India: Bike Tour Of Rajasthan

Pedal through fascinating towns such as the blue city of Jodhpur or lake city of Udaipur, to the ancient desert hamlets and oasis of Marwari forts. You’ll ride through rural farmlands, desert scrubland, and mountain passes, and along the way, we’ll stay in historic palaces, fortresses, and Havelis as you experience Indian history on this tour.

Explore Rajasthan, one of India's most captivating states, famed for its Rajput forts and palaces, desert villages, spice markets and the warmth of its people. However, the deserved popularity of Rajasthan's highlights sometimes leaves scant room for a sense of adventure. Touring by bicycle is the perfect antidote to this! As well as some of the big draw cards like Jodhpur, Ranakpur and Udaipur, our back-road cycle route takes us through barren desert and lush oasis to remote villages where traditional Rajasthani life continues untouched by the outside world, as it has for centuries.

The exact back-country tour route we take between Jodhpur and Udaipur is a closely guarded secret, but distances covered are between 40km and 60km a day, and the route progresses from the flatlands south of Jodhpur, into the Aravali Hills towards the end of the journey. Along the way, we take rest stops at the principal attractions as well as at a few places where you'll have the chance to experience rural Rajasthan firsthand. We’ll stay in some heritage hotels in restored palaces for an interesting and luxurious accommodation Rather than the well-known sites, you may well find that the highlight of your bike tour is a chance encounter with a pink-turbaned man in the middle of nowhere, or maybe a shared Rajasthani family meal. That is the beauty of this trip and all of the cultural experiences it entails!

Highlights

• Appreciate views of the blue city of Jodhpur from the 15th century Mehrangarh fortress up above.
• Take a jeep ride out to see traditional villages of Bishnoi tribe members and their centuries-old way of life.
• Cycle out through the Aravalli Hills after exploring the imposing Kumbhalgarh Fort.
• Take a walking tour of the historic Old Town of Udaipur as you learn about its past and present.

India's state of Rajasthan offers a variety of cycle terrain. Predominantly on small, flat country roads and lanes with minimal traffic, the tour provides a serene cycling experience. However, occasional stretches on busier roads require heightened awareness. The inclusion of hill riding days introduces a gratifying challenge, diversifying the journey. With distances ranging from 25km to 95km per day, this tour is accessible for cyclists with a moderate fitness level, offering a balanced mix of ease and challenge.