24 Sep Two Weeks On the Edge: A Motorcycle Journey Across the Highest Peaks of India

Sometimes, you need to leave your comfort zone to truly experience life, and that’s exactly what I did when I embarked on a two-week motorcycle journey across some of the highest peaks in the world. What started as a casual plan, quickly turned into one of the most exhilarating and humbling experiences of my life. Riding through the rugged terrains of India, all the way up to the Tibet border, tackling both paved and dirt roads, I found myself in a landscape that was as unforgiving as it was breathtaking. And then, of course, there was the challenge of crossing the world’s highest motorable pass at over 19,000 feet.

How It All Began
This incredible adventure came about thanks to my membership in Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), a global network of 18,000 entrepreneurs from all over the world. EO is more than just a business network—it’s a community of like-minded people who thrive on experiences that challenge and inspire. Members can create trips and invite others to join, which is how I ended up on this life-changing ride. When Franziska Iseli, author of The Courage Map, created this motorcycle journey through the highest peaks of India, I knew I had to be a part of it.

The Road Less Traveled
The roads in India were nothing like I had experienced before. Paved highways would suddenly give way to narrow dirt tracks, often with sharp turns that tested every ounce of my riding ability, but these roads also led to stunning views—snow-capped peaks that seemed to touch the sky, valleys so deep it felt like the earth might swallow you whole, and endless open landscapes that made you feel small yet completely alive. 

Along with the thrill came the challenge of driving on the left side of the road, which took some adjusting. It wasn’t just about remembering to stay on the left, but also about navigating through tight corners with the occasional truck barreling toward you at breakneck speed. Passing these massive trucks on narrow roads was a heart-stopping experience every time, but also a reminder that this trip was all about pushing boundaries.

Reaching the Top of the World
The highest motorable pass in the world, Umling La, sits at an altitude of over 19,000 feet. Riding a motorcycle up there is no easy task. The air thins, making every breath feel labored, and your body starts to remind you that you’re far outside its usual environment. But the view at the top? It’s hard to put into words. Looking out over a landscape that stretches endlessly in all directions, you realize how small you are, yet how capable you can be when you push yourself.

Of course, altitude sickness was a real concern, and at times, I felt light-headed or short of breath. But with the support of the group, I pushed through, remembering why I’d come in the first place. This wasn’t just about riding; it was about discovery, both of the world and of myself.

Immersed in New Cultures
This trip wasn’t just an adventure through landscapes—it was a journey through culture. Along the way, we visited ancient monasteries perched on the sides of cliffs, offering not only serenity but also a glimpse into the deeply spiritual life of the region. The monks, draped in their vibrant robes, welcomed us with a quiet grace, and the peaceful atmosphere was a welcome contrast to the rugged roads outside.

I also had the chance to try foods I’d never experienced before, a true dive into local cuisine. From spicy curries to simple, hearty meals made in the homes where we stayed, the food was as diverse as the people we met. Each meal was an opportunity to sit down, reflect on the day, and engage in conversations that helped me better understand the local customs and traditions.

Riding in a Pack
One of the unexpected joys of the trip was the camaraderie that formed within our group. There’s something about shared adversity—whether it’s dealing with high altitude, navigating tight mountain roads, or tackling water crossings—that bonds people. Over the course of two weeks, we became more than just a group of riders. We became a pack.

At night, we’d gather around dinner tables in homestays, sharing not just meals but the highlights of the day. Each of us would recount moments that stood out—whether it was a particularly challenging stretch of road or a view that left us speechless. These evening reflections weren’t just about the technical aspects of the ride but also about how the day had affected us. Some talked about feeling a sense of accomplishment after pushing through tough terrain, while others shared how the landscape or the culture around us left them in awe.

Adding to the adventure were the unexpected obstacles we had to navigate. It wasn’t uncommon to find ourselves dodging cows casually strolling through the streets or slowing down as herds of sheep were guided across our path by local shepherds. These moments added a whole new dimension to the journey, reminding us that while we were there to push limits, we were also visitors in a land where life moved at its own pace.

It was during these conversations that we really connected, learning not just about each other’s riding styles but also about what the journey meant to each of us on a personal level. The homestays themselves were a highlight—simple, rustic accommodations that offered a real glimpse into the local culture. Meeting the families who hosted us and sharing their food made the trip even more personal and meaningful.

Embracing the Uncertainty
Perhaps one of the biggest lessons I took from this journey was learning to embrace uncertainty. Riding through unfamiliar terrain, facing unpredictable weather, crossing rivers on a motorcycle—each day brought a new set of challenges. And yet, there was a strange comfort in the unpredictability. You learn to adapt, to trust your instincts, and to rely on the support of those around you.

The water crossings, in particular, were a nerve-wracking experience. Seeing the rushing water in front of you, knowing you have to ride straight through it, tests not just your skills but also your mindset. But crossing those waters felt like a victory, a testament to the power of persistence.

Leaving the Comfort Zone
This trip was not just about adventure—it was about growth. Being outside my comfort zone, far from the routine and safety of daily life, forced me to look at the world differently. It reminded me that sometimes, the best way to grow is to throw yourself into situations that scare you a little, where the outcome isn’t guaranteed, and the journey itself is the reward.

India’s highest peaks may have been the backdrop, but the real journey was internal—discovering that there’s always more to experience, more to learn, and more to challenge ourselves with. Would I do it again? In a heartbeat.

As I rode back from the mountains and reflected on the journey, I realized that while the roads were often tough and the altitude difficult, it was these very challenges that made the trip one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. For anyone thinking about taking on a similar adventure, my advice is simple: DO IT!