There’s nothing more exhilarating than hopping on a bike to explore some of the most exciting trails India has to offer.
The Himalayan bulbul is a species of songbird that resides in the great Himalayan regions of India. One can hear its mating call on a particularly bright and cold day, sitting amorously atop vibrantly coloured rhododendrons. Now, imagine biking past its sweet call, against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas that have stood since the beginning of time.
Our relentless work-oriented life gives us scant time to observe the changing shades of nature, as we are lost amidst the urban legends of concrete and glass on busy cityscapes where flowers come with a price tag.
But, on the mountains and hills of India, flowers of every hue await you. All you have to do is to get your bicycling gear ready and get set for a biking trip to some of the most exotic mountains and hill stations in India. Take a look at some of your best options.
Gangtok to Darjeeling
On the eastern part of India lie two hill station gems. While Gangtok is a part of the state of Sikkim, Darjeeling is the jewel in the crown of West Bengal. A trip from Gangtok to Darjeeling will unfold with tea gardens, waterfalls, toy trains, and a plethora of rare flora and fauna, with the majestic Kanchenjunga range in sight. While Sikkim has a rich monarchial history attached to the Namgyal dynasty, Darjeeling is a relic of the British Raj. Together, they present a cultural and traditional diversity that is unparalleled. A fun way to explore the countryside, you can always stop to treat yourself with a steaming plate of momos, found all across the two hill stations.
Route: You could ride through Martam, Temi, Tashidang, Yuksam, and Pemayangtse from Gangtok to finally reach Darjeeling.
Places to stop and enjoy while cycling from Gangtok to Darjeeling
- Tsomgo Lake: Located around 40 km from Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake is a delightful destination ideal for sightseeing. It’s serene beauty and majestic surroundings make it perfect for a quick break on your cycle ride.
- Rumtek Monastery: This beautiful monastery serves as the center of learning for Buddhism, and is a great spot to take in the cultural heritage of Sikkim.
- Tashi View Point: Take a break from your ride and admire the picturesque views of Mt. Kanchenjunga from this viewpoint located near Gangtok.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Take a break and watch the beautiful toy train chugging away through the hills of Darjeeling.
- Happy Valley Tea Estate: Stop by one of the oldest tea plantations in Darjeeling and sip some of the finest teas in India.
- Tiger Hill: This viewpoint offers stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and its surroundings, making it a must-visit for any cycle ride from Gangtok to Darjeeling.
- Ghoom Monastery: Admire the ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage of this sacred monastery while enjoying some quiet time on your ride.
- Batasia Loop: Enjoy the stunning views at this viewpoint, which is also the site of a war memorial dedicated to fallen soldiers.
- Rock Garden: Take in some tranquility and soak up the natural beauty at the Rock Garden in Darjeeling.
- Peace Pagoda: Spend some peaceful time at this Buddhist shrine that has been built to promote unity and peace among people of different nations and religions.
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Stop by this institute dedicated to mountaineering and explore its interesting museum which showcases some of the world’s greatest climbs and expeditions.
- Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Visit this zoo in Darjeeling to see a wide variety of Himalayan animals including red pandas, snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and more.
- Dali Monastery: Take in the beauty of this ancient monastery, which is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhist followers.
- Observatory Hill: Enjoy the spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas from this viewpoint in Darjeeling.
Manali to Leh
A difficult route to take, but it can be one of the best experiences of your life. Manali, located in Kullu valley, in Himachal Pradesh, is a great tourist destination, while Leh in the Ladakh valley, is every biker’s dream. You will pass through lush green meadows and sparkling rivers to reach the enormous cold deserts of Lahaul, Spiti, and Ladakh, which are decorated with colourful Tibetan prayer flags.
Situated between the Karakoram Range and the Himalayas, Leh is a treat to the senses. Remember to stop by the tiny villages dotted across the hills for a closer look at the spirit of the hills. Stop awhile in the midst of all this and listen to the sounds of silence seeping through acres and acres of lifeless land.
Route: You will cross four very high passes to enter Leh; these are Rohtang Pass (3,900m); Baralacha La Pass (4,800m); Nakee La Pass (4,850m); Lachung La Pass (4,800m); and the Tanglang La Paa (5,200m).
Places to stop and enjoy while cycling from Gangtok to Darjeeling
- Kunzum La Pass: This 15,060ft high mountain pass is situated on the Rohtang La – Leh Highway. It provides a beautiful view of the Chandra Valley and Lahaul region from its highest point.
- Suraj Tal Lake: Located in Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul and Spiti districts, this crystal-clear glacial lake is located at an altitude of 4,300 meters above sea level. It has a breathtaking view and offers boating and fishing activities.
- Rohtang Pass: This mountain pass is situated on the Pir Panjal Range at an elevation of 13,051ft and connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valley. The pass offers stunning views of snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and valleys.
- Khardung La Pass: This is one of the highest motorable passes in India, situated at an altitude of 18,380ft above sea level. It provides access to the Nubra Valley region close to the Siachen Glacier.
- Pangong Tso Lake: This endorheic lake stretches along the Indo-China border extending up to 134km in length. It is one of the most beautiful lakes in India, and its turquoise waters mesmerize visitors with its enchanting beauty.
- Zanskar Valley: This is a remote region situated along the Zanskar River and surrounded by mountains from all sides. The road leading to this valley passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in India.
- Nubra Valley: This is a triangular-shaped valley that lies between the Karakoram Range and Great Himalayan Range. It offers incredible views of dunes and snow-capped mountains, making it a must-visit for tourists cycling from Manali to Leh.
- Tso Moriri Lake: This beautiful high-altitude lake is situated at an elevation of 4,522 meters above sea level and is surrounded by the Changthang Plateau. It makes for a great spot to rest while cycling from Manali to Leh.
- Chumathang Hot Springs: This hot spring is situated in Ladakh along the banks of Indus River and is believed to have medicinal properties. It makes for a great spot to take a dip and relax after a long day of cycling!
- Stok Kangri: This mountain peak is situated close to Leh and reaches an elevation of 6,153 meters above sea level.
- Thiksey Monastery: This monastery is situated in Ladakh and is home to several ancient artifacts and paintings.
- Hemis National Park: This park is the largest protected area in South Asia, located close to Leh. It serves as an important habitat for a variety of endangered species like snow leopards, red foxes, and wolves.
- Shey Palace: This palace is situated close to Leh and is home to a 15-meter-high statue of Lord Buddha. It provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Nubra Monastery: This monastery is situated close to Nubra Valley and is believed to be more than 1000 years old.
- Suru Valley: This valley is situated in the Kargil district of Ladakh and is home to several villages, temples, and monasteries.
- Lamayuru Monastery: This monastery is situated close to the village of Lamayuru and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is home to several ancient artifacts and paintings, making it a must-visit for tourists cycling from Manali to Leh.
- Karzok Village: This tiny village is situated close to the Tso Moriri Lake and has some of the most stunning views in the whole of Ladakh.
- Deskit Monastery: This monastery is situated close to Nubra Valley and is home to some of the oldest Buddhist paintings in Ladakh.
- Magnetic Hill: This hill is situated close to Leh and is believed to be a magnet that can pull cars uphill. It is an incredible sight that has captivated tourists for generations.
- Pangong Tso Lake: This beautiful lake is situated in Ladakh and stretches to Tibet. It is a great spot to take in the mesmerizing views while cycling from Manali to Leh.
- Lamayuru Moonland: This stunning landscape is situated close to Lamayuru Monastery and features unique rock formations that resemble lunar surfaces.
- Zanskar Valley: This valley is situated in Zanskar region and is home to several Buddhist monasteries and temples. It provides some breathtaking views that are sure to take your breath away while cycling from Manali to Leh!
- Jispa: This village is situated close to the Keylong district and offers some of the most amazing views in Ladakh.
- Taglang La Pass: This mountain pass is situated close to Leh and reaches an elevation of 5,359 meters above sea level. It makes for a great spot to take in some stunning views while cycling from Manali to Leh!
- Chilling Village: This tiny village is situated close to the Zanskar River and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Zanskar River: This river is situated in the Zanskar region and flows through several gorges and meandering curves, providing some amazing views along the way.
- Spiti Valley: This valley is situated close to the Himalayan Mountain Range and offers some of the most stunning views in the whole of India.
- Kishtwar National Park: This national park is situated close to the Himalayan Mountain Range and offers some amazing views of wildlife.
- Drang-Drung Glacier: This glacier is situated close to the Zanskar region and provides stunning views of snow-capped mountains and glaciers.
The Western Ghats
Going down to the south of India from the Himalayas, the mystic Western Ghats that run for 1,600 km, are a hotbed of biodiversity and an absolute treat for nature enthusiasts. The Western Ghats run through the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You have mountain ranges, forests, lakes, and rivers – a complete rider’s delight.
The Western Ghats are particularly sensitive to development, so nature is at its very best here. While riding through bumpy roads be sure to take in the mysticism of your surroundings. Nature here is pristine and resonates with a certain melancholic dream. Also, every visitor should be responsible for ensuring that the Ghats remain untouched and unscarred.
Route: one of the routes you can pick is the state of Karnataka for your cycling adventure. Start your trip from Bhagamandala in Coorg, then move to Bekal Fort, and reach Jalsoor. You will cover about 145km in two days. However, you can take different routes covering longer stretches in more days.
Places to stop and enjoy while cycling in the Western Ghats
- Kudremukh National Park, Chikmagalur: Located in the Western Ghats and home to a variety of wild animals, this national park is a great place for cyclists to stop and enjoy nature.
- Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka: This sanctuary is home to several rare and endangered species and offers breathtaking views of nature while cycling through the trails.
- Chorla Ghat, Goa: This picturesque ghat is a popular destination for cyclists as it provides stunning views of the Western Ghats and its lush greenery.
- Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra: This sanctuary offers a unique cycling experience with its varied habitat, ranging from dense forests to dry deciduous woods.
- Munnar Hills, Kerala: The picturesque hills of Munnar are popular • Kollur Mookambika Temple, Karnataka: This temple is an important pilgrimage site and offers stunning views of nature while cycling.among cyclists as it provides a wonderful view of the tea plantations and the immense beauty of nature.
- Kodachadri Hill, Karnataka: This hill is a great place to take a break while cycling as it offers beautiful views of the valleys and lush green forests.
- Valparai, Tamil Nadu: This hill station is known for its lush greenery and provides a great opportunity to explore nature while cycling.
- Yana, Karnataka: This stunning town is known for its two unique rock formations which are perfect for sightseeing during a cycle ride in the Western Ghats.
- Agumbe Rainforest, Karnataka: This rainforest provides a unique experience with its lush greenery and species of wildlife. It also has several waterfalls which make for great stops while cycling.
- Mullayanagiri Hill, Karnataka: This hill offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and is an ideal destination for cyclists to take in the beauty of nature.
- Palani Hills, Tamil Nadu: This hill is popular among cyclists as it offers a unique view of the valleys and lush greenery of the Western Ghats.
- Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra: This hill station is a popular destination for cyclists as it offers stunning views of the lush greenery and majestic hills of the Western Ghats.
- Anshi National Park, Karnataka: This national park is home to some endangered species and also provides a great opportunity for nature lovers to explore the beauty of the forest while cycling.
- Kollur Mookambika Temple, Karnataka: This temple is an important pilgrimage site and offers stunning views of nature while cycling.
- Coorg, Karnataka: This district is known for its stunning views of tea plantations and lush greenery.
- Kalasa, Karnataka: This small town is known for its ancient temples and provides a great opportunity to explore its historical monuments while cycling through its trails.
- Chikmagalur, Karnataka: This hill town has some of the most picturesque views of the Western Ghats and is a great spot for cyclists to take in its beauty.
- BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka: This sanctuary is home to several species of wildlife and provides a great opportunity for cyclists to explore its beauty while cycling.
- Vazhachal Forest, Kerala: This forest is renowned for its unique flora and fauna and offers a great opportunity to explore nature while cycling through the trails.
- Marayoor Sandalwood Forest, Kerala: This forest offers a unique experience with its lush greenery and vistas of sandalwood plantations.
Cycling in the hills can be an immensely gratifying experience, one that refreshes and reinvigorates your senses while giving you a chance to explore the most picturesque locales of India. From Manali to Leh, Gangtok to Darjeeling, and the Western Ghats, the hills of India offer an array of unique cycling routes that should not be missed. With its plethora of trails, stunning landscapes, and diverse cultures to explore, cycling in the hills of India is an adventure like no other. So, get out your bike and hit the trails for a once-in-a-lifetime journey!
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