Embarking on an extraordinary journey, meet the intrepid couple setting out from Kolkata to London by car. With a shared passion for adventure and exploration, they've traded the comforts of home for the open road, fueled by the allure of distant horizons and the promise of unforgettable experiences. Kausik Ray and his wife Dr Debanjali —businessman and anesthesiologist couple. They are also founders of Roadyssey, an endeavour that offers life-transforming road trips and cross-border drives. This 64-day journey starting in Kolkata is set to take 15 travel buffs on a cross-country road trip from August 24 to October 25.
During the journey, they are going to traverse the fascinating terrains of India, Nepal, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Armenia, Georgia, Turkey, Greece, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, Czechia, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, France, and culminate in the United Kingdom.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the journey behind the car ride, Kausik said, “As a child, our family embarked on road trips from Kolkata to our Grandpa's place in Rajasthan during school holidays. In those pre-internet days, navigating without Google Maps or mobile phones in a fully-loaded Hindustan Ambassador car was a true adventure. These early experiences ignited my passion for travel, leading me to explore India and neighbouring countries like Nepal and Bhutan by road whenever possible. The desire to journey even further lingered in my mind until 2018 when I decided to break free from the monotony of daily life. With no fixed plan, my family and I embarked on a transformative journey covering over 42,000 kilometres in 8 months. This experience profoundly changed my perspective and altered the course of my life”
“To me, road trips are the best mode of travelling and to have a feel of the places. The route we have chosen extremely carefully from the point of a wanderer soul. We will be travelling through some of the most beautiful parts of Asia and Europe,” he added.
Speaking about the modifications or preparations for a long journey, she said, “For expeditions like this, a reliable SUV is essential to navigate varied terrains comfortably. Ensuring the vehicle is in top condition, especially the tires, is crucial, with extra spares recommended. Modern vehicles typically require no modifications, but carrying extra fuel and some emergency supplies is wise. Additionally, maps, radios for vehicle communication, and a satellite device for connectivity in remote areas are indispensable. In addition to vehicle preparations, conducting research about the destinations enhances the overall experience. Staying physically fit is crucial regardless of age, and our group includes individuals over 60 who are young at heart.”
Speaking about the cultural experiences that he is looking forward to, he said, “The journey spans approximately 18,000 kilometres, starting from the plains of the Ganges and crossing multiple countries. Our first stop is Kathmandu, Nepal, the world's only Hindu country, followed by Tibet, China, home to the iconic Potala Palace. We'll traverse the ancient Silk Route, exploring the diverse cultures of Central Asia. Central and West Asia offer a fusion of Asian, Soviet, Persian, and European influences, evident in their food and culture. From East to West, each border crossing brings a shift in scenery, scent, and ambiance.”
Speaking what he’ll hope after the end of the journey, he said, "Free mobility offers numerous benefits, including cultural and educational exchange, healthcare, and political development. It also enhances tourism and improves road transport systems, leading to multidimensional development. The thrill of adventure drives us forward, and during our overland journey, we encountered kind-hearted individuals who restored our faith in humanity. Each travel experience strengthened our resolve to overcome challenges, reflecting the indomitable spirit of India—a land known for fostering peace, solidarity, and hospitality."
