Although mountain biking started in Tamalpais, California (USA), the sport quickly gained popularity all around the globe and has recently exploded in popularity. There are mountain bikers in all the corners of the Earth and India is no exception. There are plenty of places in India where you can ride your mountain bike. These mountain biking hotspots in India should be at the top of your list if you’re planning a trip there. An adrenaline-filled trip is guaranteed, thanks to the combination of challenging trails and breathtaking scenery.
You will however not find many mtb purpose built trails with berms, jumps etc… if you are into these then check sites like Trailforks, that list some of them. On the other hand, if you are into exploration, new experiences, amazing scenery, mountain bike travel or even bike packing, India just might be the perfect location for this.
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12 Thrilling Mountain Biking Locations in India
The following are the 12 thrilling mountain biking locations in India:
Manali-Leh
The Manali-Leh route is the most exciting-sounding mountain riding destination in India, and any resident of Delhi will agree. Manali, sometimes called the “birthplace of mountain biking expeditions in India,” is located in a breathtaking valley between the peaks of Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal.
Manali is home to several gorgeous valleys, quaint towns, and unusual pathways through thick deodar groves. Shorter mountain bike tours of the Manali valleys are possible.
Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
Some of the greatest mountain ridings in India can be found on the secluded slopes of Himachal Pradesh. You’ll see stunning natural vistas and old monasteries along the route that only the most daring riders traverse.
The most traveled route leaves from Manali and has a horseback riding acclimatization between Kaza and Tabo.
Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Imagine yourself mountain biking through the woods and taking in the sights of the tea plantations, the Dhauladhar Range, and the pine and deodar trees. If you want to be blown away by the unspoiled, lush green landscapes of Kangra Valley, you need to ride the entire 260-kilometer (approximate) bike circuit there. You’ll be able to get an adrenaline rush from the mountain’s steep slopes.
You need just plan your trip to Kangra Valley so that it coincides with prime time for mountain riding in the region. The monsoon season is best avoided, and care should be taken with both the type of mountain bike and the operator.
Leh, Ladakh
Another well-known spot for mountain bikers, this one is known for its picture-perfect environment and towering snow-capped mountains. Manali and Zanskar both have great paths that are worth exploring. The former entails a grueling journey over the Himalayas to destinations like Marhi, Sissu, Zing Zing, Jispa, Tso Kar, Pang, and Upshi.
The Khardungla, the world’s highest motorable pass, may be reached by a number of different routes. Spituk, Stok, Stakna, Shey, Thiksey, and Matho all have monasteries within a day’s ride. You can also have a flight through Air India Express booking for directly reaching Leh.
Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is home to some of the finest mountain riding routes in all of Southern India, making it a must-visit for any cyclists in the region. Munnar is the best place in South India to go mountain biking because of the abundance of lush flora in the form of tea gardens, spice farms, Cardamom Estates, and Shola Forests.
Guwahati to Tawang
The trip from Guwahati to Tawang is a lengthy one, but it is well worth the anticipation and effort. The track from Bhalukpong on the Assam–Arunachal Pradesh border all the way to Tawang is one of the top mountain riding routes in India.
The western parts of Arunachal Pradesh, such as Jamiri, Bomdila, and Sangti, are the focus of this trip. The first couple of days are spent climbing hills with views of the tropical jungle below. Envision yourself moving along with the Kameng River.
Sikkim, North East India
Sikkim’s tourism circuit is a dream come true for avid mountain bikers because of its many challenging hairpin turns at lofty elevations. The journey begins at 1,650 meters in altitude and goes all the way up to 2,000 m. (approx.).
Getting out of the city and into the countryside, with its verdant valleys, snowy mountain passes, and ancient monasteries is a welcome change of pace. If you have motion sickness you can have your flight booked via Air India Express booking and directly reach Sikkim.
Kumaon, Uttarakhand
Mountain riding in Kumaon is an exciting way to see the Himalayas and is sure to please the traveler’s sense of adventure. Many various roads traverse the area, just like there are many different places to go.
Lansdowne
If you’re looking for a great area to go mountain biking in India during the summer and you happen to be in or around the nation’s capital, your search might end with Lansdowne.
Lansdowne offers bikers a wide variety of paths to explore, although novices may struggle with the relatively flat terrain of this Himalayan hill resort. The trails are fantastic, but you’ll need some mountain bike skills to fully enjoy them.
As a military cantonment area, the trails in and around Lansdowne are some of the most peaceful and secure in India for women traveling alone. Listening to the birds sing and taking in the sights of snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys, and crystal clear lakes will invigorate your trek over the highlands.
Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg is another beautiful South Indian destination for mountain biking, and it has a variety of routes from which to choose. There are paths that lead across gentle slopes, and some that lead straight into dense rainforests.
Bypassing the Madikeri fort, you may gain access to even more of Coorg’s cultural attractions, including temples, museums, and historic sites.
Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
The Dhauladhar Ranges provide an ideal setting for mountain riding, making a trip to Dharamshala well worth the anticipation. This mountain biking destination close to Delhi is enjoyable throughout any time of year, making it a good option for outings with both family and friends.
Biking by snow-covered trees and paths is an especially beautiful sight in the winter. The valleys are covered with verdant vegetation throughout the summer months. Dharamshala’s pathways were practically designed by Mother Nature to be ridden by serious cyclists.
Garhwal, Uttarakhand
This part of Uttarakhand is included on many well-known mountain bike routes. You may spend anything from 14 to 16 days visiting the area, with the most common trip starting in Rishikesh and taking in places like Dharasu, Uttarkashi, Bhatwari, Harsil, Gangotri, Gangnani, Barkot, Nainbagh, and Mussoorie. One can encounter rivers, mountains, woods, glaciers, and possibly even wild animals on their journey.
Conclusion
How about some mountain bike riding in India? Prepare for breathtaking scenery and varied terrain and trails. It is wise to also contact the locals at the location that you want to visit to get some more info on the riding conditions and trails in the area. Purpose built mtb trails are rare, so India is a location for mountain bikers that are more into views, bike travel or bike packing and experiences.