Cycling Holidays in India

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.

Cycling Holidays in India

14 Days from £ 2749

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Cycling

14 Days from £ 2569

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Cycling

8 Days from £ 1419

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Cycling

15 Days from £ 1969

Guided Group (Excl. Flights)

Cycling

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Top 5 Experiences on Cycling Tours in India

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 16^th century. Stroll through the ornate Sun Gate that opens onto the grand courtyard, Jaleb Chowk, and discover the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past.

I honestly find it difficult putting into words just how much this trip moved me. It was special beyond words and I would describe as a culture trip with cycling. There were so many elements to it that it felt like an explosion of colour, culture, tastes and cycling. This trip will stay with me for a long time and It really helped me reset as a person and slow down

Jacqueline Lothian Cycle the Coast of Kerala

This trip is a wonderfully well-rounded introduction to Nepal, offering the perfect blend of culture, walking, and wildlife. Hiking through the foothills of the Annapurna range delivers breathtaking mountain scenery without being overly technical, while the time spent in Chitwan National Park adds an entirely different dimension with unforgettable wildlife encounters. Throughout the journey, we experienced genuine Nepalese hospitality and gained a meaningful insight into local life, culture, and traditions.

Courtney Kuhn Annapurna to Chitwan: Walks & Wildlife

What an amazing trip! It genuinely exceeded my expectations on so many levels! From beginning to end, everything was exceptionally well organised, with every detail carefully thought through and plans adjusted when necessary to maximise our enjoyment. The cycling routes were a brilliant way to experience Kerala’s towns, cities, fishing villages, stunning coastline and authentic local culture. Loved every moment, but particularly enjoyed the afternoon coasting down the Kerala backwaters on the houseboat, where I suddenly realised I was the most relaxed I had been for many months! 🙂

Each day felt different, with a great mix of activities and experiences, plus some wonderful surprise cultural moments that we simply weren’t expecting. The food throughout was excellent: fresh, varied and full of flavour, and the standard of the hotels was consistently very good. Having swimming pools at many of the properties was a real bonus and the perfect way to unwind after a day on the bike.

Overall, it was a fantastic holiday and I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for a well-organised, active trip with great food, comfortable accommodation and truly unforgettable experiences.

Sonia Murray-Smith Cycle the Coast of Kerala

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