If there’s one community that awaits most eagerly for the rains to hit Goa’s soil, it’s the community of Goan cyclists. And there’s a reason for it; rains breathe fresh life into everything around the State, and the scenery painted by the monsoon gives them extra velocity.
The fast-approaching monsoon winds, which is likely to hit the Kerala shore by the end of this month and reach Goa by the first week of June, has already geared up the Goan cycling clubs to put up their monsoon cycling itineraries together, fuelling anticipation for the season ahead and spurring cyclists to get their bikes in order.
The monsoon season in Goa is shaping up to be epic for cyclists, especially those who crave adventure. And the prediction of an above-average rainfall this year is adding to their excitement.
Panjim-based Trigoa cycling club, which organises adventure rides, is leading the charge for the monsoon cycling season. It has already put up two events – ride to Curdi in Sanguem (June 16) and Monsoon Escape to Belagavi (July 27 and 28).
The ride to Curdi will start in Panjim and has it all – wildlife, beaches, history, and of course, the thrill of cycling through the monsoon-soaked landscapes of Goa.
It will take cyclists through Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Agonda beach, and the Cabo de Rama fort, before returning to Panjim.
Trigoa is organising this ride along with Sportif Amigos, Propedalerz Cycling Club, Panjim Cycling Club & Club Probyk.
Curdi, also known as Kurdi, is a village in the Sanguem taluka of Goa that was submerged in the 1980s due to the Selaulim dam project. Each year, parts of the village resurface during the peak summer months of April and May. In monsoon, it submerges again.
This ride, which covers 225 km, offers cyclists a unique opportunity to cycle to a historical site that is under water for most parts of the year, giving them a chance to connect with Goa's past.
The early bird offer (Rs 1,495) for the Curdi trip is still available and is valid only till May 31 for the first 10 registrations. The regular fee (Rs 1,695) applies to registrations received between June 1 and 11, and the late fee (Rs 1,995) applies after June 11.
Trigoa's ride to Belagavi, which covers 200 km both ways, offers cyclists a true escape into the heart of the monsoon. The ride starts from Sankhali and winds its way through the Chorla Ghat, which is the high point of the ride.
Cyclists can see stunning views, waterfalls cascading down the ghat section (especially with above-average rainfall prediction), and lush greenery all around. Be sure to take breaks to enjoy the scenery and capture some photos.
To enhance the appeal of the tour, Trigoa is catering to different preferences to make it more exciting. This option allows people who don't cycle to opt for the comfort of a four-wheeler and enjoy the scenic beauty of the route as they cheer their cyclist friends.
Says Rajesh Malhotra, who runs Probyk, Goa's popular cycling shop, "Ultimately, Trigoa's goal is to create a memorable experience for everyone. By providing the car option, friends and families who have mixed interests can still participate together."
While Trigoa offers fun-filled trips in the monsoon, cycling clubs in Margao, Ponda and other areas too are gearing up for their rain rides from June to September with the verdant landscapes, gushing waterfalls, and cool temperatures creating a perfect backdrop for cycling adventures.
These rides cater to those who enjoy daily rides and are always in for a more social and spontaneous experience. Some of the clubs, like the Margao-based Xaxti Riders and Panjim-based Cycling Goa, organise rides with different difficulty levels and distances, allowing cyclists to explore various parts of Goa throughout the monsoon.
For those who want to enjoy a bit of Goan cycling adventure in the monsoon season, the best way would be to connect with fellow cyclists and join them on their rides. They will be more than eager to host you.
By connecting with local cycling clubs, one can unlock a whole new Goan experience during the monsoon season. It's a novel way to experience the beauty of the State, connect with new people, and create lasting memories.
No matter which option you choose, Goa's lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and cool temperatures during monsoon promise a unique cycling experience. And, make a cyclist want to return to Goa for more.
By connecting with local cycling clubs, one can unlock a whole new Goan experience during the monsoon season.
DETAILS:
RIDE TO CURDI: June 16, 2024
Registration link: https://www.townscript.com/e/ride-to-curdi-2024
RIDE TO BELAGAVI: July 27-28, 2024
Registration link: https://www.townscript.com/e/ride-to-belagavi-2024
CONTACT: +917720882228