|
Cycling or motor biking in the Himalayas in India is one of the most challenging and physically demanding adventure sports you have ever indulged in. It is not for the faint hearted, and definitely not for those who have not been keeping in shape. For even the fittest have trouble in lugging their bikes up the hill, should they be cycling, or have aching backs with the long drives on their motor bikes. But if you are one of the tough Harley Davidson role model types, then this adventure activity is just the one for you!
There is no better way to get a feel of the local culture of a place than by actually biking through it, and stopping at the villages and towns to get a closer look at the town and village way of life. Mountain biking in the Himalayas is one of the most adventure filled and novel ways of combining travel with experiencing the local flavor and culture of a place. It keeps you in contact with the local people in the villages and market place. Add to this the astounding mountain beauty and indescribably beautiful Himalayan locales that you’ll be passing through, and you have the perfect adventure holiday that you will remember throughout your life.
India offers an amazing number of tiny foothill villages, people, customs and folklore that are a wonder to visit and explore. The ever changing landscapes and increasing altitude makes it an out of the world experience. Some of the best places for mountain biking in India are stretches from Jammu and Kashmir to Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, and then through Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Each of these states abounds in immense verdant natural beauty and a ride through them couldn’t but be one of tremendous pleasure.
However, since most peaks adjoin neighboring countries, it is necessary to obtain clearances beforehand for security reasons. All biking expeditions need to apply for clearances from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation six months before the schedule date with relevant details of the members, the route, duration etc.
A royalty, at a rate that is in accordance with the height and popularity of the peak being targeted, is charged for every summit to be climbed. It is also necessary for a liaison officer to be deputed for the expedition. He is responsible for liaising with the state government authorities and helping in case of emergencies. The boarding, lodging and equipment of the liaison officer are arranged by the expedition.
Mountain biking is a rigorous sport that needs special bikes. Normal cycles are not suitable for mountain expeditions in India; mountain cycles are easily available and are fitted with the appropriate gears that reduce the effort required to be made by the cyclist. Cycling uphill is often a daunting task, but the glory of the downhill ride far makes up for it.
Cycling and biking are undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable adventure sports high in the Himalayas. You can either opt for self-supported trip with all the necessary equipment and the supplies on the bike itself. Or else you carry just yourself on the bike and have a van following you with all the equipment. Some of the equipment required to be carried along on the trip is a mountain bike fitted with gears and water bottle cages, water bottles, bicycle helmet, shorts, t-shirt, windcheater, back pack, and a basic level of fitness. Also remember to ensure that your machine is well equipped with multi-speed gears to enable you to deal comfortably with the climbs and slopes of the mountains. Carry tools to repair a puncture and a spare set of brake shoes.
India offers plenty of picturesque less frequented routes in the mountains. Tarai forests along the foothills of Nainital and the hill state of Himachal Pradesh have some really lovely stretches, where traveling by cycle is an easy and joyful experience. These stretches do not unduly tax your physical capabilities as well as offer some extremely attractive areas for the mountain cycling adventurers. The easy pace of the ride, the pollution less environs, the lightly trafficked roads and the ride through the luscious greens and the wooden valleys promises an unforgettable adventure holiday in India!
| Recommended Tours |
Best of India Tour
Days : 08 Days / 07 Nights
Destinations : Delhi- Agra- Fatehpur Sikri- Jaipur- Udaipur
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Splendid Rajasthan Tour
Days : 10 Days / 09 Nights
Destinations : Delhi-Udaipur-Narlai-Rohet-Jodhpur-Jaipur-Fatehpur Sikri-Agra
|
|
|
Kerala Holidays Tour
Days : 13 Days / 12 Nights
Destinations : Cochin- Alleppey- Munnar- Periyar- Cardamom House- Madurai-Chennai
|
|
|
 |
| 
