As an actor, amid my hectic work schedule, it’s essential that I take time out from the everyday routine. I’ve grown to find solace in the embrace of Nature. It’s in these precious moments of escape that I reconnect with my inner self. During these escapades, which are mostly on bikes, I’ve understood just how much motorcycles save my life. A journey that stands out, etching a profound love for the great outdoors in my heart, is the one I recently completed. It was a 5,288-kilometre solo expedition on my trusted Triumph Tiger 1200cc motorcycle that carried me from the bustling heart of Mumbai to the stunning landscapes of Kinnaur, Spiti, Zanskar Valley, and Leh. It wasn’t just a test of my riding skills but a transformative, soul-stirring experience.

My journey kicked off in Mumbai. As I left the urban jungle behind, the road ahead promised adventure and liberation. Riding into Balasinor (in the Mahisagar district of Gujarat) and being hosted by the royal family felt like the entire village had paused to offer a warm, heartfelt welcome. The people I encountered, the rich tapestry of local culture, and the stories they shared were an integral part of my adventure, making it more than just a ride.

Ahmedabad held a special place in my journey as I had the privilege of meeting cinephiles who had followed my movies. Their hospitality was intensely heartwarming. A night at the luxurious Rajgadh Palace Resort provided a welcome oasis of comfort amid the rugged terrain. Continuing my journey, I went to Jodhpur, where I was hosted by a friend and got to sleep under the stars on a colourful khatiya. Arriving in Jaipur, a dear friend surprised me with a royal feast fit for a king prepared by the royal khansamah. These unexpected connections and moments of genuine human interaction made this leg of the journey truly unforgettable.

As I concluded the initial part of my expedition, my travels led me to the capital city of Delhi. In the heart of this bustling metropolis, I found myself at the renowned Press Club, where I had the wonderful opportunity to interact with the media. It became a moment for me to pause and reflect on the incredible experiences I had gathered throughout my journey. Sharing my deep passion for motorcycles and the sense of liberation that comes from the open road became the focal point of our conversation, allowing me to convey my enthusiasm for exploration and opening up about connections that transcended my solo adventures.

The second leg of my journey unfolded as I travelled from Delhi to Leh. This stretch was marked by discoveries and challenges that pushed me to the limit. From Delhi, we embarked on a short and swift ride to Chandigarh, where I was joined by Mr Vijay Parmar and the enthusiastic team from ‘Xplorearth Shimla’. This phase of the adventure was filled with thrills and unique experiences. At times, the path led us across uncharted territory, adding an extra layer of excitement to the journey.

Theog, with its serene forest trails, offered a sanctuary where I found inner peace and reconnected with the natural world. In the Kinnaur valley at Sangla, I stayed at a riverside resort set amidst a sprawling apple orchard. A picturesque picnic in the beautiful Rakchham village and an exploration of Chitkul, the very last Indian village before Tibet, filled my days with wonder. The journey to Kaza came with its own set of surprises, but also deepened the connections I had forged with the people we met along the way.

We immersed ourselves in the local way of life in the villages of Kibber and Langza in the Spiti Valley. Our journey from Kaza to Jispa took an unexpected turn when our vehicle broke down near Chattru. It was a stroke of good fortune that a good Samaritan, who happened to be an IAS officer, arranged for the necessary repairs. Further, celebrating Mr Vijay Parmar’s 63rd birthday in Jispa was an endearing moment that brought all of us even closer.

Heading to Padum in the Zanskar Valley presented its own set of challenges due to a lack of vehicles. However, our unwavering determination allowed us to prevail. At Gumbok Ranjan, I confidently put my riding skills to the test during a challenging water crossing, demonstrating the indomitable spirit of our team. It was a practised proficiency that I had gained over the years that ensured a smooth and successful crossing. Along the way, we also extended a helping hand to a fellow rider with a stranded bike and provided assistance to a few local women by giving them a lift home. In Padum, we fully immersed ourselves in the local culture, visiting serene monasteries and marvelling at the beauty of the village. These experiences further solidified our bond with the people and the places that we encountered. Leaving Padum behind, we embarked on an uncharted route to Kargil, where our paths crossed with dedicated Border Roads Organisation (BRO) workers. We expressed our gratitude to them through heartfelt gestures, knowing we would forever cherish these interactions. We also made an overnight pit stop at Kargil on the way to Leh where we enjoyed some scrumptious local delights.

The third and final leg of my memorable journey took me through the stunning landscapes of Ladakh. At every turn, unforgettable experiences awaited, whether it was encountering the native wildlife, connecting with fellow riders, or savouring local culinary delights. Despite the challenges, which included a flat tyre on my way to Leh, my team and I persevered, our spirits undeterred, always ready to get back on the road with unwavering determination.

The last leg of the journey took us to the serene beauty of Tsomoriri and Hanle, where we took charge of the kitchen at our hotel in Hanle. As we began cooking, other guests too were inspired to join in, turning our meal into a delightful potluck celebration. The grand culmination of the journey occurred at the vibrant Outback Festival in Leh. It was a moment for me and my team to reflect on the transformative power of the open road and the motorcycle that had carried us forward.

My motorcycle journey is a testament to the timeless appeal of riding and the deep fulfilment it brings to one’s soul. Travelling through rural areas and experiencing the unexpected twists of the open road has been an incredible adventure, turning into a fascinating story of exploration and unyielding determination.

In the end, this journey wasn’t just about the kilometres covered; it was about the connections made, the lessons learned, and the personal growth experienced. It reinforced my belief that motorcycles are not just machines; they are liberators of the soul, guides to self-discovery, and carriers of unforgettable memories. They, indeed, saved my life, and I hope my journey inspires others to find their path to self-discovery and fulfilment on the open road.