Meeting Time & Location

On the first day of the trip, your Trip Leader will meet you at Jaisalmer Airport and assist you with the start of your journey.

Please ensure that you:

• Arrive with a valid passport
• Obtain a valid Indian visa prior to travel (mandatory)

Airport meeting details and emergency contact numbers will be reconfirmed closer to departure.

Climate Overview

Climate Overview – November

November is one of the most favorable months for cycling in north-western India, offering consistently pleasant and reliable weather conditions.

• Rajasthan experiences mild winter weather that is warm, dry, and stable—ideal for outdoor activity.
• Daytime temperatures typically range between 20°C and 32°C, creating comfortable riding conditions.
• Early mornings and evenings are cool and refreshing, perfect for cycling and post-ride relaxation.
• Rainfall is minimal, skies are predominantly clear, and daylight hours are well suited for extended rides.
• As the journey moves through arid and semi-arid landscapes, humidity remains generally low, with only occasional mid-day warmth that is easily manageable.

Overall, November offers an excellent balance of warmth, comfort, and climatic stability, making it an ideal season for a long-distance cycling journey across Rajasthan.

Preparing for Your Trip

Getting Active – Terrain & Conditioning

To enjoy this journey fully, we recommend preparing your body in advance:

• Cycle regularly before the trip, ideally outdoors
• Include some hills in your training whenever possible
• Aim to ride 20–40 miles (32–64 km) on consecutive days comfortably
• You should feel ready to ride daily and still have energy and enthusiasm the next morning

While spinning classes, stationary bikes, and aerobic training help build endurance, outdoor riding is essential for developing balance and road awareness—both crucial for riding on narrow or trafficked roads.

You will often ride single file, requiring steady handling and confidence on your bike.

Bringing Your Own Gear

You are welcome to bring personal cycling equipment, including:

• Helmet (mandatory)
• Pedals
• Saddle
• Toe clips
• Cyclometer / GPS device

Please inform us in advance if you plan to bring your own gear so compatibility can be arranged.

Do Not Forget

• Helmet
• Reusable water bottle

Staying Comfortable – Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent soreness while cycling?

Padded cycling shorts make a significant difference and are strongly recommended.

Do I need special cycling shoes?

Rigid-soled cycling shoes improve pedaling efficiency, but they are not essential. Any athletic shoe with a stiff sole is sufficient.

Is rain possible?

Yes, rain is always possible while traveling. We recommend lightweight, waterproof, and breathable rain gear (e.g., Gore-Tex jacket and pants).

Do layers really help?

Absolutely. Layering allows you to adapt to changing temperatures:

• Base layer: Moisture-wicking
• Insulating layer: Warmth
• Outer layer: Wind and rain protection

Rules of Bicycling Safety

Your safety is our highest priority. Please follow these guidelines at all times:

• Wearing a helmet is mandatory
• Ride predictably, defensively, and in a straight line
• Ride single file and maintain safe distances
• No headphones while cycling
• Obey all traffic rules and signals
• Ride on the extreme left side of the road, at a safe distance from traffic
• Control speed on descents; use both brakes evenly
• Exercise extra caution on wet or slippery roads
• Avoid potholes, gravel, glass, animals, and road obstacles
• Yield to pedestrians at all times
• Do not ride on sidewalks
• Avoid cycling after dark on tour days
• Wear bright, visible clothing
• Double-tie shoelaces and tuck them in
• Wear corrective lenses if you normally use them for driving

If a dog approaches aggressively, stop, dismount, and calmly walk out of its territory while keeping your bike between you and the animal.

Suggested Packing List

Essential Cycling Clothing & Gear

• Cycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers
• Padded cycling shorts
• Short-fingered cycling gloves
• Bright-colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts
• Lightweight jacket or vest
• Non-cotton base layers (polypropylene, Coolmax, Capilene)
• Synthetic cycling socks
• Sunglasses
• Breathable windproof jacket

Other Necessities

• Wallet (cash, credit/debit cards, ID)
• Medications and prescription copies
• Toiletries
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Small first-aid items
• Clear zip-lock bag for liquids in carry-on luggage

Recommended Additional Clothing

• Casual clothing suitable for villages, restaurants, and temples
• Fleece jacket or warm sweater
• Arm and knee warmers
• Cycling tights
• Long-fingered gloves
• Windproof outer gloves
• Lightweight cycling cap or skullcap
• Headband covering ears
• Long-sleeved cycling jerseys
• Swimming costume

Luggage Guidelines

Please limit luggage to:

• One medium-sized soft-sided suitcase or duffel bag (20–25 kg)
• One carry-on or daypack

All luggage should be clearly labeled with your name and contact details.

Valuables & Electronics – Important Note

We recommend not bringing valuable electronics, including laptops, tablets, or expensive cameras.

While we transport luggage as a convenience, we cannot assume responsibility for loss, damage, or malfunction of:

• Electronics
• Jewelry
• Fragile or valuable personal items

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping in India is entirely discretionary, yet warmly appreciated. It is a thoughtful way to acknowledge the dedication of your tour team.

Suggested Daily Gratuities (Per Guest)

• Lead Cycling Guide: INR 1200–1500
• Support Vehicle Driver: INR 1000–1200
• Mechanic / Assistant Guide: INR 500–800
• Local Guides: INR 700–800 (half/full day)

Hotels & Services

• Hotel porters: INR 100–200 per service
• Restaurants: 10–12% if service charge not included
• Local helpers and village hosts: Modest tips appreciated

Notes

• Tips are usually given at the end of the tour
• Cash in Indian Rupees is preferred

Tipping is a gesture of gratitude, not an obligation.