Tamil Nadu doctors fulfill college dream, reunite over epic Himalayan biking trip

“When I proposed a reunion over a biking trip to Ladakh, the idea was met with both enthusiasm and apprehension by my friends. Enthusiasm, as this was something that we have never done before. Apprehension, because we, as well-settled middle-aged doctors, were not sure if we could get out of our comfort zone. But it was an impromptu decision that gave us an experience of a lifetime,” said Dr Dharma Prakash, an intensivist at Manipal Hospital, Salem. 

The old classmates also pulled in other doctor friends from other hospitals who were interested. “We thought the more, the merrier. It took us months of planning to coordinate our schedules, and make sure all our appointments were handled – not easy when most of us are busy doctors! We got in touch with a tour operator cruise, to help us with the intricacies,” he adds. 

That’s how a bunch of surgeons, ENTs, anesthesiologists, diabetologists and so on, could be found riding through the Khardung La, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. “Traveling in a non-polluted zone, at a height of over 10,000 feet, is something that can happen once in a lifetime. We were completely bowled over by the beauty of the Himalayas – in fact; we stopped every five minutes to take photographs of picturesque Ladakh. The view of the deserted sand dunes in Nubra was equally enchanting.”

Were there any concerns over their fitness? “Initially, we were a bit nervous and scared of crossing the rough terrains at high altitudes. At Sarchu, we suffered a little discomfort as the oxygen level in this place was low. We have to admit, we were worried as all of us are used to the luxuries of a car and other such comforts. But everyone pulled through quite easily and we are proud of ourselves!” says Dr Dharma, adding that they have now decided to make this an annual affair and plans are already underway for another odyssey to the north-east later this year.