Royal Enfield's Himalayan Odyssey 2011

The eighth edition of the Himalayan Odyssey was flagged off early this morning by Dr Venkatesh (Venki) Padmanabhan, CEO, Royal Enfield. This year the Himalayan Odyssey has achieved yet another accolade by increasing the number of adventure seekers. This edition of the annually organised adventure extravaganza promises incomparable excitement to all its riders. Starting today, the bikers will cover a distance of 2560 kms before they re?converge at Delhi on July 10th. The youngest member of this entourage is in his early 20’s while the oldest is nearing the half century mark? an open testimony to the fact that where there is a will, there is a way. En route, medical help for the bikers and mechanical help for their machines is on?hand 24/7. 

Addressing the assemblage of motorcycle enthusiasts and well?wishers gathered at the India Gate, Dr Venki, CEO, Royal Enfield, said, “Over the past 7 years the Himalayan Odyssey has emerged as a pilgrimage and a ‘must?do’ for the riders. Aptly put by one of the participants last year, it’s like a passage for the transition from a boy to a man. The riders for the Himalayan Odyssey come from far and near (even from abroad) to take this ride. Last year, Royal Enfield ventured into other

rides as well. We’ve set course on the ‘Tour of Rajasthan’, the ‘Tour of Rann of Kutch’ and the ‘Tour of NH 17’ to name a few. 

“We have been going to Ladakh and Himachal for many years now and the region has always been kind to us. The Himalayan odyssey 2010 was completely unaffected by the rain and floods that affected the region last year. We salute the spirit of the people as they strive to rebuild their region. This year we will try and contribute by taking even more Royal Enfield Bike riders; 72 to be precise, to experience the pristine charm of this region. Like 2010, the route this year moves via Keylong to Sarchu, Ladakh and then Khardung La. However, the novel feature of this year’s ride is that, the riders will ride on towards Nubra and pay tribute to the earthy vale of Nubra by unfurling the Royal Enfield colours on its sand dunes. The return journey would also explore the Lahaul Spiti region through Debring and Kaza before heading back to the plains via Narkanda.

This year Himalayan Odyssey has a couple of partners joining this extraordinary trip to get a taste of the Himalayan adventure. Mahindra Adventure is the official SUV partner for the ride and their vehicles shall accompany the riders throughout the journey serving as back up vehicles for ferrying media and for evacuation duties if required. Motul, the official lubricant partner, will keep the motorcycles fit and well ‘oiled’ for this journey.