India is a paradise for biking enthusiasts. From the snow-clad mountains of Ladakh to the coastal routes of Kerala, the country offers breathtaking landscapes and thrilling rides. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a leisure rider, there’s a perfect route for you. Here are the 15 best bike riding routes in India that will leave you mesmerized.
Best 15 Routes for Bike Trips Across India:
1. Manali to Leh Highway (Himachal Pradesh & Ladakh)
- Distance: 479 km
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Highlights: Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La, Tanglang La, mesmerizing landscapes
A dream route for bikers, the Manali to Leh highway offers dramatic landscapes, high-altitude mountain passes, and a sense of thrill like no other. Riding through rugged terrains with snow-capped peaks around makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Along the way, you will encounter picturesque villages, remote monasteries, and challenging yet rewarding ascents that make this journey an adventure of a lifetime.
7 Days Ladakh Package from Manali
2. Spiti Valley Circuit (Himachal Pradesh)
- Distance: ~450 km (Shimla – Kaza – Manali)
- Best Time to Visit: June to October
- Highlights: Kunzum Pass, Key Monastery, Chandratal Lake
A challenging yet rewarding ride, the Spiti Valley circuit presents surreal landscapes, ancient monasteries, and the thrill of high-altitude riding. The route from Shimla to Kaza via Kinnaur and back to Manali through Rohtang Pass is an unforgettable adventure. The stark beauty of the cold desert, the turquoise waters of Chandratal Lake, and the centuries-old Key Monastery make it one of the most picturesque and adventurous rides in India.
7 Days Spiti Valley Package from Delhi
3. Zanskar Valley Ride (Ladakh)
- Distance: ~450 km
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Highlights: Padum, Pensi La, Drang Drung Glacier
The Zanskar Valley ride takes bikers through some of the most remote regions of Ladakh. It’s a tough ride, but the reward is the breathtaking beauty of the valley, frozen rivers, and the famous Drang Drung Glacier. The ride includes high-altitude passes, winding roads along the Zanskar River, and the mesmerizing landscapes of this lesser-explored valley, making it a paradise for adventure bikers.
7 Days Bike Safari Tour in Leh Ladakh
4. Srinagar to Leh Route (Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh)
- Distance: 420 km
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Highlights: Zoji La Pass, Drass Valley, Magnetic Hill
Unlike the Manali-Leh route, this one is relatively easier with stunning views of lush green valleys, barren landscapes, and historic sites like Kargil and Lamayuru Monastery. The ride offers a mix of smooth highways, mountain roads, and breathtaking scenery, passing through the beautiful meadows of Sonmarg, crossing high-altitude passes, and exploring the ancient monasteries en route to Leh.
11 Days Srinagar Ladakh Manali Trip Itinerary
5. Delhi to Jaipur via Neemrana (Delhi – Rajasthan)
- Distance: 280 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Highlights: Neemrana Fort, Pink City attractions
This route offers a mix of smooth highways and cultural exploration. A ride through Rajasthan’s landscape with a stopover at the historic Neemrana Fort is a treat for bike riders. The journey allows bikers to experience the rustic charm of Rajasthan, with stunning forts, traditional Rajasthani cuisine, and the vibrant markets of Jaipur, making it a perfect road trip for culture and history lovers.
Jaipur Tour Package from Delhi for 2 Days
6. Mumbai to Goa via Konkan Coast (Maharashtra – Goa)
- Distance: 600 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Highlights: Coastal roads, historic forts, pristine beaches
For those who love coastal rides, the Mumbai-Goa route is a perfect choice. The NH66 (old NH17) offers scenic views of the Arabian Sea, lush greenery, and delicious Konkani cuisine. The route passes through charming coastal towns, beautiful beaches, and picturesque ghats, making it one of the most refreshing and relaxing bike rides in India.
6 Days Mumbai to Goa Travel Package
7. Chennai to Pondicherry via East Coast Road (ECR) (Tamil Nadu)
- Distance: 160 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Highlights: Mahabalipuram, serene beaches, French colonial charm
This ride along the Bay of Bengal is one of the most beautiful coastal routes in India. It is a smooth and scenic ride with multiple stopovers at beaches, ancient temples, and quaint cafes in Pondicherry. The road is well-maintained, providing a pleasurable ride with ocean views on one side and lush greenery on the other.
3 Nights 4 Days Pondicherry Itinerary from Chennai
8. Shillong to Cherrapunji (Meghalaya)
- Distance: 55 km
- Best Time to Visit: September to May
- Highlights: Lush green landscapes, waterfalls, living root bridges
A short but incredibly picturesque ride, this route takes you through Meghalaya’s misty hills, cascading waterfalls, and the wettest place on earth, Cherrapunji. The ride is a mix of winding roads, cloud-covered valleys, and breathtaking viewpoints that showcase the untouched beauty of Northeast India.
4 Days Shillong Cherrapunji Dawki Mawlynnong Tour
9. Guwahati to Tawang (Assam – Arunachal Pradesh)
- Distance: 520 km
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November
- Highlights: Sela Pass, Tawang Monastery, breathtaking valleys
This ride offers a mix of challenging terrains and spectacular landscapes. The high-altitude passes, Buddhist monasteries, and mesmerizing valleys make this a spiritual and adventurous ride. The journey passes through dense forests, river crossings, and snow-covered passes, offering riders an extraordinary experience.
8 Days Assam & Arunachal Tour Package
10. Darjeeling to Sikkim Route (West Bengal – Sikkim)
- Distance: 120 km
- Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to November
- Highlights: Tea gardens, Himalayan views, old monasteries
This scenic ride offers beautiful views of tea plantations, snow-capped peaks, and charming hill towns. The route from Darjeeling to Gangtok via Pelling is a mesmerizing experience. The peaceful monasteries, stunning viewpoints, and thrilling mountain roads make this a must-do ride for bikers.
7 Days Darjeeling & Gangtok Trip Itinerary
11. Bangalore to Ooty via Mysore (Karnataka – Tamil Nadu)
- Distance: 280 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to June
- Highlights: Bandipur National Park, Nilgiri Hills, hairpin bends
This ride takes bikers through scenic highways, the historical city of Mysore, and lush forests of Bandipur National Park before ascending the Nilgiri Hills. The 36 hairpin bends leading to Ooty make it an exhilarating and challenging ride, offering a mix of adventure and stunning views.
7 Days Darjeeling & Gangtok Trip Itinerary
12. Rann of Kutch Ride (Gujarat)
- Distance: ~400 km (Bhuj – Rann of Kutch – Dhordo)
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Highlights: White desert, cultural festivals, local cuisine
A surreal ride across the white desert of Gujarat, this journey offers breathtaking views of salt plains, colorful handicrafts, and vibrant local culture. The ride during the Rann Utsav is especially magical, with moonlit landscapes adding a dreamlike touch to the experience.
Rann of Kutch 3 Day Trip Itinerary
13. Western Ghats Ride (Maharashtra – Karnataka – Kerala)
- Distance: Varies (Popular routes: Pune – Malshej Ghat, Mumbai – Lonavala)
- Best Time to Visit: June to February
- Highlights: Misty hills, winding roads, waterfalls
This ride winds through misty hills, dense forests, and curvy mountain roads. The scenic beauty of Malshej Ghat, Lonavala, and Coorg makes it a thrilling and visually stunning journey for bikers who enjoy the tranquility of nature.
14. Jaipur to Jaisalmer Desert Ride (Rajasthan)
- Distance: 550 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Highlights: Sand dunes, camel safaris, majestic forts
This desert ride offers bikers an unforgettable experience through Rajasthan’s golden dunes, majestic forts, and traditional villages. En route, visit Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort and experience camel safaris in Jaisalmer’s Thar Desert.
6 Days Jaipur Jodhpur Jaisalmer Tour Package
15. Thekkady to Munnar (Kerala)
- Distance: 85 km
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
- Highlights: Tea plantations, wildlife, rolling hills
A ride through Kerala’s rolling hills, tea gardens, and wildlife sanctuaries, this journey offers breathtaking scenery, cool climates, and winding roads that make for a peaceful yet adventurous biking experience.
5 Days Munnar Thekkady Alleppey Tour
Conclusion
These 15 routes showcase India’s diverse landscapes and offer unforgettable riding experiences. Whether you seek the thrill of high-altitude passes, coastal breezes, or cultural exploration, there’s a route waiting for you. So, gear up, hit the road, and let the adventure begin!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time for bike riding in India?
The ideal time for bike riding in India depends on the region. For mountain routes like Ladakh and Spiti Valley, the best time is from June to September. For desert routes like Rajasthan, winter months from October to March are ideal. Coastal and Western Ghats routes are best explored from October to February.
2. What are the essential things to carry for a long bike ride in India?
Some essential items include riding gear (helmet, gloves, knee and elbow guards), first-aid kit, bike toolkit, spare parts, rain gear, power bank, navigation devices, and sufficient food and water.
3. Are permits required for certain bike routes in India?
Yes, permits are required for some routes, especially in restricted areas like Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and parts of Himachal Pradesh. It is advisable to check with local authorities or online portals before planning your trip.
4. What type of bike is best for long rides in India?
Adventure bikes like Royal Enfield Himalayan, KTM Adventure series, Bajaj Dominar, and Hero XPulse are great choices. Cruisers like Royal Enfield Classic or Thunderbird are also preferred for long-distance comfort.
5. How can I ensure safety while riding on challenging routes?
Always wear protective gear, maintain a steady speed, follow traffic rules, carry emergency contacts, and keep your bike well-maintained. For high-altitude rides, take necessary acclimatization breaks to avoid altitude sickness.
6. Are there bike rental services available for long-distance rides?
Yes, bike rental services are available in major cities and tourist destinations. Popular rental services include Royal Brothers, Wheelstreet, and local vendors in places like Manali, Leh, and Goa.
7. Can beginners go on long bike rides in India?
Yes, beginners can go on long bike rides, but it is recommended to start with shorter trips before attempting challenging routes. Gradual experience with handling bikes on highways, hilly terrains, and diverse conditions is necessary for safety and confidence.
8. What are some tips for solo bike riders in India?
For solo riders, it’s essential to plan the route in advance, inform family or friends about the itinerary, carry extra fuel in remote areas, and avoid riding at night in unknown locations. Choosing safe accommodations and keeping emergency contacts handy is also crucial.
