Best Cycling Destinations in Mumbai for a Calm and Scenic Ride

Mumbai, one of the largest and most bustling cities in India, is also a hidden gem for cyclists seeking a peaceful and scenic ride. While the city may present numerous challenges, from heavy traffic to intense heat, there are several breathtaking locations that provide the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Whether you seek a leisurely promenade or an invigorating trail, Mumbai offers a wide range of cycling spots tailored to different preferences and fitness levels.

Popular Cycling Spots in Mumbai

Marine Drive: This iconic promenade along the coastline is an ideal spot for a leisurely ride. Its flat and wide path offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline. The early morning or late evening are especially peaceful times to enjoy a ride here, as the crowd is minimal and you can catch the warm or cool air, respectively.

Bandra-Worli Sea Link: While cycling on the bridge itself is not allowed, the roads leading to it provide splendid views of the sea and the city skyline. Additionally, the nearby Bandra promenade is perfect for cyclists. The area is surrounded by greenery, making it a pleasant and refreshing spot.

Powai Lake: The Powai Lake area boasts dedicated cycling paths and lush greenery, making it a perfect haven for cyclists. The serene environment and tree-lined roads offer a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Aarey Colony: Aarey is a substantial green space with numerous internal roads ideal for cycling. The area exudes tranquility, with tree-lined roads providing a peaceful ride experience.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park: The park features designated cycling tracks, allowing you to explore its natural beauty while enjoying a workout. It’s advisable to check for any permits or guidelines before starting your ride.

Carter Road Promenade: Located in the Bandra suburb, this seaside area offers a dedicated cycling path with stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Perfect for those looking for a picturesque ride.

Versova Beach: The promenade here is less crowded, providing a peaceful environment for cycling, especially during sunrise or sunset. It’s an excellent spot to start your day with a slow-paced ride.

Organized Cycling Routes

Mumbai's cycling community has grown significantly, with numerous organized cycling groups and clubs that regularly conduct rides in the mornings. These routes offer a delightful mix of urban landscapes and natural beauty, making them suitable for both experienced cyclists and beginners.

The following are some of the most popular cycling routes in Mumbai:

Bandra - Worli Seaface - Haji Ali - NCPA via Peddar Road: A 20km one-way route that offers breathtaking views and a pleasant cycling experience.

Dadar - Thane via Eastern Express Highway: This 30km one-way route provides a smooth and scenic ride, especially after Mankhurd. The Eastern Express Highway offers a straight and good stretch, making it suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists alike.

Dadar - Palm Beach Road Vashi: With a 30km one-way stretch, this route offers a combination of urban and natural scenery, making it a favorite among cyclists.

Thane - NCPA via JJ Flyover side: This 45km one-way route is known for its scenic views and challenging climbs, suitable for those seeking a more adventurous ride.

NCPA - Borivali National Park via Western Express Highway: A 40km one-way route that combines urban landscapes with the natural beauty of the Borivali National Park, offering a diverse cycling experience.

Fast and Scenic Loops

Mumbai is endowed with numerous cool stretches and loops that are perfect for a quick and scenic ride. Here are some of the most popular options:

Worli Seaface 1 Loop: Approximately 5km, this loop offers a pleasant ride along the seafront.

Bandra Kurla Complex 1 Loop: With an approximate distance of 10km, this loop is ideal for a leisurely cycle through the city's commercial districts.

Carter Road Bandra 1 Loop: A 3km loop that provides a quick and scenic ride through the coastal area.

Palm Beach Road 1 Loop: This loop, which is about 15km, offers a variety of terrains and scenic views.

Marine Drive 1 Loop: An approximately 10km loop that provides stunning views of the city and sea.

EEH Time Trial Stretch from JVLR to Mulund 1 Loop: This 10km loop is perfect for those who want to challenge themselves on a fast, flat ride.

Ghodbunder Road 1 Loop: With a distance of about 30km, this loop provides a mix of urban and natural beauty, ideal for longer rides.

Powai JVLR Stretch till WEH 1 Loop: This 14km loop offers a scenic route near Powai Lake, with lush greenery and stunning views.

Challenging Climb Routes

Mumbai is known for its challenging inclines, providing excellent opportunities for cyclists to improve their climbing skills:

Yeoor Hills Thane: A relatively short 1km climb offering a quick challenge for cyclists.

Ghodbunder Thane: A longer climb with a distance of approximately 10–15km, offering a significant challenge.

Uttan: A good climb with a moderate incline, suitable for those looking to improve their climbing abilities.

South Mumbai Slopes: Starting from Altamount road, this series of slopes, including Walkeshwar Climb and Manav Mandir, provides various inclines for cyclists.

Bandra Mount Mary: A classic climb providing a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Goregaon Aarey: A moderate climb through the Aarey Colony, suitable for those with some cycling experience.

Borivali National Park Climb to the Kanheri Caves: A challenging climb that offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the caves.

Turnaround Points

For cyclists looking for a peaceful turnaround point, here are some scenic spots:

Sewri Jetty: A great spot to see flamingos, especially during sunrise. You can start your ride from Dadar or Wadala.

Gateway of India: A historic and picturesque site, offering a perfect turnaround point for a refreshing break.

Borivali National Park: Known for its natural beauty, this park provides a tranquil and serene environment for a turnaround point.

NCPA: With its cultural and historical significance, NCPA is a popular turnaround point for cyclists.

Yeoor Hills: Offering a mix of natural beauty and history, this site is a highly recommended turnaround point.

Bird Watching Area Near Bhandup from EEH: A tranquil area ideal for cyclists who enjoy bird watching.

Conclusion

Despite its challenges, Mumbai offers a wealth of cycling routes that cater to a variety of preferences and skill levels. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or a beginner looking for a peaceful ride, there is something for everyone in Mumbai. Start your ride early in the morning to fully experience the city's peaceful side and to avoid the hustle and bustle of the day. Enjoy the scenic rides and tranquility that Mumbai has to offer!