Here are some more details on our cycling holidays in India

Indian Himalayas

The redspokes Manali to Leh cycling holiday is one of the most demanding and exhilarating mountain bike tours in the world. It is an extreme challenge through the heart of the Indian Himalayas on some of the highest accessible roads on the planet, but the rewards are immense. You will enjoy some of the finest riding an adventure cyclist could wish for – encountering switchback after switchback, ascending to an altitude of 5,000m. And the captivating scenery of soaring snow-capped peaks, rugged mountain passes and remote valleys will make all your exertions worthwhile.

This Indian Himalayas cycling tour from Manali to Leh begins in Delhi. Our journey to Manali offers a fascinating insight into the sights and sounds of this incredible country. We spend a couple of days acclimatising in Manali, a picturesque hill station nestled in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh. Situated at 1,950m (6,398 ft) it is a popular year-round tourist destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

After time to acclimatise, our adventure begins with a ride out of Manali. We cycle through an evergreen area of pine and deodar trees, tackling the first set of many hairpin bends and switchbacks on our way to the Rohtang Pass. Over the pass, our surroundings become more barren as we continue cycling into more remote areas with just a few sheep dotted here and there. On the horizon you will see the bleak, magnificent spectacle of the higher Himalayan ranges as we traverse a high-altitude desert to reach the isolated mountainous Ladakh region, so remote and stark it is barely populated.

Riding mountain passes and river valleys, we are soon tackling the 21 zigzag Gata Loops 15,030ft up the canyon wall to reach the Lachulung La, the second highest pass on the Manali to Leh road at 5,059m. After skirting the Tso Khar salt lake, we ascend the world's second highest pass, Taglang La at 5,328m. Over the pass, we descend through more verdant terrain with a few more climbs and downhills to reach Leh. We have a rest day to draw breath and explore well-known sites such as the Leh Palace and the Sakar Gompa Monastery.

Our cycling route from Manali to  Leh  in Ladakh covers 476km (296 miles) over 8 days and includes 5 major passes. The Manali to Leh road is an old trading route and, although described as a highway, is extremely narrow in places. For much of the year it is closed due to extreme weather conditions.

CYCLING THE HIGHEST ROAD IN THE HIMALAYAS

Reinvigorated after our well-deserved rest day in Leh, we face the ultimate challenge of the tour: the Khardung-La. Starting at 3,600m (11,500 feet) in Leh we cycle to the top of the pass at a breath-taking height of 5,359m (17,583 feet) in just 39km (24 miles). This is one of the highest roads in the world accessible by motor vehicles. The redspokes Manali to Leh cycling holiday ends back in Leh. 

NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED - THIS IS CYCLING WITH EXTREME ALTITUDE!

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India - Kerala

Explore the lush, tropical landscapes of southern India on redspokes’ Kerala and Tamil Nadu cycling tour, a journey that combines vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and rewarding rides through two of India’s most captivating states.

This 14-day adventure begins in Trivandrum, weaving through the rolling hills and tea plantations of Tamil Nadu, and across the misty Western Ghats into the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. Along the way, you'll visit the sacred temple city of Madurai, ride the dramatic hill roads to Kodaikanal, encounter the wildlife of Periyar National Park, and unwind aboard a traditional Kerala houseboat cruising through the inland waterways.

The route offers a mix of challenging climbs and exhilarating descents, passing through quiet villages, bustling markets, spice plantations, and colonial towns. You'll experience the full range of southern India’s scenery — from arid plains and lush rainforest to tropical beaches and serene lagoons.

Expect warm hospitality, diverse cuisine, and ever-changing landscapes — all from the unique perspective of your bike saddle.

Tour Highlights

• Visit the iconic Meenakshi Temple in Madurai

• Climb into the cool hill station of Kodaikanal

• Spot wildlife in Indira Gandhi National Park and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

• Cycle through tea estates, sandalwood forests, and spice plantations

• Cruise the Kerala backwaters aboard a traditional houseboat

• Explore the colonial heritage of Cochin (Kochi)

This tour is ideal for cyclists with a sense of adventure and a curiosity for culture. While some days include longer climbs or descents, vehicle support is always nearby, and rest days are thoughtfully placed throughout the itinerary.

Whether you’re drawn by the scenery, the spiritual depth of southern India, or the chance to ride through some of the most enchanting terrain in the subcontinent, this is a tour that delivers an unforgettable experience.

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India Custom Tour

If our advertised dates don’t suit you, if you’re looking for a shorter/longer tour or simply want the enjoyment of travelling on your own or with friends, why not let us create a customised itinerary for you? We can organise private tours for groups of 2 or more people. This will usually be the same cost as for our advertised tour if there are 6 or more and 20-80% higher for smaller numbers.

We have years of experience working in adventure cycling and providing our clients with customised itineraries. A tour with redspokes will capture the imagination and leave lasting memories of this fascinating country.

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