Intrepid cyclists hit the road in a once-in-a-lifetime ride through Himalayan foothills for the British Asian Trust

Image by the British Asian Trust

Twenty-three intrepid cyclists from across the UK embarked on a ‘Most Exotic Challenge’ as they hit the road fundraising for the British Asian Trust in a once-in-a-lifetime ride through the foothills of the Indian Himalayas.  

The riders swapped their homes and office chairs for cycling saddles from 23-28 March to raise funds for the British Asian Trust’s vital work in South Asia supporting children. They covered around 260km as they cycle over four days through some of India’s most iconic landmarks, natural treasures and idyllic rural locations, the British Asian Trust mentioned.

The team was led by Rohit Chadha, supporter of the British Asian Trust and founder of the ‘Most Exotic Challenge’. Before taking on the journey, he said, “This ride is a great opportunity – not just for comraderies and cycling in a stunning location – it is supporting a great cause. Over the years we have raised well over £1m for the British Asian Trust which has helped empower women, support education, improve mental health and keep children safe. It’s fantastic that the Most Exotic Challenge has been able to support the British Asian Trust in changing so many lives. All this would not have been possible without the fantastic cyclists and sponsors who support the vision for every ride, and most importantly without the support of the Royal Founding Patron of the British Asian Trust.”

Bobby Ahluwalia, who has also been an ardent supporter of the Trust for many years, added, “Like previous years, I’m so proud to be organising this Challenge with Rohit. The funds raised will help the British Asian Trust support children in South Asia with the best possible opportunities to thrive and grow.” 

British Asian Trust Chief Executive Richard Hawkes said, “The British Asian Trust is deeply honoured to once again have such an amazing group of cyclists willing to challenge themselves with a 260km bike ride to raise funds supporting our work with children in South Asia. I am deeply humbled by their passion and commitment to help others in need by taking on the foothills of the mighty Indian Himalayas – that is no mean feat!”.  

The main sponsor for the event was Eagle Trans and other sponsors included Julius Baer, MSM Investment Advisors, Hayfield, The Fragrance Shop, and Albany Bahamas. 

The cyclists did the following as part of the challenge:

• Visited the Wagah Border ceremony and the Golden Temple 
• Explored Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj, home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama 
• Cycled through forests, tea plantations and remote mountain trails 
• Visited a British Asian Trust project to see first-hand how our work is making a difference. 

This year is the sixth time the challenge has taken place, with cyclists previously travelling through Sri Lanka, India, Tanzania and Cambodia over the years. In 2021, His Royal Highness the former Prince of Wales kick started the first UK-based challenge – the ‘Palaces on Wheels’ cycling event. He led over 30 cyclists out of Highgrove on a four-day journey along a route which included Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. 

So far, £597,559 has been raised of the £600,000 target. Anyone who would like to support the cyclists on the ride can make a donation here.