Five road trips that should be undertaken during monsoons
There are several road routes to etch momentous rides on a bike, but some routes stand out when it comes to monsoons. The rain-drenched thick foliage and the hilly terrains weave magic as you drive through for long hours. The monsoon poses a challenge, which a biker always looks for. The ride is a form of tryst with nature and your higher self. So if you’re planning for that long ride on a weekend be sure to check these routes out!
Darjeeling to Gangtok
As the majestic Kanchenjunga welcomes you with its arms wide open, the lush green landscape, misty clouds, and terraced tea estates present an elating four-hour journey of bliss. If the weather permits, you can ride a further 40 km to Lake Tsomgo. Even as you enjoy the tapestry of nature, do not forget your helmet while riding.
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Duration: 3 to 4 hours approximately
Route: NH 31A or NH 710
Chandigarh to Kasauli
Chandigarh to Kasauli is a popular, short road trip made more mesmerising by soaked mountain ranges and the stunning views filtering through the foggy clouds. It can be a great weekend getaway in the monsoons. Kasauli is a hill station and steering through the stunning and serene mountains that stand tall against the monsoon winds, is going to be a feather in your hat.
Distance: 59 km approximately
Duration: 2 hours approximately
Route: National Highway 22
Manali to Leh
The tough terrain cannot be the spoke in the wheel for a biker, who wishes to embark on the dream journey to Leh from Manali. Falling under trans-Himalayas, Ladakh is a rain shadow region, where not much rain bearing winds traverse. However, it does gets its share of the monsoon pie. But for a braveheart, slush, landslides and torrential water crossings cannot pose a threat.
Distance: 475 km approximately
Duration: 2 to 3 days approximately
Route: Via the Leh highway
Hyderabad to Tirupati via Nallamala Forest
Moving down South, Nallamala is a dense reserve forest that connects to Tirupati. The dense forest comes alive during rains and several interesting flora and fauna greets you as you cruise through. Monsoon lends this place a special attraction, and the fresh, cool breeze only adds to the sense of joy.
Distance: 347 km approximately
Duration: 6 hours approximately
Route: State Highway from Hyderabad
Mumbai to Malshej Ghats
Malshej, known for its marvellous waterfalls and forts, is a popular weekend getaway. Stretches of exuberant greenery, sky splashed in kaleidoscope of colours and scenic landscapes offer intoxicating moments to remember. It is easily accessible from both Mumbai and Pune. Start early as getting out of the city is time-consuming and cumbersome.
Distance: 130 km from Mumbai and 120 km from Pune
Duration: 4 hours approximately
Route: NH 3/NH 222 from Mumbai and NH 50/NH 222 from Pune
Two Wheeler Insurance
Before you embark on your bike adventure, do not forget to take online insurance for it. You can easily buy/renew two wheeler insurance online. The policy covers loss or damage to your vehicle against natural and man-made calamities. The best part is that it has in-built personal accident cover so that you do not have to bother about separate personal accident in case anything goes wrong.
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