Marks World Bicycle Day with solo 318-km journey through challenging Himalayan terrain
Munish Sood
MANDI: After pedalling his way to some of the world’s highest villages, post offices and polling stations, Jaspreet Paul, an avid cyclist from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, has now achieved another milestone.
In a feat that blends adventure with devotion, he cycled to the world’s highest Krishna temple, located in Yula Kanda, Kinnaur district, at a staggering altitude of 12,778 feet above sea level.
His solo expedition, spanning 318 km over three days, was not just a test of endurance but a mission to promote cycling as a sustainable and health-oriented mode of transport, in line with the spirit of World Bicycle Day celebrated on June 3.
Journey of grit and devotion
Jaspreet began his journey on May 31, departing from Mandi. On Day 1, he covered 189 km, riding through Kol Dam and Tattapani to reach Rampur. The following day, he cycled 80 km to reach Yula village in Kinnaur. On June 2, at 4.30 am, Jaspreet began the final leg of the ascent toward the temple, accompanied only by a local guide from Yula village.
The trail from the village to the temple is known for its treacherous terrain where even walking is a challenge. Jaspreet cycled wherever possible and carried his bicycle on his shoulders when the path became impassable. By 2 pm, he reached the temple — a remote and sacred location surrounded by glacial landscapes. There, he bowed in reverence and even managed to ride his bicycle near a pristine glacial lake, calling the experience “surreal and unforgettable.”
After spending an hour at the temple, Jaspreet began his return journey at 4 pm and reached Reckong Peo by 11.30 pm, successfully completing his arduous 318 km expedition.
Promoting cleanliness along the route
In addition to his cycling feat, Jaspreet took it upon himself to promote environmental awareness. As he rode through the high-altitude region, he collected litter found on the trail near Yula Kanda, storing it in bags. Upon returning to Reckong Peo, he informed the local administration and urged them to properly dispose of the collected waste, a gesture that underscored his commitment to both fitness and civic responsibility.
Recognition from authorities
Jaspreet’s remarkable journey earned widespread appreciation. He was congratulated by Himachal Pradesh Revenue and Horticulture Minister Jagat Singh Negi, Chief Secretary of the Election Commission of India Arvind Anand and Deputy Commissioner of Kinnaur Amit Sharma. All commended his spirit, discipline and message of sustainability.
The journey was anything but easy. Jaspreet endured scorching summer heat during the initial leg from Mandi to Rampur, followed by biting cold and steep inclines as he approached Yula Kanda. Despite the physical toll and isolation, he remained focused, often receiving encouragement and help from locals along the way.
Speaking about the expedition, Jaspreet said, “This ride was not just about breaking records. I wanted to show how cycling can be a powerful symbol of fitness, eco-friendliness, and spiritual fulfillment. The temple felt like the perfect destination to convey this.”
