Frequently asked questions about cycling around the world
We often get questions about the trips we made, the sort of bikes we use etc. etc. We have collected these questions and the answers on these pages. However, if you have a question about ‘cycling around the world’ you’re always welcome to ask! .
FAQ’s about India
Next year we want to cycle along the east coast if India to Darjeeling. We have travelled in India before bur never on a bike. Are there sufficient places to stay in between the larger towns?
Everywhere in India there is ample accommodation. In betweem the major towns the best option is to ask for a government resthous, pwd resthouse or circuithouse. Excellent accommodation at very low rates. If they won;t let you stay go to the local police station asd ask for help. The police will often send somebody back with you to convince to caretaker to open up a room. We also stayed several times at the policestations itself, schools and temples. ( Keyword : india )
Is it safe to travel alone through India by bicycle?
Yes we think it just as safe as travelling alone by public transport. All the normal precautions apply. ( Keyword : india )
I’m planning to buy a bike in India but are not sure which one to buy?
Depending on what kind of touring you want to do you probably can either but a no-speed local bike suitable for shorter distances. Or a chinese or local made mountain bike for touring longer distances. Generally you don’t need a lot of gears unless you want to go into the foothills of the Himalayas in Northern India. ( Keyword : india )
Any general tips on India that will make travel more comfortable?
For india it’s best to avoid the main trunk roads. These are very busy with speeding busses and trucks. If you cannot find accommodation in smaller towns or villages go to the police. They will arrange a [place to sleep. ( Keyword : india )
We are planning to fly to india next january and cycle from there to south east asia and maybe australia/newzealand. We don’t have bikes for that trip yet, would you buy them before leaving or on arrival in india?
I would buy them before leaving. Good and strong travel bikes may not be available over there. ( Keyword : india )
We were considering not taking a tent and sleeping bags as acommodation is cheap in india/asia, what would you recommend?
No need to take a tent. Cheap accomm is widely available. Alternatives such as policestation, temples, schools, government resthouses maty also be a cheap / free option. ( Keyword : india )
When did you cycle through Delhi and the rest of Northern India? Do you know when it starts to get too cold around there?
Generally from october to feb is the coolest time of year. We did our last trip in October. ( Keyword : india )
Did you carry cooking gear or eat at restaurants on your trips through India?
We only carried a stove on our first trip (in 1988). We mostly used it to boil water as safe bottles drinking water was rarely available in this times. On our later visits in 1994 en last year to Sikkim drinking water was widely available. No, we never cooked any meals, as there are plenty of little restaurants everywhere. ( Keyword : india )
Can I buy Primus tanks for my stove in India?
No I don’t think you can buy Primus tanks in India (maybe in Delhi or Mumbai). It;s better to cook on gas (car fuel) or kerosene…. ( Keyword : india )
I want to become a professional cyclist in India? Can you help me?
here’s not much we can do for you. Best try to contact The Cycling Federation of India at : http://www.cyclingfederationofindia.org/ ( Keyword : india )
Your question about ‘cycling around the world’ not here? you’re always welcome to ask! .