Imagine cycling in deep valleys and through undulating nature trails, or pedalling up a steep mountain slope and then racing down on an incline. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? Well, that’s what cross country cycling is all about. Popularly known as mountain biking, it is one of the most sought-after adventure sports in India today. Sandhya Tyagi, chief executive, marketing, Adventure Hills, in Gurgaon, says the number of people opting for mountain biking is growing by 35 per cent every year.

Not without reason. “The sport,” explains Somit Doshi, business development head at India Outdoors, a Mumbai-based adventure company, “attracts people because it does not require specialised training, has an element of adventure and when done in a group is great fun. But above all, it tests your endurance limit and is a healthy mode of transport.” Doshi’s company organises three such trips every year.

Depending on the type of terrain, mountain biking can be of two types. Most of the trails involve cross-country riding. These are rides where you usually pedal all the way without access to a lift or shuttle and don’t need any extraordinary equipment to complete the ride.

The other kind of mountain biking involves large drops, jumps and daring stunts. The trails are often accessed by shuttle or ski-lifts but can also be pedalled on. But for those who are biking buffs, rugged terrain is the obvious choice. The right equipment is essential to ensure a safe ride.

Cycles for mountain biking are somewhat different. Says Farzeen Doshi, a passionate mountain biker in Mumbai: “Mountain bikes usually have special gears that help you ride on different terrains.” One also needs to have proper biking shoes, helmet, cycling bags to carry water bottles, a first-aid kit, lotions and creams.

According to Doshi, it is always better to go mountain biking in a group. “Not only does it prevent you from getting lost, it also helps you to match your biking skills with those of the others in the group.” Travel companies that organise biking trips give you the option to either go with a well-informed guide or in groups after taking maps for directions and the trail.

Experts say that the best season to go mountain biking in the northern parts of India is between June and September. In the south, it’s usually from November to February. Monsoon is by no means an ideal season for mountain biking because the terrain is extremely slippery.

Some of the popular mountain biking destinations in India include the Leh-Manali highway, in and around towns like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Sikkim, Darjeeling, Mussorie and Kalimpong. In the west of India, the Sahyadris and the Konkan belt are also good locations for this adventure sport.

The biggest thrill in mountain biking is the discovery of hitherto unexplored places. Points out Tyagi: “Since the journey is through roads less travelled, it adds an element of adventure. Also, unlike other rides, bikers can stop anywhere to rest or service their bikes, a service station is not required.” Adventure Hills, for example, does not allow bikers to travel more than 45 km a day. “The bikers camp overnight and start off the next day,” says Tyagi.

So this season, if you wish to tread virgin territory, try mountain biking.

Need to know

FIT AS A FIDDLE: It is important to be in the best of health to go mountain biking. Instructors advise people to start walking or jogging at least a week prior to any biking expedition. Also, one should drink enough water to prevent dehydration.