At the dawn of 14th August, we set out on a cycling expedition of inclusion, riding from Pune to Trimbakeshwar on a breathtaking long-distance cycling route of 285 kilometers across the Sahyadris. People with and without disabilities came together on tandem cycles, proving that the joy of cycling knows no barriers.
On the first day, we covered 65 kilometers, climbing all the way to the hill station of Lonavala. The second day began with hoisting the tricolour and singing the national anthem before riding downhill into Murbad, adding another 85 kilometers to our journey. Day three was the toughest stretch, conquering the steep 8 kilometer Khasara Ghat climb with more than 3,500 feet of elevation gain, made even more challenging by heavy rain and fog. Finally, on the last day, we rode from Igatpuri to Trimbakeshwar, surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Sahyadris, the laughter of friends, and the shared spirit of inclusion.
What makes this expedition special is that more than half of the participants were not regular cyclists. Many had never ridden beyond 20 kilometers before. Yet on this Pune to Trimbakeshwar cycling route, they believed in themselves, pedaled together, and proved that they could do it.
Beyond the adventure, the real achievement was breaking the barrier of disability. By the end of the expedition, what began as strangers cycling together became a community of friends, united by the road, the mountains, and the spirit of disability inclusion.
This cycling journey was more than a ride. It was a statement of courage, community, and connection, and a true celebration of inclusion. It is what Adventures Beyond Barriers stands for — creating shared experiences that go beyond disability and open the road to friendship, resilience, and freedom.