Few things in the world are as liberating as cycling through verdant meadows, fields, hills and forests. Cycling continues to be a simple, affordable, clean, environmentally fit and sustainable means of transportation. In the post-pandemic world, there has been a newfound craze for cycling and it doesn’t seem to fade any time soon. If you too are a cycling enthusiast, we have curated a list of some of the best cycling trails in India. By Karan Kaushik
Thrilling cycling trails in India you must ride on
Manali to Leh
View this post on Instagram
One of the most popular cycling trails in India, Manali to Leh is a dream for every seasoned cyclist. The incredible route takes you through six mountain passes such as Baralacha La and Tanglang La, Naki La, Lachu La, and Rohtang La, and finally ends at Khardung La. The cycling expedition takes around ten days. The total distance to be covered on this trail is around 560km. Prominent attractions on the route include Jispa, Sissu, and Tso Kar. You may also plan a detour to the Zanskar Valley.
Chennai to Puducherry
View this post on Instagram
This is one of the easiest cycling trails in India. You just have to cover 150km, which can be accomplished in a single day or two days, depending on your stamina and speed. The first half of the cycling trail can be from Chennai to Mahabalipuram, which is around 55km. The final leg is from Mahabalipuram to Puducherry, which is roughly around 95km. The trail takes you through the gorgeous East Coast Road, an express highway. Riding along the ocean on roads lined with swaying coconut trees is absolutely blissful. You can also plan a detour to the Alamparai Fort near Kadappakkam.
Guwahati to Shillong
View this post on Instagram
If you wish to explore the untrammelled landscapes of northeast India, embark on a cycling trail from Guwahati to Shillong. The easy stretch is 100km and can be done in a single day. It’s best to start early morning from Guwahati so you can get some time to explore Shillong. On offer on this trail are lush mountains, shimmery lakes, and stunning vistas. Satiate your hunger pangs and recharge your batteries at the many restaurants and dhabas that you’ll pass through on this route. These eateries serve delicious local delicacies. Before reaching Shillong, you can take a break at Umiam Lake. From Shillong, you may carry on your cycling adventures to Cherrapunji and Dawki.
Mangalore to Goa
View this post on Instagram
To explore India’s western coast at its pristine best, take the cycling trail from Mangalore to Goa. The route is flat for the most part and takes you through charming little villages, bustling cities, and sandy beaches. Your first stop could be Udupi, where you can savour local Mangalorean food and visit the popular temples. A little ahead is Murdeshwar, famous for its giant Shiva statue. Another prime spot on this route is Gokarna, where you can unwind at the Om Beach. The total distance to be covered on this route is 400km and it should ideally take you 4 to 5 days.
Bhubaneswar to Visakhapatnam
View this post on Instagram
From the western coast, let’s jump to the eastern coast of India. Next up on our list is the cycling trail from Bhubaneswar to Vizag. The route is 500km and could take 4 to 5 days to complete. Prominent attractions on this cycling trail include the much-revered Jagannath Puri Temple and Puri Beach in Puri, the tranquil Chilka Lake, the iconic Sun Temple at Konark, and the gorgeous and one-of-its-kind Gopalpur beach in Gopalpur. You may even get to witness the nesting of Olive Ridley turtles in Rushikulya. Before making your way to Vizag, do visit Srikakulam, a Buddhist site.
The Silk Route – Sikkim
View this post on Instagram
If you love challenges as a cyclist, take the plunge and try Sikkim’s historic Silk Route. The ancient trade route is among the most thrilling cycling trails in India. It takes around a week to complete this trail that introduces you to the natural beauty of the Eastern Himalayas. You can begin your cycling adventure from West Bengal’s New Jalpaiguri. Sillery Gaon, to be precise. Meander through stunning valleys and scenic mountain roads. Popular spots on this route are Kalimpong, Rishikohola, Zuluk, and Nathang Valley. The most exciting part of this trail is the ride through 32 hairpin bends on the way to Zuluk.
Spiti Valley
View this post on Instagram
And last, but not least, on our list of cycling trails in India is the cycling trail around Spiti Valley. Start from Shimla and make your way to Kaza via Narkanda, Sangla, and Manali. This is one of the most tourist-friendly trails in the country and you would love every minute of your cycling trip. On your way, you’d also be acclimatising as Kaza sits at an elevation of 4000m. This is why it’s best to start from Shimla instead of Manali. The route is also blessed with villages like Chitkul, Nako, and Tabo, which must not be missed. The total distance to be covered on this trail is around 600km and it will take you 10 to 12 days to complete it.
Related: Nubra Valley Travel Guide: Here’s How To Make The Most Of Your Mountain Sojourn
