HIMALAYAN CAMPING & RIDING EXPEDITION

OVERVIEW

Tour Type Guided

Region  Uttarakhand

Duration 16 days / 15 nights

Distance 545 Km (Riding days -12)

Grade Strenuous

Rail head Haridwar

Airport Dehradun (Jollygrand airport)

Season October, February, March

Group Size 7 -15 (Minimum 7 participants)

Meals  Veg / non-veg

Stay Resorts & Hotels

Tour Cost Euro 1800,

ABOUT THE RIDE

Uttarakhand is the state in India one can easily fall in love with. The surreal landscape that comprises lofty Himalayas, glistening, eye-catching meadows, imposing glaciers and surreal lakes, all makes Uttarakhand a coveted adventure destination in Indian Himalayas. The state is divided in to two regions: Garhwal and Kumaon. Garhwal and Kumaon differs in their culture, but they share a common bond of the Himalayas. Each of these offers plenty of opportunities for tourism, sightseeing, adventure and wildlife. Dotted with Trekking and hiking trails this north Indian state is a travel destination one can indulge in adventure and recreational activities.

Our cycling tour of foothills of Himalayas is set In the most stunning mountainous landscape of Uttarakhand. From the Yoga capital of the world Rishikesh to the source of the river Ganges at Gangotri. We cover the popular hill stations and remote villages to give you a Himalayan biking adventure, that test your mettle and reveals some rare aspects of the Indian culture.

The 16-day Himalayan cycling experience kick off with sight-seeing of Delhi, India’s capital. The action soon shift to Rishikesh – the town where the “Beatles” came looking for salvation in the 1960’s, and discovered transcendental meditation.

The Biking route to Gangotri winds up in to Himalayan mountains along circuitous course of the river Bhagirathi, which is a source stream for the Ganges. We start off at the comfortable altitude of 372 meters at Rishikesh and gain elevation with each day’s biking in to the Himalayas. Make no mistake, cycling in Himalayan mountains is no ride in the park and there are some strenuous demanding your utmost pedal power and endurance. But the good part is you are welcome to hop in to our back up Van whenever you need a break from ride.

It takes us a week of cycling to get to from Rishikesh to Gangotri at 3200 meters. Along the way we pass towns and little-known villages in a landscape that keeps changing from verdant hills to arid mountains to wuthering passes.

Our Himalayan Camping and biking trail end at Gangotri, here we turnaround and go back the way we came, but choose to overnight at the towns we passed by on our journey previously. On the twelfth day of our tour, we change the route and leave the road alongside the river Bhagirathi to take the highway going westward to Yamunotri, we explore the enchanting landscape of north-western uttrakhand for three more days before turning south towards the popular hill station Mussoorie, where we conclude our biking tour of Himalayas.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE

The tour strongly recommended to the bikers looking for a mix of Himalayan biking adventure and Indian cultural search. Many a night we camp out and dine in Luxury tents. Many a town we stop by briefly explore. And all this takes place against the backdrop of a dreamy Himalayan landscape that knock your breath out more than the rigors of biking do.

Do check out our detailed itinerary for an in-depth look at all the marvels that awaits you on our Himalayan Camping & Biking Expedition.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• New Delhi sightseeing
• Rishikesh sightseeing
• Visit Rashtrapathi bhavan
• Red Fort
• Qutab Minar
• Lotus temple
• Akshardham
• Dilli Haat
• India Gate
• Parliament house

FIXED DEPARTURE

October 7 – October 22

February 3, 2024 – February 18 2024

March 2, 2024 - March 17, 2024

                                                                                           TOUR COST

Euro 1800

· The tour will be operated with a minimum of 3-4 adults

· To enjoy the child discount, a child should share a room with two adults

· Single Supplement euro 300

· Bike Hire: euro 150.

TOUR COST INCLUDE

• Hotel Twin sharing basis
• Meals mentioned in theitinerary
• Expert cycle mechanic duringthe excursion
• Back up AC vehiclefor whole excursion 
• 2 days Delhi sightseeing
• Airport pick up drop and train ticket
• Overnight Luxury tent and Hotels
• Fruits / snacks / mineral water while biking
• Toll, Airport pick up drop and parking charges
• Government taxes

TOUR COST EXCLUDED

• Worldwide flight ticket
• Visa cost
• Still / Video digital digicam fees
• Tips and gratitude
• Travel Insurance
• Alcoholic beverages

WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING, SO IT’S BETTER TO BRING YOURS

· Clothes enough for 16 days

· Rain proof Jacket

· Hydration bag if you prefer

· Medicine – If you are on medication

· Personal hygiene kit like – Tissue, tooth paste & brush, soap, shaving kit etc…

· Zip lock for water proofing for your gadgets

· Mobile phone & Camera

· Sun block

· • Water bottle

· • Bike shoes

· • Helmet

· • Footwear

· • Cycling shorts

· • T Shirts • Socks

· • Neck warmer

· • Gloves

· • Sun glass

                                                                                                CANCELLATION

If it became necessary to cancel your tour, you must notify Himalayan Trekking Experience, immediately in writing. once we receive your notice, cancellation will take effect. Please note that the following charges will apply to cancellation

· If cancellation take place more than 45 days prior to departure, your full deposit will be returned except a processing charge (Actual Bank transfer charges)

· If cancellation take place 30 days before the start date of the activity departure , 20 % of the tour price will be fortified

· if cancellation takes place less than 30 days and 15 days prior to departure 30 %of the tour price will be fortified

· Cancellation between 15 days and 1 day before the start date of the tour or no show on the start day of the tour unfortunately no refund – 100% of the tour price will be fortified

· The tour prices quoted as a package

· No partial refunds or credit will be given for service not used

· We recommend that you obtain travel insurance upon booking.

HIMALAYAN TREKKING EXPERIENCE –Cancellation Policy

45 DAYS

Prior to the Tour Date

Full Refund

30 DAYS

Prior to the Tour Date

30 % Cancellation charges

15 Days

Prior to the Tour Date

50 % Cancellation Charges

14 - 1 Day

Prior to the Tour Date

No Refund

NO SHOW

On the Start Day

No Refund

Please Note:

If you book a Himalayan Trekking Experience Bicycle Tour and then wish to cancel, you will receive a full credit on your payments for a future trip on towards one of your already scheduled 2023 departures. You will need to let us know by 45 days before your trip, so that we have the opportunity to re-sell spaces and give staff and guides time to plan. Also if you can’t make a trip within 45 day period because of travel restrictions that affect your ability to make the trip, we will give a full credit of payment towards a future trip.

In the rare event that Himalayan Trekking Experience calls off/Cancel a Bicycle Tour

We almost never call off/ cancel our tours. But in the rare event that we call off/ cancel a Tour because of force majeure OR natural calamities (Continuous rain or snow, snowstorms, thunderstorms, floods, landslides, earthquake or any other natural calamity that prevents us from conducting an activity safely OR unexpected situation like political unrest, local riots, pandemic, lockdowns, government orders OR any other issues that affect the safety of the whole group Himalayan Trekking Experience will transfer the Tour to another location or issue a voucher on any of our activities over the next one year.

Important Note 1 : If your entire group is forced to abandon the activity after you have reached/crossed the first day of any tour (could be due to weather/sudden unforeseen circumstances), we will not issue a voucher, you are welcome to repeat the tour, free of cost with Himalayan Trekking Experience.

Important Note 2 : We do not issue vouchers to those who discontinue a tour. This can happen when your ride leader sends you down due to any of the reasons

· Lack of fitness

· Non maintenance of turn-around time

· Serious sickness

· Blood Pressure

· Any health issues

· Found drinking alcohol / smoking or breaking rules of the ride

· Quit the ride on your own due to personal reasons

Vouchers are given only when the whole team’s trek is cancelled / called off by Himalayan Trekking Experience.

In the rare event that we shift a ride:

There are situations that are beyond our control – excessive rain, thunderstorms, flood, landslides, earthquakes OR unexpected political unrest, curfews, local riots, pandemics, changes in permission rules of the government or government orders, or any such reason where a ride cannot run.

Then in such circumstances Himalayan Trekking Experience will always try to give you an alternate tour. This may involve shifting you to another where the situation is more favourable. In such situation, we will issue a voucher for the difference in the amount of your tour fee (If applicable).

You can redeem the tour voucher on any of our tours over the next one year. A refund for the tour fee or the difference is not applicable.

How to Cancel your Tours:

In case, you wish to cancel your tour, follow these steps:

· Write an e mail to htrekkingexperience@gmail.com

· After you have cancelled your tour, if you have opted for a refund, the refund amount will land in the same account that you have made the payment, from. If any Bank charges applicable that amount will be deducted

                                                                                              DOCUMENTS

What documents should I bring on my trek?

There are 3-4 documents that you must mandatorily carry on your tour without these, you will not be allowed to ride.

1. Original and photocopy of government photo identity card or passport will do. This is required by the government department for your identification.

2. Disclaimer certificate- This is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully and sign it. This must be handed over to your Tour Leader during the registration at day one.

DOWNLOAD PDF (Need to add a link here)

· Disclaimer & Declaration

· Liability form

· Disclaimer by Parents

3. Medical certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part must be filled by a practicing doctor, the second part must be filled by you.. DOWNLOAD PDF (Need to add a link here)

· Medical Declaration & Medical Certificate

4. COVID -19 Related Certificates: As the government regulations for COVID are changing very frequently. We suggest you stay updated and carry the required documents accordingly. You can also get in touch with our team for the latest updates.

Passport Requirements

All travelers require a passport, generally this should be valid for six months after the date of your schedule return home. Requirements change often and other regulations may apply. So be sure to check with the nearest embassy of the country you need to visit.

Please note that for overseas trips, we will require your passport details prior to accepting your booking, furthermore, if you renew your passport after you have booked, it is important you advise us of the new details as soon as possible and you may be required to take your old passport with you to maintain the validity of the trip.

Visas

Obtaining any visa that are required is your responsibility, details of current visa requirements for the country you are visiting or for transiting destinations are given on your invoice. Visa regulations can, and do, change, sometimes at short notice, but where we become aware of changes to regulations we will notify you. We cannot be held responsible for mistakes by embassies or third parties, sudden changes to regulations or actions of border officials which are beyond our control

Indian Online Visa : India Visa Online (indianvisaonline.gov.in)

Purchasing travel Insurance

It is essential condition of joining with Himalayan Trekking Experience trip that you have an adequate and valid travel insurance policy for the full duration of your trip to cover the cost of medical treatment, cancellation and curtailment and the activities included in our tours (Including the high-altitude for Himalayan Bicycle expedition)

FITNESS GUIDE

Cycling Fitness Guide

OTHER INFORMATIONS

Touring with H T E-

In order to give you a surreal experience during the tour, Himalayan Trekking Experience have planned the itineraries and routes meticulously. We have allocated enough time to be spent in each place, so that you don’t miss the breath-taking locales and the finest amenities each place has to offer.

When you choose to tour with us, you can be assured of an unforgettable experience! Around 95% of our tracks are paved country road tracks, mostly on small hills for your safety and comfort.

ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation is offered at all locations. Most of the hotels are cultural Resorts, Eco Resorts, Family run hotels and luxury tents. Our cost are based on twin - sharing basis. For individuals who wishes single occupation room, we provide single occupation room with extra cost.

TERRAIN

The landscape includes, mountains, rivers, valleys and villages

This itinerary allows for average daily distance of cycling approximately 30 – 50 kms. This is designed to enjoy the cycling through the rural life and meet the people of Garhwal. The vehicle will accompany and en-route make stop for bottles water and snacks for the riders. A nice way of sharing different experiences encountered on the way. The support vehicle will always travel behind the last cyclist. If you wish to take a break from riding wait at the side of the road and supporting vehicle will pick you up.

WEATHER

The hilly region of Garhwal boasts of a pleasant climate most part of the year. The ideal time of visit the place is November, February and March climate is moderate enough to enjoy the riding and sightseeing and adventure activities.

TRANSPORTATION / SUPPORT VEHICLE

All transportation included the cost. We offer backup vehicle throughout the  biking trip. The vehicle may be used to holdyour baggage’s and yourself as required.

FOOD

Food is a completely crucial a part of those trips. We make certain that the food we provide is delicious and nutritious. You have the selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food.

WHAT TO BRING

• Water bottle

• Bike shoes

• Helmet

• Footwear

• Sun display screen lotion

• Cycling shorts

• T Shirts • Socks

• Neck warmer

• Gloves

• Sun glass

CLOTHING

· In India, the traditionaloutfit is greater traditional. We recommend you to save you very brief shorts / skirts and confinedtops / tank tops while viewing small non-city places, temples, mosques or different sacred sites as this could restrictyour access.

· Water resistant jacket

· Thin cardigan

OTHERS

• Torch (optional)

• Mosquito protected cream

• Cap

• Toilet kit

PRECAUTIONS

· Bring all of the crucial medications. Do now no longer ignore

· Consume quite a few liquids. Don’t drink faucet water. Use handiest bottled water that's constantly stored in the vehicle

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory on all our trips and all details of your insurance policy including the policy number must be received by us prior to the start of your trip. We are unable to send you your travel certificate / Vouchers unless we receive them.

Money to Carry

Keep with you sufficient Indian Rupees in cash, money exchange or your international card.

Personal gear

People with particular requirements are advised to bring their own Bicycles, pedals, shoes, saddle, helmet and cycling clothes.

Clothing and gear we recommend

We recommend cycling shorts, dry fit T-shirts or cycling jerseys, and firm footwear. Loose fitting dresses or flip-flops are unsuitable for a cycling tour. You don’t have to carry extra clothes during the rainy season, carry only a rain jacket.

Your safety is our priority. We advise our guests to wear a helmet at all times during the cycling part of the trip. You should be aware that due to its geographical location, Kerala can be hot at times. As experts who have enough experience traveling via Kerala roads, we recommend our riders to apply a nice coat of sunscreen lotion. For added protection, you can use sun sleeves for your arms and buff headwear for your neck.

Typical day on the trip

You will ride for about 5-6hours through the villages and towns in the itinerary while also exploring the quaint lifestyle and the culture while you ride. The evenings are free for leisure activities and sightseeing.

Meals

We believe that eating local is not just a lot of fun but also are of those important elements of the destination experience- Very much a part of the adventure as they say! So, be flexible and prepared to savour and enjoy the varied and wonderful food of the world. Meals included and excluded are clearly specified on the detailed itinerary. When meals are included you will need to adhere to timings as these meals are usually at local restaurants. When meals are not included, your trip leader will be happy to make restaurant recommendations of favourite places frequented by the locals. Choice of vegetarian food can sometimes be limited and repetitive. Though special food, including vegetarian, child meals etc., can never be guaranteed. We do our best to accommodate your requests. On guided trips, please ensure you inform your leader if you are a vegetarian.

Medical facilities available

There are medical facilities (First Aid) available but we suggest carrying your own first aid kit and personal medicines as well. Also consult with the family Doctor before coming on our tour.

                                                                            FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1, I’m not a good cyclist. Can I join your tour?

Yes of course- As an entity run by passionate bike enthusiasts, we want more and more people to start using bikes for everything from riding to work to enjoying leisurely expeditions. That’s why our expeditions are designed to allow the general public to enjoy the tour. We will be riding at a comfortable pace, for your convenience. Our tours are graded to give you an indication of the fitness level required. If you’re looking for something more adrenaline pumped, you can take part in our Bicycle Tours.

2, Do you cycle in the hot season?

Cycling can be enjoyed in most weather conditions, including summers. Our tour operators will slightly change the schedule so that you can escape the blaring afternoon sun. We will include more water stops and cater to your requirements to make the tour a fulfilling one for you.

3, When is the best time to book a tour?

Generally, the sooner the better, especially with Bike Tours and particularly when travelling with a group tours can be fill up quickly.

4, Who runs the Tours?

We do, unlike some companies with middlemen, and sales agents, we do it all. We dream up the tours, research the routes, collect data and the length of the journey, share the beautiful experience with clients, and then run the tours with a combination of our experienced year-round staff, service providers and local staff in the countries the tour travels through

5, Do you cycle in the rainy season?

Yes, cycling in rainy seasons is quite comfortable. Our team will provide you with a poncho so that you can stay warm and dry throughout the ride. We will also equip all bikes with mudguards so that you don’t have a problem riding over any terrain. However, if the rain is causing poor visibility, we will stop for breaks or organize a backup till the situation is clear.

6, I have a restricted diet. Will you be able to provide specific meals for me?

We take extreme pleasure in making you feel at home. If you have certain dietary restrictions or allergies, please let us know while booking so that we can make culinary arrangements for you.

7, Will I have time to enjoy some of the interesting places along the route?

Absolutely, The tours have been designed to enable riders to explore some of the important places in the route. And since an average biking day will be five to seven hours, there will often be plenty of time to explore the local places on riding days as well

8, Will you be able to customize a tour?

If you’re a group or individual looking for something more adventurous and exhilarating, we can customize the tour for you. Speak to one of our friendly executive for more information.

9, Do you allow e bikes on your tours?

The answer to this question is dependent on which tour you are considering. Typically the answer is “YES”. How ever please check with our executives before booking your tour.

10, Should I tip and how much?

In general, tipping in cycling touring in all countries has become a custom. How much you should give is totally up to you, the amount available with you and your subjective opinion about the services you come across.

11, What other expenses will I likely have before and during the tour?

· Flight to and from the tour

· Bicycle, Spare parts, gear & accessories that you buy

· Travel health Insurance

· Vaccination

· Personal electronic, medical supplies and any other personal need

· Entry Visas (Where applicable)

· Souvenirs (Optional)

· Tips for staff (optional)

· Alcoholic beverages

12, What do you mean by back up?

Our HTE support van drives along our Biking route to offer light refreshments, water bottle refills and rides to those would like them when they get tired.

Support vehicle loaded with luggage, extra Bike and bike parts and our refreshments.

13, Do I need travel, Health and Medical Insurance

You must insure yourself, your bicycle and your belongings in order to join our tours. We will ask for your insurance policy details at the time of final payment. The crew are not medically trained but at least on member on all Tours has current First Aid and CPR qualifications. We will have basic First Aid supplies but it is your responsibility to bring any medications. Chemists will be available at the villages are pass through along the way. Medical clinics will be accessible in some towns and we will help as best able. You must also have travel insurance policy that protects both you, your belongings and your bicycle. You must consider the implications of an accident during your vacation and take these responsibilities seriously. Details of your policy must provide to us at the time of payment. Bicycles can often be added as an extra on most conventional policies

14, Is it Safe?

The answer is YES, but as with any travel there is certain level of risk that everyone need to accept. It is important to respect the local culture and people and to observe the law while travelling. Your greatest problem is motorized vehicles, as it is for cyclists everywhere, so practising defensive and wearing appropriate safety/ visibility gear is essential.

15, What if I get sick or injured?

Our support vehicle can carry a limited number of riders and bikes. If you are sick or injured and can not ride for a day or two you have the option to ride in our vehicles. At times, we have medic on our tours in more remote places where access to emergency services are limited. Medics are there to help with minor scrapes and bruises, and to assist in the event of an emergency.

16, What’s a typical day like?

The day begins at breakfast at hotel. During the breakfast we detail the route (Details of the day riding, tourist high lights etc.) and our tour leader explain the details.

After breakfast you put your luggage in our vehicle. You are now ready to hit the road with your Bike.

Tour Leader will lead the group and the asst. Tour leader will follow with the last person. You ride your own pace and you can stop when you like to take photos, find a café for a coffee.

Once you reach the hotel we have evening tea at our hotel- a delicious and nutritious selection of regional produce. People tend to relax in your room or go for a swim, explore the destination village etc.

Dinner is either a group meal or a free night (as per the itinerary). Group meals are at carefully selected restaurants showcasing the best of the region. After dinner tend to head to bed.

17, Is there a mechanic? What happens if I have a breakdown?

In all our tours, we have our own cycle mechanic that join the tour. Our cycle mechanic is around to offer any mechanical assistance that you may need. In the event that you have a major breakdown, we will try and keep you on the road by visiting local bike shops trying to find whatever parts are necessary. Where practical should you breakdown on the road, the mechanic will usually be along to help you out. As a last resort there will be always a extra bike in support vehicle.

18, Why are your prices are in Euro?

In general, the currency shown on each tour page corresponds with the accepted currency in the country/ countries where the tour takes place (with few exceptions) we buy the majority of our tours in Euros and it is simply cost-effective for you and for us. In this way, the price you see remains fixed. Only the exchange rete changes. We suggest using an online currency converter to estimate your cost

19, Tell me more about Tour pricing

All prices are per person based on double room occupancy. Single booking will incur a supplement. Please inform yourself in regards to what is included and not included in your tour package

20, What is the best way to Pay?

We now accept payment in Euros. Our EU clients can pay directly to our European account in Euros without any wire fees. Those from Australia, New Zealand and several other destinations can also pay in their own currency in to our European account using a transfer service. If you prefer to use a credit card, do note that we can only charge in US Dollars and a 4% surcharge will apply.

21, How do you determine my Bike size?

When you are ready to submit reservation, you will be asked to provide your height so that our local outfitters can determine your correct size. If there is any additional information you feel will be helpful in determining the best fit, feel free to add that in the comment section of the reservation form.

We advise that when you are assigned your bike or when you pick up your bike, that you check it over thoroughly, take a test ride to ensure everything is working properly. That all included accessories are indeed accounted for, and everything is up to youe standards before starting the tour

22, Are Helmets included with Bike Rentals?

The answer is yes. Your own helmet is best for many reasons. It fits, It’s clean and you are accustomed to it.

23, What is the degree of difficulty of the trips?

We strive to offer a variety of tours that will please all levels of cyclists. The majority of our tours fall within the easy to Moderate level which means they can be experienced by the beginner as well as the cycling enthusiast. It is essential that you have experience in the saddle and that you are in good physical condition.

To fully enjoy your bike tour, you should prepare, see each individual tour page for more details on its difficulty level. Our basis for categorizing our tours is below. Please remember that these general descriptions.

Easy: Flat terrain, Average daily distance approx. 30- 40 km

Easy to Moderate: Terrain is mainly flat with some sloping hills. A daily distance can sometimes exceed 40 km

Moderate: Terrian is made of rolling hills with some climbing involved. Itineraries frequently include two or more days with mileage more than 50 km.

Moderate to Difficult: Climbs are frequent and strenuous.

Difficult: Very hilly terrain such as you will find with our Himalayan Bicycle Expedition tours daily distance normally exceed 60 km, but not always. A very mountainous terrain but shorter daily distance will often times warrant the designation of Difficult.

Very Difficult / Challenging: Tours with longer distances and strenuous climb for eg Himalayan Bicycle Expedition.

24, Training guides and fitness

For our trips, we are often asked “what kind of fitness levels are required”? Of course, if you have booked a trip that is at the upper end of your capabilities, you want to know that you have done all you can to prepare. Unfortunately, these questions are often the most difficult to answer. Only you know your current fitness levels and capabilities and can prepare according to the options available to you.

When altitude is involved, your ability to acclimatize is going to have a much greater impact on your progress than your fitness. However, poor fitness and preparation is not going to increase your chances. In an effort to help you reach your active adventure goals, we’ve produced helpful Fitness Guides to help prepare for your trip

It is always best to make your preparation as close to the real thing as possible. Of course, it’s tough to replicate the major mountain ranges around the world, but make sure you include ups and downs if you are preparing for a mountain ride. If you are still unsure about your fitness, or the difficulty of the ride, we suggest you refer again to our grading system or talk it through with one of our experts and please download our Cycling Fitness Guide.