My First Motorcycle Trip Across India
Join our client, Matthew Duits, as he shares his epic 26-day motorcycle journey across India, from Delhi to Kochi, riding a Royal Enfield Himalayan!
Embarking on my first motorcycle journey across India was a dream come true. As a foreign traveler, the thought of exploring this vast and diverse country on two wheels was both exciting and a bit intimidating. After doing some research, I decided to rent a motorcycle in Delhi, the perfect starting point for my adventure. Over the next 26 days, I explored iconic cities and hidden gems, from the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene beaches of Kochi. Join me as I share my experience, tips, and recommendations along the way!
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi and Picking Up My Bike for Hire in Delhi
Arriving in Delhi, I was filled with excitement and a little nervousness. The city is vibrant, full of life, and bustling with energy — the perfect place to start my journey. I had already arranged my motorcycle hire in Delhi with Stoneheadbikes, who offer a variety of bikes, including the Royal Enfield Himalayan Scram 411 — an ideal choice for my long ride.
Where I Stayed:
I stayed at a cozy guesthouse near Connaught Place. It was a great spot for first-time visitors, with easy access to popular landmarks.
Where I Ate:
For lunch, I visited Saravana Bhavan for delicious South Indian dosas. In the evening, I explored Paranthas Wali Gali in Chandni Chowk for mouthwatering stuffed paranthas.
Day 2-3: Delhi to Agra
The next day, I hit the road early, riding from Delhi to Agra. The route was straightforward, and I couldn’t wait to catch my first glimpse of the Taj Mahal. The ride was smooth, and my Royal Enfield Himalayan made the journey even more enjoyable, handling the roads with ease.
Places Visited:
- Taj Mahal: A must-see in Agra. The Taj Mahal was even more magnificent than I expected, and I highly recommend spending a few hours soaking in its grandeur.
- Agra Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views of the Taj Mahal and fascinating insights into Mughal history.
Where I Stayed:
I stayed at The Oberoi Amarvilas, located just a stone’s throw from the Taj Mahal. The view from my room was incredible, and the service was impeccable.
Where I Ate:
For dinner, I tried Pinch of Spice, which offered a variety of North Indian dishes. Their butter chicken and dal makhani were exceptional!
Day 4-6: Agra to Rajasthan (Jaipur & Udaipur)
After enjoying Agra, I headed to Rajasthan. The drive to Jaipur was long but scenic, and my bike hire in Delhi made the journey comfortable. Rajasthan’s rich culture and architecture were unlike anything I had seen before. The vibrant colors, lively people, and delicious food were unforgettable.
Places Visited:
- Jaipur: The Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal were breathtaking. I loved riding through the colorful streets of the old city, absorbing the local life.
- Udaipur: The “City of Lakes” offered amazing views. I enjoyed a boat ride on Lake Pichola and visited City Palace, which has stunning architecture.
Where I Stayed:
In Jaipur, I stayed at the Trident Hotel, a perfect spot to unwind after a long ride. In Udaipur, I chose a more traditional experience at Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel, right on Lake Pichola.
Where I Ate:
- In Jaipur, I had dinner at Chokhi Dhani, a traditional Rajasthani village-themed restaurant serving authentic local dishes.
- In Udaipur, I enjoyed a meal at Ambrai, a rooftop restaurant with a beautiful view of Lake Pichola and the City Palace.
Day 7-10: Rajasthan to Mumbai
After Rajasthan, I set off for Mumbai, a city known for its energy and contrasts between the old and the new. The ride was long, but the Royal Enfield held up beautifully, even on the more rugged sections of the highway.
Places Visited:
- Gateway of India: A must-visit landmark to kick off my Mumbai adventure.
- Marine Drive: A peaceful, long ride along the coast where I stopped to watch the sunset.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing stunning Victorian Gothic architecture.
Where I Stayed:
I stayed at The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, an iconic hotel with an unforgettable view of the Arabian Sea.
Where I Ate:
I couldn’t miss Bademiya for late-night kebabs. For a more upscale experience, I dined at The Bombay Canteen, which offers innovative takes on traditional Indian dishes.
Day 11-12: Mumbai to Surat – Starting the Coastal Ride
After exploring Mumbai, I headed towards Surat, a city in Gujarat. This was the start of my coastal journey. The roads were busy at first, but once I got out of the city, the ride became smoother.
Places Visited:
I visited Dumas Beach to relax after the long ride. Surat is also known for its silk weaving, so I checked out some local shops.
Where I Stayed:
I stayed at The Gateway Hotel, a simple and comfortable hotel.
Where I Ate:
For dinner, I had a traditional Gujarati thali at The Grand Thakar, a well-known restaurant in Surat.
Day 13-15: Surat to Daman & Diu – A Quiet Coastal Escape
Next, I rode to Daman and Diu, a peaceful area with beaches, forts, and colonial architecture. It was the perfect place to take a break before continuing my coastal journey.
Places Visited:
- Daman Fort: A fort with beautiful views of the sea.
- Jampore Beach: A quiet beach where I relaxed by the water.
Where I Stayed:
I stayed at The Diu Hotel, which had a beautiful sea view.
Where I Ate:
For dinner, I had seafood at Rashi’s Seafood Restaurant, known for its fresh prawns.
Day 16-18: Daman & Diu to Goa – The Heart of India’s Beaches
The next stop was Goa, famous for its beaches and party atmosphere. The ride was beautiful, and the scenery kept getting better as I went south.
Places Visited:
- Baga Beach: Known for its vibrant nightlife.
- Old Goa: The churches here, especially the Basilica of Bom Jesus, show Goa’s rich history.
Where I Stayed:
I stayed at The Leela Goa, a luxury resort with an amazing view of the beach.
Where I Ate:
- At Vinayak Family Restaurant, I had the best Goan fish curry.
- I also enjoyed local street food at small beachside shacks.
Day 19-22: Goa to Mangalore – Exploring the South Coast
From Goa, I continued my journey south to Mangalore, a peaceful city in Karnataka. The roads were smooth, and I enjoyed the quiet beaches and tropical forests along the way.
Places Visited:
- Kudroli Gokarnath Temple: A famous temple in Mangalore.
- Panambur Beach: A calm and peaceful beach where I stopped to swim.
Where I Stayed:
I stayed at Goldfinch Mangalore, a comfortable hotel near the city’s main attractions.
Where I Ate:
At The Village Restaurant, I had delicious Mangalorean food, like Neer Dosa and Fish Curry.
Day 23-26: Mangalore to Kochi – Reaching the Final Destination
Finally, I made it to Kochi, my last stop. This city is rich in history and culture, with beautiful beaches and colonial architecture.
Places Visited:
- Fort Kochi: Known for its colonial buildings and the famous Chinese fishing nets.
- Mattancherry Palace: A palace with a mix of history and art.
Where I Stayed:
I stayed at Brunton Boatyard, a hotel right on the water with stunning views.
Where I Ate:
- Kashi Art Café in Fort Kochi is a great place for fresh, organic food.
- For dinner, I tried Sree Krishna Bhavan for a traditional Kerala sadya meal.
The Coastal Journey: A New Chapter
As I traveled south, the coastal roads became a highlight of my trip. Picture yourself riding along a winding road, the sea breeze in your face, and the sound of waves crashing nearby. That’s exactly how it felt as I passed through Daman & Diu, Goa, and Mangalore, before reaching Kochi. The combination of tranquil beaches, colonial architecture, and local flavors made this part of the trip unforgettable.
Fun Fact:
India’s coastline stretches over 25,000 kilometers, offering diverse landscapes, from peaceful beaches to rugged cliffs. Riding along this coastline was one of the best experiences of my journey.
- How do I rent a motorcycle in Delhi?
Renting a motorcycle in Delhi is easy. You can book online through rental platforms like Stoneheadbikes or visit local shops. Make sure to have a valid international driving permit and ID proof.
- What is the best motorcycle for long trips in India?
The Royal Enfield Himalayan is perfect for long-distance journeys, known for its comfort, reliability, and ability to handle rough terrains with ease.
- Is it safe to ride a motorcycle in India as a foreigner?
Yes, but it’s important to stay cautious and follow local traffic rules. Always wear protective gear, stay alert, and rent from reputable services like Stoneheadbikes for well-maintained bikes and support.
- What should I pack for a motorcycle trip in India?
Pack light, breathable clothes for warm areas, a jacket for cooler evenings, and essential gear such as a helmet, gloves, and rain protection. Make sure to stay hydrated and carry sunscreen for sun protection.
Renting a motorcycle in Delhi was the best decision I made for my trip across India. It gave me the freedom to explore at my own pace, connect with locals, and experience the vast diversity of this incredible country. Whether you’re looking for motorcycle hire in Delhi for a few days or planning a longer adventure, India is a paradise for motorcycle enthusiasts. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking an unforgettable journey.
A Big Thanks to Stoneheadbikes (official Royal Enfield Rental & Tours Partner)
A huge part of why my journey was so smooth and enjoyable was the excellent service provided by Stoneheadbikes. I rented my Royal Enfield Himalayan Scram 411 from their Delhi store, and they also arranged a one-way rental to Kochi. The bike came with panniers, making it easy to carry all my gear comfortably. Stoneheadbikes even picked up the bike in Kochi at a reasonable price, which made my trip hassle-free. I couldn’t have asked for a better motorcycle for such a long journey — the Himalayan Scram 411 handled India’s diverse terrains with ease.
