Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is the activity of riding a bicycle on different kinds of off-road trails. It requires endurance, speed, balance and technical skills to navigate through rough terrains. Unlike road bikers, mountain bikers pursue obstacles and see the world as a natural and challenging playground full of winding trails. Vertical downhill sections, steep ascents, loose rocks, water crossings, tree roots: everything is an opportunity to put their abilities to the test!

There are different mountain biking disciplines, ranging from adrenaline-pumping descents to gentle rides on scenic forest trails. Whether you are a seasoned biker or a complete beginner, you are likely to find a perfect trail to match your level and abilities. For those who are new to mountain biking, going out with a guide is highly recommended.

Knowing how to handle a mountain bike, as well as feeling comfortable and confident with the equipment ―from the bike’s saddle, the height of pedals, the brakes and the position of the helmet― is essential for this activity. Being able to fix any mechanical problems that may occur along the way is another necessary skill.

Mountain biking is a dynamic sport that involves a total body workout. On a ride you not only work out your legs and strengthens your heart and lungs, but also exercises your upper body (when climbing with your bike or maneuvering with your arms). Cycling also boosts riders’ balance, coordination and stability.  

Exploring the outdoors and changing scenery on every ride makes mountain biking also a mentally relaxing and stress-relieving activity.

Some people take mountain biking as a sport, join mountain biking races and are always looking for new thrilling paths and adventures round the globe. Others, simply enjoy riding as a pleasurable activity that allows them to exercise and feel connected with nature.

Feeling excited to hit the off-road? Make sure to check your equipment carefully, pick up a trail according to your level and stay hydrated throughout the way. Enjoy the ride!

A Brief History of Mountain Biking

Mountain biking was first originated at California in the 1970s as a fringe sport. Velo Club Mount Tamalpais, California first established mountain biking as a sport and during 1976 to 1979, they started organizing Downhill Mountain biking races regularly, which drew the attention of public as well as media.

The first National Mountain Biking Championship was held in USA in the year 1983 and the sport soon started gaining popularity in other countries mostly in Europe and Australia.

Around 1970s and early 1980s, companies started building mountain bicycles exclusively for this sport using lightweight materials. The first mountain biking championship that was recognized by International cycling union was held in 1990.

For the first time in Atlanta Games, mountain biking was included in Olympics with a cross country event for both main and women. Slowly mountain biking gained the reputation of a mainstream activity around the mid-21st century and more number of mountain bike oriented resorts started opening all around the world.

History of Mountain Biking
Participating Countries

The popularity of mountain biking is increasing rapidly day by day which is quite evident from the rising number of participations in mountain biking events worldwide. As of 2015, 130 countries have registered for UCI’s mountain biking events for the year 2015 which is again the second highest number after 2012 where total 132 countries participated in worldwide biking events.

The countries where Mountain Biking is immensely popular include: France, Australia, USA, Switzerland, New Zealand, Czech Republic, Germany, Canada, United Kingdom, Japan, and Australia.

Types of Mountain Biking
Riding on a forest around Ísafjörður, Iceland. Photo: Runar Karlsson

Trail riding is a recreational form of cycling. It’s all about a pleasurable ride on marked trails, including uphill and downhill sections.

Cross-country cycling (or XC) is the most popular discipline of mountain biking and also the less extreme. It consists on completing a defined round circuit or point-to-point long trail, on a terrain that can range from a single track ―a narrow trail to fit one rider at a time―, to fire roads or even paved roads. There are technical sections defined by either natural or man-made obstacles. The sport requires endurance and very good bike handling skills, but it does not focus too much on speed. The bikes used for cross-country cycling are lightweight.

Downhill biking is a thrilling type of mountain biking, which focuses on descending a trail at a very high speed. Usually, bikers reach a mountain peak by using a car or a lift, and then race down on their bikes. Ski resorts during summer months are an ideal setting for this. When riding downhill, bikers are standing up, so the workout is very much tiring. Downhill bikes have a full suspension, are heavier than cross-country bikes and specially prepared for high-speed descents.

All mountain combines the best of two worlds: cross-country cycling and downhill. It implies riding on a natural terrain full of obstacles, either up a mountain and downhill.

‘Enduro’ refers to a specific competition born in Europe, which consists on different stages that a rider has to complete, including both uphills and downhills. It’s the same as ‘all mountain’ except for the fact that you are racing.

When is the best time to go mountain biking?
Tour du Mont Blanc, French Alps. Photo: Francis Kesley

Mountain biking is an all-year-round activity. The same place can look very different depending on the time of the year and the weather conditions, but that just about what makes mountain biking so challenging and exciting. With the exception of icy paths ―which are obviously dangerous to ride― even riding on snow can be an enjoyable experience if you have the guts to venture into the outdoors!

Mountain biking trails at National Parks or any types of protected areas are regularly under maintenance. Sometimes the trails can be closed if the weather is too wet, making the trail too muddy and unsafe for the riders, as well as damaging for the trail itself. Trail closures are common during the rainy months. Depending on the location, some trails can close during the winter season and reopen on early spring.

What equipment do you need?
A short break on a mountain biking trip in the Ecrins National Park. Photo: Stephane Monari
  • Mountain bike. As we mentioned before, there are different types of bikes (downhill, enduro, cross-country, etc) depending on the cycling discipline you are up to. Some other terms you may hear in the mountain biking world are: ‘fat bikes’, which are especially useful for riding snowy trails and also on sand and mud; ‘E-Bikes’, a regular bike with a battery-powered motor to make pedaling easier. E-Bikes are rising their popularity all around the world, specially among less-frequent riders.
  • Mountain bike helmet. Never, ever, ride without a helmet! There’s a high risk of falling when mountain biking, so head protection is key. The characteristics of the helmet will be different depending on the type of cycling. Downhill biking, for example, is considered extremely risky so it requires a maximum protection.
  • Knee pads, elbow pads and riding gloves.
  • Footwear. Waterproof shoes, with good grips for hiking and comfortable for using the bike’s pedals.
  • Protective glasses.
  • Hydration packs are commonly used for mountain biking. Another items you can take include food, an aid supply, sunscreen, maps or GPS, extra clothing and a bike-repair kit.
Why should you hire a guide for mountain biking?
Patagonian road around San Martin de los Andes. Photo: Julian Carielo

When you are traveling to a unknown destination, hitting the off-road with a mountain guide is your best chance to have an enjoyable experience. A guide knows different trails on the area and can advise you on which one to choose depending on your experience, skills and wishes. He/she can also manage all the logistics of the trip, provide a vehicle to get to the trail-head or as a support during the ride and help you go through any difficulties you may have along the way.

Besides, you will have the chance of improving your skills, challenge yourself on different types of terrain while feeling safe, and enjoy outstanding mountain views!

Top spots for mountain biking in the world
Mountain biking tour along the coasts of Sardinia, Italy. Photo: Tomasso Zamarchi.
  1. French Alps. From the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc to incredible mountain biking trails in the Ecrins, Queyras or Vercors, the French Alps provide endless terrain for those who enjoy cycling!
  2. Julian Alps (Slovenia). Slovenia boasts is an exciting bike-friendly country, with hundreds of marked cycling routes on beautiful mountain settings. Bled, Kranjska Gora and Triglav National Park are the top mountain biking locations.
  3. Iceland. Perhaps not the first country that springs to mind when it comes to mountain biking, Iceland do has breathtaking landscapes and a rugged terrain of fjords and forests to explore on two wheels.
  4. Andes Mountains (Argentina). Bariloche and San Martin de los Andes are home to some of the most legendary mountain biking trails in Central Patagonia. Join an exhilarating mountain bike traverse and discover amazing places!
  5. Italy. From the stunning Dolomites to the wild coast of Sardinia, Italy boasts mountain biking trails for all tastes and levels.
Top 10 Mountain Biking Destinations In India

Are you interested in mountain cycling in India? India has gradually turned into a popular destination for adventure seekers, mountain biking is among the adventure sports that give adrenaline rush and is absolutely thrilling to perform. The scene is no different in the case of mountain biking. The most popular destinations and their epic trails facilitating mountain biking in the Himalayas are:

  • Leh-Zanskar – Ladakh
  • Manali-Leh – Himachal Pradesh
  • Kangra Valley – Himachal Pradesh
  • Kumaon – Uttarakhand
  • Garhwal – Uttarakhand
  • Coorg – Karnataka
  • Spiti Valley – Himachal Pradesh
  • Munnar – Kerala
  • Sikkim – Sikkim
  • Nandi Hills – Karnataka
1. Leh-Zanskar – Ladakh
Leh-Zanskar

Leh-Zanskar mountain bike tour spans over 14 days and requires grueling cycling for 14 days, stretching over an average altitude of 4500 meters. Welcome to one of the most daunting mountain biking tours in India, which will test your acumen, stamina, zeal, and all the other necessary traits of a tough mountain biker. It is known to offer the best experience of mountain cycling in India.

Be it riding over the obstacles, flipping, or performing gravity defying stunts, this trail across the ‘roof of the world’ contains all the elements to leave you mesmerized for a very long time. Specially curated for thrill-seekers, the Leh-Zanskar bike tour takes the bikers through passes, valleys, and some of the narrowest alleys that are not at all easy to ride across. As the tour progresses the difficulty level keeps raising the bar, which in turn tests maximum daredevilry. Zanskar valley trek is known for its adventurous experiences.

Duration: 14 days
Route: Zanskar- Ladakh- Kargil
Charges: Price on request
Best time to go mountain biking in Leh Zanskar: June – September

2. Manali-Leh – Himachal Pradesh
Manali Leh

Arguably the most exciting as well as the most dreaded mountain biking trails in India, Manali-Leh trail takes you through the best of the Himalayas. Starting from Manali, the route stretches over the Himalayas and spans up to Khardungla- the highest motorable road in the world.

The fact that this trail traverses some of the most grueling passes of the Lesser Himalayas along with the colossal nature in the backdrop, makes it one of the most challenging rides to accomplish. Dare to complete it at least once in a lifetime and live to narrate the stories of real thrill. This is the best place for mountain biking in India.

Duration: 11-13 days
Route: Manali – Marhi – Sissu – Jispa – Zing Zing Bar – Brandy Nallah – Pang – Tso Kar – Upshi – Leh – Khardungla – Leh
Charges: INR 35,000 per person onwards
Best time to go mountain biking in Manali- Leh: June – September

3. Kangra Valley – Himachal Pradesh
Kangra Valley

Mountain biking in Kangra valley is one of those daring activities that most of the adventure bikers live for. The enchanting view of Dhauladhar range, tea gardens, and pines along the way makes it one of the most daunting mountain expeditions in India. The 260 km circuit runs across the awe-inspiring Kangra valley and enchants the bikers to push their limits and tame the obstacles. The steep slopes and daunting climbs along the way keep testing the best of the adventurer in you. This is one of the most exciting things to do in Kangra Valley.

The splendid view of Kangra valley enthralls the bikers with mesmerizing spectacles while the rocky terrains continue to test their mountain biking skills. As you get ready for this 5-day biking trip, make no mistake of taking it lightly. Pay attention and mind the sharp turns ahead!!

Duration: 5 days
Route: Bir – Jogindernagar & Barot – Raj Gunda – Billing – Take-off point for paragliding in Billing
Charges: Price on request
Best time to go mountain biking in Kangra: Mid-May – mid-June & September – October

4. Kumaon – Uttarakhand
Kumaon, Uttarakhand

A biking experience across the Greater Himalayan region is all you need to boost your adrenaline. Biking in Kumaon is an enchanting experience of mountain biking expedition in India, which leaves you spellbound as you ride a path, not as comfortable as typical highways. The entire route, which is made up of steep ascend, rough terrain, rocky path, and lots of greenery is indeed a treat for seasoned riders who keep a special corner in their hearts for extreme sports.

The trail starts from Delhi and ends at Bhatrojkhan, during the course of the journey it takes you through the best of Uttarakhand thus making for one of the most prominent trip of mountain biking in the Himalayas. This is one of the most interesting mountain biking trails in India.

Duration: 13 days
Route: Delhi – Kathgodam – Almora – Baijnath – Kausani – Someshwar – Binta – Ranikhet – Bhatrojkhan
Charges: INR 8,350 per person onwards
Best time to go mountain biking in Kumaon: April – September

5. Garhwal – Uttarakhand
Garhwal

Another one among the popular mountain biking tours in India, Garhwal brings out the best of the adventure biker in you. Stretching over a maximum altitude of 2700 meters above sea level, the Garhwal mountain biking showcases some of the most amazing experiences sought by seasoned riders.

The entire trail is a gentle mix of rivers, valleys, mountains, forests, glaciers, and exquisite animal breeds that only get better as you advance further. The tour exhibits the best of Garhwal region. The unparalleled charm of the entire course is perfect to leave the seasoned bikers mesmerized.

Duration: 10 days
Route: Delhi – Dehradun – Mussoorie – Dhanaulti – Tehri – Ghansali – Charbatia – Chandrapuri – Ukhimath – Chopta – Chamoli – Haridwar – Delhi
Charges: Price on request
Best time to go mountain biking in Garhwal: Throughout the year

6. Coorg – Karnataka
Coorg

Mountain biking on the curvy trails of Coorg surrounded by some of the most picturesque sights is something that one tends to cherish for as long as they shall live. Coorg has plenty of routes offering an experience that is completely different from one another. While one helps you cross the hilly terrains, the other one is about passing through jungles with canopies made of towering trees and waterfalls. The fragrant tea and coffee plantations simply adds to the journey that is unmatchable.

Offering some of the most surreal mountain biking trails in India, Coorg is a destination that has something for all kinds of bikers. If you are biker on the outside but a little historic buff on the inside, why not take the route along Madikeri fort that also covers other historical marvels including church buildings, museums, and numerous artifacts. The rolling velvety green hills, scenic landscapes, and the crisp winds brushing past bringing some fragrance of nearby plantations along is an experience to cherish. Mountain biking in Coorg is truly an exciting experience and you can also go for camping in Coorg.

Duration: 8 days
Route: Coorg – Vadu Pass – Kabbe Mott – Kabbinakad Junction – Nalaknad Palace – Thadianamol Peak – Coorg
Charges: INR 39,900 onwards
Best time to go mountain biking in Coorg: October to March

7. Spiti Valley – Himachal Pradesh
Spiti Valley

Taking a motorbike to Spiti has been a pretty common adventure now, hence for those who seek to get off the beaten path should probably give mountain biking a try. One of the most awe-inspiring mountain biking trails in India is the one that leads to Spiti Valley while crossing numerous remote valleys of Himachal Pradesh. Giving travelers a chance to witness something that looks straight out of a storybook, Spiti Valley is a must-visit at least once in the lifetime.

The villages still following centuries-old traditions, ancient monasteries standing beautifully, and the natural marvels living their best lives in the hills is an experience that tends to stay in the minds of cyclists for a really long time. The fitness grade required to be a part of this expedition in Spiti Valley is however, moderate. Hence, make sure you get a lot of practice and build up that stamina while planning for this adventurous excursion! This is one of the most amazing things to do in Spiti Valley.

Duration:
 13 days
Route: Sarahan – Wangtu – Ribba – Puh – Chango – Tabo – Kaza – Hansa- Losar- Chhota Dara – Marhi – Manali
Charges: Price on request
Best time to go mountain biking in Spiti Valley: March to June

8. Munnar – Kerala
Munnar

South India is one of the greenest lands that one will ever come across and Munnar just tops the list of top destinations. Offering the best mountain bicycling in India, Munnar has trails and routes for every cyclist from amateurs to professionals. There is an extensive number of green flora in the form of shola forests, tea gardens, and cardamom estates in Munnar that takes away the breath of spectators, leaving them craving for more refreshing natural wonders.

Mountain biking in Munnar that will surely enthral you. From one single day to more days, there are numerous trails and organizers that carry out the cycling tours according to the preference of travelers. The day cycling tours take place from the Munnar camps and aim to give cyclists an opportunity to witness the stunning views of the countryside of South India. One can pass across villages, mingle with local tribes, and cycle along the tea gardens. The place is loved for offering the best mountain biking experience.

Duration: 1-4 days
Route: Munnar – Periyar
Charges: INR 6,000 onwards
Best time to go mountain biking in Munnar: March to May, December to February

9. Sikkim – Sikkim
Sikkim1

A destination that is known for being home to some impeccable wonders of mother nature, Sikkim is nothing less than paradise on earth for mountain bikers. The hairpin roads, lush green valleys, and the fresh oxygen makes the whole experience of mountain bicycling in India. Sikkim is a destination that is famed for being home to some of the most rugged terrains, hence keeping one on toes and their adrenaline rushing all throughout.

This destination has plenty of trails just waiting to be explored by all the adventure enthusiasts out there in the world. The best trail out of all is definitely the one that goes from Gangtok. On the way back, one can pass through remote villages and monasteries and get a deep insight into the cultures and traditions of Sikkim. Mountain biking is surely one of the fastest growing sports that is gaining popularity among various age groups in India.

Duration: 15 days
Route: Gangtok – Ranka – Martam – Sirwani – Temi – Ravangla – Maenam Peak – Borong – Tashiding – Yuksom – Khecheopalri Lake – Pemayangtse – Rinchenpong – Jorethang
Charges: Price on request
Best time to go mountain biking in Sikkim : October to December

10. Nandi Hills – Karnataka
breathtaking view of clouds and sun

Nandi Hills is loved for its cycling trail which attracts adventure freaks from across the country. Located in proximity to Bangalore, Nandi Hills is frequently visited by tourists looking for a quick break from there day to day life. This cycling trail in Nandi Hills gives you a chance to unveil the charm of the countryside of this lively city!

What makes this excursion a memorable experience is paddling through the well-maintained roadway while fresh breeze touches your face amid mesmerizing beauty of nature. You can also stop in between and indulge in some pottery art in local villages. The place is known for offering beautiful mountain biking experience.

Duration: 1 day

Route: Starts from Hard Rock Cafe Junction at MG Road and drive down to the base of Nandi Hills. 

Charges: INR 3,000 onwards

Best time to go mountain biking in Nandi Hills: Throughout the year 

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