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5 of Asia’s best bike trips to take in 2024, from the Indian Himalayas to traversing South Korea

  • Whether you’re a novice or an old hand, prefer flat land or lots of climbs, there’s something for everyone in this list
  • But be warned, if bike touring is your thing, you might need a tent for a couple of these

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A cyclist makes their way along on a difficult mountain road towards Shandur Pass in northern Pakistan. Photo: Shutterstock Images

Ready to start planning your 2024 getaways? Got some bucket list adventures you just can’t put off any longer? Is next year when you finally do that trip of a lifetime?

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Well, if biking is your thing, and you’re still looking for some inspiration the next time you get to escape Hong Kong for a few days, allows us to suggest some options.

From the Indian Himalayas, to traversing South Korea, here are five routes to really get your teeth into:

Himalayan landscape along the Manali-Leh highway. Himachal Pradesh, India. Photo: Shutterstock Images
Himalayan landscape along the Manali-Leh highway. Himachal Pradesh, India. Photo: Shutterstock Images

Manali-Leh and beyond, India

The 475km route between Manali and Leh in the Indian Himalayas is a well pedalled route that takes around a week for most to complete, although there is so much more adventure to be found beyond Leh.

Physically demanding, the trip takes in some of the highest motorable passes in the world, with the Khardung La at 5,328 metres being the highest, meaning altitude acclimatisation is essential.

The rough roads mean gravel or mountain bikes are best, or even a touring bike is also feasible. Basic accommodation is available along the way, but if riding unsupported it’s best wise to have a tent in case the weather turns.

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When to ride: June to September.

Lanna Kingdom, Thailand

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