The Hotspots in Asia for Cycling You Should Know About

Exploring a country by bike is one of life’s most rewarding experiences, especially in a fascinating continent like Asia. Boasting exotic landscapes and an incredible variety of cultures, Asia will leave you with memories you will treasure for the rest of your life.

Whether you’re a pro or a novice, you can explore Asia on a bike at your own pace and stop as many times as you wish. Of course, the destination will be a significant factor when planning your Asian cycling adventure. To give you an idea, here are the hotspots in Asia for cycling you should know about.

 

1. Thailand       

While many tourists visit Thailand in search of temples and stunning beaches, it has also become a fantastic destination for avid cyclists. Whether cycling around coastal roads or venturing into narrow hilly tracks, Thailand is one of the best destinations for cycling in Asia. Aside from coming across breathtaking scenery, cycling in Thailand is extremely rewarding.

One of the most incredible places to cycle in Thailand is in the Kanchanaburi Province, famous for its Hellfire Pass and the Bridge over the River Kwai, a railway bridge built by prisoners of war during WWII. Cycling through this iconic bridge is such an epic experience. Not only that, but your journey will also take you through the spectacular views of majestic forested hills and incredible caves. Most cycling adventures in Kanchanaburi happen on rural trails and unspoilt roads, perfect for adventurous cyclists keen on venturing into the rugged parts of Thailand.

If you only have the time to explore Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, head to Lumpini Park, a favourite spot for locals to explore on a bike in this bustling city. Pick up your bike from one of the bike stations at the edge of the park and venture into the smooth cycle paths and elevated walkways. Admire the tranquil lake in the middle of the park and stop by for snacks at the food stalls selling local Thai delicacies.

 

2. Vietnam        

Vietnam bursts with incredible natural beauty, from lush paddy fields to long stretching mountain ranges and stunning deep blue coasts. So, if you want a cycling trip that will leave you with long-lasting memories, you should choose a cycling tour in Vietnam for your next adventure.

Despite being jam-packed most of the time, Hanoi’s bustling city streets can be fun to explore on a bike as you zip around and observe the everyday lives of locals. Some places perfect for cycling in Hanoi are the Old Quarter, Hoang Dieu Street, and Phan Dinh Phung Street. You will surely enjoy immersing yourself in these busy areas, discovering ancient historical sites, and indulging in mouth-watering local street foods.

If you prefer a more thrilling ride, venture into the mountains of Da Lat, which lie in Vietnam’s Central Highlands. Most cyclists will start at the foot of Langbiang Mountain and into the forested trails to get to Victory Lake and the Valley of Love. This exhilarating cycling adventure consists of uphill and downhill rides through scenic natural landscapes with the possibility of passing by beautiful waterfalls.

 

3. Sri Lanka

If you want a cycling adventure that will take you through sprawling tea plantations, charming rural villages, and nature parks teeming with wildlife, Sri Lanka is the perfect destination. The South Asian country has incredible geographical and cultural treasures you can discover during your cycling adventure.

One of the most beautiful places to explore in Sri Lanka on a bike is Ella, a charming town perched in the country’s hilly interiors. During your cycling adventure, you’ll cycle through lush tea plantations and meet warm and friendly local villagers. Climb the Little Adam’s Peak, or venture into the Ravana Ella Falls, where you can rest and enjoy a refreshing dip. Perhaps, your adventure’s highlight is seeing the stunning sunset from the Ella Gap viewpoint.

History lovers should take a cycling trip to the ancient town of Polonnaruwa, where you can explore some of Sri Lanka’s finest ancient kingdoms and UNESCO-listed sites. Established around the 10th to 13th centuries, you will visit centuries-old ruins and the Topa Wewa Lake, where you can stop for a break and soak up the lake’s incredible natural beauty.

 

4. India  

India boasts a fascinating mix of culture, tradition, and stunning natural landscapes. Cycling in India is an incredible experience as you cycle past historic towns, sleepy villages, and bustling cities.

If you want to avoid the busy city streets and prefer to explore nature, venture into the south. In Kerala, cycle past coastal villages alongside scenic waterways and spend the night on a houseboat. Head to the historic Fort Cochi, wander around its spice bazaars and discover its lively arts scene. Venture into neighbouring Karnataka and check out the Bandipur National Park, a forested reserve famous for its population of tigers.

If you want to discover all of the highlights during your vacation in India, the best route would be the Golden Triangle, which covers the capital of Delhi, Agra – home to the Taj Mahal, and the pink city of Jaipur. You can spend the first few days cycling around the busy streets of Delhi before heading to the Taj Mahal. Another alternative is to cycle from Rajasthan’s Bharatpur to Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted royal city outside Agra.

 

5. Japan 

With its well-paved roads and incredibly stunning scenery, Japan is undoubtedly one of the best spots for a cycling adventure in Asia. Japan has numerous things to offer for all levels of cyclists. Cycling around this majestic country is the best way to discover remote areas and explore its top attractions.

If you’re in Tokyo, head to Yoyogi Park, one of the best spots for cycling in the bustling city. The enormous park is near Shibuya and Harajuku and is popular among local and international visitors for its quiet and serene setting. It’s also a popular place to view the cherry blossoms during the Sakura season.

If you want to escape the busy streets and visit a quieter area, head to Sawara, a scenic old town and a favourite place for locals to cycle around. You will love its old-world Edo atmosphere, featuring traditional canals and well-preserved historic districts. As you cycle around, you’ll find numerous shophouses and other sites dating back to the early centuries.