Since the capital came out of lockdown, the roads are full of new riders. Instagram has seen an increase in users posting their riding pictures and the bike market is riding a wave of recovery. City birds, hungry for exercise and exploration, have taken to cycling again. That's why we're telling you about some great trails to follow in and around Delhi.
1.Aravalli Biodiversity Park
The Aravalli Biodiversity Park has a well-defined cycle path (including paved sections) in addition to its lush surroundings and abundant birdlife. The terrain is rocky and ideal for off-road riding as one gets deeper into the park. However, if you are someone who loves smooth drives on asphalt roads where there is nothing to do but see the Aravalli outcrops in the distance, try the Gurgaon-Faridabad Road. Similar to the American Midwest, the gradient on this route is gentle, allowing for smooth downhill speed and uninterrupted views of the hills.
2.Sanjay Van
Featuring a smooth track and entrances from all four sides, this 784-acre urban forest near the Qutub Institutional Area is one of the most popular spots. The network of trails here offers a 20 km cycling experience right on the banks of the Aravallis. You can also get off your bike and spot bird species such as purple sunbirds, crested buzzards and Indian flycatchers.
3.Najafgarh Wetlands
On the outskirts of Delhi, this route connects Dwarka to Haryana and generally does not have much traffic. The best time is early in the morning, as is the case for most urban cycling. Take road No. 4 from Dwarka, follow it from Sector 19B and then cross the Najafgarh Drain. Drive about 3 km along the drain, then take the road to Chhawla, pass Jainpur forest and finally reach Najafgarh Lake. Enjoy the view.
4.Dhaula Kuan to 11 Murti
South Delhi has its share of greenery and forests, including the tranquil South Campus of the University of Delhi. The stretch is a bit downhill and passes through a patch of dense forest along Vandemataram Marg before re-emerging on Sardar Patel Marg, towards 11 Murti Marg, which has State Bhawans on the other side.
5.Dwarka to Sultanpur
This is the big daddy of cycle routes in the capital and a favorite with serious cyclists. On this stretch you pass small villages, wetlands and farms. When you reach the Rajokri Protected Forest, take a detour and pass endemic varieties of trees on the way.
6.Tughlaqabad Fort to Faridabad
It starts from the Mehrauli-Badarpur road and the 15 km stretch is pretty straightforward after you reach Mohan Cooperative Industrial Estate and continue on NH119. The ride promises plenty of ups and downs as well as off-roading opportunities. You can also take a detour to the Asola Bhatti Nature Reserve on the Tughlaqabad-Surajkund road. The 33 sq km sanctuary offers great off-roading opportunities in addition to the wide variety of bird life bulbuls, barbets, peacocks, prinias and even pale hemp. Another alternative is to cycle from Tughlaqabad Fort to Faridabad and then around the forested areas south of Asola to Gurgaon.
Comments