Conquering Himalayan Peaks On Two Wheels: A Father-Son's Journey On Manali-Leh-KhardungLa Route

The Himalayas have always been a go-to destination for adventure and adrenaline seekers. It was on these meandering roads that I embarked on one of the most difficult challenges of my life, completing the iconic Manali-Leh-KhardungLa route on my bicycle along with my father, climbing to a staggering height of 17,892 ft (5359 m) the erstwhile highest motorable road in the world.

My first memory of visiting this route was in 2015, when I was 8 years old, to see my father finish this route on his cycle for the first time, and he went on to do it again in 2016 as a trained guide leading a team of 10 cyclists. During his first ride, he was inspired by a father-daughter duo (52Yr/15Yr) riding with him, and since, had dreamt of an experience of the same kind with me when I turned 15.

Manali-Leh-KhardungLa : A Test of Pure Resolution

The Manali-Leh route is known for its challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, high altitude climbs/Pass, altitude sickness, low oxygen, and unpaved tracks. The journey began at Jagatsukh, a picturesque village in the Kullu valley, where we were joined by 3 other cyclists. We were there at a phase where Manali/Kullu region was devastated by cloud burst & heavy landslides, leaving a trail of destruction in the region.

There was a sense of excitement and anxiety in the atmosphere as we set off, leaving the lush green landscapes behind. It rained that morning and we started off in the wet, cold, low visibility conditions. We began the gradual climb and were moving away from green, towards the arid desert of Ladakh. The challenges were constant - steep inclines that seemed never-ending, rocky paths that tested our cycle's suspension, tyres and our muscles and joints, with the omnipresent threat of altitude sickness. But the companionship of fellow riders, the encouragement of our guides and the sheer awe-inspiring views kept us going.

The terrain tested my limits every single day, pushing me to the edge of my physical and mental endurance. However, the fun of racing downhill after pedalling up towards the pass (La means Pass in Tibetan) for hours was unparalleled. The roar of the wind in my ears, coupled with the sheer magnificence of my surroundings transcended me into another dimension. Pictures truly can't do justice to what you soak in with your own eyes.

It is about what you feel rather than what you capture. Throughout the 530km journey, I crossed not one or two but six of Himalaya's gruesome passes; RohtangLa (13,058 ft), BaralachLa (15,910 ft), NakeeLa (15,547 ft), LachungLa (16,616 ft), TanglangLa (17,842 ft) and finally the mighty KhardungLa (17,982 ft).

Each of these passes had something unique to offer; Rohtang being the most unpredictable due to its never-ending ascent from Manali; NakeeLa and LachungLa standing like twins next to each other. We also climbed the infamous Gata Loops, a 11km climb consisting of 21 hairpin bends. All passersby offer water at turn 19 owing to a true tale of suffering & death of a trucker, a reminder of how dangerous and unforgiving these terrains are.

Conquering KhardungLa : The Ultimate Ascent

To add to my list of achievements was the mother of all climbs, the mighty KhardungLa. It was previously considered the highest motorable road in the world. The 39 km climb began from Leh, with every meter gained requiring immense effort due to low oxygen levels.

It truly was a test of physical and mental strength. It took us 7 hours to climb but when we reached the summit, I felt an emotion that was a culmination of everything I had felt throughout this 9-day journey - a sense of triumph, a connection to nature, and the realization that I could push myself to heights I never knew I could, with tears rolling down my cheek.

Life lessons from the journey:

This journey has left me with not only memories but also a valuable life lesson. I learned that challenges, no matter how frightening, can be overcome with determination and perseverance. I also met various people of different age groups, with similar goals, however having to deal with different challenges of their own. It has taught me the importance of patience and resilience, fighting a mental battle every day, telling myself, "Today is not the day to give up".

In conclusion, the experience is a strong reminder that adventure is the spice of life. If you ever find yourself craving for a challenge that will change your life, consider this awe-inspiring journey through the Himalayas. After all, it's just one pedal at a time. It's not just a ride; it's a transformation of the soul.