Cycling In India

Say to someone that you’re thinking of a cycling holiday in India, and they might look at you as if you’re crazy. Indeed you would be if considering a jaunt on two wheels around Mumbai or Delhi’s traffic-thronged streets. Head out into the countryside though, and it’s a different story. In fact in many ways, exploring villages by bicycle is the ideal way to experience rural life in India. The pace of cycling means that you’re able to drink in the detail much better than if simply passing through by car; you’re also likely to interact with friendly villagers easily, should you want to.

Cycling holiday in India

Why not combine some time in the saddle exploring the Indian countryside with more conventional transport for the rest of the trip – it should make for an interesting, varied itinerary, without the need to compromise on what you see and where you go.

You don’t need to go through the rigmarole of putting your bike on a plane – good quality bikes will be provided, along with all necessary other equipment. Your luggage travels by car ahead of you, and once out in the countryside you can stay at some wonderful restored forts and palaces, travelling between them entirely by bike. You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide on a bike, to show you the way, act as a translator and point out/explain points of interest. The country roads taken are generally paved, and quiet with light traffic only.

The distance you cycle each day can be as little or as much as you like; if you’re feeling saddle-sore one day you can travel by car for a bit. You might want just a few days of cycling – or you might prefer a week or more. Either way, it’s a very different way to experience India, suitable for anyone who enjoys cycling, not just for ‘serious’ cyclists.

Make it happen

Check out our India pages for more details of what do and see, as well as itinerary ideas. All our trips are private and can be tailor-made to your requirements and dates.