The day I had been waiting for finally arrived. On 2nd October 2024, I officially began my Bharat Parikrama cycle journey from the Gateway of India, Mumbai at 6:00 AM.
My day started early—at 2:00 AM, I left Pune in my friend Abhijeet’s car. My buddies Dhiraj, Bunny, and Mudraksh joined me for this special moment, making the long drive lively. At the Gateway, my dear friend Yogesh was already waiting with his wife Manisha and little daughter Kuhu to see me off. Their warm smiles and encouragement filled me with energy. Standing there, looking at the Arabian Sea and the majestic Gateway, I felt a rush of emotions—excitement, nervousness, and above all, gratitude. This was it. My first pedal stroke into a long solo expedition around India.
The ride wasn’t easy. October heat in Mumbai is brutal, and riding along the humid coastline tested my stamina right on Day 1. By the time I reached Vasai in the afternoon, I was drenched in sweat and quite exhausted. I checked into Hotel Farm House, took a short rest, and gathered strength to explore.
Exploring Vasai’s History:
My first stop was the Vasai Fort, once a grand Portuguese stronghold known as Fort Bassein. In the 16th and 17th century, this was not just a fort—it was a bustling town with palaces, churches, and markets. Later, in 1739, the Marathas captured it after a fierce battle. Today, only ruins remain, but they still hold immense character. The weathered stone walls, arched gateways, and scattered remnants of old churches tell stories of its glorious past. Walking inside, I could almost imagine the life that once thrived here—sailors, traders, soldiers, and nobles, all tied to the sea.
Vasai Beaches – Rustic & Real:
After the fort, I cycled down to the beaches nearby. Unlike the crowded Juhu or Chowpatty, Vasai’s beaches have a rustic charm. The coastline here feels raw and real—fishing boats lined up on the shore, fisherwomen busy sorting their day’s catch, kids running freely along the sand. I sat for a while, chatting with a few locals who were curious about my journey. Their warmth and simplicity made me feel at home.
And then came the sunset. The Arabian Sea turned golden as the sun slowly dipped, painting the sky in shades of orange, pink, and purple. Watching that first sunset of my expedition, I felt a quiet sense of fulfillment. Day 1 was tough, but the beauty I witnessed made it worth every drop of sweat.
Evening in Vasai:
Back in town, I strolled through Vasai Market. The narrow lanes were lively, filled with vendors selling fresh produce, fish, and street food. The market had its own rhythm, buzzing with everyday life. Later, I returned to my hotel, took a refreshing bath, and relished a comforting plate of fish curry with rice—a coastal delicacy that perfectly wrapped up my first day on the road.
As I lay down to rest, tired yet content, I realized this was just the beginning. The road ahead was long and uncertain, but if Day 1 had taught me anything, it was this: the journey may test me, but it will also reward me with unforgettable moments.
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