Quick answer: The best motorcycle tour in India for a foreign rider depends on the season and the challenge you want. Ride the Himalayas from June to September, Rajasthan from November to February, the Western Ghats from October to March, and Arunachal Pradesh in April to June or October to November. India Loves To Ride (ILTR) guided tours run 11 to 14 days and start from about US$1,400.
Key takeaways
- ILTR leads four set tours: the Himalayas, the North East, Rajasthan and the Western Ghats, plus customised tours on request.
- Every tour has a guide, a mechanic with spare parts and a support vehicle.
- Foreign riders need a licence, an International Driving Permit and a visa.
- Prices are approximate and trips are customizable.
How do ILTR’s motorcycle tours compare?
| Tour | Length | Route | Best season | Motorcycle | From (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epic Himalayan Motorcycle Adventure | 14 days | Delhi, Shimla, Spiti, Leh, Srinagar | June to September | Royal Enfield 500 or Himalayan 411 | US$3,100 |
| Explore Untamed India | 11 days | Guwahati, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Kaziranga | April to June, October to November | Royal Enfield Himalayan | US$1,400 |
| Royal Rajasthan Motorcycle Tour | 12 days, 7 riding days, about 1,660 km | Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner | November to February | Royal Enfield | US$1,500 |
| Western Ghats Motorcycle Adventure | 12 days | Kochi, Munnar, Wayanad, Ooty, Mysore, Bangalore | October to March | Royal Enfield Classic 500 | US$1,500 |
Seasons come from our guides to the best time to ride in India and to Rajasthan. We also arrange customised tours on request, and the long tours include Mustang in Nepal.
Which tour suits you?
Pick by what you want from the ride.
- The biggest mountains: the Epic Himalayan tour crosses Baralacha La (4,890 m), Lachalung La (5,060 m) and Khardung La (5,359 m). Read our Ladakh and Spiti guides first.
- Quiet roads and local cultures: Untamed India crosses Sela Pass (4,170 m) to Tawang, then visits Ziro, Majuli, Nagaland and Kaziranga. See our Arunachal Pradesh guide.
- Forts, palaces and desert: Rajasthan has the longest riding days, with some rides up to 330 km.
- Green hills, backwaters and wildlife: the Western Ghats have the shortest riding days, from 70 to 150 km.
What is included?
The essentials on every tour: your motorcycle, an English-speaking guide, a mechanic with spare parts, a support vehicle and airport transfers. The Epic Himalayan tour also includes special permits for restricted areas and a medical kit with an oxygen cylinder.
Check these differences:
- Fuel is included on the Himalayan, North East and Western Ghats tours, but not on the Rajasthan tour.
- Visa, international flights, travel insurance and personal expenses are not included.
- You pay for any damage to the motorcycle.
- Guests who do not ride can join as a pillion or in the backup vehicle.
Can you bring your own motorcycle?
On customised tours, yes. Motorcycles are usually included, but you can bring your own if you can reach the starting city a day before the ride. See how our multi-day tours work.
What do you need to ride in India?
A licence, an IDP and a visa. A foreign licence alone is not enough. You need a motorcycle category on your home licence, an International Driving Permit issued in your own country, and a valid Indian visa. Our guide for foreign riders explains the rules. Some regions, including Arunachal Pradesh, need a Protected Area Permit. We arrange all internal permits for our tours, and we need a copy of your passport and visa at least one month before you arrive.
How should you prepare?
- Weather: Himalayan weather can turn cold fast, and your hands can feel frozen on the road. Carry waterproof riding gear and always keep a backup set with you.
- Altitude: if you feel any sign of altitude sickness (AMS), tell your tour leader immediately. ILTR always carries oxygen cans. Even so, your safety always lies in your own hands, so please take these adventures seriously.
- Respect: respect the locals and their traditions and culture. Do not get into arguments. If something does go wrong, involve the ILTR team to resolve it. Never take matters into your own hands.
FAQ
What is the best motorcycle tour in India for first-time visitors?
It depends on your season and comfort with altitude. The Western Ghats have the shortest riding days, and Rajasthan stays at low altitude. Tell us your month and experience, and we will suggest one.
How long are ILTR’s motorcycle tours?
11 to 14 days.
How much does an ILTR motorcycle tour cost?
Tour pages show approximate prices from US$1,400 to US$3,100, and trips are customizable.
Are motorcycles included?
Yes, on ILTR’s set tours.
Can I ride without an International Driving Permit?
No. You need an IDP from your own country, carried with your home licence.
Can a non-riding partner come along?
Yes, as a pillion or in the backup vehicle.
Plan your tour with ILTR
Tell us your month, your riding experience and your group size, and we will suggest a tour. Write to join@indialovestoride.in. Prices are approximate, and trips are customizable.
Last reviewed: 30 October 2026. Prices, rules and road status change, so check before you book.