Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
WHAT ARE THE MOST SCENIC CYCLING ROUTES IN ASIA?
Asia offers some of the world’s most visually stunning cycling routes, from Himalayan passes to coastal roads hugging tropical waters. This guide curates the top scenic cycling destinations across the continent, considering factors like landscape beauty, rideability, road conditions, and cultural highlights. Whether you're a leisure cyclist or hardcore bikepacker, these routes promise a feast for the eyes and a journey to remember. Let’s ride through jungles, deserts, and cloud-piercing peaks—all on two wheels.
Northern highlights: Mountains and culture
Conquer Asia’s most iconic climbs
Northern Asia is home to some of the highest, most majestic cycling routes in the world. If you're chasing altitude, dramatic peaks, and deep cultural immersion, look no further than the Himalayas and Central Asian passes.
Start with the Leh-Manali Highway in India, which crosses five Himalayan passes, including the 5,328m Tanglang La. Expect otherworldly landscapes, glacial lakes, and encounters with remote mountain communities. This route requires preparation and acclimatization, but the visual payoff is unmatched.
In Kyrgyzstan, the Silk Road-inspired Osh to Bishkek route offers rolling mountain roads through nomadic pastures, yurts, and soaring Tien Shan vistas. It’s gravel-friendly, so bring wider tires and a sense of adventure.
Top mountain routes in the north
Leh to Manali Highway (India) – Rugged, high-altitude adventure
Karakoram Highway (Pakistan-China) – Epic ride through ancient trade paths
Osh to Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) – Wild, remote, and unforgettable
Yunnan Province (China) – Terraced hills, Tibetan culture, and tea trails
Alay Valley (Tajikistan) – Challenging climbs and silent beauty
These routes aren’t just about scenery—they’re about riding through history, across ancient paths where silk, salt, and stories once traveled.
Coastal rides and tropical escapes
Pedal along Asia’s bluest edges
If mountain terrain isn’t your style, Asia’s coastal routes offer stunning seascapes, warm breezes, and cultural flavor without the lung-busting ascents. These rides combine lush vegetation, beach views, and access to island-hopping adventures.
In Vietnam, the Hai Van Pass is both short and spectacular. A 21km stretch between Hue and Da Nang, this ride offers a perfect mix of sea cliffs and historical charm. Further south, the Mekong Delta region provides serene, flat rides through floating markets and palm-lined roads.
Thailand’s coastal route from Hua Hin to Chumphon (part of the Bangkok-to-Phuket ride) is another gem. Smooth tarmac, seafood villages, and turquoise views await. Want island flavor? Explore Okinawa, Japan, where well-maintained roads curve around coral reefs and World War II landmarks.
Best coastal routes in Asia
Hai Van Pass (Vietnam) – Short, scenic, and iconic
Hua Hin to Chumphon (Thailand) – Tropical road with light traffic
Mekong Delta loop (Vietnam) – River life on two wheels
Okinawa Island loop (Japan) – Smooth roads and island culture
Lombok Coastal Ride (Indonesia) – Beach views with volcano backdrops
These routes are perfect for cyclists who crave nature, culture, and ocean air—all while keeping the elevation mild and the views intense.
Cultural routes and scenic city escapes
Ride through history and heritage
Asia’s scenic value isn’t limited to nature. Many of the continent’s most memorable routes wind through ancient cities, temples, and UNESCO heritage sites, offering a blend of cycling and cultural immersion.
Japan’s Shimanami Kaido is a dream ride connecting Honshu and Shikoku across a series of islands via architectural marvels—its suspension bridges soar above the Seto Inland Sea. You’ll pass fishing villages, citrus farms, and shrines along the way.
In Cambodia, cycle from Phnom Penh to Angkor Wat for a route rich in Khmer history, rural charm, and rice-paddy landscapes. Avoid the heat by starting early, and allow time for temple stops.
In China, Guilin to Yangshuo takes you through karst mountains, bamboo groves, and postcard-worthy river bends. It's popular for good reason—the terrain is flat, the views surreal.
Routes with deep cultural value
Shimanami Kaido (Japan) – Iconic island-hopping ride
Phnom Penh to Angkor Wat (Cambodia) – Temples and villages
Guilin to Yangshuo (China) – Karst wonders and Li River scenes
Ubud Loop (Bali) – Temples, rice terraces, and jungle vibes
Ninh Binh countryside (Vietnam) – Slow travel with ancient caves
These routes prove that scenic doesn’t always mean remote. Sometimes, the soul of the land is best seen from the saddle, riding past monks, markets, and monuments.
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