Udupi Student Embarks on Epic 5,500km Solo Expedition to Nepal on Vintage Bike
In an inspiring display of endurance and nostalgia, Prajwal Shenoy, a 24-year-old hotel management and tourism student from Shirva in Udupi, has successfully completed a remarkable 5,500km cross-border solo expedition to Nepal. What makes this journey truly extraordinary is his choice of vehicle—a 26-year-old Hero Honda Splendor, proving that age is no barrier to adventure.
A Journey Fueled by Passion and Perseverance
Commencing his epic adventure from Shirva on March 10, Shenoy meticulously navigated a route that took him through key Indian cities before crossing into Nepal via the Sanauli border. He spent a total of 20 days on the road, reaching Kathmandu and exploring over 1,100km of Nepal's most iconic tourist destinations, ultimately returning home on March 30.
Shenoy shared with TOI that his itinerary included stops in Hubballi, Nanded, Nagpur, and Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh, with a special visit to the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. "In Nepal, I visited various historic sites, including the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu and the Muktinath Vishnu Temple in Mustang," he recounted. "I carried a Kannada flag to spread a message of love and unity among the people in Nepal."
Unique Experiences and Unwavering Support
The journey was filled with a series of unique and challenging experiences, from braving scorching temperatures of 40°C in Madhya Pradesh to enduring freezing conditions of -7°C in the Mustang region of Nepal. Despite these extremes, Shenoy's trusty 26-year-old bike performed flawlessly. "Throughout my 5,500km solo journey, my machine stood by me without showing any mechanical trouble," he emphasized.
Moreover, the cultural exchange was profound. Locals in Nepal, many of whom had previously worked in Bengaluru, offered assistance and camaraderie upon seeing the Kannada flag, highlighting the bonds of shared heritage and hospitality.
A Legacy of Adventure on Two Wheels
This expedition is not Shenoy's first foray into long-distance solo travel with his vintage bike. He has already ridden across 17 states in India, covering approximately 50,000km on the same two-wheeler. Last year, Shenoy, accompanied by his father Rajendra Shenoy, traveled to Prayagraj on this bike to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela, a once-in-144-years event.
Recognizing his unwavering passion for adventure on two wheels, Hero MotorCorp gifted Prajwal the Centennial collectors' edition bike, further fueling his aspirations. This latest journey to Nepal underscores his dedication to exploring the world while promoting cultural harmony and personal resilience.
