Cycling has emerged as one of the most popular forms of sustainable tourism in recent years. Biking tours involves travelling by bicycle for the purpose of recreation as well as exploring new places. Cycling allows tourists to immerse themselves fully in the experience of travelling while experiencing the natural scenic beauty at a relaxed pace. It is an eco-friendly mode of transportation that does not cause pollution. Many tourists are opting for cycle tours as it provides them health benefits of exercise while travelling.
Benefits of Cycle Tourism
Biking tours offers a wide range of benefits for both environment as well as the tourists. Unlike motorized vehicles, bicycles do not cause air or noise pollution making it one of the greenest modes of transportation. This helps in promoting sustainable tourism. Cycle Tourism is a low impact activity that does not damage fragile ecosystems unlike four wheelers. It allows tourists to navigate through narrow paths and terrains easily where vehicles cannot access.
From a tourist perspective, cycling helps in staying fit and experiencing destinations in an immersive way. Travelling by bicycle allows them to stop, explore and discover hidden gems along the route. This leads to meaningful interactions with local communities and understanding their culture better. Cycling at a leisurely pace prevents tourists from getting tired quickly, allowing them to enjoy natural scenery for longer duration. It is an affordable tourism option within budget of various economic groups.
Popular Destinations for Biking tours
Countries around the world have developed dedicated cycling infrastructure like trails, tracks and routes to promote biking tours. Some of the most popular international destinations for cycle tourists include New Zealand, Netherlands, Denmark, copyright, Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Switzerland and Australia owing to their well-planned trails passing through scenic natural landscapes.
In India too, biking tours is picking up in regions with pleasant climate and terrain. Places such as Manali-Leh cycle trail, Munnar, Coorg, Kasauli, Meghalaya, Jaipur, Hampi, Kasara Ghats near Mumbai, Ooty, Rishikesh and along backwaters of Kerala have emerged as top biking tours hotspots in the country. The trails through valleys, hills and countryside dotted with tiny villages provide magical cycling experiences. Many localized tour operators are organizing guided cycle tours covering famous destinations in various states.
Infrastructural Developments for Biking tours
Several countries and states have undertaken infrastructural development projects specific to cycling tourism. Dedicated cycling routes, tracks, trails, signages and maps are being created in popular destinations. Facilities like cycle rental shops, repair centres, parking spaces, rest areas and accommodation tailored for cyclists are also being provided along routes.
For example, places like Finland, Denmark, Amsterdam, Munich in Germany and Queensland in Australia boast of extensive network of well-marked cycle paths segregated from vehicular traffic ensuring safety of cyclists. Several European countries have integrated cycling routes in their public transportation system allowing cyclists to carry cycles aboard trains for intermediate travels.
In India too, guided by the National Cycling Development Program, states like Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka and Rajasthan have initiated projects to develop cycling tracks and incorporate itineraries in their tourism destinations. Cyclotourism circuits are gradually being established in touristy places with basic requisite amenities and commercial aspects.
Challenges and Scope for Development
While biking tours is an emerging trend worldwide, there are still some challenges constraining its growth potential especially in developing countries. Lack of dedicated cycling infrastructure in many places poses safety issues for cyclists traveling on roads with fast motorized traffic. Poor network of signages and maps makes many trails difficult to navigate independently.
Scarcity of accommodation, rental, repair and storage facilities tailored for cyclists act as deterrents. Limited publicity, outreach and awareness programs hinder its uptake especially amongst local population. Changes landscapes and terrain also affect cycling experiences across different seasons. High import duties on cycles and gear increase overall costs.
However, with continuous infrastructural developments, innovative tour packages and marketing initiatives, the scope of biking tours is growing globally. If encouraged systematically with participatory actions from local communities and authorities, it can emerge as a major segment of sustainable experiential tourism industry helping local economies while protecting natural environments.
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Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)