‘Bikepacking helps you see the world around you differently'

Time of India

6 days ago

Sudhanshu Verma
Guillaume Lemaitre
I met a bunch of cyclists and joined them. They would meet every morning and eventually, this experience empowered me to pick up cycling and go
bikepacking
,' says Sudhanshu Verma, a wedding photographer and founder of a travel company.
For many, bikepacking offers an escape from the digital world—a slow, physical antidote to the constant stream of emails and notifications. It allows you to observe the world in a new way and discover your inner self. Ahead of
World Bicycle Day
(June 3), we talk to bikepacking enthusiasts who are redefining adventure and human connection through their cycles.
What is
bikepacking?
Bikepacking, a hybrid of mountain biking and minimalist backpacking, is rapidly growing into a global movement. Combining freedom, self-sufficiency, and a raw connection to nature, this form of cycling adventure has struck a chord with those looking to escape fast-paced urban lives and rediscover slow travel.
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'Bikepacking can be a life-changing experience'
Bikepacking is now being embraced by those seeking a slower, more meaningful way to live. Sudhanshu says, 'My life changed when I rode from Jaipur to Kanyakumari. I believe everyone should experience this once. It heals you.'
For Guillaume Lemaitre, a former COO at a fintech startup in Amsterdam, the journey began as an escape. 'When I was 13, I took part in cycling competitions in Belgium. I really loved it, but I was fed up with the competition part of cycling and corporate life,' he says. Guillaume has been bikepacking for nearly a year now, riding from Belgium to Australia to raise awareness about cystic fibrosis, a condition his sister suffers from.
'People in India are always ready to help and host you'
Bikepacking doesn't have to be a solo sport. Dr Jinal Vora, who has been travelling with his wife (Vishva) and two-and-a-half-years-old daughter (Hasti), says, 'Bikepacking helps you find your inner self and lets you see the world around you differently. It has made our family's bond stronger because you spend long hours understanding each other in tough, demanding times.'
Talking about how strangers help without any hesitation, he says, 'People have helped us a lot; they would even make food specially for us. People in India are ready to help and host you when needed.'
Guillaume agrees, 'The generosity everywhere is just amazing. It surprises me all the time. I have eaten and slept at people's houses. I always found a shelter. In the west, we work for comfort. In India, people are happy with what they have. This journey has taught me to always stay humble.'
Dr Jinal Vora and Vishwa Vora
'
Route planning and preparation are vital'
Route planning is vital while bikepacking. Sudhanshu, who relies on apps like Windy, OsmAnd and AccuWeather to track wind, rain, and terrain, says, 'I look for gradients, contour lines, and trails where villagers or trekkers are already active.'
Guillaume's strategy is all about surviving. He shares, 'I always check for gas stations or eating spots. If they aren't there, I stock up on oats, instant noodles, and energy bars.'
Some popular trails in Asia
Manali to Leh
Spiti Valley
The Annapurna Circuit (Nepal)
Tso Kar, Ladakh
Chennai–Puducherry
Essential gear for bikepacking
Tubes & puncture patches
Water bottle
2–3 pairs of clothes
Shifter & brake cables
Brake pads
Chains
Sleeping bag
Small stove
Dehydrated food
First-aid kit
Solar charger or power bank
Written by: Yashaswi Kochar