You could spend a lifetime exploring the nuances that make each place – and each day – on cycling holidays in India distinctly different from the last. Each area is marked by its own food, festivals and traditions. But it’s the ever-changing landscape that makes the country such a diverse place for cyclists, with something to suit all levels of ability.
Famous for the glittering big hitters that include the Taj Mahal, you’ll also find sleepy, agricultural India, the rolling Aravalli hills and flat, arid desert in Rajasthan . On a bike you’re able to head off the beaten track. Villages spread out along the roads, so you really get an insight into local life.
Head south, and it’s all change again. Here, Exodus India cycling trips can take you from the extravagant palaces of Mysore to the sandy beaches of Goa, along the tropical coast of Kerala, or on a journey through the Western Ghats, a luscious tangle of trees and waterfalls that are UNESCO protected. British influence – and the eccentricity that seems to go with it – lingers a little stronger here and the climate is cool.
Pedal your way through the diverse landscapes of Kerala. Along the coastline, let yourself be swept into the laid-back atmosphere and witness the topography change before your eyes. You’ll also venture deep into the sleepy Keralan backwaters, as you weave among paddy fields and coconut trees on a traditional rice barge to Varkala.
In the forested reserve of Bandipur National Park, set off on a 4×4 wildlife adventure, keeping your eyes peeled for elephants, bison and monkeys. Listen out for the distant roar of tigers as you immerse yourself in the vibrant flora and fauna of the protected bioreserve.
Stay on a Traditional Houseboat in Kerala Often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala is home to serene backwaters, which are made up of a tangle of lagoons and canals. The best way to explore its natural beauty is by houseboat. These traditional vessels, known as kettuvallams, glide through the tranquil waters to local villages. Enjoy authentic Keralan cuisine, watch the sun set over the water and fall asleep to the gentle rocking of the boat.
4×4 Safari at Bandipur National Park Embark on an exhilarating 4×4 safari through Bandipur National Park in Karnataka to discover India’s rich biodiversity. Accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll learn about the diverse habitats and go in search of a vast array of wildlife, including elephants, deer, monkeys and a variety of bird species. As you head deeper into the park, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger, which inhabit the wetlands and forests.
Watching the Sunset Over the Taj Mahal Playing host to the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is a must-visit site when cycling in India. The ivory mausoleum is filled with history and romance and was built between 1631 and 1648 by Mogul emperor Shah Jahan for his wife. As the sun sets, its marble exterior glistens with warm, golden shades, adding to its romantic setting on the Yamuna River. You can also stroll among the tree-fringed gardens and soak up the Persian history.
Search for Leopards at Sariska National Park Nestled in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, Sariska is one of the most spectacular national parks in India. The park is renowned for its significant population of leopards, and an evening 4×4 game drive across its rugged terrain adds an extra element of adventure to your wildlife experience. As you head through dense forests and open grasslands with your professional guide, look out for jackals, antelopes, hyenas and wild boar. This guided safari will also increase your chances of spotting the elusive leopard, an experience that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.
Exploring Amber Fort and the Pink City of Jaipur Rajasthan’s vibrant capital, Jaipur is referred to as the Pink City owing to its distinctive terracotta-coloured buildings. Soak up the colourful mix of culture, history and architecture as you ride through the meandering lanes and visit one of the bustling bazaars. Perched on the hilltop, Amber Fort is a magnificent site that looms above the city and boasts views that will take your breath away. Its Rajput architecture combines both Hindu and Mughal styles and the building dates back to the 16th century. Stroll through the ornate Sun Gate that opens onto the grand courtyard, Jaleb Chowk, and discover the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past.
It has taken me a couple of months to process this trip. I previously reviewed on the plane back from trips. You see a lot of things, I was away 20 days.
Dehli hot, a wall of heat as expected. I went out for a couple of longer explorations, plenty of things to see. If at the Hotel Deventure, Shandipur is the easier metro station to walk to, but further away from the centre; metro is the cheapest way to get around and air conditioned once in the train, tuk-tuk’s are around 10 times more expensive and hassle you if you dare to walk, or you can book an air conditioned taxi if you want to spend more. My favourite moment here ended being India arch at sunset at the end of my trip.
The hotels we stayed in were all comfortable enough for me, some more basic than others, The Milky Way in Hundar or Traditional Havali Hotel in Jaipur were probably my favourites.
Indian towns and cities have many cows, dogs, monkeys wondering around; there is lots of building work going on, like the nation has never been quite finished, even up in Ladakh on the trek around Wachan.
The camping for me was comfortable; single persons get a spacious 3 person tent.
The weather was mixed, sometimes sunny, some showers and fog, unusually cool (I had expected to be hot when walking).
Each day’s walks were shorter going up than I expected, though as I had some altitude sickness probably for the best. Our guide had another shorter walk most afternoons after tea from camp and when she didn’t I had a little stroll myself unless it was too wet (or on a morning to see the sun rise).
We also saw other people trekking and an Indian army expedition higher up.
Wonderful trek with a super group and brilliant team to help on the way. The leader, guides and assistants really made the trip and it obviously wouldn’t be possible without all of their hard work. The days walking aren’t too long but the altitude does make it a challenge. Scenery is not bad either!
There were only four on the trip (Highlights of Kerala) and I was initially the sole one. I really appreciated Exodus holding back booking my flights until others had booked as I didn’t want to be alone. As it turned out we were like a little family with the award winning Biju as our leader and what a fabulous leader he proved to be.
Exodus always delivers the best experiences as described and are extremely helpful in the planning and booking stages right up to departure.
