Exploring the Himalayas through motor biking or
cycling is quite an exciting and interesting option. On your cycle or
motorbike you can ride across the valleys, snow capped mountain peaks,
lakes and glaciers because when it comes to adventure sport the
Himalayas is paradise on earth. But if you are that sporty and
adventurous type then you can go for this adventure activity. Cycling in
the mountains involves traveling by bus, walking and cycling. The
journey involves various sections like long, uphill climbing. The roads
from Kathgodam to Nainital, or Kalka to Shimla or Chandigarh to Manali
mostly experiences heavy bus and car traffic so it is not a very good
journey for the mountain cyclist.
If you want to experience the local culture and people than there is no
better option than traveling the Himalayas on your cycle or bike. If you
are traveling on a cycle than you will have the opportunity to visit the
remote villages and towns to get a deep insight into their life and
culture. It will be a totally different experience. To experience the
local tradition and culture motor biking is the best option. The best
options to opt for cycling and mountain biking in the Himalayan region
are Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and
Kashmir and Sikkim. These places in the Himalayas will give you the
opportunity to explore some discovered and unexplored regions, which
won't be possible if you travel by bus or car.
How to plan your trip
Before you decide anything it is important to obtain clearances because
of the security reasons. It is mandatory nowadays to have clearance
beforehand. You have to apply to the Indian Mountaineering Foundation
for cycling and biking expeditions six months before the schedule
journey with relevant details of the members, the route, duration etc.
There are some royalty charges, which are to be paid depending on the
peaks you climb. The rate depends on the altitude and popularity of the
peak. For mountain cycling and biking you need a special cycles and
bikes. Cycles specially made for mountain expeditions are easily
available and are fitted with the appropriate gears so that a cyclist
needs to do less effort. The main items you should carry on your
expedition are specially designed cycle or mountain bike well equipped
with gears and items like bicycle helmet, water bottles, shorts, back
pack, water bottle cages, t-shirt, windcheater. You should be physically
fit and mentally strong. Your bike or cycle should be fitted with well
multi-speed gears to help you cope with the sloppy and steep heights of
the mountains. Also carry repairing tools.
Cycling in the Tarai regions of the Himalayas along the foothills of
Nainital and Himachal Pradesh is a journey to remember. Mountain biking
in Ladakh is also a very good option. So don't wait for a single day the
breathtaking milieu of the Himalayas is calling you so get set and go.
