Picture cycling through meadows lined with towering alpine trees, or along posh beaches and the lovely coastal line, or alongside meandering rivers with the wind in your hair; it all sounds picturesque and exciting, doesn’t it? The experience of cycling across unknown parts of India cannot be matched in any way. Moreover, cycling is the finest way to experience India’s diverse landscape and culture. It is also the most cost-effective and environmentally beneficial alternative because there is no need to worry about pollution, expenses, or petrol. Here are a few of the top cycling routes in India!

Mumbai to Daman

One of the most underappreciated scenic cycling trails in India is the Mumbai to Daman route! The picturesque trip takes you along the well-maintained NH-8. The roadway, which is lined with trees, is normally less crowded and provides a respite from the never-ending traffic jams.

Explore St. Jerome Fort, the Cathedral of Bom Jesus, the Lighthouse, and Devka Beach while in Daman. In Nani Daman, you should also see the Dominican Monastery and the Gothic architecture. If you’re seeking a relaxing environment to unwind and rest your limbs, go no farther than Mirasol Lake on one of the most truly majestic cycling routes in india. 

• Distance: 170 km
• Duration: 2-3 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Mangalore to Goa

For a longer trip, you can take a trip from down south to goa for a laid-back and scenic route. The views and sceneries vary greatly, from tranquil expanses to lush green jungles making one notice various shades of nature. The NH17 is a key route that links Goa and Mangalore. Moreover, this journey will lead you to immaculate clean beaches, sacred temples, chattering cascades, and stunning national parks, far away from the city’s hustle and bustle. On these cycling routes in India, you can visit towns such as Kaup, Udupi, Bhatkal, Gokarna, and Karwar.

• Distance: 382 km
• Duration: 8-10 days
• Difficulty level: Moderate

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Gangtok to Darjeeling

In a nutshell, riders describe the experience as “verdant landscapes with an overcast sky.” As a matter of fact, the roads from Gangtok to Darjeeling are one of the best places for cycling in India as the route is studded with monasteries and tea estates, revealing a wealthy side of the Himalayas. The cycling tour will begin in the colonial hill station of Darjeeling and then continue to Sikkim. The first stop in Sikkim will be Pemayangtse, where one can see the exquisite Pemayangtse Monastery.

Yuksam, a picturesque village famed for its mythological significance, is the next stop on the journey. The roads continue on to Temi, passing through trails such as Tashiding and Ravangla. The perfume of tea and the manicured plants around indicate that one is in Temi, an area well-known for its tea plantations. The walk would culminate in Gangtok after traveling via Martam.

• Distance: 456 km
• Duration: 8-10 days
• Difficulty level: Moderate

Manali to Leh

If you’re a seasoned cyclist this is one of the more difficult cycling routes for you! Moreover, to take on this trip, you’ll require months of preparation and training at high elevations. This is an expert-only route because of the thin air, hairpin curves, tough climbs, harsh weather, and uncertain terrain. You’ll pass via the legendary Rohtang and Tanglang La passes, as well as snow-capped mountains and Rumtse, a picturesque tiny settlement tucked away in the Ladakh Valley.

• Distance:700 Km (Approx)
• Duration: 15 -16 days (Approx)
• Difficulty Level: Challenging.

Cycling trails in India deliver the greatest sense of freedom as exploring new roads on a bicycle provides a cathartic feeling, one that opens you up to new and greater experiences. Exploring the country on two wheels with friends provides you with memories that last a lifetime!

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