Explore the wildest corners of India on two wheels
India is a land made for motorcycle travel. Over the last decade, I’ve ridden thousands of kilometres across this vast and unpredictable country—from the snow-capped passes of Ladakh to the sun-drenched beaches of Goa. I’ve crossed deserts, dodged cows, chased monsoons, and followed forgotten roads into the unknown.
Since 2018, I’ve had numerous motorcycle adventures across India. This page is part guide, part journal, and a tribute to the joy of the open road and adventure-seeking on the subcontinent.
Why Ride India by Motorcycle?
There’s no better way to experience India than by motorcycle. The freedom to move at your own pace. The connection with the land. The unpredictability of every single day.
From chaotic cities to mountain solitude, each ride here is a test of endurance, patience—and passion. You’ll find roads that disappear into rivers, roadside chai that changes your life, and people who open their homes without question.
There are just some things that are so uniquely Indian that you must experience them to believe it.
Resource: A Short And Epic History of Royal Enfield: 120 Years of Grit, Glory and Thump
Epic Motorcycle Rides in India
An Iconic Himalayan Adventure
The ride that started it all: Riding the Himalayas on a Royal Enfield.
When I returned to India in 2018 after a little break from the road, I was eager to explore more of the north and in particular the mountains.
To start of with, I retraced my steps to Rishikesh, swam in the Ganga, and snaffled a few thalis. Armed with a head full of dreams, a fistfull of rupees and a willing accomplice, I hopped on to my newly aqcuired Royal Enfield Thunderbid and took off into the sunset.
It was a thrilling and challenging motorcycle adventure and one that changed the course of my life. Of which more in the coming excerpts.
Join me this September on The Great Spiti Valley Motorcycle Adventure
A high-altitude ride through Spiti’s stark beauty—rivers, glaciers, and roads barely hanging onto cliffs. A raw, remote ride that tests your grit.
Himalayan Kingdoms: Ladakh & Kashmir
My Himalayan Kingdoms Motorcycle Adventure was a dream ride. I led a two-week trip with two friends across some of the highest passes in India.
I custom-designed this bespoke motorcycle tour of the Himalayas for Adam and Stuart. They were looking for ‘the trip of a lifetime,’ and this epic itinerary delivered big time.
Ladakh, Kashmir and the legendary Tanglang La. Thin air, prayer flags, and the kind of silence that stays with you forever.
Read all about My Life-Affirming Motorcycle Adventure to Ancient Himalayan Kingdoms
Goa to Gokarna Coastal Ride
A mellow cruise through jungle backroads, clifftop views, and sleepy beach towns. It’s a short ride, but it gives off big vibes.
I’ve made this trip a few times over the years, and it’s a route I really love. Maybe it’s the break from north Goa or the smooth asphalt up to the Ghats, not a big ride but an easy spin out of dodge, and I keep coming back to it.
Desert Rides in Rajasthan
Riding past camel carts and desert forts under the searing sun and cold desert stars. Rajasthan is romantic, rugged, and built for bikes.
As part of my life-changing All India Motorcycle Tour, I visited the iconic sites of Rajasthan: Jaipur, Udaipur and Pushkar.
As my friend Iuliia said at the time, it’s like Mad Max meets Lawrence of Arabia.
Buying a Bullet in Karol Bagh
Before the rides, there was the bike. In 2018, I returned to India with my sister for a motorcycle adventure that would lead me to become an expat for the next decade.
Here’s how I bought my first Royal Enfield from Delhi’s most famous motorcycle market: How To Buy A Second-Hand Bullet in Delhi
And here’s how you export your Royal Enfield after your trip.
Royal Enfield Motorcycle Reviews
These are real-world reviews based on thousands of kilometres riding across India.
Royal Enfield Bear 650 Review
A big, comfortable twin built for long days and loaded riding.
Buy this bike if you’re looking for iconic retro scrambler style with a handsome Royal Enfield heritage
Test Ride: Royal Enfield Bear 650 Review: Retro Scrambler First Ride
Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 Review
My long-term take on the classic Himalayan. From high passes to broken roads. For years, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 has been a go-to machine for adventure riders in India and beyond.
It’s taken me through the high passes of Ladakh to the remote Kingdom of Kashmir, the rugged trails of Spiti, and the endless backroads of Goa.
Test Ride: Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 Expedition Review: Is It a Reliable Adventure Bike?
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
My field impressions, upgrades and first look. At first glance, the Himalayan 450 looks more refined than its predecessor.
It still has that rugged adventure-tourer DNA but with sleeker bodywork, better aerodynamics, and modern styling.
Test Ride: Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Review 2025: The Ultimate Budget Adventure Bike?
Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350 Review (30,000 km)
Eight years of riding. What breaks. What shines. How it compares to the Classic.
The Thunderbird has a big 20-litre tank, a wide seat, upright cruiser bars, and a solid 346cc engine with enough torque to carry me, my kit and a full load of luggage across India.
It wasn’t built for speed. It was built for the journey.
Test Ride: My 8-Year Riders Review of the Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350
How To Plan An Epic All-India Motorcycle Adventure
Now that you’ve whet your appetite for the road, here’s a guide on tackling India by Motorcycle.
When I first arrived in India with a plan to buy a motorcycle, I learned a lot of lessons. From the art of the negotiation to the best routes and places of interest along the way.
Here’s the guide I wish I’d read before I figured it out for myself: How To Plan An Epic All-India Motorcycle Trip
Resource: How to Apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in the UK
Riding Gear & Motorcycle Setup
I’ve mostly ridden Royal Enfields—both 350s and the Himalayan 411. Simple, solid, and made for Indian roads. My kit changes depending on terrain, but here’s the core setup:
- Saddle bags + dry bags
- Tool roll, puncture kit, bungee cords
- Riding boots, rain layer, padded gloves
- Paper map (yes, still handy)
Need a gear checklist? Here’s My Essential Motorcycle Trip Packing List For All-Terrain Expeditions
Highlights from the Road
I couldn’t write a list of highlights from the road without including some lighthearted humour from my journeys across the subcontinent.
Enjoy these eccentric yet wonderful Funny Indian Road Signs
Other sublime highlights from India by motorcycle include:
- Sleeping in a monastery at 4,000m
- Sharing campfires with Ladakhi shepherds
- Joining pilgrims in Omkareshwar
- Visiting the Gangaur Ghat in Udaipur
- Drinking sugarcane juice with kids in Goa
- Making lifelong friends in remote places
Resource: Motoverse 2025: A Spectacular Celebration Of Throttle, Tribe and Tunes!
FAQs: Riding India on a Motorcycle
Is India safe for motorcycle travel?
Yes, but it’s unpredictable. Ride cautiously, always wear gear, and trust your instincts.
What’s the best motorcycle for Indian roads?
Royal Enfield Bullet or Thunderbird for that classic road trip experience.
For a motorcycle tour of the Himalayas, you want a Himalayan 411 or 450.
There’s plenty of good sentiment for the Hero Xpulse and the Triumph 400x Scrambler too
When is the best time to ride in India?
- Himalayas: June to September
- Rajasthan: October to March
- Goa & South India: November to February
Should I Join a Guided Motorcycle Tour in India?
This is an interesting question. I enjoy solitude as an advocate for independent travel and a solo cyclist. I used to resist organised fun. But over the years, I’ve come to realise that traveling with a shared group of like-minded adventurers can enhance the experience.
Here’s a few things to consider before booking a guided motorcycle tour in India: My Review Of Epic Guided Motorcycle Tours in India
Join me and a select band of riders on a guided tour this summer.
We’re going to Spiti Valley and it’s going to be epic!
Final Words
India will test you. The roads will shake you. But if you embrace the chaos, slow down, and open your eyes—it will reward you with the ride of a lifetime.
Start your India motorcycle journey today.
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