Two friends, Francis Gomes from Colva, South Goa and Mohit Godbole from Pune but staying in Betalbatim, South Goa embarked on an extraordinary journey that would leave them with memories to cherish for a lifetime. What started as a simple dream soon became a thrilling reality, as they set off on an unforgettable bike ride across 7 states and 2 countries. The 5500 km journey was carefully planned by Mohit, with every detail accounted for, ensuring the adventure would be nothing short of spectacular.
From the bustling streets of cities to the serene beauty of remote landscapes, the ride exposed them to diverse cultures, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable experiences. The challenges faced on the road only strengthened their bond, making each milestone even more rewarding. Whether navigating unfamiliar roads or encountering new people, this trip was a testament to the power of adventure, friendship, and the spirit of exploration.
Francis, a passionate rider, has covered an impressive 1,10,000 kilometers across India on his Harley Davidson and Royal Enfield motorcycles since he began his long rides in 2014. His love for riding began at the age of 19 and has only grown over the years.
One of his long-awaited goals was to visit Bhutan, a dream he finally made a reality with his friend Mohit. After discussing the plan, Mohit agreed within two days, and the duo began mapping out their route. They set a date for departure on March 27th, with the trip planned to span about 15 days. The only challenge they anticipated was the cold weather in Bhutan and Darjeeling.
For Francis, the most memorable experience of the journey was trekking up to the Tiger’s Nest in Bhutan, one of the country’s most iconic landmarks. "It is 3,150 meters above sea level. Reaching there was incredibly scenic, and the sense of accomplishment after completing the trek was absolutely rewarding," he said. The duo also enjoyed entering Nepal via Darjeeling, soaking in the beautiful terrain, which fueled their adrenaline for the winding Ghat sections.
To avoid the chaos of city traffic, they made it a point to start their days early, riding at least 100 to 150 kilometers before stopping for breakfast. "We refueled every 270 kilometers and would take breaks for lunch at roadside Dhabas. Our coordination was perfect, and we stopped wherever we felt like having a chai or cold drink," Francis shared. They also carried protein bars in case they couldn’t find suitable eateries along the way.
Reflecting on Bhutan’s rich culture, Mohit said, "We really admired how Bhutanese people follow their traditions and the discipline in their lives. The terrain was stunning, and the food was delicious."
The total cost of the trip for each rider was approximately Rs 70,000, with around Rs 24,000 spent on fuel. The remaining amount covered food, accommodation, and sightseeing expenses.
For Francis, the highlight of any road trip is the journey's completion. "When you reach your destination, the excitement and sense of accomplishment are overwhelming. The anticipation of sharing the trip’s experiences with fellow riders at home makes it all worth it."
The icing on the cake came when they were welcomed back by the Goa HOG (Harley owners Group) of riders at the Goa border, with their wives and a celebration complete with cake and champagne. "It was an unforgettable end to an unforgettable trip," Francis exclaimed.