Best Bike Rides to Explore in April - Unexplored Hidden Gems of India
Discover India’s best hidden biking routes this April, complete with must-try local foods, unexplored trails, and essential safety tips for an unforgettable ride.
April is one of the best months for motorcycling in India. The extreme winter chills have faded, summer’s scorching heat hasn’t arrived yet, and nature is at its vibrant best. While many bikers choose the well-known highways and circuits like Ladakh or the Golden Quadrilateral, India hides some breathtaking, lesser-known biking trails that offer an unforgettable adventure.
If you’re someone who enjoys taking the road less traveled, these hidden gems offer a mix of stunning landscapes, diverse terrains, cultural heritage, and thrilling roads. Alongside each location, we’ve included what you shouldn’t miss—from must-try local delicacies to unexplored detours and crucial safety tips for a smooth and enjoyable ride.
1. Tezpur to Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
This route takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas, with snowy mountain passes, serene Buddhist monasteries, and winding roads that offer both challenge and beauty.
Distance & Route
Tezpur → Bhalukpong → Bomdila → Dirang → Tawang (Approx. 317 km)
What You Shouldn’t Miss
- Food: Relish the flavors of the Northeast with Thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), Momos, Butter Tea, and Churpi (yak cheese).
- Hidden Route: Take a scenic detour to Bum La Pass, one of India’s most remote border crossings, where the landscapes feel untouched by time.
- Safety Tip: Roads through Sela Pass (4,170m) can be slippery due to melting snow. Carry extra warm layers and altitude sickness medication.
2. Agra to Etawah Cycle Highway, Uttar Pradesh
India’s first dedicated cycling highway also doubles as a fantastic biking route, passing through historic villages, temples, and lush countryside.
Distance & Route
Agra → Bateshwar → Jaswantnagar → Etawah (Approx. 207 km)
What You Shouldn’t Miss:
- Food: Stop in Bateshwar for a plate of Bedai Kachori with Aloo Sabzi and the famous Rabri Jalebi.
- Hidden Route: Take a detour to Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot Gharials (fish-eating crocodiles) and rare migratory birds.
- Safety Tip: The stretch has slow-moving cycles and occasional cattle crossings, so maintain moderate speed and stay alert.
3. Rajmachi Village and Fort, Maharashtra
A thrilling off-road trail through the Sahyadri Hills, surrounded by dense forests, waterfalls, and ancient forts.
Distance & Route
Lonavala → Rajmachi (Approx. 16 km off-road trail)
What You Shouldn’t Miss:
- Food: Savor a hearty local meal of Pithla Bhakri (spiced gram flour curry with flatbread).
- Hidden Route: Skip the main Lonavala road and take the Udhewadi Village trail, a quieter and more scenic alternative.
- Safety Tip: The trail becomes slippery in misty conditions, and visibility can be low in early mornings. Ride cautiously and avoid monsoon months.
4. Turahalli Forest, Karnataka
An undiscovered biking paradise near Bangalore, offering rocky trails, thick forests, and nature-filled escapades.
Distance & Route
Bangalore → Turahalli (Approx. 20 km)
What You Shouldn’t Miss:
- Food: Grab a classic South Indian breakfast of Thatte Idli with Coconut Chutney or a steaming bowl of Bisi Bele Bath (spiced rice-lentil dish).
- Hidden Route: Extend your ride to Kaggalipura Lake, a lesser-explored, peaceful retreat.
- Safety Tip: Watch out for hidden roots on trails and sudden wildlife encounters like peacocks, monkeys, and even small wild cats.
5. Joginder Nagar Valley, Himachal Pradesh
A blend of high-altitude landscapes, thrilling curves, and unexplored cultural treasures.
Distance & Route
Joginder Nagar → Bir → Barot Valley (Approx. 50 km)
What You Shouldn’t Miss:
- Food: Try local Himachali delicacies like Siddu (steamed stuffed wheat bun) and Chana Madra (chickpea curry).
- Hidden Route: Ride through Barot Valley, an offbeat alternative to the more crowded Bir-Billing area.
- Safety Tip: Be prepared for sudden landslides and fluctuating weather. Always check conditions before heading out.
6. Matheran, Maharashtra
Matheran is India’s only automobile-free hill station, offering an old-world charm that transports you to a quieter time.
Distance & Route
Mumbai/Pune → Neral → Dasturi Naka (Approx. 90 km)
What You Shouldn’t Miss:
- Food: Indulge in local snacks like Misal Pav, Vada Pav, and homemade Chikki (nut brittle).
- Hidden Route: Skip the common trails and trek to One Tree Hill Point for an unforgettable sunrise.
- Safety Tip: Since bikes aren’t allowed inside, park at Dasturi Naka and explore on horseback or foot.
7. Tour of Nilgiris, South India
A picturesque ride through rolling tea plantations, lush forests, and thrilling mountain curves.
Distance & Route
Bangalore → Ooty → Coonoor → Masinagudi (Approx. 300 km)
What You Shouldn’t Miss:
- Food: Enjoy homemade Ooty chocolates, banana fritters, and South Indian filter coffee.
- Hidden Route: Ride through Mukurthi National Park, an untouched alternative to crowded tourist spots.
- Safety Tip: The steep bends near Masinagudi require controlled braking—avoid overspeeding downhill.
Additional Tips for a Safe April Ride
- Weather Conditions: Check for last-minute changes—some areas may still experience late snow, while others may have pre-monsoon showers.
- Bike Maintenance: Ensure your brakes, tires, and engine are in top condition, especially if you’re riding in high-altitude or off-road terrain.
- Fuel Planning: Some remote locations have limited fuel stations—carry extra fuel if needed.
- Emergency Essentials: Pack a puncture repair kit, extra clutch cable, first-aid supplies, and an emergency flashlight.
- Navigation & Communication: In remote areas, mobile networks may be weak. Download offline maps and inform someone of your route in advance.
- Respect Local Communities: Many hidden biking routes pass through villages and eco-sensitive zones. Ride responsibly, avoid honking unnecessarily, and support local businesses.
India’s hidden biking trails are waiting to be explored. Whether it’s gliding past the Buddhist monasteries in Arunachal, taking in the tea-scented breeze in the Nilgiris, or tackling the rugged off-road trails in Maharashtra, every ride has its own charm.
For an unforgettable biking adventure, make sure you pick the right route, stay prepared, and enjoy the thrill of the journey.
