Top 6 Motorcycle Tour Destinations in India

Motorcycle tours in India are becoming increasingly popular, as riders from all over the world flock to experience the country’s incredible landscapes and rich cultures on two wheels. While foreign tour companies first offered these experiences, today, many Indian operators are designing unique motorcycle journeys that showcase local knowledge, adventure, and affordability.

Here’s a guide to six top motorcycle tour destinations in India, each with special features that will thrill any motorcycle enthusiast.

1. Delhi-Chandigarh-Manali-Leh (Ladakh Region)

For many motorcyclists, riding to Leh in the Ladakh region is the ultimate adventure. This iconic route takes you from the chaotic streets of Delhi to the organized city of Chandigarh, then through the lush mountains of Manali, and finally up into Ladakh’s rugged, high-altitude desert. Riding in Ladakh feels like being at the top of the world, with towering peaks and stunning, stark landscapes.

One popular company for this tour is Ride of My Life, based in Mumbai. They offer 8 to 13-day premium and luxury tours to Ladakh, open to both Indian and international riders. The company uses 500cc Royal Enfield motorcycles and operates tours from June to August, when the weather in Ladakh is best for riding. Beyond Leh, tours may include stops at Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Chang La Pass, the second-highest motorable pass in the world. The owners of Ride of My Life are passionate motorcyclists who even produce award-winning documentaries about their journeys. This tour offers an unforgettable experience, mixing rugged adventure with breathtaking views.

2. Northeast India

The Northeast region of India, with its winding roads, misty landscapes, and tribal culture, is perfect for riders seeking a challenging and scenic journey. The region includes seven sister states, each with unique cultures and landscapes, from Assam’s tea gardens to the mountains of Arunachal Pradesh and the famous root bridges of Meghalaya.

For an in-depth adventure, Chain Reaction offers motorcycle tours that last 17 to 21 days and take riders through some of the best spots in the Northeast. The founders, Anuj Singh and Shahwar Hussain, are seasoned adventure motorcyclists who know the area well. Highlights of their tours include Kaziranga National Park (home to one-horned rhinos), the scenic tea estates of Assam, Tawang Monastery, and the lush forests of Meghalaya. This tour promises beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and opportunities to interact with local tribes.

3. Rajasthan

The desert state of Rajasthan is known for its colorful culture, ancient forts, and grand palaces. Riding here is like stepping into the past, as you’ll encounter camel and buffalo carts along the road, pass through vibrant villages, and visit historic cities.

Aboriginal Motorcycle Adventures Tours offers a 22-day “Jumbo Rajasthan Tour,” starting from Delhi and looping through Jaipur, Mandawa, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bundi, and the Ranthambore National Park. The tour includes a stop in Agra to see the Taj Mahal. For those looking for a shorter journey, they also offer a 14-day Rajasthan tour. Run by Atul Bhardwaj and his wife, the company is known for providing honest, high-quality experiences that they personally lead. They aim to give travelers an authentic taste of Rajasthan, mixing heritage sites with desert roads.

For women riders, Indian Rides provides a 16-day, women-only guided motorcycle tour through Rajasthan. This unique tour allows female riders to explore the beauty of Rajasthan in a supportive, all-women group.

4. Kerala

Kerala is famous for its tropical beaches, scenic backwaters, spice plantations, and relaxed pace of life. Riding through Kerala offers a slower, more peaceful experience compared to the rugged mountain tours.

Royal Bike Riders offers a 13-day “Golden Beaches and Spices” motorcycle tour that goes through parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. This Delhi-based company focuses on exploring lesser-known routes, making each ride an adventure filled with scenic backdrops, cultural encounters, and relaxing accommodations. Their Kerala tour includes a unique motorbike ride along the beach, allowing riders to enjoy the coastal beauty up close.

Another great option is the Spice Route Tour by Indian Rides. This 1,400-kilometer journey starts in Kochi and follows the coast to Alleppey before heading inland and finishing in Pondicherry and Chennai in Tamil Nadu. This tour offers a blend of scenic coastal and countryside riding, with plenty of stops to enjoy local cuisine and historic sites.

5. Tamil Nadu Coast

If coastal rides are your thing, the Tamil Nadu coastline offers one of India’s most beautiful routes. The East Coast Road, which runs from Chennai to Pondicherry, follows the Bay of Bengal and is known for its smooth, scenic ride with ocean views on one side.

Date a Bike, a Chennai-based company, offers short and easy trips on this route, including luxury bike rentals like Harley Davidsons. This trip is ideal for those looking for a weekend escape or a quick coastal adventure.

For a more extensive experience, Royal Riders offers a 13-day South India tour that takes riders from Pondicherry along the coast down to Kanyakumari, the southern tip of India. The tour then heads up the Kerala coast to Varkala, before returning inland. The team behind Royal Riders includes passionate riders from different countries who have explored the area extensively, allowing them to craft tours off the beaten path. Riders on this tour get to experience coastal beauty, lush backwaters, and serene beaches.

6. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

If you’re looking for a unique and quiet experience, the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat offers a stunning landscape unlike any other. Known for its salt desert, this area is often referred to as India’s “Wild West” and is one of the most remote parts of the country.

The Dream Riders, based in Ahmedabad, offers tours to the Rann of Kutch with both premium and deluxe options. The tours last four to six days, making them accessible for a short adventure. Departures are scheduled from November to January, the best time to visit this region when the salt flats are visible. This tour gives riders a chance to explore the beautiful white desert, learn about the unique culture of the Kutch region, and experience Gujarat’s rural life.

Planning Your Motorcycle Tour in India

Motorcycle tours in India provide a fantastic way to see the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage up close. Whether you’re riding through the mountains of Ladakh, exploring the vibrant deserts of Rajasthan, or cruising along Kerala’s backwaters, each tour offers a unique experience. Most companies offer well-maintained bikes, experienced guides, and customizable options to suit different preferences and skill levels.

So, pack your helmet, gear up, and set out to explore India’s roads on two wheels! These top motorcycle tour destinations in India offer unforgettable journeys for adventure seekers and culture lovers alike.