Cycling in the Himalayas really involves a combination of travelling by bus, walking and cycling. There are sections of one’s journey which involve long, uphill climbing which are best covered by mounting one’s cycle onto a bus so as to arrive at the starting point of one’s real journey. For instance, the road sections from Kalka to Shimla or Kathgodam to Nainital, or Chandigarh to Manali where the road climbs steadily upwards for kilometre after kilometre and where bus and car traffic are heavy, give no pleasure to the mountain cyclist.

Cautions and Essentials for - Cycling
The following equipment is required for your ride on a trial. Don't ride without them !
Bicycle - The most obvious need of course is to have your own bicycle. There are a wide variety of models in the market from which one can choose. For off-road riding, it is recommended that you buy a true mountain bike, not a hybrid one. Usually, an appropriately sized mountain bike will have at least 2 to 4 inches of room between the top of the frame and your crotch when you stand above the bike. You should be able to reach the handlebars such that you can bend over at a 45 degree angle without feeling cramped.

Pump - Get one to fit your valve type. Compact pumps are light, popular, and fairly efficient. Many adapt to either style of valve.

Helmet - Buy one that fits right and wear it. Not only is a helmet required in many local parks, but it is a good thing to have on when in an accident. It can save your life.

Clothing & Accessories - It is very essential to dress right which should be according to the weather and riding conditions. The weather on the trail is often much different than where you live. Be prepared and make sure you have the following:-

Gloves, these will keep you from compressing nerves in your hand, getting blisters, and in the event of a fall, save your skin.
Padded Bicycling Shorts, these are not only more practical on a bike than loose fitting shorts, the chamois prevents chafing.
Windsheeter or light jacket, For spring, fall or winter riding.
Mountain Bike Shoes, these will help you in your ride. You can ride in tennis shoes, but since the soles are not stiff enough, they would not provide enough comfort (pedals dig into soles) or help in transferring power. Try cycling shoes.

The main trunk routes, which enter the Himalayas, are not suitable for the recreational cyclist. The truck and bus traffic that flows along them almost throughout the year makes cycling hazardous and unpleasant. But there are dozens of less frequented routes in the mountains where travelling by cycle is an entirely joyful experience. Some of the best places in Himalaya are Ladhakh, Uttrachal, Himachal, where you can enjoy your ride.