On January 26, 2025, Sharad Jain and Ranjeet Singh Sankhala, two ardent members of the Udaipur Cycling Club (UCC), embarked on an awe-inspiring 318 km cycling expedition from Udaipur to the revered Osiyan Mata Temple in Jodhpur. Battling fluctuating weather, grueling terrain, and physical exhaustion, their journey became a testament to human resilience. Through icy dawns, scorching afternoons, and treacherous twilight roads, their story unfolded as a symphony of determination, camaraderie, and unwavering faith.
Meet the Riders
Sharad Jain – The Pillar of Persistence
A pharmacist by trade and a cyclist at heart, Sharad has been the backbone of UCC since 2017. With over 68,000 km logged and 100+ century rides under his belt, his unwavering dedication inspires countless enthusiasts. Known for his meticulous planning, Sharad often jokes that his pharmacy training taught him to “prescribe perseverance” to fellow riders. His journey began as a fitness routine but evolved into a lifelong passion, with milestones like cycling through Rajasthan’s rugged Thar Desert cementing his reputation as a stalwart of endurance.
Ranjeet Singh Sankhala – The Boundary Breaker
Since joining UCC in 2021, Ranjeet has conquered over 7,500 km, including the Udaipur to Ahmedabad (120+ km) ride. His relentless drive and dedication to pushing boundaries make him a formidable rider.
Here’s a detailed chronicle of their unforgettable ride.
Dawn Departure: Braving the Biting Cold
The adventure kicked off in the early hours of a chilly winter morning, with both riders departing from Hanuman Ji Temple, Fateh School in Udaipur. Wrapped in multiple layers to combat the intense cold, they steadily made their way toward Chirwa Tunnel, their feet nearly frozen but their spirits high.
By the time they reached the Statue of Belief at Nathdwara, they could barely feel their feet. The extreme cold made pedaling difficult, but their resolve kept them moving forward. As they progressed towards Rajsamand, the first golden rays of sunlight provided some warmth, and they began to feel relief. Shedding extra layers, they embraced the perfect cycling temperature, making steady progress.
Crossing the first 100 km milestone near Nadol filled them with enthusiasm. However, a minor wrong turn cost them a few extra kilometers. A quick phone call between the two brought them back on track, reminding them how crucial navigation is during long rides.
Midday Trials: Sun, Sweat, and Survival
As they entered Desuri, the ride became increasingly challenging. The narrow roads, uneven surfaces, and dangerously placed reflectors posed serious risks. Every jerk from the road sent shockwaves through their arms and shoulders. To add to the difficulty, monkeys lined the route, watching curiously as the cyclists passed by.
After successfully navigating Desuri without any mishaps, the sun was now directly overhead. The heat intensified, making hydration a priority. They treated themselves to ice cream for a much-needed sugar rush before pushing forward.
At 12:40 PM, they finally met their energy powerhouse, Rahul, who had been driving alongside as support. He provided encouragement and backup assistance. His presence was reassuring as they crossed the 210 km mark near Om Banna Temple. Despite the grueling distance, they had yet to eat a proper meal, running almost entirely on energy drinks and dry fruits packed by their loved ones.
Evening Hustle: Chaos, Caffeine, and Cement Roads
As they approached Jodhpur, the transition from highways to city roads brought new challenges. Evening traffic in Jodhpur was chaotic, requiring sharp focus to avoid vehicles swerving in and out. They took a moment to soak in the breathtaking sunset, capturing a once-in-a-lifetime moment while still riding—a risky but unforgettable experience.
Stopping at Makaaz Cafe for coffee at 7:16 PM was a lifesaver. It was the first hot drink of the day, instantly rejuvenating their spirits. This short but essential break was enough to give them one final burst of energy for the last stretch.
However, the biggest hurdle was yet to come. The road leading to Osiyan Mata Temple was made of cement concrete, completely unsuitable for their road bikes. Every pedal stroke felt ten times harder on the rough terrain. Unlike smooth tarmac, this road sapped their energy, slowing their pace considerably. To make matters worse, numerous two-wheelers were driving on the wrong side, making navigation even more treacherous.
The Final 70 KM: Grit, Grace, and Divine Intervention
The final 70 km were nothing short of a battle. The exhaustion was overwhelming, and their bodies screamed for rest. Just as they were nearing their limits, they discovered that the last section of the route was not just cemented but also filled with long patches of sand and loose stones. Progress was painfully slow, and for stretches, they had to push their bikes forward manually.
At 10:30 PM, they stumbled upon a small sweet shop that became their unexpected savior. The hot milk in clay cups and freshly made Malai Ghewar provided an instant morale boost. Every sip and bite felt like divine intervention, making the last 20 km slightly more bearable.
With sleepy eyes and tired legs, they pushed through, whispering prayers to Osiyan Mata to guide them to the finish line. Finally, at 11:41 PM, they reached their destination. The temple stood before them, a symbol of their perseverance and faith. Their faces reflected the pure effort and resilience it took to accomplish this incredible feat. A final cup of tea at 12:01 AM marked the end of their grueling yet rewarding day before they finally sought well-earned rest.
Lessons & Takeaways
- Adapting to Weather: From freezing cold to scorching midday heat, layering correctly and hydrating properly are crucial.
- Road Conditions Matter: Cemented roads and off-road segments proved to be significant obstacles for road bikes, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right gear.
- The Power of Small Breaks: A well-timed coffee stop or a sweet treat can work wonders in reviving energy and motivation.
- Mind Over Body: Despite exhaustion, hunger, and tough roads, sheer determination, faith, and camaraderie carried them through.
- Never Underestimate Support: Having a backup friend like Rahul provided both logistical assistance and emotional encouragement.
Epilogue: Beyond the Finish Line
Sharad and Ranjeet’s odyssey was more than a ride—it was a saga of passion and perseverance. From frozen toes at dawn to sand-clogged tires at dusk, every challenge was met with unyielding resolve. Their journey, buoyed by UCC’s camaraderie and faith in Osiyan Mata, proves that with grit and grace, even the longest roads lead to triumph.
As they recuperated, plans for their next adventure—a 500 km ride across Rajasthan’s desert trails—began to take shape. For now, though, they bask in the quiet pride of having turned a daunting map line into a story etched in sweat, faith, and pedal strokes.
“The road whispers, ‘Can you?’ The answer lies not in the legs, but in the heart.”
– ‘Udaipur Cycling Club’ Motto