Remember when cycling wasn’t just an activity you did at the gym but a means of escape from school and extra lectures? Get your leave approved ASAP and grab this chance to relive your childhood days. Only this time, you won’t cycle to buy groceries but to actually explore the wilderness. Explore the unknown, go on scenic routes, and make cherished memories as you mount your ride and wander through terrains that are sometimes rocky, sometimes plain, but always worth it! To give you exactly that memory lane, let’s learn about 7 of the best places in India where you can go on a bicycle tour.
Scenic Cycling Destinations In India
1. Leh, Ladakh
Let’s start this adventure from the tip of India, Leh. Nestled amidst dramatic landscapes, Leh is a dreamy destination to be in. While the best way to explore the spiritual and rugged landscapes of Ladakh would be on foot, it’s recommended you select a ride and pedal your way through the city. Another advantage is that you can halt for however long you like to marvel at the ancient Buddhist monasteries, royal palaces, and shrines without worrying about being left behind.
If you’re a wanderer instead, the most scenic part perhaps would be the 64 km ride from Leh to Alchi, and the 45 km route to Hemis, flanked by the stunning Gompas at Thikse, Shey, and Stok. Not only can you soak the divine vibe on your trip, but you’ll even experience the thrill of the world’s highest motorable pass, Khardung La. Remember, however, that a cycle tour at a height of 3,500 m isn’t an easy one. This tour demands acclimatization, physical strength, and some serious determination so you can have a memorable adventure through Ladakh’s unique high-altitude paths.
Duration: 9 days
2. Manali to Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Are you a true soul cyclist you are if you haven’t peddled through the curvy terrains of the hills? If you want to experience an unmissable sunrise like the one you’d drawn on a canvas as a child (with the sun rising from between two mountains and birds flying high), you must partake in this specific tour from Manali to Spiti in Himachal Pradesh. Spiti is nestled at an elevation of 2,743 m above sea level which means the uphill climb to here is going to be as satisfying as challenging.
Begin your journey in Manali and cycle through stunning landscapes while exploring some unique attractions like Asia’s highest suspended bridge at Chicham, and the world’s highest motorable village, Komic. Capture the breathtaking views of the sun-kissed Kinner Kailash peaks and find peace at the 1000-year-old Key Monastery. Keep your camera ready for this picturesque and serene destination.
Route: Manali – Jibhi – Rampur – Chitkul – Kalpa – Kaza – Spiti Valley
Duration: 8-9 days
Also read: Best Cycling Clubs In Bangalore You Can Join If You Love Cycling
3. Munnar to Annamalai
Are mountains not your thing? Don’t fret, India has a lot more than snow-capped peaks. Densely populated with lush green forests, the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu are a paradise for flora lovers. Nature enthusiasts are in for a treat with an amazing chance to not only marvel at the greenery but also explore it like a true nomad. With the picturesque cycling route from Kerala to Tamil Nadu you’ll journey through emerald tea gardens, national parks, sandalwood forests, and ancient temples.
Serene hamlets along the way will ensure you’re well-fed and rested to cycle further. Wildlife enthusiasts should watch for monkeys, peacocks, elephants, wild boars, and various birds. Anaimalai is home to attractions like the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, Monkey Waterfall, and Aaliyar Dam Park. The Anaimalai Tiger Reserve, a popular Western Ghats vantage point, is a must-visit.
Route: Munnar – Gundumalai – Marayoor – Manupatti – Arasur – Anaimalai
Duration: 5-7 days
4. Mumbai to Goa
Ever wished you could just drop the corporate facade and escape the overwhelming deadlines? Well, if you’re a Mumbaikar, you’re in for a sweet treat with the nation’s party capital being just 12 hours away. To make the trip to Goa even more exciting and memorable, ditch your dil chahta hai moment hop onto a cycle instead, and peddle your way all along! Goa is 600 km from Mumbai and the route is flanked by the sea on one side and tall coconut groves on the other, making your ride as scenic as ever.
You can stop at Ganpatipule to offer prayers at the divine Ganesh temple here or at Anjarle for a quick rejuvenation. But no matter where you stop for a break, you’ll find lots of stores with local eateries and refreshments. Ensure your gear for the cycle is proper and you’re all set for one of the best trips that’s not only going to give you the corporate break you need but is going to revitalize the adventurer in you.
Route: Mumbai – Diveghar – Dapoli – Ganpatipule – Kunkeshwar – Vengurla – Goa
Duration: 7 days
Also Read: Best Cycling Groups In Mumbai To Join For A Fun Time
5. Shillong to Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
If you’re a cyclist, the Shillong to Cherrapunji route in North-East India should be on your list. Imagine cycling through the majestic mountains, stunning waterfalls, floating lakes, clear springs, quaint villages, beautiful monasteries, and lush flora. You’ll feel like you’re in a dream on this route that’s flanked by mountains on one side and valleys on the other, making it almost therapeutic. The terrain is hilly but don’t worry, the road is smooth and easy, without any sharp bends or steep climbs. Plus, the scenery is so gorgeous that you’ll want to stop often for some epic nature photography.
Once you reach Cherrapunji, you can explore amazing spots like NohKaLikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Rainbow Falls, and Arwah Cave. The viewpoints in Cherrapunji are perfect for spending some peaceful time surrounded by nature. This cycling route is truly a treat for anyone who loves the great outdoors!
Route: Shillong – Mawphlang – Mawsynram – Cherrapunji
Duration: 3–4 days
Also Read: 5 Of The Best Bicycling Trips To Take From Kolkata
6. Kochi to Alleppey, Kerala
One of the best cycling tours you can take is along Kerala’s stunning coastline. Pedaling from Kochi to Alleppey, you’ll be mesmerized by white sandy beaches, serene backwaters, charming villages, and lush farms. The route is perfect as the terrains are plain, and you’ll pass local temples, churches, swaying coconut trees, and fish farms. It’s a short and easy ride, ideal for all levels. If you get hungry or tired, there are plenty of beach spots and restaurants to relax at.
Once you reach Alleppey, don’t miss out on visiting Marari Beach, Alappuzha Beach, the Alleppey Lighthouse, and Kanichukulangara Devi Temple among the many attractions. Keep your camera ready because the whole journey is a photographer’s dream.
Route: Kochi – Chellanam – Andhakaranazhi – Mararikulam – Alleppey
Duration: 2-3 days
Also Read: 9 Of The Best Bicycling Trips To Take From Chennai
7. Udaipur to Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Exploring Rajasthan on a cycle is a fantastic way to soak in its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. If you were expecting a dry desert with nothing but cactus all the way, let’s break that imagery because the route is filled with desert scenery, dotted with charming villages, forts, and temples. For simply the love of cycling, consider riding from Udaipur to Jodhpur. You’ll get a close look at rural Rajasthani life, and you might spot camels, mules, deer, and blackbucks along the way. When you need a break, stop at a dhaba for some delicious Rajasthani cuisine.
Once you arrive in Jodhpur, known as the “Blue City,” there are plenty of attractions to explore. Don’t miss Umaid Bhawan Palace, Mehrangarh Fort Museum, Mandore Garden, Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park, and Surpura Dam. A cycle tour through this beautiful state lets you experience much more than any other mode of transport.
Route: Udaipur – Kumbhalgarh – Ranakpur – Ghanerao – Korta – Bhenswara – Rohet – Jodhpur
Duration: 8-9 days
Note: This list was compiled after verifying current publicly available business information.
Summing Up
What could be better than exploring the unknown, basking in some natural vistas, and getting fitter on the way? Cycling is one of the best ways to not only switch to a healthy lifestyle but also a great way to enliven the explorer in you. Not to forget, the pocket-friendliness of this mode of transport! For your next solo vacation, consider peddling to these best places in India that are ideal for a cycle tour.
