Wanted to go on a road trip in India, but were left wondering how as petrol prices are normally crazy and roads just too bad?
Hire a cycle! That way, you help the environment, get loads of exercise and also manage to be part of a thrilling adventure!
1. Leh and Ladakh
Primarily considered the motor biker’s paradise, Leh and Ladakh can be a blessing for cyclists too. The rides are not for the weak-hearted, mind you. The curving lanes, the scenes, the crisp mountain air and the heavenly scenery just adds to the thrill. There are many agencies who offer different cycling tours for cycling enthusiasts and if you haven’t explored Leh-Ladakh on a cycle, you’ve seriously missed out on something in life!
2. Hampi and Badami ruins
The little village of Hampi is one of the best places to explore on your bike. The ruins are an archaeological site that are simply mesmerising and provide narrow lanes and by-lanes to traverse. The kutcha roads, village-like feel and the ruins in the backdrop call for a ride that will take your breath away. Literally.
3. Rann of Kutch
Riding across a flat barren and dried up desert land might not exactly sound appealing but the sights the desert has to offer are unparalleled by anything else. The ride is challenging as the barren soil can test the skill and patience of even a seasoned rider. There are really no roads to follow and you create your own. Beware of the wildlife there though. A perfect cycle tour for the adventure lover.
4. Shimla to Manali
A very touristy place, the passes of Manali can be extremely challenging for your cycle. The sights and the snow will make you never want to stop riding! All the while, the curling Beas river will play alongside making you want to rush and dip your feet in the cold, clear water. It is an amazing, amazing ride. Just gear up and set off!
5. Jaisalmer
Another desert to cross but this one is very different from the Rann of Kutch. While Kutch offers slightly hardened sand, biking through Jaisalmer will mostly be over actual sand and sand dunes. Don’t forget the rich Rajasthani culture, the palaces and the food! The heat, the sandy roads, the rich culture and camel tete-a-tetes make a great setting for a bicycle ride.
6. Arunachal Pradesh
Not just Arunachal Pradesh but all of North East India is a delight for riders. Being the North Eastern-most state, Arunachal Pradesh is often an entry spot into Bhutan. Being so distant from the rest of India, Arunachal Pradesh has its own charm and a unique culture. You’ll be stopping more to absorb the scenes around you, than riding, we bet you! Also, the rides will be at high altitudes and in the cold, so there’s no feeling better than feeling the wind whistle past.
7. Munnar
Situated in South India, this beautiful hill station is ethereal. With mountain slopes converted into tea-gardens and abundant greenery, the hill station is a salve to the eyes. And for bike tours, this forms the perfect place as it does offer some adventure with lots of sight-seeing options. In fact, you can even try your hand at picking tea-leaves and brewing your own chai!
8. Uttaranchal
From the valley of flowers to the holy abode of Lord Shiva, Uttaranchal boasts of some of the most beautiful sights India has to offer. The state cannot be divided into regions as each and every part has so much on offer for a cycling enthusiast. One of the most testing trips, Uttaranchal is a cyclist’s dream.
9. Sikkim
Another beauty in North East India, Sikkim competes with Munnar when it comes to tea-train sights. However, with the national parks and abundant lifestyle, the two trails are as different as fire and water. Pack your bags and go on a cycling trip in Sikkim with lots of exquisite cuisine and nature to comfort you.
10. Western coastline from Maharashtra to Goa
This can be one of the most arduous journeys at times while at others, it can be simply leisurely. The cycling trip along the Western Ghats is a mixed bag with each goodie better than the previous one. The serene coast-line, virgin beaches, delicious local cuisine and twisty roads… What more can any cyclist ask for?
11. Maikal Hills
Located in Chhatisgarh, Maikal Hills offer amazing sights and adventure for mountain bike lovers. Filled with natural beauty and challenging tracks, the bike ride is thrilling. A part of central India, Chhatisgarh has a varied landscape to offer from hills to flat plateaus and you can stretch your ride to include even other tourist locations.
