#WorldBicycleDay: Slow & immersive: Plan a pedal-powered adventure

Whether you’re cruising past vineyard-draped valleys in Europe or navigating spice-scented streets in India, cycling opens up a deeper connection with a place. Driven by sustainable tourism and the desire for unique travel experiences, cycling tourism is growing in demand. Here’s how you can curate one for yourself.
‘SLOW, IMMERSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE’

Cycling holidays offer a unique and immersive way to experience a destination. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, of a travel company says, “We’ve seen a growing interest in cycling-based travel from both individuals and small groups seeking more active and eco-conscious itineraries.” Adds SD Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays & Corporate Tours, of a travel company, “Our data indicates that the average age of our customers has dropped by approx. 10 years, and the growth of this younger segment is not restricted to metros but emerges from tier 2-3 cities.”

Top international destinations:

AMSTERDAM: With over 500 km of dedicated cycle lanes, seamless bike rental systems, and canalside paths, Amsterdam offers a dreamlike urban cycling experience.

KYOTO: Kyoto’s flat terrain, respectful traffic, and compact layout make it a joy to explore by bicycle. Ride past bamboo groves in Arashiyama, ancient shrines in Gion, and riverside paths during the cherry blossom season.
LOIRE VALLEY: The “Loire à Vélo” route spans 900 km of gentle terrain along the Loire River, passing through fairy-tale castles, vineyards, and sleepy French villages.

OTHER POPULAR TRAILS: Denmark’s scenic landscapes, Belgium’s historic towns, Switzerland’s mountain circuits, and Austria’s alpine trails. “Spain’s Camino de Santiago, South Korea’s scenic riverside paths, and Singapore’s urban cycling trails are gaining momentum among Indian cyclists looking for adventure abroad,” adds Rajeev Kale.

Top Indian destinations:

• Coorg’s coffee plantations
• Munnar’s rolling tea gardens
• Leh-Ladakh’s dramatic mountain passes
• Goa’s coastal routes
• Puducherry’s beach and nature trails
• Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh
• Kaas Plateau in Maharashtra
• Mechuka Valley in Arunachal Pradesh
• Velhe-Panshet near Pune
• Majuli Island in Assam
• Valparai’s hilly trails in Tamil Nadu
• Wayanad in Kerala
• Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh

Tips to plan it right:

Choose the right bike: For rugged terrains like Ladakh, opt for a sturdy mountain bike. For urban smoother trails or city rides, hybrids or touring bikes offer comfort and efficiency.

Plan your route with some buffer time: Don’t underestimate the distance or overestimate your stamina. Leave room for detours, downtime, and weather surprises. Pack smart, light: Focus on essentials — weather-appropriate clothing, a basic repair kit, hydration gear, and a reliable power bank.
Adhere to local laws and etiquette: Knowing and following local cycling rules is non-negotiable. Understand hand signals, helmet requirements, and lane usage specific to each region.
Look for accommodations that welcome cyclists: Look for bike-friendly stays with secure parking, washing areas, and flexible meal timings to match your riding schedule

– Inputs by Hari Ganapathy, co-founder of an online travel company



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