Bike tourism has exploded in Uttarakhand as travelers seek the thrill of narrow ghats and sudden waterfalls on two wheels. The 130-kilometer ride from Pithoragarh to Munsiyari has become a bucket list item for thrill seekers, offering dramatic mountain vistas that change with every hairpin bend as you pass through villages like Askote and Jauljibi. For 2026, search behavior indicates that travelers prioritize well-maintained vehicles and verified vendors to tackle the rugged terrain of the Kumaon hills.
Bike rentals in Kathgodam, Haldwani, and Pithoragarh are in high demand, with Royal Enfields being the most popular choice for their power and durability on steep stretches. However, many seasoned riders also choose lighter 150cc bikes or even scooters for the zigzag roads, noting that agility is often more important than raw speed when navigating the single-lane curves of the Kumaon interior. The standard Delhi to Kumaon road trip usually spans 5 to 7 days and covers a picturesque loop through Nainital, Almora, and Ranikhet before reaching the high-altitude frontier of Munsiyari.
Practical tips for riders include carrying puncture repair kits and being aware that network connectivity is patchy in remote patches, with BSNL providing the most reliable coverage in towns like Dharchula. The Champawat Circuit Loop is another favored route for group riders, blending heritage stops like the Mayawati Ashram with challenging off-road stretches peppered with glacial streams.
Whether you are a solo explorer or part of a biking club, the roads of Kumaon offer a soul-enriching journey that defines the spirit of Himalayan adventure. Each destination on this route offers a unique flavor of the region, from the wilderness of Kalagarh to the breathtaking views of the Panchachuli peaks in Munsiyari. It is a journey that is not just about the destination, but about the local dhabas and the freedom of the open road.
Wander far, but never alone. Kurmanchal is with you.
