There is a huge amount to see and do on a motorbike holiday in India. You can ride along the beautiful tropical scenery of Kerala or enjoy the historical streets and motorway in and around Delhi. Carefully choosing the right motorsport and planning your route will ensure your trip is enjoyable.
Kerala is famous for being very green and has stunning views of tea plantations, backwaters and beaches. Delhi is a great place to start exploring North India, with lots of beautiful and popular weekend destinations close by.
Consider what experience you have of riding a motorbike, what type you would like to ride, dates of travel, budget and what type of road you will be riding on. Research any policies of the rental company, documents required and condition of the motorbike.
Kerala Motorbike Holiday
A great way to enjoy the stunning natural scenery, culture and varied landscapes of South India. There are many different places to ride to, including coastal routes, traditional fishing villages, forested hills and tea growing areas.
You can stop wherever you like to enjoy some sightseeing, eating local food, taking photos and short walks. Depending on your time, you can take a relaxing motorbike tour along the coast, a quick visit to the hill stations or a longer journey visiting several areas.
Best places to visit on a motorbike holiday in Kerala
Kochi
An extremely popular place to start your journey through Kerala. With lots of interesting historical areas, waterside attractions, cafes and culture.
Take a look around Fort Kochi and the historical streets. Be mindful of the busy traffic and parking in the centre.
Munnar
This is famous for the beautiful rolling tea plantations, picturesque hills, winding roads and cooler temperatures.
There are steep hills, sharp bends and varying weather conditions. Be mindful of the speed you ride at, check your brakes and tyres are in good condition and don’t try to ride on any unfamiliar mountain routes in the dark.
Alleppey (Alappuzha)
This area is famous for the beautiful backwaters and waterside areas. Taking a motorbike tour around the surrounding area will give you some peaceful villages to see, canals, coconut trees and local markets.
Try to take your time and enjoy the destination. If you plan on combining with a houseboat, ensure you have somewhere to park.
Varkala
This is a great area to visit if you love the coast. Enjoy some relaxing cafes along the beach.
Be mindful of how accessible the area is and parking. Don’t ride on any restricted pathways.
Wayanad
This is famous for the beautiful hills, plantations, waterfalls and natural attractions. It would be a great place to take a longer motorbike tour.
Be mindful of the rain, fog, wildlife and winding roads. Follow any local restrictions around the forest and roads. Check what access there is to individual attractions.
Ideas for a motorbike holiday in Kerala
The best route to take will depend on where you are starting from, how many days you have, your experience and what type of scenery you would like to see. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Kochi to Munnar
This route will take you from the coastal area to the Western Ghats. You will see changing scenery from urban and flat to windy hills and tea plantations.
Ensure you take regular breaks and check the weather.
Kochi to Alappuzha
A short route to enjoy some of the backwaters and coastal villages. Combine with some sightseeing in Kochi and a relaxing stay in Alappuzha.
Munnar to Thekkady
This route will take you from the tea country to the beautiful forested area. Check the roads and local access before travelling. Take care during heavy rain.
Kochi to Varkala
A longer route along the coast. Combine with some sightseeing in Kochi. Be mindful of the traffic, take regular breaks and enjoy your time at each destination.
Kerala Nature and Heritage Route
If you have more time to travel, consider taking a route to include Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Alappuzha and Varkala. This will give you a taste of everything Kerala has to offer. Ensure you plan your route and overnight stops realistically.
Top tip – Weather in Kerala can be unpredictable especially during the monsoon season. Check the weather, avoid any flooded roads and allow extra time due to rain, roadworks and traffic.
Best Time to Go on a Motorbike Holiday in Kerala
Kerala can be visited at different times of the year depending on the area.
Cooler months – Often the best time to go for sightseeing and longer rides. However, popular areas can be busy.
Summer – Coastal areas can get hot and humid. Ensure you take breaks to stay hydrated and don’t expose yourself to the sun unnecessarily.
Monsoon – The landscape will be very lush but heavy rain, wet roads, poor visibility and landslides in the hills can cause issues.
Check the weather for each destination.
Motorbike Hire in Delhi
If you are looking for motorbike hire in Delhi you can enjoy some flexibility whilst exploring the capital. With a combination of historical monuments, busy shopping areas, modern business areas and lots of popular weekend destinations.
Hiring the right motorbike can be useful for visitors, locals looking for temporary transport and motorbike enthusiasts wanting to take a longer journey. The best type of motorbike will depend on where you are travelling, how long you need it for and how comfortable you are riding.
Ask about what motorbike they have available, how long you can hire it for, deposits, mileage, fuel, insurance and what areas you can travel to.
Popular places to visit on a motorbike hire in Delhi
India Gate and Central
India Gate and the surrounding central area are some of the most famous sightseeing areas in Delhi. Be mindful of any restrictions and parking.
Qutub Minar
This is an important historical site in South Delhi. Can be combined with other sightseeing.
Humayun’s Tomb
This is famous for it’s Mughal architecture and beautiful garden. Check opening times and use designated parking.
Connaught Place
This is a large shopping, eating and business area. Be mindful of the busy traffic and parking during peak times.
Old Delhi
This has lots of historical markets, local food and historical sites. The busy roads can be tricky to ride through. It is a good idea to park legally outside the busiest areas and walk around.
Motorbike Road Trips from Delhi
Delhi is a great place to start a road trip to neighbouring states. Ensure you can travel the route you want to by checking the hire agreement.
Delhi to Jaipur
Jaipur is famous for it’s forts, palaces, markets and Rajasthani culture. A great place to visit if you love the highways and historical sites.
Delhi to Agra
Agra has the famous Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and other historical sites. Be mindful of any traffic and allow plenty of time to sightsee.
Delhi to Rishikesh
Rishikesh is a popular place to visit with it’s beautiful riverside, temples, yoga centres and adventure. Conditions can be more challenging when entering the hills so choose a motorbike suitable for your experience.
Delhi to Manali
Manali is a popular place to visit for mountain breaks and motorbike holidays. The journey from Delhi can be long so be mindful of the weather, roadworks and seasonal conditions. Plan overnight stops where needed and check the hire company’s travel restrictions.
Ensure you have the correct documents, check the motorbike and allow plenty of time to take breaks.
How to Choose the Right Motorbike Hire in Delhi
Choosing the right motorbike can make a big difference.
City – Choose a motorbike that you feel confident riding in traffic and at low speeds.
Weekend – Choose a comfortable motorbike with good luggage space, braking and one you are familiar with.
Long Tour – Choose a motorbike with a good riding position, fuel range, luggage and road conditions.
Mountain – Choose a motorbike that you are confident riding on inclines and bends. Experience is more important than engine size.
Budget – Ensure you know what the full cost will be, including deposits, mileage, fuel, late fees and any damage.
Don’t assume all motorbikes can be taken to all destinations. Ensure you can travel the route you want to by checking with the hire company.
Documents Required for Motorbike Hire in India
This will vary depending on the hire company, location and motorbike. Ensure you know exactly what documents are needed.
Often they will require;
Valid licence for the type of motorbike.
ID.
Passport and visa details if you are an eligible international visitor.
Booking confirmation and payment of hire fee/deposit.
Agree to hire terms, area you can travel to and return.
International visitors should ensure their driving documents are legally valid.
Safety Tips for Motorbike Holidays in Kerala and Delhi
Ensure you ride safely.
Check the bike – Check tyres, brakes, lights, mirrors, horn, chain and any damage.
Wear protective clothing – Ensure you have a correctly fitting helmet, suitable clothing, gloves and shoes.
Obey local traffic laws – Obey speed limits, signs, lane rules and parking.
Weather – Heavy rain can make roads very slippery in Kerala. Mountain roads can be foggy, have landslides and sudden temperature changes.
Allow time to take breaks and refuel – Don’t attempt long journeys if you are tired.
Know what cover you have – Ask about insurance, breakdown cover, accident reporting and liability for damage.
Have emergency contact details – Save the hire company’s details. Know what to do if you break down.
Follow local restrictions – Follow local road closures, forest access and traffic.
Plan your trip responsibly to enjoy your journey and reduce any unnecessary risks.
Motorbike Hire to Explore India
Motorbike hire can be a great option for those wanting to explore different areas of India. However, availability, pick up points and travel can vary between companies.
If you are taking a motorbike holiday in Kerala and visiting multiple cities, check if you can take the motorbike between districts or if you can return it to a different location. If hiring a motorbike in Delhi, check if you can travel between states and if you have to return it to the original pick up point.
Ensure you know what the full cost will be, how long you can hire it for, fuel, km limits, insurance, breakdown and cancellation.
FAQ’s
Is Kerala a good place for a motorbike holiday?
Yes! There are lots of different routes to ride on. You can enjoy the coastal routes, backwater villages, plantations and hill areas. Ensure you choose routes suitable for your experience and be mindful of the rain, road conditions and seasonal restrictions.
What are the best places to visit on a motorbike holiday in Kerala?
Kochi, Munnar, Alappuzha, Varkala, Thekkady and Wayanad are all popular places to visit. It will depend on how much time you have and what you are interested in seeing, whether it be beaches, historical sites or hills.
What is the best time to go on a motorbike holiday in Kerala?
Often the cooler months are the best time to go for sightseeing and longer journeys. However, conditions can vary depending on the area. During the monsoon heavy rain can cause issues, with slippery roads and landslides, especially in the hills. Check the local weather.
Can I hire a motorbike for a day in Delhi?
Some companies offer motorbike hire for a day. However, there will be minimum hire periods, prices, pick up times and motorbike types available. Check directly with the company to ensure you know the terms and final price.
Can I hire a motorbike in Delhi to go on a road trip between states?
Some hire companies allow you to travel between states however some have restrictions. Check what areas you can travel to, what insurance is offered, any extra costs and return requirements.
What is the best motorbike to go on a road trip from Delhi?
It will depend on your experience, route, luggage, comfort and budget. Choose a motorbike that you are confident riding.
What documents do I need to hire a motorbike in India?
Most companies will ask for a valid motorbike licence, ID, booking details and deposit. This can vary so ensure you know what is required. International visitors should check their driving documents are legally valid.
Can I combine my motorbike holiday in Kerala with a motorbike hire in Delhi?
You can include both destinations in your India itinerary. However, they are quite far apart. Plan your journey between the two areas. Check if there are any restrictions on the hire and if you can return it one way.
What should I check before picking up my hire motorbike?
Check tyres, brakes, lights, mirrors, chain and general condition. Take photos of any damage. Check fuel, km limits, insurance, breakdown and return.
