Cycling in Bangalore

Discover the joy of cycling in Bangalore, where green forests and hectic roads coalesce. Learn about the best cycling routes, some tips for new riders, and why cycling is the perfect way to enjoy the city.

Introduction

Bangalore, also acknowledged as the 'Garden City of India,' is famous all around for its high-tech scene and comfortable climate, combined with sprawling parks. Above and beyond the horrible chaos of the traffic, cycling has a different, refreshing take on navigating such a wonderful city and the delight of seeing its natural beauty and fitness. Whether you are an enthusiast or a curious beginner, hear what Bangalore's cycling culture offers. 

The blog will address the top cycling routes available, give suggestions for what to pack from the equipment in good light of the experience, and lastly, provide tips that will make this cycling experience nothing short of memorable yet hassle-free within Bangalore. 

Why Cycling in Bangalore? 

Cycling might just seem like a boring way of travelling from one place to another, but in reality, it's a way of life. This shows why you should consider riding Bangalore on two wheels at the moment: 

1. Eco-friendly: Given the high levels of pollution, it would be sustainable to reduce the carbon footprint as the much-desired option to opt for.  

2. Health Benefits: Cardiovascular health improves with cycling, as does stamina; as an effective antidote to the city's life, the stress is reduced.  

3. Explore Secret Places: Find those lakes, quiet lanes, and secret cafes from which Bangalore looks spectacular, but you're too busy driving past ever to see them. 

4. Traffic-Busting: You know the traffic that Bangalore has: top-poor. A bicycle gets you to dock into those narrow streets and escape many jams.

The Bangalore Cycling Routes  

This city has to offer quite several cycling routes that are well suited for possible fitness levels and interests- ranging from peaceful parks within the city to those with difficulty levels on a countryside trail. Here are some of the best cycling routes with highlights of distances from Bangalore, the time taken, and what makes a route so enjoyable.  

1. Cubbon Park

• Distance from Central Bangalore: 0 km (located in the heart of the city)  

• Time to Reach: Instantly accessible  

• Trail Enjoyability: Excellent for beginners and leisure riders.  

Cubbon Park’s tree-lined roads make it a serene and car-free escape for early-morning riders. A single loop covers about 3-4 km, and you can complete multiple loops for a longer workout. With its natural beauty and fresh air, cycling here feels meditative and invigorating. 

2. Nandi Hills

• Distance from Bangalore: 60-70 km (one way)  

• Time to Reach: Approximately 3-4 hours from the city centre by bike, depending on your pace.  

• Trail Enjoyability: Challenging yet rewarding.  

One of the loudest routes for cycling lovers is to Nandi Hills. The ride up the countryside roads leading to the hills is enjoyable, but the real thrill is climbing. The top of such hills gushes forth with panoramic views. It's a perfect trail for an experienced cyclist as it has a very steep gradient.

3. Yelahanka to Nandi Valley

• Distance from Bangalore: 50 km (round trip)  

• Time to Reach: 2-3 hours, depending on your pace.  

• Trail Enjoyability: Relaxing and scenic.  

This route is definitely less intense than the climbing of Nandi Hills, yet equally beautiful. Beginning from Yelahanka, this ride takes the rider through quaint little villages, farmlands, and open stretches of road. It also stands as an excellent choice for cyclists who truly enjoy countryside riding -especially without having to deal with the strain of the climbs. 

4. Kanakapura Road

• Distance from Bangalore: 40-80 km (round trip, depending on your starting point)  

• Time to Reach: 2-3 hours for a moderate ride.  

• Trail Enjoyability: Excellent for long-distance riders.  

This is for ideal open roads and beautiful countryside views for this cyclist. The smooth roads do occasionally have traffic, making visibility difficult at times.

5. Muthanallur Lake

• Distance from Bangalore: Around 30-50 km from Bangalore (round trip).

• Time to Reach: 2-3 hours, depending on starting point and your speed. Peaceful and offbeat. 

• Enjoy Trails: With and Near Nature

The Muthanallur Lake Trail, near Sarjapur, is for nature lovers. The dirt-and-paved road mix ground freshens it early in the morning or late evening. The shimmering lake and the soothing environment offer a picture-perfect place for a comfortable ride. 

6. Hebbal to Hesaraghatta 

• Distance from Bangalore: 25-30 km (one way) 

• Time to Reach: 1.5-2 hours. 

• Enjoy Trails: Quite short but fulfilling. 

This route is characterized by urban cycling interspersed with parts of semi-rural tranquillity and leads to the most splendid Hesaraghatta Grasslands at the end. The smooth roads and open fields make the ride enjoyable for both the novice and the intermediate cyclist. It is an ideal place for family outings or a photography session. 

7. Tourhalli-forest 

• Distance from Bangalore: 20 km (single trip) 

• Time expected: 1 to 1.5 hours 

• Trail Experience: Adventurous and Thrilling 

Nearest to Banashankari, Turahalli Forest is a great place for mountain biking enthusiasts. The trails move from smooth, well-paved paths to rocky inclines, offering a fun challenge for riders. Early mornings are best as the crowd is usually avoided and the forest is to be enjoyed in a peaceful atmosphere.

8. Big Banyan Tree (Dodda Alada Mara) 

• Distance from Bangalore: 28-30 km (one way). 

• Time to Reach: 1.5-2 hours. 

• Trail Enjoyability: Scenic and peaceful. 

Distance and access aside, this option is not to be missed- the mountaineering trip to Big Banyan Tree. This sprawling banyan tree has existed for nearly 400 years and is a lovely deter from wherever you go.

9. Thattekere Lake

• Distance from Bangalore: 40 km (one way). 

• Time to Reach: 2-3 hours. 

• Trail Enjoyability: off-beaten but serene. 

It's hidden near Bannerghatta National Park, and it's perfect for cyclists wanting to escape the city's noise. There are well-maintained asphalt and dirt roads well ensconced between dense green surroundings. The cool, quiet waters of the lake and the stray sight of birds now and again make it worth the effort. 

10. Bannerghatta Road

• Distance from Bangalore: 25-30 km (one way). 

• Time to Reach: 1.5-2 hours. 

• Trail Enjoyability: Challenging and Scenic. 

This route will take you toward the famous Bannerghatta National Park. This ride has a mixture of urban and semi-urban roads, with some hilly stretches. The last portion of the ride will be completely greenery surrounding you, refreshing from the city. 

So, pick a route, plan your ride, and plunge into Bangalore's beauty on two wheels. 

Essential Gear for Cycling  

1. Types of Bicycles:

• Road Bikes: Lightweight and made for long distances.  

• Mountain Bikes: Ideal for roughing up the off-roads.  

• Hybrid Bikes: Mix of comforts and efficiency for city rides.  

2. Procuring Safety Gear: 

• Helmet: Helmets should be the priority when biking since these are the effective disablers of head injury.  

• Reflective Vest: For the night tours.  

• Lights: Front and rear; lights for visibility don't miss a number.  

3. Accessories:

• Water Bottle: Keeping one hydrated with long rides.  

• Cycling Gloves: Better grip and comfort.  

• Repair Kit: Essentials like a pump, spare tube, and multi-tool are carried in this kit. 

How to Cycle in Bangalore  

1. Right Time: Early morning is one of the best hours for riding a bicycle as there won't be any strong sun rays to dehydrate you, and there will be less traffic.

2. Route Planning: Use apps like Strava or Google Maps to locate cycling-friendly routes.   

3. Be Visible: Due to the dusk or dawn cycling activity, it is wise to wear bright clothes and ensure that the bicycle has reflectors.  

4. Traffic Rules: Cycle along the left side of the lane, behave according to the traffic signals, and give way to pedestrians.  

5. Joining with a Cycling Group: Many groups, such as Bangalore Cyclists or Pedal in Tandem, organize regular rides and events, opening vistas to riding with equally passionate people. 

Bangalore Cycling Challenges  

Cycling does have some benefits. It is a must to acknowledge the following:  

• Traffic Jam: Cautiously aggressive while going through busy streets.  

• Air Quality:  Put a mask on those days when pollution goes up the roof.  

• Road:  Be ready for potholes and bumpy places here and there.  

Bangalore Cycling Community  

In Bangalore, one could say a very lively and welcoming community is the cycling community: The weekend warriors and the daily commuters have sufficient clubs to join. Here are a few of the popular clubs out there:  

• Bangalore Bikers Club (BBC): It's a club known for organizing long rides.   

• Jayanagar Jaguars: This group caters to people primarily focusing on beginner levels.  

• Cycling and More (CAM): This club offers meticulous tours and events beyond cycling.  

Joining a group will help you improve your skills and motivate you.  

Cycling Events in Bangalore  

The year has many cycling events in Bangalore that cater to every kind of cyclist:  

• 1. Tour of Karnataka:  It is a multiple-day affair, flaunting the beauty of the land the state has to offer.  

• 2. Bangalore Brevets: These are gran fondos, endurance rides that entail participation across bits ranging from 200 km to 600 km.  

Critical Mass: Monthly congregation of bicycle fans to raise awareness about cycling. 

Conclusion: 

Cycling in bangalore is not just an activity; it is a journey back to nature through slowly developing fitness and looking at the city from a completely different angle. There are undoubtedly many challenges; however, there are quite a few advantages in cost-benefit.

So grab your bike and cage onto your helmet because you are ready to see Bangalore differently. Whether solo or in a group, the Garden City welcomes you with open roads and a beautiful vista.  

Cycling is not just a pastime; it's a whole way of life. Initiate your journey of pedalling, and let the adventure begin!!

Here Are Some Of The Best Cycling in Bangalore: