11 Cycling Road Trips You Must Take In India

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.