Suniel Shetty flags off Enfield Himalayan Odyssey

Bollywood action hero Suniel Shetty flagged off the Royal Enfield Himalayan Odyssey at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium here Sunday morning.

Around 50 Royal Enfield enthusiasts and owners are taking part in this two-week event, now in its fourth year. They will cover some 2,500 kilometres including some of the exhilarating places like Khardung La (18,350 feet above mean sea level) - the world's highest motorable road and Leh before concluding at the Wagah border near Amritsar.

"Royal Enfield has been my hero for many years. I can relate to the pleasure that the odyssey heralds for each of the bikers. Some day, I too hope to ride the Odyssey," said Shetty, while flagging off the rally.

"Today, I wish the bikers a memorable trip and thank Royal Enfield for some cherished memories, many of which are from my early, growing-up years."

Safety is integral to the success of the journey and the accompanying support unit has experienced pilots, doctors and experienced guides to help them cope with weather vanities. A dedicated team of mechanics is also travelling with the group.

Anupam Thareja, managing director of Royal Enfield, is overwhelmed by the participation requests for the event.

"We are overwhelmed by the participation requests for the Himalayan Odyssey that we receive every year from Royal Enfield owners across the world. It's a tough selection," he said.

"This year, we are pleased to have with us three women riders. Royal Enfield works hard to ensure that the Odyssey is a special experience, more picturesque than anything you imagine it to be. It's a journey to conquer the perils of terrain and blaze a trail that others can easily follow," Thareja added.

Indo-Asian News Service