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In an inspiring tale of determination and breaking norms, a 58-year-old man from Cuttack has completed a solo biking journey from the Silver City to Mount Everest Base Camp. Ticking off a long-pending wish from his bucket list, he traversed rugged terrains, high altitudes, floods, washed-out roads, and some of the most dangerous routes in the world.
Speaking to OTV, Sajal Sheth, the braveheart behind this journey, narrated his 24-day sojourn, during which he crossed India and into Nepal on his motorcycle, covering a total distance of about 2,300 km.
The Journey
Sajal Sheth, an avid cyclist, a senior member of Cuttack Cyclists, and a biker, began his solo trip on a Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 motorcycle on October 13, 2024, from Balu Bazar, Cuttack. He crossed state borders into neighboring regions, resting at various stops on his way to Nepal.
In an interview, he mentioned choosing October for the journey as it offered the clearest skies and best views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Additionally, the minimal snow buildup during this time made it more suitable for people from Indian plains like Odisha.
Sheth’s route took him through Patna and Nepal’s Janakpur before reaching Ramechhap. From there, he flew to Lukla, situated at an elevation of 2,860 metres (9,383 ft). At times, he rode over 800 km in a single day, setting a personal record.
Along the way, he visited the Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla, regarded as one of the world’s most dangerous airports due to its high cliffs and a short runway of only 527 meters.
From Lukla, Sheth embarked on a nearly 130 km long trek to Everest Base Camp, where his mission truly began.
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The Trek to Everest
The 58-year-old biker had to leave his motorcycle behind and continue on foot, stopping at various points over several days. He initially requested his hotel to safeguard his bike until his return, offering to pay handling charges. Inspired by his story, the hotel staff agreed to guard the bike free of cost.
Sheth followed the official itinerary prescribed by the Government of Nepal. The trek, covering around 130 km, required him to acclimatize to high altitudes.
Walking 6-7 hours daily for 12 days, he trekked from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, stopping at Phakding, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep. Despite low oxygen levels, each leg of the journey involved significant altitude gains and long distances.
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The Hurdles
Sheth had dreamed of witnessing Mount Everest in all its glory for years and was determined not to turn back despite the challenges.
One of the biggest obstacles came near Ramechhap, where treacherous weather delayed flights to Lukla for six days. Instead of giving up, Sheth waited patiently.
Interestingly, he had to lose out to the first batch of trekkers on the flight and when his turn arose, another 35-year-old co-traveler opted out of the flight, fearing risks. Regardless, this Odisha-born continued undeterred.
Floods washed out a bridge on his biking route in Khurkot, just before Ramechhap, forcing him to find an alternate path. With guidance from a local, he crossed one of Nepal’s scenic yet high rope suspension bridges and pressed on.
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At Everest Base Camp
Describing Everest Base Camp as “God’s abode” and a lifelong dream come true, Sheth reached the destination, located at an altitude of 5,364 meters (17,598 feet).
With oxygen levels 50% lower than in Odisha’s plains, Sheth stood tall with arms outstretched in celebration. Photos of his this achievement are proudly displayed on his social media handles and were well lauded by trekkers and adventure enthusiasts from across Odisha.
After receiving his certificate of completion, Sheth stayed at the base camp for two hours before beginning his return trek to Lukla.
During the trek, he was surprised to encounter a man of his own age cycling to the base camp—a seemingly impossible feat. He also noticed hikers in their 80s, primarily foreigners, climbing the steep terrain with ease.
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Inspiration and Advice
Sheth returned to Cuttack on his trusted Pulsar, filled with gratitude and high spirits.
When asked for a message, he encouraged people to appreciate the natural beauty around them. Moreover, his tales of solo travel and courage aim to inspire the younger generation to take leaps and test their mettle, which as per him, will instill great self-confidence and appreciation for oneself.
Disappointed by the low number of Odia and Indian citizens at Everest Base Camp compared to those from other countries, he urged others to embrace adventure, stay active, and explore the world to the fullest.
