India is one of the most populated countries in the world. Although this does not take away the beauty and wonders the country has to offer, it certainly contributes to the worsening traffic that the main cities in India endure.
A trick to solving this problem is by traversing through “Incredible” India on a bicycle. A bike can maneuver through congested traffic and make traveling much easier. Also, the feel of the urban jungles is an attraction for some tourists. For those people who want to be adventurous and want to dare go biking, here are some useful tips.
Plan Ahead
People need to plan ahead of time if they want to ride bikes in India. A lot of guides are available on the web for any tourist routes. These tourist routes are well documented and provide safety for cyclists and tourists alike.
Even then, plans may not go well with the condition of India’s road. This unpredictability should also be the reason why you should be flexible. Always adapt to the changes you encounter. Make some minor adjustments to your plans and you’re good to go.
Bring Your Equipment
Hi-tech tools for repairs are rare in India. A tourist should bring the necessary tools for a quick fix. Although bike repairs are constantly present in every possible corner in some big cities in the country, they might not have the right tools to fix modern bikes with gears or anything else new.
Riding Incognito
Use the advantages that small roads and pathways give. Avoid main roads since bicycle accidents are common due to large vehicles speeding and bobbing through traffic. Also when going through clear roads, always be diligent in keeping the speed at an average pace.
India is known to be very friendly to livestock and other animals. There have been bicycle accidents when bikers speed through what seems like an open road. Cows, goats, chickens, and even people cross the roads carelessly. Be on the lookout for these hazards.
Be Vigilant
Although a lot of locals in India treat visitors warmly, you should always practice vigilance. Never go out with a lot of jewelry or accessories. Don’t bike around the big cities wearing extravagant stuff like golden chains around your neck.
Wherever you go, whatever country you’re in, flaunting your jewelry is a good sign for bad things to come. You’re only attracting unwanted attention from crooks. If you must accessorize, wearing Omega Speedmaster and bringing simple gadgets to aid your bike riding is enough. Remember, you’re in India to enjoy the sights, not to announce your wealth.
Early Bird
It pays to be early in India. It will be tough to go out by 8 am in some cities. If that is the case, go to places near small roads. Most probably, there will be a cafe or food stall around there somewhere. 8 am onwards is often considered rush hour, due to many people taking the main roads.
Carefully choosing routes is also a good habit when biking in India. Also, make sure to get to a place before 4 or 5 pm, since there will be another rush hour period around that time and the approaching nightfall will make traveling difficult.
Don't Be Cranky
Avoid being cranky when a situation does not bode well. Locals may take it as an act of hostility and may treat you differently. With that said, locals are often kind and hospitable if they find that a tourist deserves the treatment. Surprisingly, the rumors about tourists getting ripped off by locals are exceedingly rare. People in India are honest and treat foreigners accordingly.
Health
Health should be one of the things that tourists consider as a priority when visiting India. A lot of foreigners can’t handle the water in India and often suffer from minor bouts of diarrhea. When a tourist experiences loose bowel movements, a trip can sadly be over. Most people who suffer from diarrhea lose weight fast and tend to be more tired. If this happens, tourists should hydrate as much as possible until they get treated in proper medical facilities.
Takeaway
India is a destination spot for those who want a different type of journey. The hustle and bustle of the city is the reason why some people make a trip to India. What’s even more fulfilling is when a tourist embarks their journey through the country by way of biking.
Although the country is immensely populated, biking can become a memorable experience. Just watch out for those farm animals crossing the road. Along with proper route planning, safety and health should be a priority.
Lastly, enjoy it. Sometimes people get cranky because of situations that don’t go away. What they fail to see is that this is part of their journey in this country. The feeling one experiences when lying in bed from all the different travels on that day can bring one of the most memorable experiences in India.
