Mangaluru: The 16th edition of the Tour of Nilgiris (TfN), one of India’s most celebrated long-distance cycling tours, will be held from 14 to 20 December 2025. For the first time, the flagship endurance event will flag off from Mangaluru, marking a significant shift from its previous starts in Bengaluru and Mysuru.

Cyclists to cover 700 km across three states

This year’s edition will feature 110 cyclists, including nine women and 18 overseas participants, who will pedal more than 700 km across Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Riders will experience an elevation gain of 13,500 metres, making the route one of the most challenging in the event’s history.

The tour begins at Summer Sands Beach Resort, Mangaluru, on 14 December, after which cyclists will proceed through:

  • Virajpet
  • Sultan Bathery
  • Udhagamandalam (Ooty)

After a rest day in Ooty, riders will complete three scenic loop routes around its outskirts before the tour concludes on 20 December. A dedicated crew of 53 members will support participants throughout the journey.

Cyclists from across India and abroad to participate

TfN 2025 has drawn riders from Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Mizoram, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, West Bengal, the NCR and Uttar Pradesh.
International participants hail from Denmark, Ireland, Italy, Singapore, the UAE, the UK and the US, highlighting the tour’s growing global appeal.

Organisers highlight a new chapter for TfN

Co-Founder Deepak Majipatil expressed pride in the tour’s evolution:

“Experiencing Nature through Cycle has been epitomised by TfN. Flagging off from Mangaluru marks a new beginning, and cycling through the Nilgiris Biosphere—home to three iconic wildlife sanctuaries—remains the highlight of this epic journey.”

He added that TfN has played a critical role in shaping India’s endurance cycling culture and inspiring athletes to pursue cycling as an extreme and adventure sport.

India’s most loved endurance cycling tour continues to grow

From a modest start, TfN has transformed into one of the largest and most loved bike tours in India, gaining recognition on the global cycling map. With its mix of endurance, scenic beauty and cultural diversity, the event continues to attract seasoned riders and passionate amateurs alike.