to Relax

Before a long journey, it’s only right that teams had the chance to have a few beers and relax by the beach.

But Soon, Time to Get Serious

Participants had a lot to learn, but there are no better teachers than Princely and the Rickshaw Challenge gang.

And Suddenly: On the Road!

After a weekend of intense training, the teams hit the road. Departing Trivandrum, their first task was to head to Alleppey (Alapuzzha), the Venice of the East. On the second day driving, teams traveled North to Cochin (Kochi), the historic trading city.

Of Course, There were Fantastic Costumes

It’s not a Rickshaw Challenge without teams dressing up, and the Malabar Rampage 2017 has had plenty of that.

Everyone Made Friends With Locals

As ever, locals were keen to chat, take photos, or offer directions.

And There Was Time for Games Too

Is there a better way to make friends than sport? Not according to our teams. Whether it was a kickabout or some cricket, great fun was had.

Participants had to Make Traditional Chai Tea

It’s not just a race through India, there are challenges too. Teams had to learn how to make chai tea, and you can see, they had a fantastic time doing so!

And Get Friendly with Animals

India is blessed with incredible wildlife, so pariticpants were keen to get as close up as they could.

Learning to Fish the Indian Way

Kochi is famous for its ancient Chinese fishing nets, and on the teams got to give the old system a try. Whether they mastered it enough to help the locals is up for debate…

Breakdowns Occurred… But were Quickly Fixed

Rickshaws can be temperamental machines, as all the Malabar Rampage 2017 participants will have learned. However, there is always someone on hand to help, particularly the dedicated local crew with us on the challenge. As one of the participants put it, “Big Clap for these guys! They keep our Rickshaws safe by working until late at night! Nothing but love for them.”

Are you crazy enough to come along for the ride? Then join us on the next Rickshaw Challenge. Get a team together and let’s see you at the starting line! If you want to join us in spirit, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagramto keep up with our latest antics.

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The Cities of the Malabar Rampage

David — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 18:38:29 +0000

We take a look at the cities along the route of the Malabar Rampage.

The Malabar Rampage Rickshaw Challenge kicks off on 8th April, with a week of great weather, stunning scenery, and fascinating cities in store. As always with the Rickshaw Challenge it will be a mad week of exploration and entertainment. Through Kerala, Karnataka, and the Union Territory of Goa, this adventure will traverse a gorgeous and compelling part of India. Here’s a guide to the cities that the Malabar Rampage will visit.

Trivandrum

Photo by Manu Rocks

Trivandrum, officially named Thiruvananthapuram, is the start city for the Malabar Rampage Rickshaw Challenge. The capital of the beautiful state of Kerala, “God’s own country”, Trivandrum is a great introduction to South Indian city life. It has a great position, locked between hills and the ocean. Formerly a trading center, capitalizing on its position at the very South of the mainland, the city has a long history. While we won’t stay here long, there’s still plenty to see: the area is particularly famous for its beaches. Padmanabhaswamy Temple is essential to visit and the Kowdiar Palace, pictured above, is an impressive architectural feat. There is also a notable zoo, much British colonial architecture, and several interesting museums and galleries.

Alappuzah

Allappuzah, usually referred to as Alleppey, is known as the “Venice of the East“. This is the heart of Kerala’s famous backwaters, with myriad canals and many hundreds of houseboats. Allappuzah is a natural paradise, with palm-lined waterways, tranquil lakes, and gorgeous beaches. Glimpse authentic village life, where everything is done at a slower pace. This is the ideal place to relax after a hectic day on a rickshaw. Take a boat tour, visit one one of the many temples, or try the region’s famously spicy cuisine.

Kozhikode

Photo by Choosetocount

Kozhikode, usually referred to as Calicut, is the largest city of Northern Kerala. This is a city with a proud history: in ancient times it was known as “city of spices” for its role as a trading hub. It was ruled by several external powers, and it was here that Vasco de Gama landed in 1498, followed in subsequent decades by the English, French, and Dutch. It’s still a thriving trading city, and was recently ranked as the second best city in India in which to live. Part of Calicut’s appeal is it’s sensational location on the Indian ocean, with several beaches and a picturesque waterfront, pictured above. Not far out of town you can find several attractive waterfalls not far from town, and only a little further, the stunning Wayanad hills.

Mangalore

Mangalore (also known as Mangaluru) is another port city, with a long trading history. Trade is still important today, and its growing economy makes it one of the fastest developing cities in India, and increasingly cosmopolitan. This makes for a fascinating combination: the city is a mix of fast-paced business and relaxed coastal attitudes. It’s in the state of Karnataka, which covers much of Southern India and is regarded as having some of the best food of the sub-continent: be sure to try the seafood. Look out for coconut palms, chilled-out beaches, and fabulous temples.

Murudeshwara

Photo by Prashant Sahu

Mudureshwara is a pilgrimage town, and offers an insight into India’s religious life. It contains the world’s second largest statue of Shiva, pictured above, towering over the Arabian Sea. The statue is designed to glimmer in the sunlight. Right beside it is Mudureshwara Temple, with an impressive 20-story gopura. Authorities have installed a lift taking visitors to the top floor of the temple, offering a unique view of the Shiva statue. Once you come down, get to the shore: the sunsets here are unforgettable.

Panaji

Photo by Selmer van Alten

Panaji (or Panjim) is the capital of Goa, and well-preserved reminder of the Portuguese influence on India. Impressive white churches, baroque architecture, and an authentic old town make this unlike anywhere else on the continent. Wander around Fontainhas, the Latin quarter, with its cobbled streets, colorfully-painted houses, and old-fashioned taverns. Panaji’s rich history, vibrant culture, and relaxed atmosphere, make it a great place to spend a few days at the end of the rickshaw challenge. Better yet, some of Goa’s most impressive beaches are close by.

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