When you think of Bangalore, the first things that may come to your mind are the IT hubs, crazy nightlife, and the maddening traffic. But the Garden City also has many roads and trails where you can pedal around and escape the city’s chaos. And what better way to go sightseeing in Bangalore than with your bike! So here are some cycling spots in Bangalore which you can explore:
It’s unlikely that you would give this place a miss if you’re bicycling around Bangalore. Cubbon Park was built in the 19th century and this very park is what earned the city the moniker of ‘Garden City’.
Cubbon Park covers an area of 1.2 sq km, and this green space acts as a lung for the city. The many trees and shaded areas make Cubbon Park the perfect place for cycling and other outdoor activities. As the road is flat, you shouldn’t have any difficulty while you make your way through the park.
The early mornings are the best time to pedal around Cubbon Park. However, bicycling in Cubbon Park from 5 am to 8 am is banned now to ensure the joggers’ safety. You can come here after 8 am, but be mindful of the motor vehicles.
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Smooth roads, gentle inclines and downhill sections, and not-so-heavy traffic make the route through Bangalore University ideal for amateur cyclists who are training. In addition to this, the Bangalore University Road also has a dedicated cycling track which is about 2 kilometers long.
The roads are lined with trees, so this is also a place where you can breathe in some fresh air as you’re cycling around Bangalore. Try to get here by 6 am, which is when the road is opened to the public, so that you can cycle in peace and avoid the traffic altogether.
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This may be an unusual entry to the list but it's perfect for the one who wants to cycle on a weekend. The Kempegowda International Airport Campus has been opened for cyclists every Sunday from 6 to 9:30 am. Choosing to cycle here has the advantage of no traffic and also paved roads that aren’t potholed. So you can pedal away to your heart’s content (and capacity) in this complex. In addition to this, there’s also a dedicated bicycle parking spot beside The Quad By BLR.
This recently-restored lake in Agara is the place to be if you’re someone who’s just started cycling or want to pedal by the waters at a casual pace, away from the traffic of Bangalore. At the same time, you can also gaze at the many species of waterbirds that fly about Agara Lake.
The Agara Lake is surrounded by a well-maintained garden with a jogging track that’s about 2.5 kilometers long. You can go cycling along the track and if you don’t have a bicycle, you can rent one from near the lake. Once you’ve done cycling, simply stretch out on the grass beside the lake and relax.
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As the name suggests, this road has a water pipeline that runs alongside. With its gentle slopes and pretty scenery with greenery on both sides, it is quite popular among those who go bicycling around Bangalore.
There are quite a few steep descents along the way, so you’ll need to exercise caution while going downhill because of the risk of oncoming traffic. The way back will mean that you need to climb the slope, so you’ll need to zig-zag your way up, and don’t forget to carry your fluids and energy bars.
About 30 kilometers to the northeast of Bangalore is the Hennur Bamboo Forest. This is where you should go if you’re just getting started with off-road cycling.
There are some spectacular trails in this forest, of which some might pose too much of a challenge for the newer riders. But for the most part, there are short climbs that’ll help the newer riders get a hang of off-road cycling. The best part of exploring Hennur Bamboo Forest is in its namesake - listening to the gently rattling bamboo in the breeze as you explore.
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This lake is about 40 kilometers south of Bangalore. It's ideal for the cyclist who’s up for some challenge and wants to experience nature at the same time. The lake is a picnic spot and is also next to Bannerghatta National Park.
The route to Thattekere as you reach Bannerghatta National Park becomes scenic. The road towards the lake is largely downhill, so you’ll be able to speed through. But yes, the return trip would be a bit more strenuous. When you’re exploring the lake and its surroundings, keep your eyes open for the many species of birds that fly around the lake. But don’t forget that this is an elephant reserve and there’ll be electric fences at certain locations. Also, Thattekere Lake is home to crocodiles, so you’ll need to exercise caution while exploring it.
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Dodda Aalada Mara, aka Big Banyan Tree, is exactly what the name suggests. This 400-year-old banyan tree is spread over a staggering 3 acres. It goes without saying that you’ll be surrounded by trees (or a tree, rather). But what we’re looking at is a cycling trail that’s more exciting: the route to Manchanabele Dam.
The Manchanabele Dam is built over the Arkavathi River. It’s about 40 kilometers away from Bangalore, so you can work on developing your endurance cycling skills by pedaling all the way here. But at the same time, the terrain isn’t too steep, so you won’t have to worry about getting off your bicycle as you try to climb the gradients. The view of the surrounding hills when you finally reach the destination will be breathtaking, that is assured!
This is a route that’s much-loved by experienced cyclists in Bangalore. The Nandi Hills are located about 60 kilometers from the heart of Bangalore. But if you’re not fascinated at the prospect of pedaling all the way, you can bring your bicycle to the base of Nandi Hills in a car.
The route up Nandi Hills is steep and challenging to say the very least. A less-experienced cyclist may struggle with the steep 8-kilometer ascent that has 40 turns and hairpin bends along with vehicular traffic. It’s recommended that you embark on this trip with a group and carry enough water and energy bars. But reaching the top of these green hills and the view you’ll get will be a sufficient reward for your toil.
Where Can I Do Cycling In Bangalore?
Cubbon Park, Agara Lake, Pipeline 100, Hennur bamboo forest, and Nandi hills are just some of the listed places you can go cycling in Bangalore. In addition, make sure you’re aware of road safety rules for cyclists before you head out.
Is Cycling Allowed In NICE Road Bangalore?
Cycles being allowed on NICE Road seems to be a bit of a gray area, since a few sources say it isn’t while others are regular cyclists there. We recommend scoping the scene, and turning back if you’re stopped at the toll gate. If you do go ahead, be very careful at the shoulder since cars touch speeds of nearly 100 km/ph here.
Is Cycling For 30 Minutes A Day Good?
Yes, cycling for 30 minutes each day is good. It helps the body in many ways, and is a great way to exercise. Plus, it can also be very mentally rejuvenating to cycle in green, leafy areas away from traffic.
What Should I Not Miss In Bangalore?
Missing the food and the breweries when in Bangalore is practically a sin, so scan through various famous eateries and narrow down on where to go. Alongside, make sure you explore the city to see the Palace, Ulsoor Lake and other sites, which are impossible to miss.
What Are The Outskirts Of Bangalore?
The outskirts of Bangalore are studded with several amazing places perfect for a weekend getaway, like the Nandi hills, Mysore, Bannerghatta National Park, Avani, Talakad, and Hassan.
What Should I Not Miss In Bangalore?
If you plan on visiting Bangalore, there are a few sites that should ideally be part of your trip itinerary namely - Cubbon Park, National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Koramangala, and Nandi Hills.
What Do Bangaloreans Do For Fun?
There are ample things to do in Bangalore for fun and you can pick and choose from. Some people prefer visiting popular nightclubs like High Ultra Lounge while others consider cycling to the Big Banyan Tree a fun activity. Camping at Nandi Hills or setting up a picnic at Cubbon Park and visiting malls are other types of interesting activities you can do in Bangalore.
What Is Bangalore Famous For?
Bangalore is dubbed as the Silicon Valley of India. It is the most popular IT hub of the nation that is also famous for its greenery and pleasant weather. In its essence, it is an extremely well-developed metropolis.
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