6 Hidden Motorcycle Tours in India
India is home to some of the world’s most spectacular motorcycle routes, but while popular rides like Leh to Manali or the Goa coast attract throngs of tourists, there are many lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking to explore India beyond the usual tourist paths, these six hidden motorcycle tours will take you through some of the country’s most breathtaking and untouched landscapes.
Renting a motorcycle gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, experience the true essence of rural India, and discover hidden spots that most people miss. From winding Himalayan roads to quiet coastal trails, these routes offer both adventure and tranquility. Let’s dive into these off-the-beaten-path motorcycle tours that will make your journey unforgettable.
- Tawang to Bomdila (Arunachal Pradesh): Off-Road Adventure in Northeast India
For those seeking an adventure-packed motorcycle tour, the route from Tawang to Bomdila is an experience like no other. This journey takes you through dense forests, steep mountain passes, and remote tribal villages, offering a glimpse of the Himalayas at their most rugged and wild.
- Distance: 180 km
- Highlights: The Sela Pass (13,700 feet), Tawang Monastery, and views of the Tawang Chu River.
- Best for: Adventure lovers and experienced riders who enjoy challenging mountain routes.
- Motorcycle Rentals Available: Guwahati and Tezpur offer Royal Enfield Himalayan rentals.
Did You Know? Arunachal Pradesh is home to over 26 different tribes, each with unique customs and traditions, making this route a rich cultural experience.
Analogy: Riding the winding roads of Sela Pass feels like weaving through the veins of a giant—the turns and twists mirror the pulse of the land, while every new vista is a breath of fresh air.
- Chopta to Khirsu (Uttarakhand): Scenic Himalayan Ride
If you’re looking for a peaceful yet scenic ride through the Himalayas, the route from Chopta to Khirsu offers stunning views without the crowds. The area is known for its picturesque landscapes, with alpine forests, snow-covered peaks, and quaint mountain villages.
- Distance: 40-50 km
- Highlights: Views of the Gharwal Himalayas, alpine forests, and quiet villages.
- Best for: Riders who prefer a peaceful, nature-filled journey.
- Motorcycle Rentals Available: Rent bikes like the Royal Enfield Classic 350 from Dehradun or Rishikesh.
Fun Fact: Nanda Devi, India’s second-highest peak, can be seen from Khirsu—it stands at an impressive 7,816 meters (25,643 feet).
- Ziro Valley to Daporijo (Arunachal Pradesh): A Tribal Adventure
The ride from Ziro Valley to Daporijo takes you through one of India’s most culturally rich regions. Here, you can immerse yourself in the lives of the Apatani and Tagin tribes, and experience pristine landscapes and untouched beauty.
- Distance: 120 km
- Highlights: Ziro Valley’s rice fields, tribal villages, and picturesque mountain roads.
- Best for: Cultural explorers and riders who enjoy remote, off-road adventures.
- Motorcycle Rentals Available: Rent bikes like the Royal Enfield Thunderbird or Honda CB500X in Tezpur or Itanagar.
- Mawlynnong to Dawki (Meghalaya): Northeast India’s Hidden Jewel
The route from Mawlynnong to Dawki is a scenic, tranquil journey through Meghalaya. Known for its lush greenery and crystal-clear rivers, this ride offers a peaceful escape into nature, with beautiful landscapes and living root bridges along the way.
- Distance: 80 km
- Highlights: The Khasi Hills, the Dawki River,/ and living root bridges.
- Best for: Nature lovers and those looking for a serene ride.
- Motorcycle Rentals Available: Rent bikes like the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 or Jawa Perak in Shillong.
Fun Fact: The Dawki River is so clear you can see as far as 10 meters beneath the surface, making it one of the most transparent rivers in India.
- Pondicherry to Chidambaram (Tamil Nadu): Coastal Motorcycle Adventure
For those who enjoy coastal rides, the route from Pondicherry to Chidambaram is a must. The road follows the serene coastline of Tamil Nadu, offering beautiful beach views, scenic lagoons, and historical temples along the way.
- Distance: 80-100 km
- Highlights: The Muthupet Lagoon, Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, and coastal villages.
- Best for: Riders who love easy-going coastal roads mixed with cultural experiences.
- Motorcycle Rentals Available: Rent bikes like the Royal Enfield Classic 500 or Honda CB350 from Pondicherry or Chennai.
- Udaipur to Bahubali Hills (Rajasthan): A Cultural and Scenic Journey
The ride from Udaipur to Bahubali Hills in Rajasthan offers a fascinating mix of culture, history, and stunning desert views. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient temples, historic landmarks, and picturesque hilltops.
- Distance: 130 km
- Highlights: The Ranakpur Jain Temple, Bahubali Hills, and sweeping desert views.
- Best for: Cultural and history enthusiasts, along with adventure seekers.
- Motorcycle Rentals Available: Rent bikes like the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 or KTM Duke 390 in Udaipur.
FAQ: Motorcycle Tours and Rentals in India
Q1: How do I rent a motorcycle for these tours in India?
A1: Renting a motorcycle in India is easy, with rental agencies offering a range of bikes like the Royal Enfield Himalayan and KTM Duke 390. You can book your bike online or in person at rental shops in cities like Delhi, Pondicherry, and Udaipur.
Q2: Are these tours suitable for beginners?
A2: While some routes, like Chopta to Khirsu and Pondicherry to Chidambaram, are beginner-friendly, others, like Tawang to Bomdila, are better suited for experienced riders due to their rugged terrain and high-altitude roads.
Q3: What’s the best time to go for these motorcycle tours?
A3: The best time for motorcycle tours in Uttarakhand, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh is between October and March, when the weather is most pleasant. For coastal routes, like Pondicherry to Chidambaram, visit from November to February to avoid the summer heat.
Q4: Can I rent a motorcycle with a guide for these tours?
A4: Yes! Many motorcycle rental agencies offer guided tours, where an experienced guide will accompany you, ensuring a safer and more informative experience. Guides will help you navigate through challenging routes and share local knowledge.
Conclusion: Start Your Motorcycle Adventure Today!
India is full of hidden gems, and these six routes offer a perfect way to discover the country’s beauty beyond the well-trodden paths. Whether you’re looking for rugged mountain roads, peaceful coastal rides, or cultural journeys, these motorcycle tours in India have something for everyone. Rent a motorcycle and explore India’s lesser-known wonders at your own pace. Adventure awaits!