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India’s Nisha Kumari cycles 17,000 km through 16 countries in 210 days

Indian embassies, local organisations, and the Indian diaspora played a significant role in supporting Kumari and Barot throughout their journey.

India’s 30-year-old adventurer Nisha Kumari has achieved an extraordinary feat, cycling over 17,000 kilometres in 210 days to reach London. Accompanied by her coach, Nilesh Barot, the duo embarked on this historic expedition to raise awareness about climate change, carrying the powerful message, “Change Before Climate Change.”

Setting off on 23 June from Vadodara, Gujarat, the duo crossed 16 countries, navigating diverse terrains and weather conditions, from the deserts of Central Asia to the icy roads of Europe.

Along the way, they planted over 1,050 trees, met climate experts, and inspired communities to take action for a sustainable future.

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Image: India’s 30-year-old adventurer Nisha Kumari (Source: Instagram)

“This journey is just the beginning,” Kumari wrote on social media, expressing gratitude for global support.

“Let’s continue pushing for a greener, sustainable future.”

The expedition wasn’t without its obstacles. Kumari cycled through rain, snow, and icy roads, sometimes covering only 50–60 km a day due to adverse weather. Finding vegetarian food and accommodations was another hurdle, with the duo often relying on fruits, salads, and even sleeping at fuel stations or coffee shop benches.

Visa issues also delayed their progress, particularly in countries like China, the EU, and the UK. Despite these challenges, the pair stayed committed to their mission, extending their planned 200-day journey by 10 days.

Indian embassies, local organisations, and the Indian diaspora played a significant role in supporting Kumari and Barot throughout their journey. From warm welcomes in Moscow to Bollywood song tributes in Kyrgyzstan and Russia, their journey was enriched by cultural connections and goodwill. Barot recalled to the Indian Express,

“In Kyrgyzstan, people sang Mithun Chakraborty songs. In Russia, it was Raj Kapoor melodies. It was heartwarming to witness the global impact of Indian cinema and culture.”

Image: India’s 30-year-old adventurer Nisha Kumari (Source: Instagram)

Kumari, who lost nine fingers to frostbite during her Everest expedition, demonstrated unparalleled resilience.

“We witnessed the stark impacts of climate change firsthand — landslides in Nepal, the drying Aral Sea, and shrinking snow caps in Russia.”

The duo plans to return to India in January after shipping their bicycles and support vehicle. As they continue their mission, this remarkable journey stands as a testament to the power of determination and the urgency of climate action.

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Covering 16 countries, meeting climate experts, and planting over 1,100 trees, Kumari and Barot’s expedition is more than a cycling achievement; it’s a rallying call for a sustainable future.

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