India Biking
The Caravan Routes & Desert Palaces of Rajasthan
In India's majestic arid northwest corner, our epic ten-day biking journey ushers you into one of the world’s most spectacular regions. Over the millennia, tribal conquest and rule have dotted the barren scrubland with exquisite palaces and menacing fortresses overlooking bustling sun-soaked towns. Today the route from princely Jodhpur through the heart of the Thar Desert to regal Udaipur is perfectly suited to fantastic rides on two wheels - a unique way to travel through the region - and on the backs of camels, the more traditional transport mode! Bed down each night in the region's unique and world-renowned hotels.
- A journey through Rajasthani history, from the Maharaj kingdoms to British rule to modern day
- Bike rural India, past friendly locals, hamlets, temples, peacocks, cows and goats
- Ranakpur, a breathtaking 14th-century Jain temple with intricate carvings
- Ride a camel across desert sand
- Cultural connections on walks through lively markets and artist studios
The Day-to-Day Itinerary
Days 1-2 Jodhpur
Tour Jodhpur's staggering 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, overlooking a sea of ancient blue-washed abodes, before strolling down serpentine alleys and through traditional markets 
Saddle up for a culturally rich bike ride to the town of Bisnoi, stopping en route to admire the region’s finest pottery Learn the subtle ins and outs of dhurry rug weaving Work on your lotus position at an optional yoga class.
Day 3 Manvar
Bike into the vast desert amid rolling sand dunes and traditional nomadic tribes to isolated Manvar Trade handlebars for reins, making your way by camel to our home for the night, a remote desert camp (with all the necessary amenities, of course).
Days 4-5 Narlai
Shuttle to Pali, home to three exquisite Brahman temples Ride from Pali to Narlai among the starkly beautiful, heart-pumping Aravalli Hills Watch a breathtaking sunrise from atop Elephant Hill Pedal to Kumbalgarh, an imposing 15th-century citadel perched on a hill overlooking the arid landscape.
Days 6-7 Delwara
Today's route continues through the rolling terrain of the Aravalli Hills to our spectacular hotel nestled in the rugged landscape Opt to bike or venture out on a hike through the countryside to nearby villages.
Days 8-10 Udaipur
Cycle past lake palaces, temples and small colorful villages en route to the easy-paced city of Udaipur Ride to Pie, passing through rough terrain and small tribal villages Take a final stroll around Udaipur, stopping in local craft shops along the way.
- Premiere Inns: These lodgings possess both elegance and authentic regional flair.
- Casual Inns: These lodgings are comfortable and appropriate to the area with such characteristics as authenticity, scenic settings and proximity to our activities.
- Deluxe Family Camping: We set up the tents (and take them down), handle every camp chore and perform culinary magic.
Other Trips You Might Like:
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India Biking
DESERT OASES: Premiere Inns*
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Jodhpur (2 nights) Lauded on the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List, this sandstone palace blends modern design with classic royal elegance.
Manvar Desert Camp
Manvar (1 night) Nestled among the rolling hills and sun-streaked dunes once frequented by nomadic camel traders, this collection of tents is not your typical rustic dwelling; full plumbing and plush amenities accompany this traditional wilderness retreat.
* Casual Inn
Rawla Narlai Hotel
Narlai (2 nights) This 17th-century fortress oasis midway between the cities of Jodhpur and Udaipur once served as a luxurious hunting lodge. Today it offers charming and colorful (and rustic) guest rooms in the heart of a vibrant desert village.
* Casual Inn
Devi Garh Palace
Delwara (2 nights) Guarding the road to the Udaipur Valley, the palace-turned-luxury-hotel’s chic guest rooms overlook the surrounding mountain town.
Oberai Udaivilas
Udaipur (2 nights) With near perfect marks on the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List and claiming Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best number-eight spot, this exquisite property located on Lake Pichola has perfected the art of hospitality.
India Biking
Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain
Routes For All Abilities
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.
| Activity Level | Average Time | Biking Average | Walking Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2-3 hours | 10-20 miles | 2-5 miles |
| 2 | 2-4 hours | 21-30 miles | 5-7 miles |
| 3 | 3-5 hours | 31-40 miles | 7-9 miles |
| 4 | 4-6 hours | 41-55 miles | 9-11 miles |
| 5 | 5-7+ hours | 56-75+ miles | 11-13+ miles |
Day 1
- Level 1
1 Route Option Available
- Fort Walking Tour 2 hours
- 0 - 500 feet elevation gain
Day 2
- Levels 2 to 4 2 Route Options Available
- 30, 42 miles
- 0 - 1000 feet elevation gain
Day 3
- Levels 2 to 3 2 Route Options Available
- 22, 34 miles
- 0 - 500 feet elevation gain
Day 4
- Level 3 1 Route Option Available
- 38 miles
- 500 - 1000 feet elevation gain
Day 5
- Levels 3 to 5 2 Route Options Available
- Biking 31, 62 miles
- 500 - 1000 feet elevation gain
- Optional Hiking Routes 1-3 hours
- 0 - 1000 feet elevation gain
Day 6
- Levels 1 to 5 3 Route Options Available
- 15, 30, 74 miles
- 0 - 2000 feet elevation gain
Day 7
- Level 2 1 Route Option Available
- 22 miles
- 500 - 1000 feet elevation gain
Day 8
- Level 2 1 Route Option Available
- 26 miles
- 0 - 1000 feet elevation gain
Day 9 & 10
- Levels 1 to 4 2 Route Options Available
- 16, 56 miles
- 0 - 1000 feet elevation gain