Cyclist Conquers 318 km Journey to World's Highest Temple in Himachal Pradesh

Celebrating World Bicycle Day with a Remarkable Expedition

Munish Sood
MANDI: Jaspreet Paul, a passionate cyclist from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, has reached new heights—literally—by cycling to the world’s highest Krishna temple situated in Yula Kanda, Kinnaur district, at an impressive altitude of 12,778 feet.

This solo journey, covering 318 kilometers over three days, was not only a test of physical endurance but also aimed at promoting cycling as a sustainable and health-conscious mode of transportation, aligning with the ethos of World Bicycle Day celebrated on June 3.

A Journey of Determination and Faith

Jaspreet commenced his adventure on May 31, setting off from Mandi. On the first day, he cycled 189 kilometers, navigating through Kol Dam and Tattapani to reach Rampur. The next day, he covered another 80 kilometers to arrive at Yula village in Kinnaur. On June 2, at 4:30 AM, he began the final ascent to the temple, accompanied solely by a local guide.

The path from Yula village to the temple is notorious for its challenging terrain, making even walking a strenuous task. Jaspreet cycled wherever feasible and carried his bike on his shoulders when the trail became too difficult. By 2 PM, he reached the temple, a secluded and sacred site surrounded by stunning glacial landscapes. He expressed his reverence and described the experience as 'surreal and unforgettable' after riding near a pristine glacial lake.

After spending an hour at the temple, he began his return journey at 4 PM, reaching Reckong Peo by 11:30 PM, successfully completing his demanding 318-kilometer expedition.

Advocating for Environmental Awareness

Alongside his cycling achievement, Jaspreet took the initiative to promote environmental consciousness. As he traversed the high-altitude region, he collected litter found along the trail near Yula Kanda, storing it in bags. Upon his return to Reckong Peo, he alerted local authorities about the collected waste, emphasizing his commitment to fitness and civic responsibility.

Recognition from Officials

Jaspreet's extraordinary journey garnered widespread acclaim. He received congratulations from various officials, including the Himachal Pradesh Revenue and Horticulture Minister, the Chief Secretary of the Election Commission of India, and the Deputy Commissioner of Kinnaur, all praising his spirit, discipline, and message of sustainability.

The expedition was fraught with challenges. Jaspreet faced the scorching summer heat during the initial leg from Mandi to Rampur, followed by biting cold and steep inclines as he neared Yula Kanda. Despite the physical demands and isolation, he remained focused, often receiving encouragement and assistance from locals along the way.

Reflecting on his journey, Jaspreet stated, 'This ride was not merely about setting records. I aimed to demonstrate how cycling can symbolize fitness, eco-friendliness, and spiritual fulfillment. The temple was the ideal destination to convey this message.'