The Western Ghats, which is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, travels across the six Indian states that are Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. They also offer thrilling landscapes and biodiversity hotspots around the world. Those who are passionate about bike rides exploring these western ghats on two wheels are gonna have a great adventurous ride. The windy roads and the dense green forest of the western ghats gives a wonderful memorable road experience. Here’s a complete guide to discovering the Western Ghats on two wheels.
Preparation: Ready Your Bike and Gear
1. Bike Selection and Maintenance
It's important to choose the right bike for your ride to tackle the terrains of the Western Ghats. Such rides are done on the professional bikes that are specially crafted for these types of rides that require good performance. Some popular choices are Royal Enfield Himalayan, Triumph Tiger 900 and Bajaj Dominar. Please make sure your bike is fully serviced before going on a long trip and is in top condition by going through a checklist that ensures all functions of the bike are working properly. Make sure you focus on brakes; tires are in good condition or replace them with new ones if possible. Carry essential spare parts like clutch cables, brake pads, basic tools, and puncture kit.
2. Riding Gear
Riding Gears is the most essential part of the ride as it will protect you from any kind of miss happening. So, it's important to invest in premium quality riding gears that give you comfort and safety on the other side. A good quality helmet with a visor that protects your face and eyes from UV rays. Riding jacket and pants that too with layers inside to comfort yourself with the change of the weather conditions. Pack a good pair of sunglasses and rain suit to handle unexpected rain.
3. Physical Fitness
Riding bikes for a long duration can be tiring, it's important for the rider to work on their body to make themselves physically strong or else there is a strong possibility that the rider may fall asleep while riding. So, it's important to engage in an exercise.
4. Documentation
Carry all necessary documents, including your driving license, bike registration, insurance papers, and identity proof. It’s also wise to have digital copies of these documents stored on your phone.
1. Mumbai to Goa via NH66
The route starts from Mumbai and takes you to the beautiful parts of the Western Ghats including Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar and the coastal town of Ratnagiri. This route is a combination of Mountains and coastal views and ends at the beaches of Goa.
2. Bangalore to Coorg
This 250-kilometer route from Bangalore to Coorg is a biker's paradise. Passing through Mysore, the journey is filled with coffee plantations, misty hills, and waterfalls. Coorg’s serene landscapes and pleasant climate make it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
3. Ooty to Munnar
This route is popular among motorcycle enthusiasts for its windy roads and beautiful scenery. The ride starts from Ooty and takes you to the tea gardens, dense forest, and lakes of Munnar. and it also includes the Nilgiri Hills and Anamudi Peak making it the highest point in South India.
4. Kochi to Wayanad
The ride from Kochi to Wayanad offers a unique blend of beauty, mingling between the coastal and highland areas. Starting from the bustling port city of Kochi, the journey takes you through lush paddy fields, spice gardens, and wildlife sanctuaries. Wayanad’s Edakkal Caves and Banasura Sagar Dam are must-visit attractions.
Exploring the Western Ghats on two wheels is a lifetime memorable experience like no other. But with proper safety and precautions like wearing a riding jacket with knee guards, staying hydrated and taking necessary breaks in between to rest yourself and your bike too for a smooth ride for a long period of time. So, gear up, plan your route, and start discovering the beauty of Western Ghats.
