India to London by bike - Full plan guide

Welcome to Dheeraj blogs💁

Believe it or not this is an epic journey! Traveling from India to London by bike is absolutely possible and has been done before. Here’s a step-by-step travel plan for you:

1. Route Planning: There are 2 routes.

The most popular route is through:
India → Pakistan → Iran → Turkey → Bulgaria → Serbia → Hungary → Austria → Germany → Belgium → France → UK.
Alternative route:
India → Nepal → China → Central Asia (Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan) → Russia → Europe → UK.
Total distance: Around 15,000 km, depending on the route.
Estimated time: Around 3–6 months, depending on your pace and stops.

2. Visa and Permissions:

India: No visa needed (home country).
Pakistan: Requires a visa; you need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and special permissions for border crossings.
Iran: Requires a visa; you need a Carnet de Passage for your bike.
Turkey: E-visa available for Indian citizens.
European Schengen Visa: Covers 26 European countries; apply well in advance.
UK Visa: Apply separately for entry into the UK.

3. Vehicle Documentation:

Carnet de Passage: A passport for your bike, required in many countries.
International Driving Permit (IDP): Mandatory for non-EU countries.
Bike Insurance: International coverage is required for European countries.
Pollution Certificate and Registration Documents: Keep originals and copies.

4. Travel Logistics:

Accommodation: Hostels, campsites, and Couchsurfing are popular.
Fuel Stops: Plan refueling points, especially in remote areas like Iran and Central Asia.
Food & Supplies: Carry essentials; some regions have limited options.
Navigation: Use offline maps like Maps.me and Google Maps downloads.

5. Border Crossings:

Check political conditions before departure.
Some borders may require bribes or extended waiting times.
Always have multiple copies of your documents ready.

6. Budget Estimation:

Fuel: Around ₹1.5–2 lakhs (~$2000–2500 USD).
Visa Fees: Around ₹50,000 (~$600 USD).
Food & Stay: Around ₹2–3 lakhs (~$2500–3500 USD) for 3–6 months.
Bike Maintenance: Around ₹50,000–1 lakh (~$600–1200 USD).

7. Preparations:

Training: Long rides, multi-day tours to build stamina.
Packing: Minimal gear, waterproof bags, and emergency kits.
Language Basics: Learn greetings and directions in local languages.
Physical Fitness: Daily cycling, strength training, and cardio.

Due to recent india pakistan war, we would explore second route:😜

Let's take second route to avoid pakistan route 🧡

Proposed Route:

India → Nepal → China → Kyrgyzstan → Uzbekistan → Turkmenistan → Iran → Turkey → Bulgaria → Serbia → Hungary → Austria → Germany → Belgium → France → UK

Step-by-Step Travel Plan:

India → Nepal
- Enter Nepal through Sonauli or Raxaul border.
- No visa required; just your passport.
Nepal → China
- Enter through the Kodari border or Rasuwa Fort.
- You need a Chinese visa and a special permit for your bike, as foreign vehicles require a guided tour in China.
China → Kyrgyzstan
- Enter through the Torugart Pass.
- Requires a Kyrgyz visa; usually easy to get.
Kyrgyzstan → Uzbekistan → Turkmenistan
- Visa required for both; Turkmenistan might require a transit visa which is time-sensitive.
- Your Carnet de Passage will be important here.
Turkmenistan → Iran
- You need an Iranian visa and a Carnet de Passage.
- Route through Mashhad towards Turkey.
Iran → Turkey
- E-visa is available.
- Beautiful riding through Cappadocia and Istanbul.
Turkey → Bulgaria → Serbia → Hungary → Austria → Germany → Belgium → France
- These are all Schengen countries, requiring just one Schengen visa.
- Border crossings are seamless within the Schengen zone.
France → UK
- You can take the Eurotunnel or Ferry from Calais to Dover.
- You need a UK visa separately from the Schengen.

Visa and Permits Required:

Nepal: No visa required for Indians.
China: Tourist visa + special overland permit for vehicles.
Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan: Tourist visas; Turkmenistan might require a transit visa.
Iran: Tourist visa + Carnet de Passage.
Turkey: E-visa.
Schengen Visa: One visa for all 26 countries.
UK Visa: Required separately.

Important Documents:

Passport (valid for 1 year minimum).
International Driving Permit (IDP).
Carnet de Passage (for bike transport across borders).
Travel Insurance (covering motorbike travel).
Pollution Certificate and Bike Registration papers.

Let's explore a detailed budget breakdown for your India to London bike trip via the Nepal-China-Central Asia-Europe route, covering approximately 15,000 km over 3 to 6 months.

1. Visa and Border Permits:

Country	Cost (INR)	Notes
Nepal	Free	No visa needed for Indians.
China	15,000	Includes special permit for vehicle entry.
Kyrgyzstan	5,000	E-visa available.
Uzbekistan	5,000	E-visa available.
Turkmenistan	8,000	Transit visa, usually for 5–7 days.
Iran	5,000	Requires Carnet de Passage.
Turkey	4,000	E-visa available.
Schengen Visa	12,000	Covers 26 European countries.
UK Visa	12,000	Required for entry into the UK.
Total Visa Cost	66,000	Approx. $800 USD.

2. Carnet de Passage (Bike Passport):

Description	Cost (INR)	Notes
Carnet de Passage Deposit	2,00,000	Refundable; required for the bike.
Carnet Processing Fee	20,000	Non-refundable.
Total Cost	2,20,000	Approx. $2700 USD.

3. Fuel Costs:

Average mileage of your bike: 25 km/l.
Total distance: 15,000 km.
Fuel required: 600 liters.
Average fuel cost: ₹100/liter (global average).
Total Fuel Cost: 60,000 INR (~$750 USD)

4. Accommodation and Food:

Type	Daily Cost (INR)	Duration (150 Days)	Total (INR)
Budget Hotels/Hostels	1,000	150 days	1,50,000
Food Expenses	500	150 days	75,000
Total Cost	-	-	2,25,000 (~$2800 USD)

5. Bike Maintenance and Spares:

Item	Cost (INR)	Notes
Tyres (2x replacement)	15,000	Essential for long distances.
Oil Changes	5,000	Every 5,000 km (~3 times).
Chain, Brakes, etc.	10,000	Replacement if needed.
Emergency Repairs	10,000	For unexpected breakdowns.
Total Cost	40,000	Approx. $500 USD.

6. Travel Insurance:

Coverage for medical emergencies, accidents, and bike damage.
Estimated cost: ₹10,000 (~$125 USD).

7. Miscellaneous and Emergency Fund:

Border crossing fees, tolls, and local permits: ₹20,000.
Mobile Data, SIM cards, and navigation: ₹10,000.
Emergency Fund: ₹30,000.

Total Estimated Budget:

Category	Cost (INR)	Cost (USD)
Visas & Permits	66,000	$800
Carnet de Passage	2,20,000	$2700
Fuel	60,000	$750
Accommodation & Food	2,25,000	$2800
Bike Maintenance	40,000	$500
Travel Insurance	10,000	$125
Miscellaneous	60,000	$750
Total Cost	6,81,000	$8,425 USD

Step by Step plan country -wise🧡

India to London Bike Trip Itinerary

Overview:

Total Distance: ~15,000 km

Duration: 3 to 6 months (flexible)

Countries: India → Nepal → China → Kyrgyzstan → Uzbekistan → Turkmenistan → Iran → Turkey → Bulgaria → Serbia → Hungary → Austria → Germany → Belgium → France → UK

Route Highlights: Himalayan passes, Silk Road cities, Turkish landscapes, European countryside, and London’s iconic landmarks.

Section 1: India to Nepal👍

Day 1: Delhi → Gorakhpur → Sonauli Border (Nepal)

Distance: 800 km

Stay: Gorakhpur or near Sonauli

Day 2: Enter Nepal → Lumbini (Buddha's birthplace)

Distance: 50 km

Explore Lumbini, overnight stay

Day 3-5: Lumbini → Pokhara → Kathmandu

Distance: 300 km (Pokhara: 200 km, Kathmandu: 100 km)

Explore Pokhara Lake, Phewa Tal, and Annapurna views.

Stay: Pokhara (1 night), Kathmandu (2 nights)

Section 2: Nepal to China (Tibet)👍

Day 6: Kathmandu → Rasuwa Fort Border → Enter China

Distance: 140 km

Border process, Chinese permits check

Day 7-10: Lhasa Exploration

Distance: 600 km to Lhasa

Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple

Day 11-15: Lhasa → Golmud → Urumqi

Distance: 2500 km (5 days of riding)

Travel along the Qinghai-Tibet Highway

Section 3: China to Kyrgyzstan👍

Day 16: Urumqi → Torugart Pass (Border to Kyrgyzstan)

Distance: 500 km

Day 17-20: Torugart → Bishkek → Issyk Kul Lake

Distance: 600 km

Explore mountain lakes and nomadic culture

Section 4: Kyrgyzstan to Uzbekistan👍

Day 21: Bishkek → Tashkent (Uzbekistan)

Distance: 500 km

Day 22-25: Tashkent → Samarkand → Bukhara

Distance: 500 km

Visit Silk Road cities, explore historical sites

Section 5: Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan

Day 26: Bukhara → Turkmenistan Border → Ashgabat

Distance: 400 km

Border crossing, explore Ashgabat’s marble architecture

Day 27-28: Ashgabat → Darvaza Gas Crater → Mary

Distance: 600 km

Visit the “Door to Hell” and the ancient city of Merv

Section 6: Turkmenistan to Iran👍

Day 29: Mary → Sarakhs Border → Mashhad (Iran)

Distance: 300 km

Day 30-33: Mashhad → Tehran

Distance: 900 km

Explore holy shrines and Iran's capital city

Day 34-36: Tehran → Tabriz → Turkey Border

Distance: 600 km

Section 7: Iran to Turkey👍

Day 37: Enter Turkey → Dogubayazit

Distance: 100 km

Day 38-41: Dogubayazit → Ankara → Istanbul

Distance: 1500 km

Explore Cappadocia, Ankara's museums, and Istanbul’s iconic mosques

Section 8: Turkey to Europe (Bulgaria → Serbia → Hungary → Austria)👍

Day 42: Istanbul → Plovdiv (Bulgaria)

Distance: 400 km

Day 43-44: Plovdiv → Sofia → Serbia Border

Distance: 300 km

Day 45-47: Belgrade → Budapest (Hungary) → Vienna (Austria)

Distance: 700 km

Explore the Danube, historic bridges, and Vienna’s architecture

Section 9: Austria to UK (Germany → Belgium → France → UK)👍

Day 48-49: Vienna → Munich → Stuttgart (Germany)

Distance: 500 km

Visit Munich’s beer gardens and Stuttgart’s automotive museums.

Day 50-52: Stuttgart → Cologne → Brussels (Belgium)

Distance: 400 km

Explore Cologne Cathedral, Grand Place in Brussels.

Day 53-54: Brussels → Paris (France)

Distance: 300 km

Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Champs-Élysées.

Day 55: Paris → Calais → Ferry to Dover (UK)

Distance: 150 km + Ferry Crossing

Day 56: Dover → London

Distance: 120 km

Welcome to London!

Journey Completed:

Total Days: 56

Total Distance: ~15,000 km

Your epic journey from India to London is mapped out perfectly!

Survival tips🧡

Survival Tips for Different Terrains and Weather Conditions on Your India to London Bike Trip

1. Mountainous Terrain (Nepal, China - Tibet, Kyrgyzstan)🛑

Key Challenges: Steep ascents, narrow roads, landslides, altitude sickness.

Maintain Low Gear: Use lower gears while climbing to avoid engine strain.

Avoid Overheating Brakes: Use engine braking on descents to prevent overheating.

Altitude Sickness: Ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and carry Diamox if needed.

Check Weather Forecasts: Snowfall or landslides can block roads—plan accordingly.

Carry Extra Fuel: Long stretches may not have fuel stations.

Acclimatize Properly: Spend a day or two at higher altitudes before pushing further.

2. Desert Terrain (Turkmenistan, Iran)🛑

Key Challenges: Extreme heat, sandstorms, dehydration.

Ride Early or Late: Avoid riding between 12 PM to 4 PM when the sun is harshest.

Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly; dehydration happens faster in deserts.

Protect from Sand: Use a visor or goggles, and cover your mouth and nose.

Bike Maintenance: Sand can clog air filters—clean them regularly.

Carry Spare Water: At least 5 liters per day, more for emergencies.

GPS and Compass: Deserts can have poor signage; don't rely solely on visual markers.

3. Highways and Urban Cities (Turkey, Europe)🛑

Key Challenges: High traffic, complex intersections, high-speed vehicles.

Follow Local Traffic Rules: European roads have strict lane discipline.

Stay Visible: Use reflective gear, especially during fog or rain.

Lane Awareness: Stay in the right lane unless overtaking.

Watch for Speed Limits: European roads have speed cameras everywhere.

Use GPS for Navigation: Some cities have complicated layouts (e.g., Paris, Vienna).

Avoid Rush Hours: Traffic congestion can be extreme in major cities.

4. Snow and Ice Conditions (China - Tibet, Austria, Germany)🛑

Key Challenges: Slippery roads, poor visibility, frostbite.

Use Winter Tires: If traveling in peak winter, consider winter-grade tires.

Ride Slowly and Smoothly: Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.

Layer Up Properly: Thermal gear, gloves, and waterproof jackets are essential.

Keep Electronics Warm: Batteries drain faster in the cold; keep power banks insulated.

Avoid Black Ice: Watch for glossy patches on the road that look wet.

5. Rain and Wet Conditions (UK, Belgium, France)🛑

Key Challenges: Slippery surfaces, reduced visibility, waterlogging.

Waterproof Gear: Wear a rain suit and waterproof gloves.

Avoid Painted Lines: They become very slippery when wet.

Check Tire Grip: Wet roads require better traction; ensure your tires are in good condition.

Reduce Speed: Hydroplaning risk increases at high speeds.

Visibility Matters: Use headlights even during the day to be visible.

6. Remote and Isolated Routes (China - Qinghai, Turkmenistan deserts)🛑

Key Challenges: No cellular coverage, limited supplies, harsh conditions.

Satellite Phone or GPS Device: Essential for navigation where there’s no mobile network.

Extra Fuel and Water Supplies: Carry at least 20% more than you estimate.

Know Your Waypoints: Mark key locations for water, fuel, and camping.

Emergency Contacts Ready: Have local embassy numbers on speed dial.

Buddy System: If possible, ride with someone else for safety.

7. Border Crossings and Checkpoints🛑

Key Challenges: Long waits, strict inspections, language barriers.

Keep Documents Handy: Passport, visa, permits, and insurance papers.

Understand Local Customs: Some checkpoints require a specific process (e.g., Iran-Turkey).

Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing words like "passport," "hotel," "fuel," and "emergency" can help.

Be Patient and Polite: Officers appreciate respectful behavior.

8. Night Riding (Avoid if Possible)🛑

Key Challenges: Low visibility, fatigue, wildlife crossing.

High-Intensity Headlights: Upgrade your lights for better visibility.

Reflective Gear: Increases visibility for other drivers.

Avoid Remote Areas: Wild animals or unmarked obstacles are common.

Stay Rested: Fatigue is a leading cause of accidents at night.

Essential Emergency Items to Carry:🛑

First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and emergency medicines.

Survival Blanket: For extreme cold or emergencies.

Fire Starter Kit: Waterproof matches or lighter.

Multi-tool Knife: For quick repairs and adjustments.

Whistle and Flashlight: To signal for help if stuck.

High-Calorie Snacks: Energy bars and nuts for emergencies.

Apps for Real-Time Weather and Safety Alerts:

Windy: For real-time wind and weather alerts.

MyRadar: For live weather tracking.

iOverlander: For finding camping spots and biker-friendly stops.

First Aid by IFRC: For medical emergencies.

Packing Essentials 🧡
Here's a well-structured list of Packing Essentials for Long-Distance Biking from India to London. I'll break it down into different categories for easy reference:

1. Travel Documents:💪

Passport (with multiple empty pages)

Visas for all transit and destination countries

International Driving Permit (IDP)

Bike registration and insurance papers

PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificate

Medical insurance (covering international travel)

Copies of all important documents (physical and digital backups)

2. Bike Essentials:💪

Full service before departure (brakes, clutch, engine oil, chain lubrication)

Spare key (stored separately)

Toolkit: screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, tire levers

Spare tubes and puncture repair kit

Portable air pump and tire pressure gauge

Chain cleaner and lube

Bike cover and lock

Power bank for bike electronics (if any)

Fuel canister (5-10 liters for remote areas)

3. Safety Gear:💪

Full-face helmet with a clear visor

Riding jacket (CE-certified armor)

Riding pants (CE-certified knee and hip armor)

Waterproof gloves and summer gloves

Riding boots (waterproof and ankle-protected)

Reflective vest and LED lights for visibility

First aid kit with emergency supplies

4. Clothing:💪

Quick-dry shirts (5-7)

Riding pants and regular pants (2-3)

Thermal wear for colder regions (Nepal, China, Europe)

Rain gear (waterproof jacket and pants)

Warm gloves and beanie for high altitudes

Sunglasses and a neck gaiter

Socks (8-10 pairs) and undergarments

5. Camping and Sleeping Gear:💪

Lightweight tent (waterproof and wind-resistant)

Sleeping bag (3-season rated)

Sleeping mat or inflatable mattress

Portable camping stove and fuel

Multi-tool knife and eating utensils

Collapsible water bottle (2-3 liters)

6. Electronics and Navigation:💪

GPS device or mobile phone with offline maps

International SIM card or global roaming

Charging cables, adapters, and a multi-port charger

Action camera (GoPro) for recording the journey

Portable solar charger or power bank (20,000 mAh)

Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries

7. Food and Water Supplies:💪

High-energy snacks (protein bars, nuts, dried fruits)

Emergency rations (canned food, MRE packs)

Water purifier or filter bottle (for remote areas)

Small stove fuel for cooking

Reusable utensils and a small cooking pot

8. Miscellaneous:💪

Ziplock bags for waterproofing important items

Bungee cords and cargo net for securing luggage

Multi-purpose foldable shovel

Compact sewing kit

Travel towel (quick-dry)

Small garbage bags (to leave no trace behind)

9. Apps to Install:💪

Google Maps (offline maps for each country)

Maps.me (for remote areas)

iOverlander (for camping spots and fuel stations)

XE Currency (for exchange rates)

First Aid app (for emergencies)

Translator app (for local communication)

Optional but Useful:

Drone for aerial shots of landscapes

Emergency flare or whistle for distress signals

Pepper spray (check legality in each country)

Bike-mounted phone holder

Emergency Contacts🧡
A comprehensive list of Indian Embassies and Emergency Contacts along your bike route from India to London. This includes embassy addresses, emergency contact numbers, and local emergency services for each country:
🇳🇵 Nepal (Kathmandu)
Embassy Address: Lainchaur, Kathmandu
Emergency Contact: +977-9851107021 / +977-9851107022
Email: cons.kathmandu@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 100
Ambulance: 102
🇨🇳 China (Beijing)
Embassy Address: No. 5, Liang Ma Qiao Bei Jie, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Emergency Contact: +86-185-1428-4905
Email: hoc.beijing@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 110
Ambulance: 120
🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan (Bishkek)
Embassy Address: 100-A, Mahatma Gandhi Street, Bishkek - 720010
Emergency Contacts: +996-555-710041 / +996-555-005538
Email: cons.bishkek@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 102
Ambulance: 103
🇺🇿 Uzbekistan (Tashkent)
Embassy Address: 16 Kara-Bulak Street, Vakhshskaya Street, Mirzo Ulugbek District, Tashkent - 100052
Emergency Contact: +998-78-140-0987 / +998-78-140-0999
Email: amb.tashkent@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 102
Ambulance: 103
🇹🇲 Turkmenistan (Ashgabat)
Embassy Address: Y. Emre 1, Mir 2/1, PO Box No. 80, Ashgabat - 744017
Emergency Contact: +993-91-718-0776
Email: amb.ashgabat@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 02
Ambulance: 03
🇮🇷 Iran (Tehran)
Embassy Address: 8, Mohseniyan St, Dolat Avenue, Tehran
Emergency Contact: +98-912-810-9115
Email: cons.tehran@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 110
Ambulance: 115
🇹🇷 Turkey (Ankara)
Embassy Address: 77, Cinnah Caddesi, Cankaya, Ankara - 06680
Emergency Contact: +90-535-490-4071
Email: cons.ankara@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 155
Ambulance: 112
🇧🇬 Bulgaria (Sofia)
Embassy Address: 4 Alfred Nobel Street, Sofia - 1113
Emergency Contact: +359-87-688-6165
Email: cons.sofia@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 112
Ambulance: 112
🇷🇸 Serbia (Belgrade)
Embassy Address: Embassy of India, Belgrade
Emergency Contact: +381-11-367-4201 / +381-11-367-4209
Email: hoc.belgrade@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 192
Ambulance: 194
🇭🇺 Hungary (Budapest)
Embassy Address: Búzavirág utca 14, 1025 Budapest
Emergency Contact: +36-30-515-4192
Email: consular.budapest@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 107
Ambulance: 104
🇦🇹 Austria (Vienna)
Embassy Address: Kärntnerring 2, 2nd Floor, 1010 Vienna
Emergency Contact: +43-1-505-8666 / +43-1-585-0793
Email: emb.vienna@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 133
Ambulance: 144
🇩🇪 Germany (Berlin)
Embassy Address: Tiergartenstrasse 17, 10785 Berlin
Emergency Contact: +49-30-2579-5101
Email: amboffice.berlin@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 110
Ambulance: 112
🇧🇪 Belgium (Brussels)
Embassy Address: Chaussee de Vleurgat 217, 1050 Brussels
Emergency Contact: +32-476-748-575
Email: consular@indembassy.be
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 101
Ambulance: 112
🇫🇷 France (Paris)
Embassy Address: 13-15 rue Alfred Dehodencq, 75016 Paris
Emergency Contact: +33-6-48-34-00-63
Email: cons.paris@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 17
Ambulance: 15
🇬🇧 United Kingdom (London)
High Commission Address: India House, Aldwych, London WC2B 4NA
Emergency Contact: +44-7768-765-035
Email: inf.london@mea.gov.in
Local Emergency Numbers:
Police: 999
Ambulance: 999
Note: It's advisable to save these contacts in your phone and keep a printed copy accessible during your journey. Ensure you have a local SIM card or international roaming enabled for uninterrupted communication.
Happy journey!

Travel Blog