Consistency and Electrolytes for Endurance:
Despite feeling a bit under the weather, I set out a little earlier to prevent the problems I’d encountered on previous trail rides. However, after cycling nearly 5 kilometers, I realized I had forgotten my crucial cycle locks needed for camping. This meant a detour, making my early start feel futile. It was a frustrating moment, but a reminder of the unexpected hiccups that can occur on any journey.
The most crucial lesson I’ve learned over some time is the significance of consistency. Regular stops tend to disrupt one’s stamina and form. I highly recommend bike packers carry water, focusing on electrolytes over plain water. Electrolytes can help compensate for the essential minerals lost through sweat. It’s a small adjustment that can significantly impact your endurance during long rides.
Thrilling Descents, Sunset Views:
After covering 60km, I made my initial pit stop, a change from my earlier routine of stopping every 10km. Following a brief rest and a comforting cup of chai, I continued towards the hilly ghat region. The break proved beneficial as I maneuvered through the challenging terrain. Despite exhaustion, I eventually reached the summit of the ghat road, only 5km away from my destination, which appeared to be a continuous slope from that point onward.
Coasting downhill at an exhilarating speed of approximately 50km/hr required little effort, yet demanded all my energy to firmly apply the brakes, almost reaching the point of strain. As the ghat region concluded, it was precisely 6.30 pm, the perfect moment to witness the sun setting. It felt as though the sun had paused, waiting for my arrival to illuminate the surroundings with its exquisite beauty.
In that moment, I realized the importance of consistency, determination, and the refusal to abandon one’s dreams. It was at this precise juncture that I made the firm decision to accomplish the incredible feat of cycling across the country, regardless of the challenges that may arise
The initial plan was to cycle to Lakeview Camp, yet the high cost prompted me to seek an alternative. During my search, I encountered children from the local village collecting donations for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. To support their cause, I contributed and asked for their recommendation for a suitable camping spot.
Unforgettable Village Encounters:
Their assistance went beyond just suggesting a camping spot; they actively helped me set up the tent and kept me company throughout. Their genuine curiosity led them to stay with me, eager to learn about cooking on my portable stove.
I cooked three pasta packs, sharing the meal among the five of us. It turned into a memorable night filled with stories about the village and their lives, creating a deep sense of connection and gratitude for the experience.
The kids expressed concern about potential encounters with ghosts during the night, to which I funnily responded, “I’d be glad to have some company.” One of the children, particularly worried, even invited me to his home. Touched by their unconditional affection, I bid them a heartfelt goodbye.
A Night Among Nature’s Symphony:
By 8:30 pm, the children had left, and I settled into my tent, only to emerge an hour later due to the onset of rain. The necessity to add an extra layer, a flysheet, to ensure the tent was rainproof took an extended period. Finally inside my makeshift home for the night, I laid out the yoga mat and sleeping bag, reaching out to friends and family for a goodnight chat.
As I closed my eyes, the solitude amidst the hills and nature brought a profound sense of tranquility. The sounds of peacocks, various birds, and other creatures enveloped me, making me feel like an integral part of this natural environment, prompting thoughts on how rare this sense of belonging is in our urban lives.
It struck me as ironic that while we teach children about the twinkling stars, we seldom prompt them to ponder why they are absent in our urban areas.
Woke up at 6 am to make sure I didn’t miss the early morning vibe, I was pleasantly surprised when the two kids from the previous night reappeared, eager to show me a nearby lake. We spent time taking pictures and exploring the area, visiting a lake where they shared tales about the fishing activities during the rainy season.
Upon their departure, I readied my bike and set off for home, carrying a sense of achievement and a determination to embark on a more extensive mission ahead—Mission CARA: Cycling Across India
