Do bold bike tours across long distances get the adrenaline pumping through your veins? If you are an avid biker and have a biking group, or if not so, a companion who would accompany you to exciting lands on a bike, you must explore these places in India on your motorcycle. The thrill of biking is combined with exceptional landscape views and breathtaking beauty that the Indian subcontinent promises. Mountain biking is another big charm that holds the bikers interest. Some of these exotic locations are discussed below covering north to south of India that should not be missed. Look out for the top 11 road trip destinations to hit off with your bike this season.
1. Manali to Leh
This is one of the most popular destinations when you want to go for a bike tour. Leh-Ladakh regions are the dream location for all bikers. The breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh trip and the exciting passageways of Rohtang pass and Khardung pass will leave you with memorable experiences. It is approximate of 1360 km and the best season to take this expedition would be in the months of July, August, and September.
Waterlogged enroute Srinagar
2. Chennai to Munnar
For all those Chennai workaholics who really need a break after a worked out weekend can get slaying with this refreshing bike tour from Chennai to Munnar. It is a 10- hour long drive covering around 600 km, but the greenery in Munnar can trick you into staying there a night. A total recommendation for a short bike trip.
The scenic roadways to Munnar
3. Delhi – Jaipur- Ranthambore
This route is known as the golden triangle tour of India. It’s a bikers thrill to explore the mini bylanes of Chandni Chowk in Delhi and ride through the pink city of Jaipur exploring historic forts and monuments of Rajasthan. While Ranthambore has a rich wildlife park and known for its wildlife adventure. Bikers can have thrilling nature experiences up quite close and it can be a photographer’s heaven. It is an 8- day tour covering 464 km and counted upon as one of the best bike tours in the country.
Village scenes between Ranthambore
4. Sikkim- Darjeeling
Again, one of the most suitable destination for mountain biking, covering tiny hamlets and villager who are super friendly. This trip will refresh you with its pleasant winds and a breezy atmosphere. You may even spot tiny fields growing sweet potato or carrots. The best time to visit Darjeeling in its full beauty is in the month of October, just before the harsh winter sets off.
Mountain Biking in Sikkim
5. Ahmedabad to Rann of Kutch
This five- day tour of the Rann of Kutch on the west side of India is a very traditional and enriching biking experience. It is best advised to visit this region in the full moon period to get a breathtaking and spectacular view of the full moon over the Salt Lake. Do not forget to stay overnight in the Kutchi mud houses called “bhunga” It can leave you with starry midnight memories.
Bike decor amidst white salt at Kutch
6. Manali to Spiti Valley
One of the best mountain biking tours in the Himachal Pradesh valley. It is a 568 km stretch and filled with spectacular views of the Himalayan range. One of the attractions includes camping at the Chandratal lake. The most beautiful time to visit it would be from May to July.
Langza Village, Spiti
7. Mumbai to Pune
This most famous 93 km stretch is a second home to most Mumbaikars and Punekars. A totally recommended bike trip as the Mumbai- Pune expressway lies on the western ghats covering picturesque Lonavala. Just buy your stash of food and loads of ‘chikki’ and sit back and enjoy the long ride.
Pune-Lonavala Stretch
8. Bangalore to Bandipur Forest
This is a forest route stretching around 235 km and takes around 5 hours to cover. It is a beautiful highway trip with lush greenery to the Bandipur forest area. The developed road is lined with modern eating out options like McDonald’s as well as Café Coffee Day. Besides the common bike routes, this one is another small adventure beauty.
Bandipur Forest
9. Jaipur- Jodhpur- Jaisalmer
Coming on to this desert trip, it would be best to visit this place from November to February. It is a very long trip covering the forts and palaces across the desert region of Rajasthan in 1723 km. Be prepared for a very dry and hot climate and be ready with your tanning lotions, whereas biking in the winters would also be pleasant and much more bearable.
Desert Bike Trip
10. Gangtok to Lake Tsomgo
The North -Eastern region of India, with its exquisitely pristine landscapes, lies largely untravelled and unexplored. A road trip from Gangtok to lake Tsomgo, in Sikkim, is the best example of mountain biking. But, the mountainous trek will leave you asking for more with its adventure filed terrains. It is short and recommended road trip at 55 km long, to be taken in the winters.
Tsomgo Lake
11. Vishakhapatnam to Araku Valley
Lying in the southern region, this road stretch is a wonderful ride for bikers. The pristine beauty of the Bay of Bengal and the eastern ghats will leave you with a refreshing experience. It is 116 km long and recommended to visit between the months of March and October. The must visit locations here are the Borra Caves and the Tatipudi reservoir. Biking in these regions can get pretty fun and it can be a totally different experience from other modes of transport. Biking allows you to visit nature quite closely and explore the surroundings at your own freedom.
Araku Valley
So what are you waiting for? Pick up a location for your bike tours and get set going on your Yamaha!
Monsoon is a great time to pack up your bags and do the outbound to observe nature at its raw best. Touring in a country like India, which is rich in its natural heritage. Here is the list of places you can visit to look for the pleasure of monsoon in India. These places are best to visit in India during July-September.
List of 20 most popular places one can visit during monsoon.
Saputara
Falls amidst greenery
Gujarat’s solitary hill station is a popular tourist spot as soon as the rains begin. With the tourism department organizing the monsoon festival every year. It is a perfect place for a weekend getaway. Relax at the lakeside with corn on the cob. Paddle boat with friends in the lake. Witness the magnanimity of Gira Waterfalls. Get awed by the variety of flora at Waghai Botanical gardens and get familiar with the Warli paintings and art, as you breathe in a bit of Gujarat.
Lonavala
Photo of Lonavala, Maharashtra
This one needs no introduction, as it stands out to be every Mumbaikar’s and Punekar’s favourite weekend destination. Located exactly at the midpoint of two cities, the journey is as pleasant as the destination. Mumbai-Pune express highway offers a completely different sight in the monsoons, with waterfalls mushrooming all along the road. Enjoy the long drives with near and dear ones while having a bite at the famous Chikki and jelly chocolates.
Matheran
Ways in Matheran. Clicked by Krutarth Vashi
India’s smallest hill station offers you the biggest of surprises in the monsoons. As the entire area gets covered with a blanket of greens, the viewpoints present a soothing view to sore eyes. The entire hill station is a no-vehicle zone. The only way to explore is by foot or horseback, which is an excitement in itself. Witness the sunrise and sunset behind the hills in the company of macaques while sipping a cup of tea among the clouds.
For those looking for a peaceful weekend, India’s first planned hill station is where you need to head to. On the banks of an artificial lake, stands a peaceful town, away from the hustle and monotony, with lovely views all around. There are lots of waterfalls on the way to the city and the valleys offer breathtaking views. In short, an ideal place to visit for spending a lazy weekend. Counting in the list of places to visit near Mumbai and Pune during monsoon.
Goa
Image of Arambol Beach, Goa. Clicked by Rohit Gupta
Image of Vagator Beach, Goa. Clicked by Rohit Gupta
For all those who think Goa is a beach destination, they must visit Goa during monsoon to see its other side. Charao Island, a little-known place just 30 mins from Panaji is the place to be in Goa when it rains. For hikers and nature lovers, Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is equivalent to a utopian society. But the cherry on the cake is the magnificent Dudhsagar Falls which offers a completely mesmerizing view of the monsoon. Explore an unknown side of Goa at a dirt cheap rate while devouring the Goan Fish Curry and nip of Fenny.
Agumbe
Forests in Agumbe
An absolute gem of a place in the heart of the Western Ghats. The serpentine roads lead you up to the peak which offers a breathtaking view of the forests. The ruins of Kaveladurg fort are perfect for a day out. Trek across the paddy fields enjoying the nature at its very best and hike all the way to the endpoint to witness a spectacular sight on three sides.
A trekker’s paradise and a bike rider’s holy grail, Kudremukh National Park is yet another hidden gem of Karnataka. It springs to life during monsoon. If green pastures, misty backdrops & cool breeze are your things, Kudremukh should be on your bucket list. These places are best to visit in August in India.
Gokarna
Beachside in Gokarna.
For those who feel that Goa is too mainstream, Gokarna is where you must head to. A few hours ride from Goa, Gokarna is an amalgamation of beaches and mountains. It has the lesser hustle and is more peaceful than any of the beaches in Goa. The beaches are secluded, peaceful and offer a beautiful view of the sun setting into the Arabian Sea. Relax on the shacks of the beachside cafes with chilled beer and Chicken Ghee Roast. Its the speciality of the region, while enjoying the stunning view around.
Munnar
Serene tea plantations
The gorgeous tea estates will escort you all through curvy roads of this tiny hill station hidden in the Western Ghats. More reasons to visit Munnar in August of 2018 is the blooming of Neelakurunji, a rare blue flower that blooms once in 12 years, covering the region in a blanket of blue. Witness the raw beauty of nature at Eravikulam National Park. The enigma of nature in Neelakurunji Flowers, freshness of the tea gardens and the aura of the indigenous Nilgiri Tahr at Munnar this August.
Pristine and surreal backwaters surrounded by the beautiful paddy fields and coconut plantations on either side await you as you set your foot aboard the houseboats and sail lazily into them. August marks the harvesting festival, Onam, in Kerala and is celebrated with great pomp and gaiety. The snake boat races are the main attraction of Onam and it is one experience to witness them. 100-120 men row the boats in an absolute synchronization while singing “Kuttanadan Punjayile” in the spirits as high as the coconut trees surrounding the area. Such places are must visit in August in India with family.
Wayanad
Surreal steps in nature
Adorning the northern hills of Kerala is the beautiful district of Wayanad. This area is famous for its large amount of camping and trekking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, caves, bird watching sites, flora, fauna and an overall plethora of magnificent sights. At Neelimala’s summit, you can get a view of the Meenmutty Falls, the largest of its kind in Wayanad. Get delighted by the range of exotic products including spices, coffee, tea, bamboo products, honey and herbal plants available here. Release your tensions with the Ayurvedic massage and get refreshed by the aura of the place.
Andaman Islands
View from the Island. Clicked by Krutarth Vashi.
Far off the mainland, there are a group of 400 little islands collectively known as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The volcanic islands are home to the best beaches in India. A rich underwater diversity makes it a top spot for scuba diving and snorkelling. Relive the moments of Indian Freedom Struggle at Cellular Jail. Witness the architectural genius at Ross Island. Get awed by the beauty of Radhanagar beach. Swim with fishes at North Bay Island and get lost in the mystical Chidiya Tapu beach while witnessing the unaltered beauty of nature.
Meghalaya
Live root bridges.
‘It always rains in Meghalaya! That’s why it’s so beautiful!’ Meghalaya is gaining a reputation as a natural adventure playground, a prime destination for trekking, caving and canyoning and tribal encounters. Clouds and forests all around, Meghalaya has the best of the natural heritage in India. Be it the natural root bridges at Khasi hills or the clandestine caves at Jaintia. The magnanimous Nohkalikai waterfalls, these all are unique in their own ways. Experience the spectacle of rains and virgin beauty of the wettest place on earth like never before.
Valley of Flowers
Blooming flowers at the Valley
Perched at an altitude of 14000 feet above sea level, with the verdant beauty of the snow-capped Himalayas in the backdrop, the green meadows and cotton-like clouds blend in to make a dreamlike valley of flowers trek. Known as the most beautiful trek in the world with the blue Primula, Valley of Flowers Uttarakhand is a must do the trek for nature lovers. Blessed with exotic flowers, faunas and magnificent views this trek will take you to the world of snow clad mountains and high cliffs. Listen to the sound of birds chirping and the musical sound of the stream during the trek. The soothing breeze and the enchanting beauty lure away nature and the photography lovers.
Rishikesh
It is every adventure enthusiast’s dream destination, Rishikesh offers you a plethora of options to try to satiate the adrenaline appetite. The gushing waters of Alaknanda create roaring rapids as you paddle your raft through them without ending up in the water. Rishikesh also hosts India’s highest bungee jump platform, paragliding, hang-gliding, kayaking and bridge slithering among various activities one can choose from. Camp by the riverside with barbeque and music for a perfect ending to a wonderful adventure. Also, soothe with some peace through yogic training.
Five days of Hampta Pass & Chandratal Lake trekking will enable you to spend ample time amidst the flabbergasting serenity mixed with fun and excitement. The Chandratal Lake Trek is a treasure trove for the ardent as well as amateur trekkers and holds the charm and allurement like any other treks in the Himalayas. The scenic landscape exposes trails that meander through alpine forests, huge rock formations, and remarkably rich vegetation. Chandratal Lake trekking experience introduces you to the captivating beauty of the Himalayan meadows, flora and fauna of the Lahaul and Spiti valley. It also gets you close to the life and spirit amidst the lofty peaks. With easy gradients, climbs and descends, this trek will definitely satiate all your quench for trekking in the Indian Himalayas. It is the best place to visit in August in Himachal.
The forts have been strongholds of the Maratha rulers since the reigns of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Tactically built over hilltop overseeing the valleys, these forts provide a gem of a sight after the rains turn everything green. Lohgadh, Raigadh & Sinhagadh forts are the most famous of the forts, offering a stunning view alongside a brilliant architecture. Visapur fort, Harihar fort and Torna fort are a few other in this long list of breathtaking beauty and architectural marvel. Be amazed by the rich history and the magnificent view of the Maratha bastions this monsoon in Maharashtra.
Pondicherry
Magnificent view at Pondicherry
‘Bonjour’ is what you’ll say as you step foot on the erstwhile French Colony in India. The hotels, restaurants and ‘lifestyle’ shops sell a seductive vision of the French-subcontinental aesthetic, enhanced by Gallic creative types and Indian artists and designers. The internationally famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram and its offshoot just north of town, Auroville, draw large numbers of spiritually minded visitors. Pondicherry’s vibe: less faded colonial-era villa, more bohemian-chic, New Age–meets–Old World hang-out on the international travel trail. The beaches are just as peaceful as the city, making it a must visit place for seeking inner peace.
Rajasthan’s best-kept secret, shining on the shores of the shimmering Lake Pichola and surrounded by the brilliant Aravali ranges, Udaipur has a romance of setting unmatched in all India. The grandiloquent palaces, havelis & the narrow streets add a human touch to the city’s natural charms. For a tourist, the tranquillity of boat ride on the lake, colourful bazaars, lively arts and the tempting shops along the lovely countryside that can be explored and enjoyed to the fullest. Make it more enriching while feasting on some of the most delicious street food the city has to offer.
Situated on a ridge, above a dense alpine forest, a small village in the Uttarakhand offers lovely panoramic views of the snow clad mountain peaks, fresh air & relaxed atmosphere. Kausani is a backpacker’s happy place and an author’s dreamland, offering exquisite views of the massive Nanda Devi and Panchachuli Peaks. The glory of the views reaches its pinnacle at dawn and dusk. Sun-rays turn the peaks into golden during sunrise and crimson at sunset, making a spectacle to observe and relieved in the memory box.
Dear couples, this might also solve your problem. These are the best honeymoon destinations in India during monsoon. Breeze with your partner in the ‘awesome mausam’.
There you have the best 20 places to visit this monsoon, so pack up your bags, pick up a place or two and blend in the surroundings of the mesmerizing places of our Incredible India. India is happening during New Year’s too. So also have a look at New Year celebrating destinations of India.
