I am planning my next full-fledged cycle tour to South East Asia, and I am trying to convince the visa authorities to let me in their country without a return ticket (because I want to cycle 3 countries for 3-4 months, how do I figure out where/when to take a return ticket?!).

And I am also pondering on the so-many places of India which I want to still explore in depth. Gujarat, my native state which I have barely touched so far. Uttar Pradesh with the goodness of Crazy Varanasi, Prayagraj (Allahabad). And let me not even start on Central India – Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh! And a little sigh escapes my heart. If only it was a little safer. Then I wouldn’t have to bother with external visa authorities. With this rich, dynamic country of Bharat. I would be so happy to cycle it’s length and breadth. Have various crazy adventures. Eating the delicious and unparalleled depth of vegetarian cuisine. Meditating in ancient temples and meeting yogis and sadhakas on the road. Amusing the locals with my broken Hindi.

But here I am. Not feeling ready to tackle this country with its safety levels.

Having said all this, I don’t think India is un-cycleable. Gujarat and South India are two places that I am hoping to tackle a bit later. Just not right now.

Many solo women have done crazy trips across this country despite its safety level and all other problems. And many of them have written about some crazy happy adventures.

Read Jill Lundmarks 1857 Km solo ride in Southern India. This is what she writes in her trip afterthoughts,

“I recommend South India as a safe interesting touring location for cyclists.

The Indians themselves were almost without exception polite, patient, kind and curious. I have many, many happy memories of them and their hospitality.”

Bharat 🙂

I have also cycled toured a little in India from Chennai to Tiruvannamalai. (Chennai – Kanchipuram & Kanchipuram – Tiru). Two rides of about 100kms. It’s possible and very enjoyable. But also a little overwhelming.

I think for now I am happy with another little less exciting (and crazy) country. 😀

Do you feel this way sometimes?