India Cycle Tourism Market (2025 - 2033) Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Group (Groups/Friends, Couples, Family, Solo), By Booking Mode (Direct, Travel Agent, Marketplace Booking), By Age Group (18 to 30 Years, 31 to 50 Years), And Segment Forecasts

India Cycle Tourism Market Size & Trends

The India cycle tourism market size was estimated at USD 3.48 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 10.30 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 13.0% from 2025 to 2033. Travellers, both domestic and international, are moving away from conventional sightseeing in favour of active journeys that offer immersive, ground-level interaction with nature and local cultures. From coastal trails to mountainous terrain, India's geographic diversity provides ideal settings for multi-day cycling tours, heritage rides, and adventure circuits. Not limited to elite athletes or hardcore adventurers, these experiences also attract leisure travellers, families, and corporate groups. With cycling seen as both a wellness pursuit and an eco-friendly mode of travel, a new segment of experiential tourism is firmly taking shape across the country.

From a policy standpoint, cycle tourism has begun to garner institutional support through both tourism and urban development agendas. The Ministry of Tourism has encouraged states to incorporate cycling into eco-tourism circuits, positioning it as a low-impact travel mode that aligns with India's sustainability goals. Programs such as the Swadesh Darshan scheme have supported the integration of cycle-friendly infrastructure within thematic tourism circuits, including nature trails and cultural corridors.

Additionally, the Smart Cities Mission has accelerated investments in non-motorised transport, leading to the development of dedicated cycling lanes, improved signage, and accessible urban trails that also double as recreational tourism assets. Several states are independently advancing their efforts: Kerala’s Responsible Tourism Mission has launched guided cycling tours through villages, linking travellers with local artisans and culinary traditions. Similarly, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Sikkim are investing in high-altitude routes, positioning cycling as a key component of their adventure tourism strategies.

At the state level, focused initiatives are beginning to align with national priorities. In Rajasthan, local tourism authorities are working to promote heritage cycling routes that traverse forts, stepwells, and rural hamlets. Maharashtra has launched a campaign to revitalise its forest zones through eco-adventure cycling events. In Goa, cycle tracks have been introduced along the coastal belt, offering sunrise tours and spice trail routes that cater to leisure seekers and fitness travellers alike. These initiatives are often supported by local governments in collaboration with tour operators, cycling clubs, and community-based tourism organisations. Together, they reflect an intent to formalise and expand the cycling tourism economy while ensuring environmental stewardship and community benefit.

The private sector has responded actively to the momentum by launching purpose-built experiences that combine fitness with local discovery. Operators like Art of Bicycle Trips, Unventured Expeditions, and TFI Explorers offer curated itineraries across Southern India, the Himalayas, and Central India. These companies provide end-to-end services including high-quality bicycles, multilingual guides, support vehicles, accommodation tie-ups, and culturally rich pit-stops. In emerging cycling hubs like Coorg, Alwar, and Spiti, such offerings often blend local hospitality with adventure-based programming. E-bike tours are increasingly being introduced to make routes more accessible to older travellers and beginners, expanding the appeal of these tours to a broader demographic. Corporate offsites, school expeditions, and international visitors are also contributing to the growing customer base, signalling robust future demand.

Consumer Insights

Consumer behaviour in India’s cycle tourism industry is being reshaped by rising health awareness, interest in eco-conscious travel, and the appeal of immersive, offbeat experiences. Increasingly, Indian travellers are moving away from passive, itinerary-heavy tours toward active, experience-driven journeys. Cycling offers a compelling way to engage with diverse landscapes, whether it’s the hills of Uttarakhand, the backwaters of Kerala, or the deserts of Rajasthan, at a slower, more intentional pace.

According to an article by Ipsos published in June 2022, 67% of urban Indians report cycling at least once a week, the highest rate globally, indicating a strong recreational base for cycle tourism to tap into. Furthermore, 21% of urban Indians use bicycles for short daily trips, reflecting widespread familiarity and comfort with the mode of travel. These patterns suggest that cycle tourism is not only viable but increasingly desirable among young professionals, fitness enthusiasts, and experience-seeking families.

From a broader mobility perspective, about 20% of all commuters in India use bicycles as their primary mode of transport, with 21% in rural areas and 17% in urban centres, according to census and national sample data. While these figures pertain primarily to utilitarian commuting rather than leisure travel, they underscore the ubiquity of cycling across socio-economic segments. This long-standing familiarity with bicycles creates a strong cultural foundation for converting everyday riders into cycle tourists. The transition from daily use to travel exploration is a natural progression, especially when paired with scenic routes, cultural immersion, and wellness appeal. In that context, cycle tourism represents not a new introduction but an evolution of an already widespread practice.

Digital platforms and social media are further accelerating the growth of this segment. Influencer-led storytelling and cycling communities on apps like Strava, Instagram, and Reddit are shaping awareness of hidden trails, adventure circuits, and local cycling clubs. Many travellers now rely on a blend of online research, peer recommendations, and curated itineraries to plan their rides, mirroring digital trends seen in sectors like destination weddings. Tour operators have responded by offering transparent, customisable booking platforms and incorporating virtual previews, local experiences, and e-bike options.

Meanwhile, traveller spending behaviour reflects a clear willingness to invest in quality. Multi-day tours with technical support, boutique stays, and culturally enriched experiences are gaining popularity, especially among urban Indians with disposable income and inbound tourists seeking authentic engagement. As with other premium travel formats, cycle tourism in India is quickly moving from functional to aspirational, blending wellness, sustainability, and regional storytelling into a curated lifestyle offering.

An increasing number of Indian consumers, especially in urban centres, are aligning their travel preferences with health and wellness goals. Cycling tours appeal to those seeking fitness-centric, eco-conscious vacations that offer physical activity without the intensity of extreme adventure sports. For many, the act of cycling is no longer just a means of transport but a lifestyle statement. This shift is especially evident among millennials and Gen Z travellers, who value mindful exploration and self-care. The integration of yoga, spa sessions, and healthy cuisine into cycling itineraries further reinforces this behavioural shift, positioning cycle tourism as a wellness-driven travel choice.

The rise of digital discovery channels, Instagram, YouTube, travel apps, and cycling forums has significantly impacted how consumers choose cycling tours. Social proof in the form of influencer content, user reviews, and peer recommendations plays a major role in decision-making. Aspiration-driven consumption is increasingly shaped by visual storytelling of scenic trails, curated group rides, and immersive local experiences. Tour operators that maintain a strong online presence with real-time engagement, customisation options, and transparent pricing are more likely to influence conversions and brand loyalty.

Group Insights

Group/friends cycle tours accounted for a revenue share of 41.55% in the India cycle tourism industry in 2024. For many Indian travellers, holidays are not just about personal exploration but shared moments with close circles, making group tours inherently appealing. Cycling in groups offers a sense of safety, camaraderie, and motivation, especially on long-distance or challenging routes. Moreover, such tours often come with bundled pricing, logistical support, and guided experiences, reducing the planning burden on individuals while enhancing the value proposition. With the added appeal of curated experiences, scenic routes, and opportunities for social media storytelling, group tours naturally attract higher participation and spending.

Solo cycle tours are projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.0% over the forecast period. Travellers, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are embracing solo travel as a means to disconnect from routine and reconnect with nature or personal goals. Cycling offers a unique blend of physical challenge and introspective experience, making it especially appealing for solo adventurers. The rise of e-bikes, GPS-enabled route mapping, and safety-focused tour operators has also lowered the entry barrier for individuals to undertake such journeys with confidence. As the demand for customised, unhurried, and purposeful travel grows, solo cycling tours are emerging as a preferred format for those seeking autonomy without compromising on engagement or experience.

Booking Mode Insights

Direct bookings accounted for a revenue share of 65.04% in the year 2024 in the India cycle tourism industry. Travellers increasingly value the ability to customise itineraries, clarify route details, and confirm safety protocols, benefits more easily accessed through direct engagement than via third-party platforms. Additionally, the rise of digital-first tour operators with user-friendly websites and social media presence has made direct booking more convenient and reliable. By bypassing intermediaries, consumers often secure better rates, tailored experiences, and real-time support, while operators benefit from improved margins and stronger customer relationships. This mutual advantage has made direct booking the dominant channel in India’s evolving cycle tourism landscape.

Marketplace bookings are projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.6% over the forecast period, driven by the increasing digitalisation of travel planning and consumer demand for convenience and comparison. Online marketplaces offer a centralised platform where travellers can explore diverse tour options, compare prices, read verified reviews, and access real-time availability, all of which streamline the decision-making process. As more consumers seek flexibility and value, marketplaces provide a trusted environment for discovering both established and niche tour operators. Additionally, integration with mobile apps, payment gateways, and customer support services enhances the user experience, making marketplace bookings especially appealing to younger, tech-savvy travellers.

Age Group Insights

Travellers between the age group of 31 to 50 years accounted for a revenue share of 51.58% in the year 2024 in the India cycle tourism industry, reflecting their strong purchasing power, lifestyle preferences, and growing inclination towards wellness-oriented travel. This demographic typically includes working professionals and mid-career individuals who are financially stable and seek meaningful, experience-rich getaways that balance adventure with comfort. For many in this age group, cycling tours offer an ideal combination of physical activity, scenic exploration, and stress relief, particularly appealing as a break from routine urban life.

Travellers between the age group of 18 to 30 years are projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.3% over the forecast period, fueled by their strong affinity for experiential and adventure-based travel. This generation is highly influenced by social media, wellness trends, and a desire for authentic, offbeat experiences that go beyond conventional tourism. With increasing access to affordable gear, e-bike options, and digital platforms that simplify tour discovery and booking, young travellers are more inclined to explore cycling as a form of both recreation and self-expression. Their openness to group rides, sustainable travel, and solo exploration further expands the market potential.

Key India Cycle Tourism Company Insights

The India cycle tourism industry is a dynamic ecosystem of specialised tour operators, adventure travel startups, and hospitality partners, all adapting to the rising demand for health-focused, experiential travel. Leading service providers focus on delivering curated cycling experiences that combine scenic landscapes with cultural engagement, offering end-to-end services including route planning, gear rentals, accommodation, guides, and technical support. These businesses are extending their reach through partnerships with eco-resorts, boutique hotels, homestays, and regional tourism departments to promote cycling across diverse geographies such as coastal trails, rural interiors, high-altitude terrain, and heritage circuits.

As consumer preferences shift toward wellness, sustainability, and experiential travel, the market is increasingly driven by demand for thematic rides, flexible itineraries, and digital-first planning. Younger travellers between 18 to 30 years are seeking adventure and social validation, while travellers aged 31 to 50 prefer structured, high-comfort packages with personalised services. To meet these evolving expectations, operators are integrating e-bike options, wellness add-ons, and immersive storytelling that ties local culture with the riding experience. Destinations like Kerala, Ladakh, Rajasthan, and Sikkim are emerging as prominent hubs, supported by infrastructure investments and local government campaigns promoting green tourism.

Recent Developments

• In May 2025, Real Big Bike Ride, a premium adventure travel company specializing in two-wheeled expeditions, successfully launched a series of high-altitude cycling and adventure tours under the banner “Ride the Roof of the World”. The inaugural series marked a significant milestone in India’s cycling tourism landscape, introducing professionally guided, fully supported tours through the remote and dramatic terrains of Spiti Valley, Ladakh, and Zanskar.

• In April 2023, Cycle Culture, a leading electric‑cycle rental firm in Bir, Himachal Pradesh, inaugurated India’s first free public e‑cycle charging station, marking a milestone in sustainable tourism infrastructure. The facility, situated in Bir, where the operator conducts its main activities, allows users to recharge their e‑bikes easily at no cost. According to the company’s founder, the initiative supports eco‑tourism by encouraging slow, environmentally conscious travel and removing battery‑range concerns. With this infrastructure in place, e‑cycle users can explore the valley without logistical limitations, enhancing comfort and accessibility while promoting the broader vision of cycle‑culture expansion across India.

India Cycle Tourism MarketReport Scope:

India Cycle Tourism Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at country levels and provides an analysis of the latest trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2033. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the India cycle tourism market report based on the group, booking mode, and age group

• Group Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)

  • Groups/Friends

  • Couples

  • Family

  • Solo

• Booking Mode Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)

  • Direct

  • Travel Agent

  • Marketplace Booking

• Age Group Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)

  • 18 to 30 Years

  • 31 to 50 Years

  • Above 50 Years