Nepali cyclist Niranjan Aryal has embarked on an extraordinary solo bicycle journey from Mount Everest to Antarctica, promoting eco-friendly transport and raising awareness about climate change. Aryal, who recently arrived in Qatar, is on the 10th leg of his world tour, which began 13 months ago.
His mission is to inspire individuals to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their carbon footprint, highlighting the urgent need for environmental conservation. “Every pedal I push is a small step towards saving our planet,” Aryal said.
Cycling for Climate Change
Aryal’s journey began at the summit of Mount Everest, symbolizing the purity of nature, and will end in Antarctica, representing the fragile balance of the planet’s climate system. He has cycled through 10 countries so far, including Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
Aryal’s campaign, titled “Save the Himalayas, Save the Planet,” emphasizes the importance of individual actions in mitigating the effects of climate change. He encourages people to adopt greener transportation habits, reduce plastic waste, and plant trees.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite facing numerous challenges, including visa restrictions, border rejections, and financial hardships, Aryal remains determined to complete his journey. He travels alone, relying on Google Maps to navigate borders and harsh climates.
Aryal’s experience has been marked by moments of kindness from strangers, including Nepali expatriates who have provided him with food and accommodation along the way. “People are kind,” he said, acknowledging the support he has received.
Overcoming Obstacles
The Nepalese passport is among the world’s lowest-ranked, making it difficult for Aryal to cross land borders. He recounted a tense incident at the Laos-Cambodia border, where he was initially denied entry and forced to cycle 176 kilometers back to a city to arrange more documentation and cash.
Despite these challenges, Aryal remains committed to his mission. He hopes to inspire a new generation to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their environmental impact.
Aryal’s journey is expected to take eight to ten years, with a target completion date of 2034. He will continue cycling across Africa, South America, and eventually reach Antarctica, spreading his message of environmental conservation along the way.
As Aryal continues his journey from Qatar toward the UAE, his determination to raise awareness about climate change remains unwavering. According to Aryal, even small actions, such as walking or cycling instead of driving short distances, can contribute to a larger positive impact.
