road trip india to london

India to London by Road: A Journey of a Lifetime

Number of Days

Best time for this roadtrip, important travel documents, 1. passport.

2. Tourist Visas

3. international driving permit, 4. carnet de passages en douane (cpd).

Other Important Documents and Things You Need to Carry

• It is mandatory for you to carry  Motor Insurance for each country that you will be crossing through between India and the UK.
• Special Overland Permits , that should be approved by both the state and the government, are needed in order to cross through Myanmar and China. While the former process may take about a month, the latter will take over 3 months; so make sure you apply accordingly.
• When driving to Myanmar, one also needs to have a government-approved Escort vehicle as well as a local Burmese guide and a liaison officer assigned by the Ministry of Myanmar Tourism with them during their entire time in the country. A tourist guide approved by the Chinese government is also mandatory during your entire journey in China.
• The Central Asian countries such as Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan require some assistance when crossing the borders and special invitation letters are also mandatory for these countries. Thus, you need to ensure that you apply for these documents in advance. There is also a possibility that you may come across some corrupted custom police officers so you need to research and be prepared to handle them just in case. 
• You must also take some additional documents such as your vehicle’s Original Registration Certificate, Motor Insurance, Pollution Certificate, Global Travel Insurance so that you have some cover in case you come across some perilous situations such as kidnapping, accidents, adverse weather conditions, etc.
• Given the fact that this trip will most likely take you over a month at the very least, you will have to carry some extra cash with you. Now, it is common knowledge that US dollars are universally accepted currency so make sure you carry some small USD notes so that you can use them on the way. 
• Also, if you are on some medication , do not forget to carry it with you; in fact, take enough that it lasts you for the whole month or at least a couple of weeks so that you don’t fall short on them when you are crossing by remote terrains.

A Few Pointers for Your Motor Vehicle

• If your vehicle has a good ground clearance and is well-serviced (such that it does not break down in the middle of anywhere), then you should not have a problem. The only catch is that the vehicle should be registered under one of the people undertaking this journey. It is also said that people who use rented cars may have some problems during the entirety of the trip. 
• Since you will be crossing through the remote areas of Central Asia, China, and Russia where you will probably face some difficulty in getting your car tank filled with petrol, it will be a good idea to carry at the minimum 20-litre jerry can of spare fuel.
• Another important aspect that you need to pay attention to is spare parts so that even if your vehicle does face some problem in the middle of nowhere, you are able to change that part and carry on with your journey. These should include the basic tool kit and vehicle parts such as a couple of spare tyres, Fan Belt, Alternator, Extra battery, Bulbs, Air Pump, Wipers, Puncture Repair Kit, etc. Vehicle parts that you think are unique to your vehicle should also be carried so that you are prepared if you don’t end up finding that specific part in the country that you are crossing by.
•  Also, make sure you hire a reliable vehicle shipping agent in advance so that your vehicle can be shipped back to India as soon as you reach London. The vehicle shipments from the UK to India usually take over a month so it is better if you schedule accordingly.

This post was published by Kanushka Chandnani

Share this post on social media Facebook Twitter

Related Articles

India to Thailand by Road: An Adventurous and Exciting Journey

16 Most Dangerous Airports of The World for Runway Thrills!

Art & Culture

12 Oldest Languages In The World Still Widely Used!

Best Surfing Spots In The World

Incredible Places to Slackline in the World

10 Most Beautiful Islands in The World

24 Travel Documentaries You Should Watch ASAP

E-Visa for Indians : Countries That Offer Easy Visa for Indians

Top 10 Best Overwater Bungalows In The World

Travel Bucket List Destinations To Up Your Instagram Game

Food & Drink

22 Best Dishes in The World You Must Try Once In Your Life

Fairs & Festivals

Unconventional New Years Traditions Around The World

Unusual Natural Phenomena Around The World: Because Mother Nature Likes Getting Creative Too

Forbidden Places in The World: Places You CANNOT Visit

Family Holidays

7 Best Family Holiday Destinations in the World To Ignite Their Wanderlust!

12 of the World's Most Beautiful Glamping Holiday Destinations

10 Of the Most Luxurious Experiences around the World to Make Your Bucket List Longer!

Voluntourism: How & Where You Can Travel While Making a Difference

Must Visit Sports Destinations: A Travel Checklist For The Lover Of Sports

Are you an Art Aficionado? Then this Travel Checklist is for You!

Adventure in Your Blood? These Countries Should be Your Next Destination

Travel Destinations for Book Lovers|

Best Cities for Music Lovers - 7 Places For Exciting Music Festivals

17 Cultural Tourism Destinations in the World Culture-Buffs Must Visit

12 Unusual Dining Customs For You To Be Aware Of Before Your Next Trip

These Amusement Parks Are Totally Not Just A Child's Play!

Experiences

Strangest Museums In The World That Will Leave You Intrigued And A Tad Bit Confused

7 Top Filming Locations In The World For The Cinephile In You

City of Castles in the World For Heritage Lovers

7 Hottest Places In The World With Scorching Temperatures

Comments on this post

Browse hotel collections, by star category.

Stunning 7-Star Hotels in the World that Exude Luxury

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• Delhi to London By Road: These 3 Indian Super Moms Drove Across 17 Countries in Just 95 Days

29 Oct 2021

A travel tale of three mothers who drove from New Delhi to London, covering 23,700 Kms, crossing 17 countries in just 95 days. Join them and know how they reached from India to London by road as they take us through the most EPIC road trip journey EVER!

Delhi To London By Road

A road trip is like a travel none other. And to do that across 17 countries, covering Delhi to London distance by road of 23,700 kilometers in over 95 days is life changing to say the least.

Road trips are unpredictable and unstructured and add to that, the thrill that there are countless amazing destinations waiting to be stumbled upon. To us, the world has always been a large ball of twine, just waiting to be unraveled and what better way to do it than with the wind in your hair and the road ahead of you. Here is our account of Delhi to London by road.

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.

Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750

Plan your trip today!

Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Exciting Andaman Family Trip 5D/4N @ Rs 10,250

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500

Best prices guaranteed.

Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499

EMI option available.

Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199

Explore best destinations with our experts.

Delightful South Weekend Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Thrilling weekend full of fun.

Marvelous Gujarat Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Talk to our experts today.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

How It All Started!

It all began with Women Beyond Boundaries. Women Beyond Boundaries is conceptualized by Nidhi Tiwari and Smita Mazumdar. WBB is a platform to empower women drivers with skills to reach out to other women in far-flung areas, in difficult terrain in order to deliver goods and services.

When Nidhi proposed this crazy expedition from Delhi to London in an Indian car, across 17 countries, we promptly hitched our excitement to hers, packed our bags and jumped into the car. Incidentally, Nidhi was the solo driver for the expedition.

Suggested Read: London vs Paris: Which City Would You Prefer For A Fancy Holiday?

The Journey Across 17 Countries

The three of us flagged off from Dhyanchand Stadium on the 23 rd of July 2015 and reached London on the 28 th of October 2015, after having traversed across Myanmar, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Russia, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Czech Republic, Germany, Belgium, France and UK.

The Indian leg was surprisingly the most exciting and adventurous. All went as planned till Manipur. Driving from Kohima to Imphal, we were stuck in the middle of the road due to a strike called at Imphal. The roads were blocked and we could not move further or go back to where we started. So, we were sitting in the car with nowhere to go, watching the protesters pass us by, some with sticks and stones in the hand!

They looked on us curiously wondering what these women were doing on the road. One guy, drunk to his gills, walked up to us and started talking to us. We kept a straight face and humored him by making some polite conversation. He told us all about how we reminded him of his sisters back home, for about 15 minutes and then moved on.

Phew! So we thought to ourselves, this is what we will have to endure for the next 7 hours. Then came another bunch of guys who first passed us by and then came back curiously peering into our car.

One of them told us that it was not safe for us to be sitting in the car during these protest hours and urged us to come to his house where he could organize lunch for us. We were in a dilemma now, to trust or not to trust? Just trusted our instincts and drove behind him to his house.

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

Real travel stories. Real stays. Handy tips to help you make the right choice.

Nikhil Recites A Tale Of 11 Friends Who Went From Bengaluru To Ladakh

Bengaluru - Delhi - Leh - Ladakh - Leh - Delhi - Amristsar - Chandigarh - Bengaluru

Pranav Took A Solo Trip To Andaman & It Was Truly Wonderful

A backpacker's guide to the predominant Honeymoon destination!

Shivani Talks Of Her Trip To Mcleodganj & Dalhousie With Her Husband And Friends

Sunset views. Monasteries. Bhagsunath falls. And amazing street food.

Kanika Proves That Traveling With An Infant To Kerala Is Totally Safe & Wonderful

Beaches, Backwaters, Spas, & More. Take me there now, please!

Here's Why Aakanksha's Trip To Manali Changed Her Idea About Group Tours

Ideal long weekend getaway from Delhi! Isn't it?

Isha Elaborates On How She Went Solo To Kasol & Returned With Lots Of Friends

And tales of her exciting Kheerganga & Chalal trek...

Prasham's Account Of A Goa Tour Proves That Goa Is More Than A Party Destination

Adventure, sightseeing, laid-back beach tours, and it doesn't stop there!

Bhavya Gives An Extensive Account Of His Jaisalmer Trip With Friends

Desert safari, haunted Kuldhara village, & Gadisar Lake. There's more...

Ashish Tells Why Kashmir Turned Out To Be A Winter Wonderland For His Family

For Gondolas, Shikaras, and plenty of snow!

Arunav Can't Stop Praising His Adventurous Trip To Sikkim & Darjeeling With Friends

For adventure in Air, on Land, and in Water!

Avneet Describes Her Trip To Spiti With A Group Of Strangers That Became Friends

Sightseeing. Monasteries. Trekking. And beauty all along

To Trust Or Not To Trust

When we parked the car outside his house, it was a by lane with a small wooden entrance and just as we parked, about 4 guys walked out to check us out. We were now getting slightly panicky! Was it a wrong decision to trust our instincts and follow him? He kept asking us to come inside his house. We asked him where his family was and he urged us to come inside his house yet again.

We stepped into his house with a lot of trepidation only to be greeted by the most welcoming smiling faces of his mother and two sisters. What a relief! From then on, till 7 in the evening, we probably had a wonderful time.  His mother cooked the most awesome pork and some authentic Manipuri food for us, after which we went for an off-road drive to a picnic spot by the Sekmai river, he played the guitar for us, sang songs and made us feel so at home and like a part of his family.

These were the first of the many people we met en route who went out of their way to help us.

Most Memorable Part

On completing the trip, people always ask us, what was the most memorable part of the trip? Well, the ‘Stans! Driving through the erstwhile silk route was an onslaught to the senses from the quirky to the exotic, Las Vegas meets Purani Dilli.

Deserts, Mountains, High altitude lakes, Lush valleys, this region has it all! Dictators and nomads, yurts and palaces, the soviet detritus and the excitement of a new nation, over a 1000 years of history to explore and we were straining at the leash!

You Are Only A Stranger Till You Say Hello!

We were completely blown over and amazed by the impact that the Indian culture has over this region, particularly Bollywood. It is almost reverential. We got the first taste of this when we crossed over from China to Kyrgyzstan.

Disco Dancing In The ‘Stans

It was quite chilly and we were waiting for the customs to clear our papers. This big and burly officer walks up to us and says, “ Hindustan?” we nod yes and he gives us a big grin and breaks into a gig, singing” Jimmy, Jimmy, Jimmy”! He then went on to ask us about Mithun Chakraborty!

We never thought we would be having a sign language conversation with a Kyrgyz official about Mithun’s health and acting prowess! And it has been like this throughout central Asia. The moment the locals would figure out we were Indians, they would either start singing or dancing to Mithun’s songs.

At a few places, they would even whip out the mobile phones, play the songs and request us to dance along with them. Dancing to “I am a disco dancer” on Tashkent streets is probably our most bizarre but favorite memory.

We have always believed that no one parties like the Punjabis, but believe us, they are not a patch on the Uzbekis. They are tireless. This one time, we were at a restaurant and on the way to the restroom, we passed a table of Uzbeks who were celebrating the birth of a child of one of their mates.

Next thing we know, we were practically kidnapped, boxed in between these people, no way out, gyrating to what? I am a disco dancer! Again!

The most bizarre experience would probably be when the ladies would plonk their kids in our arms and demand to click pictures with them. The experience was unsettling and surreal to say the least.

What’s Was Like Traveling As Women Through Central Asia?

These countries are Muslim, but of a more moderate, open and secular variety than you might find in parts of the Middle East. This combined with Soviet and Russian influence, can make Central Asia feel like the land of paradox. It never felt unsafe and we were treated like royalty. We for one felt like exotic spices on this silk route!

Another most frequently asked question is how easy or difficult it was to get the permit. The process is laborious but doable. Myanmar and china require permits if you plan to drive. Myanmar regulations require that an escort vehicle follows you from entry to exit. The fee included our accommodation and meals.

Also, China requires an English speaking guide in the car for self-drive vehicles. We also had to take care of the food and accommodation of the guide. The best way to go about it is to contact travel agencies in these countries and they would process it for a fee (and it doesn’t come cheap!)

On a journey of this magnitude, the challenges are as much within as outside. But pushing those boundaries was what this expedition was all about.

Suggested Read: 40 Romantic Things To Do In London For A Trip For Two In 2022!

A few tips:

• Make sure the paperwork and visas are in order before you leave.
• If you are planning a road trip, the procurement of visas needs to be a well-choreographed dance, given that some of the countries issue transit visas for a few days only.
• The entry, traversing the country and the exit need to be well planned.
• Ensure that all the papers are in order. Make sure you have enough number of copies. If stopped by police, preferably show the copies instead of the originals. Especially, Central Asia and Russia.
• Diesel was a problem in Uzbekistan in the sense that they didn’t have any! Had to buy in black and adulterated one at that.
• Ensure that the basic maintenance of the vehicle is carried out every 5000 kilometers.
• Split your money between travel cards and cash.
• If traveling in the winter, make sure that you are geared up with enough warm clothing. The cold is brutal. We have the deepest appreciation and respect for Bangalore weather post this expedition.
• Lastly, ensure that you pack an open mind and a whole lot of curiosity. Travel is liberating and the learning is immense.

So, next time you plan a trip abroad, we recommend Central Asia. Just get off the plane/car and yell “Mithun Chakraborty” and let the magic unfold!

A Delhi car in London- Yes, a feeling of accomplishment!

Further Read: Celebrate Your Honeymoon In London Like A Royal Affair With This Travel Guide!

Book your trip to London with TravelTriangle now!

ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 Schedule

Besides the above info, you must be aware of the upcoming Cricket World Cup tournament. So, if you are a cricket lover and eagerly waiting for it, here is ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 Time Table ! Check-out!

Frequently Asked Questions About Delhi To London By Road

Can we go to London by road from India?

Yes, you can definitely travel to London from India by road just like these Indian mothers did. You will have to cross boundaries of 17 countries i.e. 23,7000 km approximately. You would need multiple permits to cross international boundaries. The road trip can be expensive and requires meticulous planning. However, if you do it right, it could be the most epic journey of your lifetime.

Can we go to Russia by road from India?

Yes, you can travel to Russia from India by road but you will require an international driving license and the same permit for your car. It won’t be an easy journey but it will the most amazing road trip of your life. You have to be careful as you will cross countries like Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Kazakhstan. Some of these countries are rampant with terrorism and unrest.

Is there a roadway from America to India?

No, there is no direct roadway from America to India as the two continents are not joined. You will have to cross the oceans to reach America from India or vice versa. It is better to take a flight which is long and an ordeal itself.

Which city is called the London of India?

Mumbai is known as the London of India owing to its architecture and being the financial capital of India. You will even find the weather contrasts between the two cities.

Which country can we visit by road from India?

One can easily go for a road trip from India to Europe, Malaysia, Thailand, Middle East, Myanmar, Bhutan and more after completing all the necessary paperwork.

Can we go by road from India to Dubai?

One can travel by road from India to Dubai and cover the distance of 2196 kilometers depending upon the speed of the vehicle.

Can we go to Singapore by road from India?

Yes, one can easily travel from India to Singapore via the India-Myanmar-Thailand-Singapore highway (AH2).

Can we go to China by road from India?

There is only one way to reach China from India by road and that is bypassing through Nepal via Tibet.

Recent Posts

Embark On An Unforgettable Road Trip From Mumbai To Pune In 2024

Your Go-To Delhi To Badrinath Road Trip Guide For Perfect Getaway!

14 पांडिचेरी में साहसिक खेल जो 2024 के मनोरंजन के लिए बिल्कुल उपयुक्त हैं!

6 Ultimate Stops To Explore On Your Delhi To Nepal Road Trip

16 Meilleures activités aventureuses à Singapour pour vous faire crier de plaisir en 2024

7 Charming Destinations To Explore On Your Delhi To Mussoorie Road Trip

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2024 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Travelogues »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

Delhi to London (by road) in 70 days

Between the mid-1950s and late 1970s, Hippie Trail was a hit. Groups of people used to pack their bags and travel from Europe to Asia in buses. Now, Gurugram-based travel company Adventures Overland that offers road trips and cross border drives across six continents, is working to replicate that idea with their ‘Bus to London’. This first-ever hop-on/hop-off bus service between India and London will cut through 18 countries, covering 20,000 km in 70 days. 

“We tried and tested this route in 2017, 18 and 19, with a 50-day journey from Delhi to London in customers’ self-driven cars. At that time, we got requests from people wanting to travel in leisure. So, we thought of a bus,” says Co-Founder, Sanjay Madan. 

A 45-seater bus will be converted into a 20-seater bus with business class seats. The number of buses and journeys will depend on the number of bookings. The ceremonial flagging off will be done from India Gate in Delhi in May 2021, but the actual journey will commence from Imphal as the road route will proceed from Myanmar.

“We will take charge of documentation, paperwork, visas, and permits to ensure that the participants get to completely focus on experiencing the journey. An experienced English speaking local guide will travel with the group to ensure smooth communication,” adds Co-Founder Tushar Agarwal, 39. 

Madan and Agarwal met in 2011 when the two had registered their names in the Limca Book of Records. While Madan had become the first Indian to drive to the world’s highest motorable road at Khardung La (5,602 m) in a Tata Nano (626 cc), Agarwal was the first Indian to drive from London to India.

“Since both of us were on the same page, we got together and formed this company in 2012. In 2013, we did several trips, and we went on to make 14 Limca Book Records together,” says Madan. Till date, the duo has taken passionate road trippers to more than 70 countries around the world. And with the Bus to London, they hope add another record.Out of 70 days, 45 days are chalked out for travel and the rest for sightseeing and stay.

Madan, 44, says, “For instance, we will go to France by bus and from there, then cover a distance of 100km out of the total distance of 20,000km in a ferry. The total cost of the one-way trip amounts to `15 lakh per person.” 

The duo has not started taking bookings yet. “We are waiting for the new travel guidelines post COVID. The plan is to have one bus but we can make it two buses also, one after the other,” informs Agarwal and Madan adds, “When we start taking bookings, submitting a COVID-19 negative report will be made compulsory.” 

Like every other travel firm, the pandemic has impacted their business. “Our last trip was the Winter Drive to Russia in February. After that till now there has been no trip. But, we wanted to do this bus trip, and the lockdown gave us the time to plan it. We are also planning domestic trips to Rajasthan in December. Let’s see how things change by then,” adds a hopeful Agarwal.

On its return journey from London, the bus will be renamed ‘Bus to India’, and participants have the option to join for the entire duration or one or more legs. 

To sign up, log on to: bustolondon.in

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp  

Download the TNIE app to stay with us and follow the latest

Related Stories

Enquire Now

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Phone Number *
• Choose Your Journey * -Choose Your Journey- Supercar Drive – The Alps Edition- Season 3 Road to Lhasa 2024 Jordan Overland 2024 Scandinavia Overland 2024 Exclusive Porsche Drive Iceland Expedition 2024-25 Brazil Overland 2024 Kyrgyzstan Overland 2024 North East Expedition 2025 Morocco Overland 2025 Road To London 2025
• Captcha validation failed. If you are not a robot then please try again.

Welcome to Adventures Overland!

India’s leading and multiple award-winning “luxury adventure” travel company pioneering in organising self drive road trips around the world., ultimate flexibility.

Embark on multiple Self-Drive expeditions across the world with flexible dates, Group Size and complete logistic support.

Memorable Experiences

We craft unparalleled and timeless experiences tailored for the Road Trip enthusiast within you who loves hitting the open road.

Quality at our core

We provide our participants with a world-class experience with top-tier vehicles, Most Luxurious Properties and dedicated crew support.

Award winning Support

Since 2020, AO has achieved consecutive victories in the prestigious World Travel Awards , in the Best Tour Operator Category.

FIXED DEPARTURES

Mongolia overland.

10 Nights / 11 Days

Supercar Drive – The Alps Edition- Season 3

7 Nights / 8 Days

Road to Lhasa

21 Nights / 22 Days

Jordan Overland

8 Nights / 9 Days

Scandinavia Overland

22 Nights / 23 Days

Exclusive Porsche Drive

5 Nights / 6 Days

ROAD TRIPS IN INDIA

Lahaul & spiti drive, north east expedition.

15 Nights / 16 Days

Ladakh Expedition (Via Srinagar)

14 Nights / 15 Days

Fall head over wheels for these six epic tailor-made

Supercar drives, swiss & french alsace, german and austrian alps.

6 Nights / 7 Days

South of France

Video gallery, indulge in the thrill, adrenaline rush, and inspiration offered by the incredible videos showcasing our numerous driving expeditions from around the world.

Wanna go on the most epic Road Trips?

Road to London 2024 | Cross Border Expedition | Self Drive | Road Trip | India to London by Road

BEST SUPERCARS EXPERIENCE | DRIVING TOP BRANDS OF SUPERCARS I SELF DRIVE ROAD TRIP IN EUROPE I EPIC

SELF-DRIVE GUIDED ROAD TRIPS IN INDIA, NEPAL & BHUTAN | ADVENTURES OVERLAND

WORLD TRIP BY ROAD: 2 INDIANS | 90,000 KM | 6 CONTINENTS| 50 COUNTRIES

Iceland I Self Drive I Road Trip I Land Rover Defender I Northern Lights I 4×4 Overland [4K]

JORDAN OVERLAND: SELF DRIVE IN THE HIDDEN MYSTERIES OF MARTIAN TERRAIN | WADI RUM | DEAD SEA | PETRA

The Great Indian World Trip

Sanjay Madan (Co-Founder & Director)

Tushar Agarwal (Co-Founder & Director)

It is a journey of Sanjay & Tushar , two Indian road trippers in their quest to explore the world and experience new cultures, places and people as they travel across 6 continents, 50 countries and drive over 90,000 kilometres.

In the process, they became the first Indians to drive around the world and also created multiple world records on this unprecedented journey.

NOW STREAMING ON

WE WROTE BOOKS TOO!

The Great INDIAN World Trip

kms travelled

Countries explored, continents crossed, testimonials.

Discover captivating tales of Adventures Overland travellers as they traverse the world, sharing fascinating experiences from across the globe

#1 (55 Reviews)

4.7 (204 Reviews)

4.8 (306 Reviews)

Hemang Thakker

North-East Mar 2024

Vikash Mantri

Namibia Apr 2024

Rudra Biswas

Iceland Feb 2023

Srivijay Ravi Sastry

RTL Aug 2022

Tarana Bindra

Lahaul & Spiti Sep 2022

Brazil Nov 2022

Potluri Srinivasa Rao

Jordan April 2023

Giovanni Karl Vaz

Morocco Feb 2023

Kyrgyzstan Dec 2022

Sagar Maheswari

Supercar Drive - July 2023

South Africa May 2023

Rasalika Maskara

Ladakh June 2023

Nishita Sarvaiya

Prithivi yashini.

Morocco April 2023

Harshavardhan T

South Africa- May 2023

Rachna Chhatwani

Jordan March 2023

Kalpana Chitnis

RTL Oct 2023

Golda Ponraj

Lahaul & Spiti June 2022

Deepesh Agarwal

Iceland Mar 2023

Amandeep Sinola

Rohini vijayan.

Ladakh 2023

Nidhi Luharuwalla

Ladakh Jun 2023

Swati Saraogi

RTL April 2019

Rishika Gupta

Jordan Nov 2022

Lahaul & Spiti June 2023

Priyanka Bakhru

Jordan March 2022

Aaditya Kashyap

Iceland Oct 2023

Monisha Karnani

Ladakh Sep 2021

Manoj Peshavaria

Suman aggarwal, sia sarvaiya.

Lahaul & Spiti July 2022

Anand Lakshmanan

Sachin bansal, utkarsh agarwal.

Ladakh July 2021

Anita Patel

Dr ashok kumar mathur, sunita varadarajan, ankit mathur, ranjeet damodar thakur, yogesh manek, zakkir ahmed, nooruddin kantawalla.

Ladakh 2021

TRAVEL BLOGS

Read all about road trips from around the world.

International road trips

The Ultimate Guide To A Lhasa Road Trip

People we meet on the road

Fall of Snow & Rise of Smoke: How Iceland proved why it's called the land of Fire & Ice

From snowy nights to northern lights: how an unplanned drive turned out to be the best one of my life., why choose adventures overland.

Embarking on a journey with Adventures Overland is like diving into a world of excitement, exploration, and limitless possibilities. We are a community of like-minded people who have one true love; road trips.

Our services encompass meticulously planned overland expeditions that cater to both the thrill-seekers and the wanderers-at-heart. Whether you're a solo traveler or looking to bond with family and friends, we have something extraordinary for everyone.

Picture this: You're seated in a custom-fitted 4x4 vehicle, wind in your hair, as you journey through the majestic mountains and lush valleys. Our experienced guides, who double up as storytellers and local experts, will take you off the beaten path, unveiling the heart and soul of each destination. No stone goes unturned as we curate self-drive road trips that ensure a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion.

With Adventures Overland , you won't just see the world; you'll live it.

International Road Trips:

• Road to London: The epic road trip where we drive from India to London by road in a span of 65 days, covering 20 countries.
• Super Car Drive: Our Super Car Drives are all about you and the fleet of your dreams i.e. McLaren, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and more exploring the best of Europe .
• Jordan Overland: Jordan Overland is a self-drive tour where we conquer desert trails, indulge in adventure activities, and experience the best of Jordan .
• Iceland Expedition: The Iceland Expedition is all about conquering icy terrains, witnessing the northern lights, and exploring the breathtaking scenery of Iceland in a sturdy 4x4 vehicle.
• Brazil & Peru Overland: In the tropical escapade that we like to call “ Brazil & Peru Overland ”, we traverse the iconic route of emotions, dive into the Amazon rainforest, party with locals, and discovers the magic of Peru, all in one single road trip.
• Morocco Overland: The Morocco Overland starting from Merrakesh is all about sand dunes, sunsets, and steering wheels. From the snow-kissed peaks of the High Atlas to the spice-scented souks, this overland drive is your ticket to a whole new world.
• Kyrgyzstan Overland: A road trip that takes you through the land of nomads and into endless adventures, our Kyrgyzstan Overland drive is full of mystical experiences. Witnesseagle hunters in action, feast on delectable cuisine, and more.
• Scandinavia Overland: A 23-day thrilling drive through the best of Scandinavia , where you get to conquer the iconic Nordkapp, witness jaw-dropping fjords, chase northern lights, and more with the coolest convoy.
• Road to Lhasa: From a heart-pounding flight over Mount Everest, where you’ll witness the world’s highest peak in all its glory to conquering high passes like Lhachen La, each turn of the wheel uncovers a new thrill in the lap of the Himalayas on this Road to Lhasa Drive .
• Mongolia Overland: Mongolia Overland is every traveler's dream come true. The diverse landscapes of this country call foran electrifying 4×4 expedition consisting of heart-pounding drives, navigating mountain passes, and exploring mystical valleys making it a road trip unlike any other.
• Namibia Overland: From conquering towering dunes to off-roading through gravel roads, every moment on Namibia Expedition is spent redefining adventure. A self-drive adventure consisting of navigating expansive desert terrains, exploring wildlife, and having the time of your life with the coolest convoy.

Road Trips in India:

• Ladakh Expedition: The Land of High Passes is best explored on 4 wheels and that’s exactly what we do on our Ladakh expeditions as we explore Ladakh via two of the most iconic routes. Ladakh via Manali and Ladakh via Srinagar , both of which have their own charm. From conquering the high-altitude passes to discovering hidden gems, we do it all.
• Lahaul and Spiti Expedition: Our Lahaul & Spiti Expedition is all about traversing wicked Himalayan trails, ticking off all the attractions, and making sure that by the time the road trip ends, you have an entirely new definition of thrill.
• Northeast Expedition: The ultimate adventure in India’s Northeast where you get to traverse winding roads and peel back the curtain to find hidden gems as you explore Ziro Valley, Majuli, Meghalaya, and more in your 4x4 beast.

Here’s what you get:

• Guided Expeditions: Adventures Overland's guided self-drive expeditions are the epitome of immersive travel experiences, led by seasoned experts who unravel the hidden gems of each destination, ensuring that every moment becomes a cherished highlight of your adventure.
• Luxury Road Trips: Adventures Overland sets the gold standard for luxury road trips , providing travelers with top-notch experiences. Picture yourself cruising through the scenic Italian countryside in a sleek sports car or exploring the rugged beauty of Iceland in a luxury 4x4. These journeys combine high-end comfort with breathtaking destinations, creating travel memories like no other.
• Global Destinations: Adventures Overland offers an array of remarkable global destinations to explore, such as the mystical landscapes of Iceland, where you can chase the Northern Lights, or the rugged terrains of Kyrgyzstan, where you can experience nomadic traditions firsthand. These road trips around the world promise an enriching blend of adventure and cultural discovery.
• Customer Reviews/Testimonials: Adventures Overland stands out as an exceptional choice for travelers due to the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from thousands of adventurers. These testimonials highlight our commitment to delivering unforgettable and well-organized self-drive road trips that consistently exceed expectations.
• The option to choose: Adventures Overland provides travelers with a unique blend of options, allowing them to embark on road trips tailored to their specific desires through customized itineraries, or join fixed departure tours for a convenient and well-organized exploration of diverse destinations, ensuring an unforgettable travel experience.
• Explore More: Provide a button or link to explore all available expeditions and road trips.
• What are Guided Self-Drive Expeditions? Guided Self-Drive Expeditions with Adventures Overland are meticulously planned journeys where participants explore stunning destinations in their own vehicles while receiving expert guidance.
• Are these road trips suitable for beginners? Our road trips cater to all levels of experience, making them suitable for beginners and seasoned travelers alike.
• What destinations do you offer? We offer a diverse range of destinations, including but not limited to Iceland, Jordan, Morocco, Brazil, and Kyrgyzstan. We also organize the iconic Road to London trip that covers 22 countries which is epic on its own.
• What's included in a Luxury Road Trip package? Our Luxury Road Trip packages encompass premium accommodations, gourmet meals, and exclusive experiences, ensuring a comfortable and memorable journey.
• Can I customize my expedition or road trip? Yes, you can fully customize your expedition or road trip to meet your preferences and requirements.
• Do I need to bring my own vehicle? Participants are welcome to bring their vehicles, but we also offer rental options for added convenience.
• How do I book an expedition or road trip? Booking is easy through our website, where you can choose your desired expedition and follow the booking process.
• What safety measures are in place during expeditions? Safety is our top priority, and we have comprehensive measures in place, including experienced guides, medical support, and well-equipped vehicles.
• Can solo travelers join your expeditions? Solo travelers are encouraged to join our expeditions and form lasting connections with like-minded adventurers.
• How can I get in touch with your team for more information? For more information, reach out to our team through our website contact us via phone at 9911599811, or drop us an email at [email protected]

FEATURED IN

Collaborators, subscribe to our monthly newsletter., the ao promise.

Curating and enabling incredible on-the-road experiences that are unlike anything else you can find.

100% Safety

Safety is paramount. We ensure that you are safe and secure across all terrains.

Anything but basic

If it's not extraordinary, we either won't do it or we'll find a way to make it so.

Sustainability

It's impossible not to love and care for the land with these amazing adventures.

Quick Links

Follow us on.

© 2024 ADVENTURES OVERLAND. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED | PRIVACY POLICY

• Road to London 2017
• Road to London 2018
• Road to London 2019
• Road to London 2022
• Road to London 2023
• Adventures Overland

5 Seasons | 100+ participants | Self Drive

Prepare for an extraordinary journey with Adventures Overland! Since its launch in 2017, the Road to London Drive has become an iconic adventure, beckoning travelers to embark on an epic road trip from the heart of India to the bustling streets of London. Our adventure began in 2017 and extended into 2018 & 2019 from India to UK covering 18 countries and 16,000 km in a span of 50 days. Dubbed as an impossible journey by many, the participants drove on remote terrains, off‐beaten tracks, mountain passes, and expressways to reach their final destination… London. In 2022 and 2023, our route evolved and the journey began from Iran, traversing through 20 countries, 16000 Kms in 55 days before culminating once again in the vibrant heart of London. Inspired by the pioneering path of preceding years, this expedition embraced continuity, beckoning adventurers to rediscover the thrill of the open road and witness new landscapes through a fresh perspective.

VIDEO GALLERY

Indulge in the thrill, adrenaline rush, and inspiration offered by the incredible videos showcasing our numerous driving expeditions from around the world.

ROAD TO LONDON 2017

ROAD TO LONDON 2018

ROAD TO LONDON 2019

ROAD TO LONDON 2022

ROAD TO LONDON 2023 Epi-1

ROAD TO LONDON 2023 Epi-2

ROAD TO LONDON 2023 Epi-3

ROAD TO LONDON 2023 Epi-4

ROAD TO LONDON 2023 Epi-5

TRACKING OUR ROAD TO LONDON: THE JOURNEY SO FAR

27 Pioneers, driving over 16,000 KM in just 49 days

Traversing 18 Countries in a Convoy of 15 cars

Season 3 of the India to London drive

New Route from Iran through 20 countries in 55 days

ROAD TO LONDON 2023

Historical Landmarks, stunning landscapes, adventures galore

ROAD TO LONDON 2024

Coming Soon Road to London journeys 2024

Relax and enjoy

Happy Travelers

Pravin Thakur

Nishith Jois

Handling a convoy of cars is a task by itself. Handling several minds inside those cars is entirely something else. Sanjay and Tushar, the duo behind the wheels of Adventures Overland have been steering minds and machines together.

Rina Shah Bansali

RTL 2017 – An experience of an EPIC, momentous and unforgettable! On first glance, the day by day itinerary for RTL 2017 looked daunting. 16,000 kms, 18 countries, 49 days.but at the end of the expedition, I recall saying that time went by so quickly I felt I hadn’t even moved to second gear!

Priyanka Nishith Jois

It is definitely not an easy job to handle a long journey full of participants on the Road To London, with so much of patience, happiness, energy and humbleness. But Tushar and Sanjay (Men of the match) manage all these with so much poise every time they organise one.

Ravi Sharma

Gurgaon, Haryana

I had never dreamed about travelling by road to London. After completing Road To London trip now I am dreaming of doing bigger and difficult road /off road trips anywhere and everywhere in the world. Thanks Sanjay and Tushar for creating this spark in my mind.

Archana Sharma

Our three trips back to back in a span of six months say it all about the amazing team at Adventures Overland. Sanjay and Tushar, can handle any problem so efficiently with a smile on their face that you feel so secure and confident even on the toughest terrains.

Zakkir Ahmed Kalarikkal

The 50 days spent on the Road To London was one of my best days of my life….the memories of this trip will never be erased in my life time….my next road trip will only be with Adventures Overland and I recommend them blindly to anybody who’s planning a road trip in India or abroad!

Anurag Shrivastava

Road To London was really a treat to my Mindset, then heart-set and finally to my soul-set. I can only say “End of a great TRIP is START of a NEW JOURNEY” . Everything AO does on a road trip just substantiates why road trips are the best way to explore a place.

• nagpur News

Nagpur to London: Couple’s road trip maps a new world

Visual Stories

73-Year-Old Indian Drives Across 19 Countries In 72 Days, Gives Millennials Major Travel Goals

"Age is just a number."

Time and again, people have casually inserted this saying without fully grasping its implications. But the Baldawa couple, just lived the saying with their recent road trip from Mumbai to London.

Back in 2011, when the Baldawas were flying back to Mumbai from London, the scenery from the airplane window intrigued and challenged the adventurer inside Badri Baldawa. Mr. Baldawa started planning the epic road trip in May 2016, and after little over an year, he embarked on the 72-day-long journey with his 64-year-old wife and 10-year-old granddaughter. This trip from Mumbai to London, took them across 19 countries covering 22,000km.

Badri Baldawa is a steel exporter and chartered accountant by profession, and a serious roadtripper by heart. Over the decades he has hiked to one of Mount Everest's base camps (2008), driven from Mumbai to Badrinath on a pilgrimage, covered the length of Iceland by road (2015), witnessed the longest night of the year after a non-stop 46-hour drive to North Cape and has also taken a challenging cruise to Antarctica.

Badri Baldawa's passport has visa stamps from 65 countries, and Pushpa Baldawa has 55. But this particular road trip has left a lasting impression on the couple. The Hindu interviewed the Baldawas and discussed with them what it takes to plan and successfully complete a road trip such as this.

Before the journey even began, the couple started facing issues regarding what route they could take from Mumbai to London. After much speculation and consideration, they decided to go to Imphal and then make their way to London via Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, China and Russia.

Thailand tour package 3 days 2 nights

“there was no other alternate route to drive to london from mumbai: if i were to drive via pakistan and afghanistan, there was no guarantee that i would make it alive. we could not go north via tibet either, as china would not allow it.".

The Baldawas were not alone in their journey as they were joined by 12 other vehicles in Imphal; the group in total had 26 adults and one child. The group had connections with the Indian government, which ensured that wherever they spent the night, dinner was served at the Indian Embassy. The tourism ministry of Thailand even organised a cultural event for them.

After leaving Thailand, it took the Baldawas and others 16 days to cross the northwestern region of China. The terrain of northwest China posed a great challenge as the climate changed drastically within a span of four hours; the temperature dropping from 24 degree Celsius in Dunhang to a freezing zero degrees Celsius in Xining. But the challenge which they were prepared for, hostility of locals, took them by surprise.

“We went in with an assumption that people in China and Russia are tough and not too welcoming of outsiders, but we were welcomed everywhere."

Badri Baldawa and the group covered 400km every day and made sure that their driving time was not more than 12 hours as they wanted to stop adequately to observe the countries they were driving through. In the interview with The Hindu , Mr. Baldawa talks about the longest distance they covered in a single day; a whopping 930km from Warsaw to Brussels.

“On that day we had breakfast in Warsaw (Poland), lunch in Cologne (Germany), and dinner in Brussels (Belgium)."

Their journey through 19 countries, also opened the Baldawas' eyes to certain aspects, infrastructures and facilities around the world that have been lacking in India. They give the example of how the road network across the mountains of China surprised and helped them in keeping up with their daily plan.

“Across northeast India, the roads wind around hills. But there (in China) were high-speed highways that connected mountain tops, and long tunnels through the mountains too."

The couple has taken several road trips around the world, and the one from Mumbai to London strengthened their resolve to drive to places instead of directly flying to them. Mr. Baldawa firmly believes that it is on a road trip to a place that you get to observe the ground reality and cultures of the destination.

“When you fly into a place, almost everything is readily accessible and uniform, and so there is a disconnect. But when you drive, the experience of a place is more real in every way, revealing the essence of a place more accurately.”

Next on the agenda of the Baldawas is to share their travel stories with the world, especially with the up and coming travellers, who are exploring travel with a renewed fervour, and might find their tales inspirational. Their key message is, "Age is a number", and with a journey such as the one from Mumbai to London, they do complete justice to that.

Do you have an inspirational story to share as well? Then write a travelogue or pen an interesting travel story on Tripoto, the world's largest community of travellers.

Must read: pet friendly resorts near mumbai , weekend getaways near pune for couples

Domestic Packages

Further Reads

• Travel Life

India to London: a road journey

Source: Google Images

We all love planning road travels and executing but how far do you plan it to be?

Maybe to a hill station or the longest could be Kashmiri to Kanyakumari, but what about we say crossing 15 countries by 23,700 kilometres? Unbelievable right?

But yes this is India to London distance that we are talking about, going from India to London not by air as you would usually do but all by your car.

You must be amazed right now that there is a route connecting India and London. inside your car?

It’s not as difficult as it may seem, and it’s much more exciting and adventurous than simply sitting in the middle of the plane and arriving at your destination after a few hours. Believingly it may not be as difficult as it may seem.

This trip will undoubtedly end up being the best of your life, but planning, organising, and documenting are extremely necessary before they can be carried out. The first thing to keep in mind while thinking about this idea is that it will need a lot of planning and execution it will probably take a year or so to actually put it into action.

There are two possible routes that have been found to reach London by road all the way from India, one that passes through Pakistan and the other one that crosses China. Because it is so difficult to secure permissions that will allow you to transit via Pakistan, China seems to be your only option. The path to the final destination, which passes through 15 different countries, is as follows.

The order for countries would be:-

India ⇨ Myanmar ⇨ China ⇨ Kyrgyzstan ⇨ Uzbekistan ⇨ Kazakhstan ⇨ Russia ⇨ Belarus ⇨ Poland ⇨ Germany ⇨  Netherlands ⇨ Belgium ⇨ France ⇨ UK

How much will travelling through these countries take? It would take you at least 6 weeks to travel across these 15 nations, but your time would be extended appropriately if you chose to stop and see the locations you were passing through.

You will be planning a road trip that will take you to different countries and it is important to know what things you will need to carry but importantly your documents while everything comes secondary.

So here’s a list of important things you need to carry with you.

1. Passport

Your passport is one of the essential documents you must always have with you in order to avoid problems in the future. Additionally, considering that you will be visiting more than 15 countries, make sure your passport has a few blank pages and an expiration date that is at least a year away.

2 . Visas for travellers Visas are one of the most important things to carry while you are travelling, for several of the nations, you will be visiting on this road trip, including China, Myanmar, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Russia, the United Kingdom, and Schengen, you will need to have traveller permits with you, just as when you fly. In order to properly plan, make sure to familiarise yourself in advance with the visa application process and the necessary documentation.

3. Permission to travel internationally

Because it will be an international trip you need to have permission to travel across those countries and it will be necessary on this journey to have an international driving permit, although it can only be utilised if it was issued by the Automobile Association of India or the local licensing authority.

4. You must get motor insurance for every nation you pass through on your journey from India to the UK.

To pass via Myanmar and China, special overland permits that must be approved by the state and the federal government are required. Make sure you apply appropriately because the latter process will likely take longer than the former, which may take around a month.

5. Carry extra cash . You will need to bring some additional cash with you because this trip will most likely take you quite a long time and money shouldn’t cause you a problem at any place, Since it is well known that US dollars are a widely accepted form of payment, make sure to carry some tiny USD notes with you so you may use them while travelling.

6. Have medications. Additionally, if you are taking any medications, don’t forget to bring them with you. Have medications in advance too, like you might feel uneasy at times with headache, indigestion or body ache. Consult your doctor for medicines that will suit you at these times, take enough of them so that it lasts you for the entire journey as again it will be a very long time travelling and make sure you won’t run out of them when you are travelling through remote terrain.

The Rising Craze of VanLife Among Millennials

What to eat while on a road trip.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy & Policy

© 2022 Vanlife Daily

• Sample Page
• VanLife Daily

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Remember Me

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

How Do I Plan a Road Trip From India to London?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Planning a road trip from India to London can be an exciting and daunting task.

However, with careful planning and preparation, you can make this journey an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your epic road trip from India to London.

Plan your Route

The first step is to map out your route. There are different routes that you can take, depending on your preference and the time of year.

The most common route is through Pakistan, Iran, Turkey, and then into Europe. You can also take the scenic route through Central Asia or the Middle East.

Once you have decided on the route, research the best roads to take and any potential issues such as political unrest or natural disasters that may affect your journey. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and regulations in each country.

Get Your Documents in Order

Before embarking on your road trip, make sure all your travel documents are in order. This includes passports, visas, international driving permits, and car insurance.

It’s important to note that some countries may require additional permits or paperwork for foreign vehicles entering their borders. Do your research beforehand so that you’re not caught off guard at border crossings.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Your vehicle will be your home away from home for this epic journey. Make sure it’s in good condition before setting off.

Take it for a tune-up and have all necessary repairs made. Check the tire pressure and ensure that you have a spare tire.

It’s also a good idea to pack extra supplies such as oil, coolant, brake fluid, and other essential fluids for emergencies.

Packing for a road trip is different than packing for a regular vacation. You’ll need to pack light but also bring along essential items such as camping gear, cooking equipment, and extra food and water.

Make a list of everything you’ll need and pack strategically. Keep frequently used items within easy reach.

Safety should be your top priority on this journey. Always wear your seatbelt, obey traffic laws, and avoid driving at night if possible. Be cautious when driving in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye out for potential hazards on the road.

It’s also a good idea to have a first aid kit, emergency flares, and a flashlight in case of emergencies.

Enjoy the Journey

While the destination is London, the journey itself will be an unforgettable experience. Take time to enjoy the scenery, meet new people, and try new foods along the way.

Make frequent stops to stretch your legs and explore new places. Take plenty of photos to document your adventure.

7 Related Question Answers Found

How do i plan a new road trip to england, how do i plan a road trip uk, how do i plan a road trip around the uk, can i go on a road trip uk, how do you do a road trip around the uk, what is the best road trip in england, how can i plan a road trip in india, backpacking - budget travel - business travel - cruise ship - vacation - tourism - resort - cruise - road trip - destination wedding - tourist destination - best places, london - madrid - paris - prague - dubai - barcelona - rome.

© 2024 LuxuryTraveldiva

• WEB STORIES

Travel from Delhi to London in a bus! Cost and route for world’s longest bus journey

Adventures overland brings the world’s longest bus journey covering 18 countries in 70 days. the journey will start in may 2021 from new delhi and here is how to get yourself registered for the same with all details. we also tell you how much you need to shell out for this epic roadtrip..

Roadtrips are super fun and if you are someone who agrees with the said statement just like us, this piece is for you! In case you want to quench your thirst for a long, really long road trip, well here is your chance to do it. The world’s longest bus journey is set to begin in May 2021 and the journey will start from New Delhi and will conclude in London. Adventures Overland is set to embark on a journey that is sure to cherish the travellers. The bus journey will cover over 20,000 km while crossing as many as 18 countries in a total of 70 days. Now if you have really made up your mind for this journey, you will have to be real quick as only 20 seats are available. Travellers can opt for either a full journey or choose from a total of four legs that include South East Asia (11 nights, 12 days), China (15 nights, 16 days), Central Asia (21 nights, 22 days) and Europe (15 nights, 16 days).

Now coming to the most important part – cost. If you opt for the full monty from Delhi to London, you will have to shell out 15 lakh per person. Yes, such experiences come at a price! On the other hand, if you opt for any one of the four legs, the cost per person ranges between Rs 3.5 lakh to Rs 4.95 lakh. Now coming to the route, the Delhi-London bus journey will start from the National capital in India and will proceed to Myanmar, Thailand, China, Uzbekistan, Russia, Czech Republic, Germany and will finally conclude in London.

All hotel stays will be on a twin sharing basis and a proper crew will be on-board the bus to assist the travellers in almost all situations – be it currency exchange, getting local SIM cards and more. For complete details and how to enroll yourself for the world’s longest bus journey, visit http://www.bustolondon.in. Stay tuned with Express Drives for more updates! Also, subscribe to our YouTube channel .

Get live Share Market updates, Stock Market Quotes , and the latest India News … Read More and business news on Financial Express. Download the Financial Express App for the latest finance news.

• Mutual Funds
• IPO’s Open and Upcoming 3
• Top Indices Performance
• Stock Analysis
• Stock Market Stats
• Financial Literacy
• Gold Rate Today
• NSE Top Gainers 1415
• NSE Top Losers 1176
• BSE Top Gainers 2334
• BSE Top Losers 1811
• NSE 52-Week High 105
• NSE 52-Week Low 14
• BSE 52-Week High 260
• BSE 52-Week Low 20
• NSE Price Shocker
• NSE Volume Shocker
• BSE Price Shocker
• BSE Volume Shocker
• NSE Sellers
• BSE Sellers
• Silver Rate Today
• Petrol Rate Today
• Diesel Rate Today

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories

This Indian company will take you on a road trip to London by bus in 60 days & here's the cost per traveller

Are you up for travelling to London … by road? Adventure Overlands, a Delhi-based travel company is ready to take you on a long road trip to London, with the additional bonus of stopping and exploring 23 countries along the way.

Kick-starting in Iran, the route for this road trip meanders through Turkey, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Latvireadya, Estonia, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, and France . The final leg of the journey will be from the French port city of Calais, where the travellers will board a cruise to Dover, UK and from there, journey on to London.

Instagram content

This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.

Incidentally, the “Road to London” road trip is on its fifth season this year, from 3rd September to 1st November. Post the first three seasons of “Road to London”, which took place in 2017, 2018 and 2019, the programme came to a forced stop due to the pandemic. Last year, as almost all international borders opened up, the fourth season kicked into full gear.

If you’re a travel junkie and up to spare 60 days of your life with a fun-filled group of fellow travellers as you traverse through stunning landscapes — rolling greens, pristine mountainsides, bustling cities, beaches and more — here’s everything you'd want to know about the road trip of a lifetime.

Road trip: This Indian company will take you from Iran to London in 60 days for Rs. 25 lakhs per traveller

The epic road trip from Iran to London will take place between 3rd September and 1 November, which amounts to 59 nights and 60 days.

The Road to London road trip is open to all sorts of travellers — from solo travellers to couples , friends and families.

For the Road to London road trip, Adventure Overlands will charge Rs 25 lakhs per traveller (excluding + 5% GST per person).

The company will provide a host of cars for travellers (in 2022, it was 10 cars for 27 participants).

Week 1 in Iran: Bandar Abbas - Shiraz - Isfahan - (en route) Persepolis - Tehran.

Week 2 in Iran and Turkey: Tehran - Tabriz (including Kandovan and the famous Bazaar of Tabriz - Van (Turkey) - Malatya - Adiyaman.

Week 3 in Turkey, Bulgaria (via Greece) and Serbia: Adiyaman - Cappadocia - Istanbul (including a tour of Sultanahmet and a luxurious cruise on the Bosphorus Strait) - Sofia (Bulgaria via Greece) - Belgrade (Serbia).

Week 4 in Belgrade, Hungary (via Croatia) and Poland (via Austria, Slovakia and Czech Republic): Belgrade - Budapest (Hungary via Croatia) - drive through Austria, Slovakia and the Czech Republic - Krakow (Poland) - Warsaw.

Week 5 in Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland: Warsaw - Vilnius (Lithuania) - Riga (Latvia) - Tallinn (Estonia) - cruise across the Baltic Sea (with cars onboard the ferry) - Helsinki (Finland).

Week 6 in Finland and Norway: Helsinki - Rovaniemi (via the resort city of Oulu) - Honningsvåg (Norway) - Nordkapp (the highest point in Europe accessible by road) - Tromsø (to see the Aurora Borealis).

Week 7 in Norway: Tromsø - Fauske - Trondheim - Ålesund - Bergen (en route Aurlandsfjord, Nærøyfjord and Stalheimskleiva).

Week 8 in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands: Bergen - Oslo - Stockholm (Sweden) - Copenhagen (Denmark) - Amsterdam (Netherlands, via Germany).

Week 9 in the Netherlands, France and the UK: Amsterdam - Calais (France via Belgium) - cruise to Dover, UK - London.

Along with cruising across a host of countries, the activities involved in the road trip include boat rides, trekking, hot air balloon ride, cruises, exploring the city nightlife and taking ferries.

Read more live well stories

7 habits that can help you live longer and add 20 more years to your life

5 ways coconut water will help you lose weight and best time to drink it for visible effects

Supplements that promise to make you prettier, healthier, better are everywhere. Here’s what the science says

Why protecting joints should be everyone's no.1 workout priority

Foods that Virat Kohli eats and avoids to stay fit and healthy

GQ Recommends

LONDON TO INDIA: THE EPIC ROAD TRIP

My journey from uk to india by road, final day – 62nd day thurs 12th june: udaipur to ahmadabad – final leg of our official journey, trip from uk to india..

Left Udaipur at about 11.30 am to complete the final leg of our road trip.

Udaipur has numerous lakes with lovely settings, but unfortunately we would have to leave this for another time. The immediate focus was to reach Ahmadabad by about 4.30 pm at a well known sports club, where we would be greeted by some local and national press. Did not know what to expect regarding the press, arrangements had been made by Kirit’s friend, at whose house incidentally, we were staying this evening.

I drove all the way to Ahmadabad, needed to do this after the incident the other day.

Experienced the now usual traffic and highway violations on route and I had to be attentive right throughout the journey. The start of the journey was quite unusual, when we had to dodge an elephant at a junction. Yes this time, in this very animal friendly country, it was the elephant’s turn to test our driving skills.

Click to Watch Video of Elephant

Made Ahmadabad by about 5pm, the following hour and a half that followed at this popular … club was an experience and a half.

As soon as we arrived and entered the building, Jayesh – Kirit’s friend here, informed us that some of the press were already here and they would like to conduct interviews as soon as possible.

Like proper celebrities we were escorted into a posh conference room, seated and interviewed by a particular news paper reporter. No sooner had he finished when another two suddenly arrived, and they too sat around us and started asking similar questions about our trip.

It was great fun, but it was starting to become organised chaos, so what was suddenly decided – and it worked – was to split Kirit, Manvir and myself so that we now sat individually with the reporter.

Quick firing questions and hopefully we gave a good account of ourselves and of the journey we have just undertaken. Its very easy to give top layer answers to the best and worst moments on the trip, but for me, it will take a bit of time and more reflective thought to convey with greater detail my feeling about the trip. Unsure how at present but I would like to break the thoughts into smaller pieces – about the countries and their people, the journey itself and importantly whether this experience has changed me in anyway.

Kalpesh Solanki – Pharmacy Business, was in town and was also present here – this time not as a reporter, nice of him to come and share the moment.

Back to the board room scene – We were now told that the photographers were waiting outside and wanted to take photos of us and the Land Cruiser.

Our fridge was already switched on, and we demonstrated how cold it was with the beer we had inside. They took numerous snaps of Manvir and myself holding a couple of cans of beer we had previously purchased in China. Thinking afterwards about this, hope the reporters don’t run with the story – World road travellers caught without liquor permit! Gujarat is a dry state – where liquor permits is required. Too much to think about at the present time, we will cross the bridge when and when it happens.

This chap was the campaign manager and helped Mr Modi, during the recent general elections.

Even so soon after the end of our journey, there was a happy feeling, a feeling of contentment that a dream has been fulfilled. Importantly we had all returned safely and all of us will be shortly making our way home back to England. The day ended with a small party at Kirit’s friends house .

A really big thank you, to you all, for following my blog over the last two months. Its been a great adventure and ticked so many boxes for me. Although it’s been hard work keeping a daily record, it’s been absolutely worth it because it will act as a great reference point in years to come.

In the next few days, I am going to try to give a brief overview of the trip.

THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN AND PLEASE DON’T FORGET, IF YOU ARE ABLE TO GIVE SUPPORT TO OUR NOMINATED CHARITY – PHARMACIST SUPPORT – PLEASE SUPPORT IT. https://www.justgiving.com/pharmacistsupport/

Hiten Patel

—————————————————————————————————————–

Received coverage in local and national news papers including India Times, and also on newspaper websites the following day (13th June).

THE JOURNEY STARTED ON 12th April 2014 AND WAS COMPLETED ON 12th JUNE 2014

61st day wed 11th june: jhansi/orchha to chittorgarh or better still – udaipur.

If we achieve the latter then we would have covered 560km today. Started the journey this morning with the knowledge we would have to do a lot of miles by the end of the day if we were to have a relaxing day tomorrow, travelling to our final destination of Ahmedabad.

The day started pleasantly, I was driving and the first challenge of the day was to cross a narrow bridge across a pretty river setting – why? Just because it was a bit of a challenge. A bigger challenge would have been to cross the bridge in reverse gear.

A very pleasant river setting, near where we stayed the night in Orchha.

Me at the wheels, crossing the narrow bridge – great experience, wonder how I would have coped if the river was swollen form the monsoon rains.

Very picturesque.

Sudden abrupt end of the highway – No signs, no diversion notice – nothing!

The roads we have travelled on so far in India, especially the main highways, between the cities, have really been excellent – not one pot hole! However signposting and discipline of drivers, especially those travelling in the wrong direction on a duel carriageway is a major safety issue and one which you need to be constantly vigilant of whilst driving. It does sap your energy and in fact both driver and co- driver need to be equally aware.

Couple of videos below showing some of the dangers we faced whilst driving:

Click to Watch Oncoming Bike in Wrong Direction

Click to Watch Goat on the Road While Driving

A very sad incident : The road was good and I was doing a steady 65mph when suddenly completely out of the blue, a major situation developed - On this particular patch, where the duel carriageway was separated by an elevated island, there were a large number of thick overgrown bushes running along its length. Although I was completely focused on the road, with both my hand on the steering wheel, a large cow ran out of these bushes and straight onto the road. I did hoot and in desperation did put my foot firmly on the breaks. Neither was enough and the cow took the full force and impact of the bull – bar protecting the front of our Land Cruiser. It was literally flicked, with such ease, several feet in the air and landed off the road on the LHS. The Land Cruiser did not flinch an inch and I brought the vehicle to a stop.

We got out of the car and I went straight to where the animal had been thrown too, the poor thing still had its eyes wide open, was lying almost motionless. I felt pretty helpless, nothing I could do would comfort it. It was probably for my own benefit that I gently stroked it’s head several times and tried to close its eyes.

By now a few people had gathered around, they all looked like local farmers. In terms of our location we were well into rural area, so the site of the incident was remote. A couple of the farmers were very pragmatic, saying they had seen what had happened, I could not have avoided the animal and it’s best to move on. They also said these type of accidents occur regularly, the cow could not be helped and was about to die. At that particular instance the only way, and there are no guarantees with this, was for me to take a sharp left or right turn with the consequence that I might have hit either end of the stationary cow, but the car itself could have flipped – thereby endangering the lives all of us sitting in the car.

Felt a bit sick about the whole incident and I will have to deal with what occurred in my own way.

The remainder of the journey seemed obviously longer for me, but everyone was very supportive.

Random monsoon rain – which lasted very briefly..

Click to Watch Monsoon Rain Video

My favourite photos – India shining in the sunset Made it to Udaipur – travelled nearly 500 miles today. It was a massive achievement. And it means the last day of our official trip, travelling to Ahmedabad will take about 4 hours and will be more relaxed and hopefully incident free.

Final day tomorrow !!!

Map of today’s journey!

60th day Tues 10th June : Sightseeing in Lucknow and then drive to Jhansi

Count down to the last few days of our Epic Road Trip.

Spent the morning, driving around Lucknow and visiting a few sights. The main one being the Bara Imambara monument.

This was a pretty unique building – with sounds travelling through it’s many walls. Pretty large, impressive and imposing building, with a lot of history and of particular interest was how it was originally constructed. We took lots of photos.

Possibly the largest arched wall building in the world.

Our guide lit a match at the very far end of the hall and we could hear it at the far end, where we were standing.

The whole building is made of small size bricks and lime plaster. No wood or metal has been used in the construction which took 11 years and started in 1784. It was built as a part of a relief project for a major famine that took place in that year.

The amazing hollow walls of the central hall not only keeps it cool during summer but also help to lighten the load of the structure. You can view the grave of Nawab Asaf-ud-Dowlah and his crown is also kept in the central hall.

The Bara Imambara has a unique style of construction. The central hall of Bara Imambara is said to be the largest arched hall in the world. The hall measures 50 meters long and goes up to a height of 15 meters. What makes the construction unique is the fact that the blocks have been put together with interlocking system of bricks and there has been absolutely no use of girders and beams. The roof stands steady till date without any pillars to support it.

Looks pretty majestic.

Possibly the first selfy taken at the Bara Imambara monument.

We were viewing this and other places in temperatures over 45 degrees C. I haven’t ever experienced such high temperatures, it felt extremely close and suffocating, the heat was intense and when walking, you got from A to B in a straight line and as quickly as possible. I was actually dripping sweat. The monsoons are late and are being effected by some Al Nino jet streams – let’s hope the rains come soon. Easy for us to travel in an air conditioned car, difficult to imagine the challenges ordinary people face, going about their every day lives and coping with such high temperatures, but they do – absolutely amazing, the resilience they show.

Some photos – on leaving Lucknow.

From what we saw its a lovely city and would have liked to have spent some more time here.

You can see that the crack on our windscreen has been progressing very well. Good thing we don’t have that much more travelling to do!

We had already decided, now that our main objective of driving from London to India had been achieved – the key was now to drive to Ahmedabad (our final destination) as quickly as possible. We still had well over 1,000 miles to go, but were determined to reach there the latest by Thursday 12th June afternoon.

We started today ‘s journey in the afternoon, thankfully even after contending with the extreme heat and normal chaotic traffic conditions.

You wouldn’t believe the incredible loads, some of these lorries were carrying. Health and safety is still a long way away in India.

We arrived at Orchha Resort at 10 pm (near to a town called Jhansi), a four hour journey that took over six and a half hours.

Our map of today’s journey:

59th day Mon 9th June: Now In India, we travelled from Gorakhpur to Lucknow in India

Big day for me – I drove the whole 270kms to Lucknow. My first ever drive in India. The roads were pretty good, getting out of Gorakhpur town had its own particular challenges but when you are driving the big beast, you do have certain advantages, importantly you do start to gain the technique of gently, but with steely determination nudging your way through the mangled mesh of traffic.

Driving up to Ayodhya.

Fresh Sugarcane juice being extracted.

Today’s drive.

On the way, we stopped at Ayodhya where in 1991 were the scenes of major Hindu/ Muslim troubles, in which to maintain crowd control, police killed a large number of Hindus over a disputed site, which the Hindus claim was the birth place of Lord Rama. This place is beneath the Babri Mosque built by Babur (the first Mughal ruler in India), though deserted now for many years. The demands that a temple should be built on that spot caused widespread tension between the Hindu and Muslim communities. The site was later excavated and remains of a temple beneath the structure of the mosque were found.

Priest in deep meditation in one of the temples

Quite a character.

Short break before getting back on the road again.

This was the temperature today – stifling to put it mildly!

We were really entertained by a 12 year old boy, an enterprising kid who wanted to show us around the temples in Ayodhya – I have posted a short clip of him in action.

Click Here to Watch The Video of the Boy

Gift of the gab!

Got to Lucknow in good time, had a nice hotel to stay in – for the first time!

Time to relax after the long drive.

We then went to a local Kebab restaurant for our evening meal – what an experience. This is where we eat this evening – pretty good food.

Click Here to Watch Our Chef for the Evening Dinner

Dinner, this evening.

58th day Sun 8th June – The day we reached India : Second attempt to see The Mountain Peaks and then to the Nepal / Border

An even earlier start to the day then yesterday.This was going to be a long and challenging day.

We were at the airport by 6am, to make our second and final attempt to see Everest and all the associated peaks. The omens were good, the weather seemed a bit clearer then yesterday, the aircraft was bigger and more comfortable.

The flight was for an hour, and it was probably one of the best hour I have ever spent looking at such natural beauty.

Lots of great shots of the Mountains from The Nepal side.

A view from the cockpit.

Click to watch Mountain Flight Video 1

Click to watch Mountain Flight Video 2

Click to watch Mountain Flight Video 3

Click to Watch Mountain Flight Video 4

Click to watch Mountain Flight Video 5

Click to watch Mountain flight Video 6

These were breathing scenes.

Numerous peaks of snow capped mountains, being seen from the top of the world, in the comfort of an exclusive flight. The bonus, and it was a big bonus we also got to see the views from the cock – pit of the air craft. The whole viewing experience was completed with exceptional friendliness from the aircraft staff. This was a big tick in the box, particularly when it was possible to relate one particular peak – The North Face to the time we spent at Everest Base Camp, only last week.

Service with a smile – This Air Hostess is wasted on Yeti Airlines.

Coming into land – fairly smooth.

Click to Watch Our Plane Landing Video

Got back to the hotel, had a quick breakfast and we were soon on our way to the Nepal border – the mission was to cross over into India today.

We had a long tiring journey ahead of us.

A bit complicated to explain – but effectively it would be Peter’s last journey with us on this road expedition. Because we had to sort out the Carnate (a vehicle thing), some of the car documents were in his name, he was going to cross the border, with us into India and then rejoin his family back in Nepal.

Two cars were travelling to the border crossing, and mine and Kirit’s wife were going to rejoin us for the India leg of the journey.

Journey to the Nepal / India border, fraught with danger.

Nepalese side of immigration and Car registration formalities.

I drove the first leg of the journey, hell raising or what – anyway we finally reached the border crossing. We were pleasantly surprised to find that the customs formalities on both sides of the border were completed without too much fuss or bother. After passing through 16 countries this was our last border crossing and symbolically for us the most satisfying because we had almost completed our intended mission, of driving from London to India. Just going to repeat it for my benefit – have driven from London to India!! We have waited a long time to see this posting – and very welcomed it was too.

Said our farewells to Peter who was going to spend a little more time in Nepal. Have spent a lot of time together in the last eight weeks and it will be unusual not to have him travelling with us from now. No doubt we will all catch up soon, after we return to England.

And now to deal with the Indian side. Indian customs were pretty relaxed about inspecting our vehicle – a pleasant first. I didn’t get any of my photos deleted on this occasion, they were quite relaxed about photographs being taken.

Area of Border crossing in Nepal:

Saying our farewell to our fellow traveller, Peter – wishing him well with his onward journey. No doubt we will do a catch up as soon as we are all back home.

And Welcome to India and traffic!

It was now almost 6.30pm and we were on the Indian side near the border and we still had 100 miles still to go to get to the nearest, decent sized town. Unfamiliar roads, still had to get the direction sorted out, lightening had suddenly started- seemed after the euphoria of crossing into India a realisation that we still had a bit of work still to do.

The beautiful scenes of the mountains this morning were, for the present a distant memory.

The drive to Gorakhpur was challenging, in pitch dark, vehicles coming towards you with full beam on, we were now driving on the RHS of the road for the first time in a vehicle which had a LH steering wheel. So many vehicles coming towards us, with no lights or even reflectors who we had to suddenly avoid. We made it in one piece, determined we will make every effort not to drive in the dark in the few remaining days we now have left, before our journey comes to an end. We were also lucky it did not start to rain, the monsoon season is late by a week in these parts and any rain would have made driving very hazardous indeed.

Happy memories of Nepal.

Just one scene of the types of challenges we faced driving in the dark towards Gorakhpur.

Journey today – From the mountains of Nepal – Kathmandu to border town Sonauli to Gorakhpur in India.

57th day Sat 7th June – Plane journey to the mountain peaks‏

Got up at 5 am this morning to go and see the mountains by plane. It was a short journey to the local/international airport in Kathmandu. Not the same level of security we are use to. After a delay for an hour, on safety grounds we were given the green light to board our small air craft. Had to crouch and crawled my way inside to get to my seat.

Unfortunately a somewhat wasted journey, all we got to see, when we got to the maximum height was a wide variety of fluffy white clouds – but no mountain peaks. We were going to get another opportunity tomorrow early morning.

Back to the hotel and caught up on some desperately needed sleep.

Fast approaching the end of this ‘epic’ road trip. Tomorrow we will be attempting to cross the Nepal/India border into India and enter the final leg of our journey.

Went to a traditional Nepalese Restaurant in the evening.

Pilot going for a leak – seriously he was!

All smiles before take off.

Jane a bit apprehensive mis way through the flight and Peter with a comforting hand.

Traditional Nepalese meal in the evening.

56th day Fri 6th June – Some White Water Rafting to be done today‏

Had a very early start this morning. Had to leave the hotel in Kathmandu by 7 am. We were off to do White water rafting.

To reach the starting point we had to undergo again, the tedious journey on the same dangerous road we took to go to Pokhara.

Finally we were all set to get started – my first White Water Rafting experience. We were told by our particular instructor that the river could in places get to a grade 3 or 4 level rapid and that our journey would be about 20 kms.

Again, as with the Para sailing in Pokhara, there was a gradual build up of excitement. Got the helmet and life jackets on; took on board some rowing and safety instructions being given to us and soon we were all set to go.

Turned out to be extremely enjoyable and particularly thrilling experience especially when we did encounter the grade 3 and 4 rapids. Another definite activity for me to do again in the future. The nearest I had got to doing this in the past was in one of the water rides in Disneyland Florida! We also had some decent water fights with the other boats on our 20 km track. I was unable to take too many photos for obvious reasons, but did get some.

What a day.

All getting ready to go on our little adventure on our way!!

The motley crew on the river trip.

A selfy with wifey.

The only part I intentionally allowed myself to get wet – I think the life jacket is too small for me:

A short video clip of our River Trip:

Click to watch the video of the river trip

Evening meal – Pizza at a local Restaurant in Kathmandu with friends and partners, some of whom had joined us for the next few days.

55th day Thurs 5th June – in Kathmandu, visiting local sites‏

Went to Nagarcot which is 30 miles from Kathmandu with the hope of viewing the mountain range. Unfortunately due to the heat and pollution the range was hidden behind a cloud of smog, but the views of the valley were absolutely amazing. On our return to Kathmandu we visited a Buddhist temple called the Monkey Temple. As it’s name suggests, quite a few monkeys here. Also great view of the city from the top.

Local, tribal Nepalese lady gathering dried grass.

Nice backdrop

The inevitable selfy:

On route to Nagarcot:

With Ragini.

Photos from Nagarcot: Managed to climb the tower, for an even better view from Nagarcot

View from the Buddhist Monkey Temple, near Kathmandu.

Some – monkey scenes. With a magnificent background views.

Not quite – Hear No Evil, See No Evil, Say No Evil.

Click to watch video of monkey mischief

Back to our hotel.

Bricks manufacturing.

Broken down, on the way to Nagarcot.

In the evening went to Ragini’s old school friend ‘s house for dinner – They had got in touch recently via Facebook after almost 35 years. Had a really good time, great hospitality and got a very informative and impressive insight of Rajni’s Royal connection with Nepal going back generations.

Ragini – finally gets to meet her friend Rajni, after 35 years.

We had a wonderful home cooked Nepalese dinner.

54th day Wed 4th June – Half a day in Pokhara and then back to Kathmandu‏

Spent the morning in Pokhara. The morning was superb, birds singing, clear blue sky- there is just an air of tranquility and calm about this place. Would love to come back to discover it more in the future.

Beautiful scenes of Lake Phewa in Pokhara.

Drove to a Lake ….. And spotted a lot of para – gliding activity up in the hills.

On seeing this – the dye was cast,we were going to do this.

  One enquiry, followed another and we landed up ourselves high in the skies.

ParaSailing – Here we come!!

It was thrilling and exciting to drive to the top of the hill overseeing Lake …… There was an air of anticipation and nervous excitement when the harness was put on me. Instructions were given on what I and the instructor had to do to lift off into the skies i.e. basically run in tandem down the hill. It was as simple as that and within a matter of seconds I was nearly a mile up into the sky.

One way of travelling to the top of the hill.

Click to watch the video of travelling up the hill

The whole flight was being recorded, the views were superb of the lake and surrounding area. I knew it was going to be risky but I had to take a few video clips and photos with my iPhone. Thankfully I managed it without dropping it. My instructor was superb.

Just before take off.

Click to watch the video of take off

In the air – in the hands of the instructor, air currents and God!

Click to watch the video of in the air

Gliding smoothly through the sky. What a scene.

Safe landings for all – brilliant experience!

As soon as we had finished we got into the car and headed straight back to Kathmandu because we knew it was going to be, again a long and treacherous journey, managing the curves and bends of the mountain road. We would have to take on the lorries and have to contend with the heavy oncoming traffic.

Passenger on lorry, oblivious of the world around him. 

Some of the traffic we had to contend with on our journey back.

Sunset scenes:

On arrival it was great to see Ragini again after almost eight weeks of leaving London. She and Nalini (Kirit’s wife) will be joining us for the rest of the trip, into Gujarat in the car.

The whole group had a wonderful meal together at New Orleans restaurant. From previous visits to Kerala in South India I have really loved the flute and tabla played together, but this was the first time a guitarist was also involved. Absolutely brilliant – (video clips attached).

Click to watch music clip 1

Click to watch music clip 2

Click to watch music clip 3

Click to watch music clip 4

Had a really good day.

• Forbes India Blogs

Riding from India to London through the Silk Route, on a motorbike

The ambitious journey will traverse 21 countries and three continents in 85 days, on a route specially designed for an all-women biker group from surat.

• Most Popular

Kumar Shah is a motorcycle enthusiast who realised his dream of riding across the world at 52, despite three heart attacks. A newspaper proprietor and editor of Vadodara Samachar, a daily newspaper in Vadodara, he rode from Vadodara, Gujarat to London, United Kingdom on his 1994-make Royal Enfield in 2013. Shah has been an active part of the motorsports community in India, organising blind car rallies and motorcross events in his hometown since the 1980s. He is an award-winning golfer, and spends his free time coaching a university football team—he was the goalkeeper of the same team in college. He launched Ride Your Dreams a year ago to design and curate extraordinary journeys for biking enthusiasts. In May 2019, he has set off on the maiden journey to London with motorcycles and a back-up car in tow. Follow this blog for live updates of the journey.

• India to London road trip, part 13: Paris to Barcelona, Spain to Morocco
• India to London road trip, part 12: Storybook scenes in Germany, Austria and Switzerland
• India to London road trip, part 11: Latvia, Lithuania, and a flavour of Gujarat in Poland
• India to London road trip, part 10: Russia and the lost passport nightmare
• India to London road trip, part 9: Feeling like a king in Kazakhstan
• " class="general-icons icon-sq-whatsapp">
• " class="general-icons icon-sq-googleplus popup">
• " class="general-icons icon-sq-mail">
• " class="general-icons icon-sq-print">

The dream was to do a bike journey halfway across the world – once. It was a dream that I had been harbouring since 1983, when I was only a 22-year-old college student. So in 2013, when I began riding my 1994-make Enfield, from Vadodara, Gujarat to London, United Kingdom, it was a culmination of a desire of 30 years and the euphoria of the journey was unparalleled. I knew then that this was just the beginning.

On May 30, 2019, I set off for the journey again; only this time, I‘m taking the Biking Queens of Surat on a specially designed route, across 21 countries and three continents.

In 2013, when I got home after being on the road for 76 days and riding across 14 countries, sure, I was expecting attention from the press. The small-town press has always been focused on the endeavours of its people. What I wasn’t expecting was emails and phone calls and unexpected visits from travel and biking enthusiasts from every corner of the country, seeking help to design similar, inspiring journeys for them. My Facebook profile was flooded with friend requests and my phone wouldn’t stop ringing.I’m sure I’m not the only one who thought of a journey like this. Many tried. In the 1980s, a few of my friends tried to go through Pakistan, but returned in a few days because their papers were not in order. Charting out your route through 19,000 km, through countries that aren’t the obvious choices for tourists, isn’t a walk in the park. Then there’s the gargantuan task of getting visas for various countries without flight tickets. Insurance, visas for vehicles, explaining to every stunned visa officer that you’re indeed going on a motorcycle--the sheer logistics and planning involved in an expedition of this magnitude is enough to dissuade most enthusiasts.

The Silk Odyssey 2.0 route passes through 21 countries, including Kyrgystan, Russia and Lithuania. Currently, the group is passing through China.

It took me many months to finalise my Silk Odyssey, taking the ancient silk route that was used to trade mainly silk and spices through China, India and many countries. The Silk Road got its name in 1877 by a German geographer. I tried the easy way out-–I spoke to travel planners and experts but at the end of the day, all of them gave up. It can’t be done, I was told. It’s too difficult; it’s a mad man’s plan, they said. That’s when I spoke to the people who have been a part of the madness. I spoke to bikers around the world and got a sense of the expedition I was about to undertake. But none of them had taken the route I had planned, so I was left to fend for myself.

Eighteen months later, I had my route planned down to the towns I will be halting at, the ones that have inns and gas stations, the prices of fuel in each city, village or town across 14 countries. It was the sheer might of the 30-year-old unfulfilled dream that drove me. The unanswered part was getting a vehicle insurance and the cost involved. I only learned of it once I set out. Formalities at various borders was a challenge too. Some border crossings would be smooth while some could take up to six hours. Language was going to be a challenge as many countries do not speak English at all. I learnt about police harassment on some routes and ways to address them. Acquiring a Carnet De Passage was expensive. It allows a temporary import of your vehicle into other countries for a fee and deposit, with an assurance to bring the vehicle back to the country, else pay the export duties.

Planning and executing such a huge expedition takes a lot of understanding about the regulations of the countries I had to go through. Endless logistics had to be worked out. I searched for Indians who would have ventured out but found none. I only got a note from a friend’s friend, that, in the early sixties, some police officers had ventured to London from India, but other than that, got no more information. I searched for more details through my network but unfortunately could not locate a single member of that expedition. I became a member of various international motorcyclist forums and motorcyclists riding around the world.

This brought clarity to some of my queries. Even then, there were a few loose ends. I finally found my answers from riders coming to India from various countries. I met up with a few and invited a couple to stay with me. Finally, all my questions regarding logistics were answered from the horse’s mouth. It was only after this that I set out on my motorcycle tour to London.

After returning, I realised that the lack of adequate information is a problem that every traveller faces. Soon, many people came to me to plan the details of their trips. This is when I decided to design road journeys for others using my experience, and make them a blue print. It was a laborious task and I was later shocked to learn that none of the nine clients I had, had ventured out. The blue print remained in their closets, because of an underlying fear of venturing out on their own. This gave birth to ‘Ride Your Dreams’ and I am now going to conduct my first great tour under it, the India-UK Motorcycle Tour 2019. This tour is specifically designed for an all-women riding group called ‘Biking Queens’, Surat.

The India-UK Motorcycle Tour 2019 kicked off on June 6 from Varanasi, and will conclude in London on August 25. The route goes through 21 countries and three continents in 85 days. The entire group consists of three motorcycle riders on KTM 390 cc and two members, a mechanic and a photographer in the back up vehicle, ISUZU D-max, which I will be driving.

Stay tuned for dispatches from the road, as we travel through fascinating Silk Route countries along the way.

The author is a motorcycle enthusiast who realised his dream of riding across the world in his 50s, despite three heart attacks

The thoughts and opinions shared here are of the author.

Check out our end of season subscription discounts with a Moneycontrol pro subscription absolutely free. Use code EOSO2021. Click here for details.

• " class="general-icons icon-sq-youtube">

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Female pioneers and animal welfare issues take the stage in London during CELEBRITY ANTIQUES ROAD TRIP – July 20 at 9pm

Posted on: Sunday, July 14, 2024

Celebrity Antiques Road Trip

Saturday, July 20 at 9 pm

“Baroness Oona King and Dame Jenni Murray”

Saturday, July 20 at 9 pm is a battle for antique glory between Baroness Oona King and Dame Jenni Murray as they go head-to-head as they travel around London with the help of experts David Harper and Christina Trevanion.

Baroness Oona visits a band of female pioneers, and Dame Jenni learns the story behind a revolutionary organization that transformed animal welfare.

Moving to a smaller city in the UK vs London: why it was the right decision for me

• Tanushree Srivastava moved to Nottingham, England, in 2021 to pursue her master's degree. 
• Srivastava was surprised by how much she enjoyed living in the smaller, student city.
• She eventually relocated to London for better job opportunities after graduating.  

I moved to Nottingham in 2021 from India to pursue my master's degree at Nottingham Trent University. I'd dreamed of studying in London and didn't expect much from the smaller English city.

I thought Nottingham would just be one stop on my career journey, but it became my home away from home.

Beginning life in the UK

I arrived in the UK for the first time in 2021 as an international student. England felt so different from home. The weather in September was chilly, and lush green parks were everywhere around my accommodation.

I had pre-booked a studio apartment in Nottingham city center with my friend, another international student at Nottingham Trent University.

This studio was part of private student accommodation located in the city center and was cheaper and more spacious than the university's offering. We viewed and booked the accommodation remotely through an online student rental agency.

Our shared studio cost around £197 a week, about $1,000 a month, including bills. My friend and I split the expenses, so it was a good deal.

When I successfully moved all my stuff to my studio, we had to quarantine according to the UK's COVID-19 protocols.

Differences living in Nottingham compared to India

My first visit outside my accommodation was to a grocery store. I was shocked by the prices as I mentally converted them into my home country's currency. Everything was very expensive.

I bought an ice cream for £6 or 600 rupees, the most expensive I'd ever purchased.

I didn't experience a cultural shock when I moved to the UK, as I have always watched movies and documentaries about life abroad. But I loved absorbing the new experiences.

Back in my home country, I was affected by the extra-busy lifestyle of a metropolitan city, including the crowds, pollution, and other factors. I always craved fresh air and open spaces.

Nottingham is a bustling city, but there is always easy access to green spaces.

There are many parks and gardens and a path near the River Trent. Even universities like Nottingham Trent and the University of Nottingham have huge gardens and greenery for students.

I'm a big foodie and struggled to find good Indian food options, as the dishes and cuisines were very different from what I was accustomed to. After days of exploration and research, I found some amazing spots for my favorite Indian dishes.

Another difference I noticed was how multicultural Nottingham was. During orientation, I met so many people from countries all over. Everything from their language to their food preferences varied.

Nottingham is charmingly historic and artsy

Despite arriving in the city during the COVID and staying in quarantine for the first 10 days, I quickly found myself enchanted by the city's charm.

On my first stroll around the "Old Market Square," or the city center, I bought some clothes from White Rose, a vintage chain people in Nottingham love. Then, I had a coffee break at Cafe Nero and further explored the Lace Market, one of Nottingham's oldest areas, and its history.

Walking around the city and visiting various artsy shops, thrift stores, and exhibitions became my favorite activity.

One of the best parts of living in Nottingham was the commitment to its status as a "student city." Museums, cafés, shops, and markets often had student discounts. On arrival as a university student, you're introduced to many apps and offers by student ambassadors or advertisements posted around. I loved the apps Unidays and Student Beans. They had discounts on almost everything.

The city has a youthful energy. There was a big venue called Rock City for clubbing and the Nottingham Bowl for bowling and arcade games, which were £4 per game for students on Thursdays.

Moving to London

As much as I adored Nottingham, I eventually faced a harsh reality: its limited job market .

As a student in Nottingham, I gained many life experiences, including buying groceries, managing my budget, and making new friends. But while the city provided ample opportunities for personal growth and exploration, it couldn't compete with London's career prospects.

I started a part time job as a warehouse operative at a luxury brand while I was a student and took a few internships to enhance my résumé.

After graduating in September 2022, I applied for a post-study work visa , which allows international students to work or apply for jobs for two more years after finishing their courses.

I applied for the graduate visa in December 2022, which cost me around £2,000. This extension allowed me to work toward my dream of settling in the UK.

Finding a full-time job in the creative industry in Nottingham was hard. My income from part-time roles was insufficient and didn't help me pursue my career goals in writing and editing.

The decision to move to London was tough as I had no definite job position lined up, but I felt there were no more opportunities to pursue in Nottingham. Even though my cost of living doubled, moving to London was worth a chance.

The risk paid off and I landed a journalism internship based in London.

Nottingham will always be special to me

My time in Nottingham was transformative. I will always love the city and consider it home. I still love visiting my friends back there and cherish a weekend's worth of bowling and great food.

If you enjoyed this story, be sure to follow Business Insider on Microsoft Start.

Politics latest: Starmer pledges to break down 'barriers of opportunity' in football after Euros campaigns

Sir Keir Starmer has announced he wants to break down the barriers of opportunity in football - including by reducing the number of items of branded PE kit children need and making it easier for teams to own their own pitches.

Monday 15 July 2024 07:55, UK

• General Election 2024
• Govt announces plan to break down 'barriers of opportunity' in football after Euros campaigns
• Poison spreading into politics on both sides of the Atlantic - minister
• Labour plans for 35 new bills in King's Speech
• PJAS: Keir's coming home
• Jon Craig:  Assassination attempt on Trump is a wake-up call for UK MPs
• Live reporting by Tim Baker

Speaking to Sky News a little earlier, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy was asked about the attack on Donald Trump over the weekend - and whether the government had concerns about the political situation in the US.

Ms Nandy said the attack was "incredibly concerning" to Americans and the world.

She added that it was "extremely worrying when you consider that we've had a lot of division, and hatred and poison spreading into politics on both sides of the Atlantic - and across Europe as well in recent times".

The culture secretary reiterated that it was for the US people to choose their next leader.

She added that the UK-US relationship "matters" regardless of who is in the White House, with issues like defence, security and climate change all important for both London and Washington to work together on.

"It's our intention as the newly elected government here in the UK, that whoever wins that election, that that relationship continues," Ms Nandy said.

Sky News' deputy political editor Sam Coates and Politico's Jack Blanchard are here with their guide to the day ahead in politics. 

On day 10 of the new Labour government, Jack and Sam cover the fallout from the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, preparations for the King's Speech, and if one Tory beast has ambitions to be interim leader.

Email Jack and Sam: [email protected]

👉 Tap here to follow Politics at Jack and Sam's wherever you get your podcasts 👈

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy was at the Euro 2024 final last night in Berlin.

Speaking to Sky News this morning, Ms Nandy says the current funding for grassroots football is set to expire in April - but the government is committing to continue it.

It is worth noting that not doing so would have been a very drastic step.

Speaking about the final, Ms Nandy says it's not for her to comment on the status of Gareth Southgate as manager of the Three Lions.

But she does praise Southgate for his contribution to football - saying it has been "enormous" and that he has assembled a team of footballers "drawn from every community across the country who look and sound and feel like modern Britain".

The minister says the football team has told "an inclusive story" about the country at a time when it has been "very difficult for people to feel part of our national story".

Ms Nandy explicitly blames the previous government - saying Labour "will be far more Gareth Southgate and far less Michael Gove".

By Alix Culbertson , political reporter

Larry the Downing Street cat may be the UK's most famous mouser, but he's got some sharp competition with the Commons' newest furry occupant.

Jennie the golden retriever (who is a quarter Labrador) has become quite the star in her first few days of the new parliament.

Guide dog to new Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling, who is registered blind, Jennie made her debut in the Commons last week.

She was seen patiently lying down by the front benches as MPs gathered in the chamber for the first time to elect the Speaker.

And Mr Darling, former leader of Torbay council, could be heard gently telling her to "stay there, good girl" as he was sworn in as the MP for Torbay on Wednesday.

Her X account (@rthonjennie) was only set up on Wednesday, but already has nearly 16,000 followers.

She needs a few more followers to reach Larry's 890,000-strong fanbase - but he does have a 13-year start on her.

Read more here:

By Jon Craig , chief political correspondent

What are the lessons for UK politicians from the assassination attempt on Donald Trump?

Are our ministers and MPs safe?

Just hours before the Trump shooting, Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle declared that his biggest concern is the safety of MPs and their staff.

"Security is the thing that keeps me awake at night," he told The Daily Telegraph, before insisting measures are already being taken "to make people safe".

Sir Lindsay voiced his fears a week after a bruising UK general election campaign and only days before Westminster's biggest security operation swings into action for the State Opening of Parliament.

The election campaign saw several politicians tell of intimidation, prompting ex-MP Harriet Harman to claim it was the worst she'd seen in 40 years and to call on Sir Lindsay to hold a special summit on MPs' safety.

In Pennsylvania, not even the US Secret Service's finest could prevent a young man taking a shot at the heavily guarded former president and now Republican candidate for the White House.

Here in the UK, our most senior politicians - the prime minister and cabinet ministers such as the foreign, defence and home secretaries - have round-the-clock close protection.

But backbenchers and less prominent politicians do not.

Read Jon Craig's full analysis here:

By Jennifer Scott , political reporter

The new Labour government will unveil more than 35 bills during the first King's Speech of its tenure, Downing Street has said.

Trailing the significant moment on Wednesday, which will see the King announce the party's plans for power in a ceremony full of pomp, ministers promised to focus on economic growth and to ensure its legislation supported their mission to "rebuild Britain".

The raft of bills will include promises on housebuilding, improving transport, increasing jobs and securing clean energy - reflecting Sir Keir Starmer's "first steps" for government that he campaigned on during the general election.

Number 10 also confirmed a new bill to enforce tough new spending rules, "designed to ensure economic growth, while avoiding the chaos which left families with spiralling bills and wreaked misery on people's lives", by strengthening the role of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR).

And there will be legislation to "empower regions to deliver change for their communities", with a promise to "hand the power back to local leaders who know what is best for their areas".

Reports have also suggested reform of the House of Lords will be included that could see peers forced to retire aged 80, alongside a roadmap for getting rid of hereditary peers.

Read more about Labour's plans here:

Following England's run in the men's Euro 2024 tournament, and the Lioness's victory in 2022, the government has announced it wants to break down the "barriers of opportunity" in the sport.

This is expected to include supporting grassroots clubs and improving access in schools, although there is very little detail in the announcement.

The prime minister said: "The Three Lions and the Lionesses have brought the nation so much joy over the last years. The men's team have excited and gripped us all with their talent and determination in never giving up.

"Playing each week, I know the importance and joy that football and sport more widely brings to so many people. 

"Inspired by the Three Lions, we are breaking down the barriers to opportunity which stops the new generation of footballers from taking to the field and will celebrate those who keep the beautiful game alive in our communities and clubs."

The government also wants to support the Football Foundation - a charity which receives funding from the Premier League, FA, and the state.

Part of the work will be to improve the state of the amateur clubs, and transfer ownership of the team's pitches to the clubs and away from local authorities.

Sir Keir Starmer also wants to expand access to sport in schools, with a curriculum review in the works, and also wants to limit the number of branded pieces of uniform and PE kit schools can require to cut costs for parents.

Welcome back to the Politics Hub.

Last night saw England fall at the final hurdle at the men's Euro 2024 tournament - losing 2-1 to Spain.

Sir Keir Starmer was at the match, and in the wake of the team's run at the tournament - and the Lioness's win at Euro 2022 - he has announced extra support for grassroots football.

Elsewhere, Foreign Secretary David Lammy has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza while on a visit to the Middle East.

And the government has announced plans to introduce more than 35 bills as part of its King's Speech, including on housebuilding, improving transport, increasing jobs and securing clean energy.

Speaking to Sky News this morning will be Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy at around 7.15am .

And then for the Conservatives will be shadow foreign secretary Andrew Mitchell at 8.15am .

We are signing off now after a big week in Westminster that saw Labour making its first moves as the new government, and the Conservatives trying to work out what their future in opposition looks like.

But don't worry, we will be back on Sunday morning to cover all the political news from the weekend and bring you the latest with Trevor Phillips. 

See you then!

Friday marks the end of the first full week for hundreds of new MPs who came to Westminster after the general election.

But for some of the newbies, there was an even bigger task coming their way - being promoted to ministers.

Our political reporter Alix Culbertson takes at look at the new Labour politicians who have already found themselves on Sir Keir Starmer's frontbench.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free