India is a land of diverse landscapes, cultures, and traditions. From the snow-capped Himalayas to the tropical beaches, from the ancient temples to the modern cities, there is something for everyone in this vast country. And what better way to experience it than by cycling?
Cycling is not only a great way to stay fit and healthy, but also a fun and eco-friendly way to travel. You can enjoy the scenic views, interact with the locals, and discover hidden gems along the way. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, there are plenty of cycling routes in India that will challenge you and reward you with unforgettable memories.
Here are some of the best cycling routes in India that you should try at least once in your lifetime:
Chennai to Pondicherry – The East Coast Trail
This is one of the easiest and most popular cycling routes in India, especially for beginners. The route covers about 150 km along the coast of the Bay of Bengal, passing through Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. The road is smooth and flat, with occasional curves and slopes. You can enjoy the views of the sparkling sea, the palm-fringed beaches, and the fishing villages along the way. The journey can take one to two days, depending on your pace and stops. You can end your trip in Pondicherry, a former French colony that still retains its colonial charm and architecture.
Somnath to Diu – The Coastal Ride
If you are looking for a moderate challenge, this route is for you. The route spans over 200 km along the coast of Gujarat, from the holy town of Somnath to the island of Diu. The road is mostly smooth, but with some rough patches and traffic. You will cycle past coconut farms, salt pans, and windmills, as well as the famous Hokka trees, which are palm trees with edible fruits that have medicinal properties. You will also get to see the rich wildlife and birdlife of the region, such as flamingos, pelicans, and cranes. The highlight of the trip is Diu, a former Portuguese enclave that offers a blend of history, culture, and nature. You can relax on the sandy beaches, explore the fort and churches, and enjoy the seafood and liquor.
Ahmedabad to Jaipur – The Royal Route
This route is for the adventurous and the history buffs. The route covers about 650 km from the bustling city of Ahmedabad in Gujarat to the pink city of Jaipur in Rajasthan. The road is varied, with some smooth and flat sections, and some hilly and bumpy ones. You will cycle through the arid and rugged landscape of the Thar Desert, dotted with forts, palaces, and lakes. You will also witness the colorful and vibrant culture of Rajasthan, with its folk music, dance, and art. You will need at least 10 to 12 days to complete this trip, with stopovers at places like Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Pushkar. You will end your journey in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can marvel at the architectural and artistic wonders of the Rajput era.
Shillong to Cherrapunji – The Rainy Ride
This route is for the nature lovers and the thrill seekers. The route covers about 60 km from the hill station of Shillong in Meghalaya to the wettest place on earth, Cherrapunji. The road is hilly and curvy, with steep ascents and descents. You will cycle through the lush green hills and valleys of the Khasi and Jaintia ranges, with breathtaking views of the waterfalls, caves, and forests. You will also experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the local tribes, who live in harmony with nature. The route is one of the most difficult ones in India, as it involves high altitude, low oxygen, and unpredictable weather. You will need one to two days to finish this trip, depending on the season and the rainfall.
Gangtok to Nathu La – The Himalayan Ride
This route is for the brave and the daring. The route covers about 60 km from the capital city of Gangtok in Sikkim to the mountain pass of Nathu La, which is close to the Indo-China border. The road is narrow and rough, with sharp bends and turns. You will cycle through the majestic and mystical Himalayas, with stunning views of the snow-clad peaks, glaciers, and lakes. You will also encounter the rich flora and fauna of the region, such as rhododendrons, orchids, yaks, and red pandas. The route is the most challenging one in India, as it involves high altitude, low temperature, and low pressure. You will need a permit to enter the pass, which is often used by the army. You will also need to complete this trip in one day, as there are no accommodation facilities along the way.
