Mangaluru: A remarkable journey of endurance, purpose and self-motivation is set to begin on May 31 as 60-year-old biker Gabril Sharath Kumar prepares to embark on an ambitious international motorcycle expedition spanning nearly 38 countries across Asia, Europe and the Gulf region. The expedition, which he has named the “Great Overland Expedition”, aims to promote healthy living, fitness and active ageing while demonstrating that age is no barrier to pursuing challenging goals.
The journey will officially commence from CSI Shanthi Cathedral in Balmatta, where Sharath Kumar will begin a ride expected to cover between 35,000 and 40,000 kilometres over a period of five to six months. The veteran rider describes the expedition as a special gift to himself as he celebrates his 60th year and seeks to inspire people to maintain an active lifestyle irrespective of age.
A mission beyond adventure
For Sharath Kumar, the expedition is much more than a long-distance motorcycle ride. He believes it is an opportunity to spread awareness about health, physical fitness and the importance of staying active throughout life.
According to him, advancing age should not be viewed as a limitation. Instead, it can serve as motivation to achieve new milestones and challenge personal boundaries. Through this expedition, he hopes to encourage senior citizens and people of all age groups to prioritise their health and remain physically active.
The rider has planned the route meticulously, taking into consideration road conditions, visa requirements and logistical challenges across multiple countries.
Route spanning Asia, Europe and the Gulf
The journey will begin with a ride from India to Nepal through Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Uttar Pradesh. From Nepal, Sharath Kumar plans to continue towards Tibet and China before entering Central Asia.
His proposed route includes Kazakhstan, Russia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and Türkiye. The expedition will then continue through Iraq and several Gulf nations before concluding in Oman.
After reaching Oman, his motorcycle will be shipped back to India, marking the completion of one of the most extensive motorcycle expeditions undertaken by an individual rider from the region.
The rider expects to cover between 400 km and 500 km per day while travelling within India. In foreign countries, where road regulations, sightseeing opportunities and border procedures may require additional time, he plans to ride approximately 100 km to 200 km daily.
Special arrangements for international travel
The expedition involves extensive planning and compliance with international regulations. During his journey through China, Sharath Kumar will be required to travel with the assistance of a local tour guide, as mandated by Chinese authorities.
He will also need to obtain a temporary driving licence and a separate vehicle registration number plate to legally ride within the country. These requirements form part of China’s regulations governing foreign motorcyclists.
In addition, the rider is pursuing the necessary travel permits and visas required for the various countries on his route. He revealed that he may also include Afghanistan in his itinerary if his visa application receives approval before reaching the region.
Building on previous international experience
This will be Sharath Kumar’s second major international motorcycle adventure. In 2024, he successfully completed a ride through Gulf countries after transporting his motorcycle from Mumbai to Dubai by ship.
That expedition carried the social message “Say No to Drugs” and attracted attention for combining long-distance travel with public awareness initiatives. Drawing from the experience gained during that journey, he has planned the current expedition with greater confidence and preparation.
Having ridden motorcycles since the age of 20, Sharath Kumar possesses decades of riding experience. His passion for motorcycling has remained strong over the years, eventually inspiring him to undertake international expeditions that combine adventure with meaningful social causes.
Carrying symbols of identity and pride
Throughout the expedition, Sharath Kumar will display both the Indian national flag and the Tulunadu flag on his motorcycle. He says the flags represent his pride in his country and his cultural roots.
As he prepares to begin the demanding journey, the rider hopes his adventure will serve as an example of determination, discipline and lifelong fitness. If completed as planned, the expedition will stand as a significant achievement in endurance motorcycling and an inspiring message that passion and purpose can transcend age.
The Great Overland Expedition is expected to attract attention from biking enthusiasts and fitness advocates alike, highlighting the growing role of adventure travel in promoting health awareness and active ageing.
