Mountains, Temples And Hill Stations Bike Ride (formerly Cycling Through North India)

Explore the spectacular mountains, temples and hillstations of North India by bike

Cyclist and monk, near Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, Bir, Kangra Valley

India is a country of enormous cultural diversity, particularly in the north where the vast Gangetic Plain meets the Himalaya, and there is no better way to appreciate this than by bike.

The trip starts in Amritsar, home of the Sikh religion and the incredible Golden Temple, before proceeding to India's first heritage village of Pragpur where we start our cycling.

We ride to Mcleod Ganj, home of the Dalai Lama, then continue towards Kulu, sometimes known as the 'end of the habitable world', passing numerous historic temples in the foothills of the Pir Panchal Himalaya.

The route is designed to take in the spectacular scenery of the mighty Himalaya without having to actually cycle too many enormous climbs, but your efforts will always be rewarded with truly memorable views!

The last few days take us to Shimla, the most popular hill station of the British Raj where there is time to relax and ride the famous 'Toy Train' before returning to Delhi.

Please note: This trip has had a name change for 2013 season, the trip was formerly called: Cycling Through North India

What makes this trip responsible?

We have an excellent long-term relationship with the local operator who employ and train all leaders. We provide refresher training with a focus on Responsible Tourism, so our local leaders can educate our clients locally on helping to preserve the way of life in their area. Many local restaurants and shops are also used to purchase items throughout this trip which benefits the local community. Our trips have minimal environmental impact, particularly as you will be providing much of the power yourself! When cycling off road our leaders brief groups on how to ride responsibly and all routes follow developed trails to reduce erosion. Many trips venture into remote locations rarely visited by tourists, helping to support and develop traditional communities.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: India

MOUNTAINS, TEMPLES AND HILL STATIONS RIDE

Day 1

Depart London.

Day 2

Arrive Amritsar.

Day 3

Visit Golden Temple; transfer to Pragpur.

Day 4

Cycle to Kangra through traditional villages and scenic valleys; optional visit to Kangra Fort.

Day 5

A long steady uphill climb to McLeod Ganj (2000m); late afternoon sightseeing.

Day 6

To Andretta (1100m) via Norblingka Institute on the undulating back roads below the Dhaula Dhar range.

Day 7

Continue towards Jogindernagar via Baijnath Temple.

Day 8

Cycle to the historic temple town of Mandi; time to explore the town and old temples.

Day 9

An easier day cycling along the Beas River to Larji in the lower part of the Kulu Valley.

Day 10

A challenging day cycling through traditional remote villages to Shoja (2600m).

Day 11

Climb to the Jalori Pass (3223m) for fantastic views across the Pir Pinjal and the great Himalaya; downhill to Luhri.

Day 12

Another climb to Narkanda (2700m) for stunning views of the peaks on the Tibetan border.

Day 13

Cycle to the famous hill station of Shimla.

Day 14

Free day to explore Shimla.

Day 15

Take Viceroy's narrow gauge 'Toy Train' to Kalka; connect with onward train to Delhi.

Day 16

Free day to explore India's capital.

Day 17

Fly to London.

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