One Ride, Many Stories - My Solo Ride to Trimbakeshwar

A Journey with Metgezel

It had been a long time since I embarked on a solo bike trip with "Metgezel," my trusty Bajaj Avenger Cruiser. The name Metgezel—Dutch for "companion"—perfectly captures the bond between a rider and their bike. 

The day of the ride was special—it was Guru Nanak Jayanti and Kartik Purnima, although I only learned about their significance after reaching Trimbakeshwar. But before diving into the spiritual aspect, let me take you through the adventure.  

The Day Before the Ride

Every biker knows a long ride isn’t just about waking up and hitting the road. It’s a ritual to get ready with the riding gear—jacket, gloves, helmet, knee pads, and shoes—felt like a warrior's armour. My daughter, amused by my preparations, asked, “Pappa, whose wedding are you going to?” She missed the earlier scene where I was lovingly cleaning Metgezel!  

The Departure: Mumbai to Jawhar

Winter mornings make it tempting to stay in bed, but excitement nudged me up at 6 AM. By 7:02 AM, I had dropped my daughter off at the school bus stop and was ready to go. Google Maps showed a 3hrs 21mins journey but it's a mountainous road, consider 4hrs without a break. My first planned stop was Jawhar, 92 km away. 

The Mumbai-Delhi highway construction made the initial ride a challenge with on-and-off traffic until Manor. Once past Manor, the smooth Manor-Vikramgad road lifted my spirits. By the time I crossed Vikramgad and entered Jawhar, the mountain views and greenery were breathtaking—a slice of heaven on Earth.

 

At 10 AM, I stopped for some much-needed tea and snacks. The energy of the open road had already begun its magic.  

From Jawhar to Trimbakeshwar

The 52 km stretch from Jawhar to Trimbakeshwar was nothing short of mesmerizing. The cool breeze, winding roads, and the sound of Metgezel’s engine made every moment magical. 

However, the ride was also a lesson in humility. Passing by bus stops filled with locals waiting for transportation, I realized how different life is for them. Curious, I stopped at a tea stall near one of these stops and struck up a conversation. College students heading to Mokhada and office-goers shared how their schedules revolved around bus timings. It was a stark reminder of the privileges we take for granted.  

Trimbakeshwar Darshan

By 11:30 AM, I reached Trimbakeshwar. Parking Metgezel near a local house, I headed toward the temple. The long queue for darshan, thanks to Kartik Purnima, seemed daunting. Opting for a donation darshan ticket, I found myself in another queue that was just as slow-moving.  

Fate intervened at a shoe stall, where a devotee named Samar overheard my predicament. He offered me a spot in his group’s online booking—an act of kindness that got me inside the temple in just 10 minutes. The darshan was serene and fulfilling.  

The temple was abuzz with preparations for the evening’s Rath Yatra and devotees taking holy dips in the Kund. I soaked in the spiritual energy before heading back.  

Lunch at Mokhada

By 12:45 PM, I was on the road again, my stomach growling. A 45-minute ride took me to Mokhada, where I stopped at Gaja, a quaint village restaurant. The meal—Bhakri and Pitla with onions and chili pickle—was simple yet heavenly. A refreshing Kokam Sharbat was the perfect way to beat the afternoon heat. 

 

I strongly recommend this cafe if you are on this route.

The Return Journey: Mokhada to Home 

The roads from Mokhada to Vikramgad were a rider’s dream, with stunning views and no traffic in sight. But this solitude brought its own challenges—what if Metgezel had a breakdown? Experience and confidence kept me moving forward.  

Once I hit the rough patches between Vikramgad and Manor, fatigue began to creep in. Heavy traffic and potholes tested my patience, but the promise of tea at Shree Dutt in Manor kept me going. 

Final Leg: Manor to Nalasopara

The last stretch from Manor to Nalasopara was mercifully free of traffic. I reached home by 5:30 PM, tired but exhilarated.  

Reflections on the Ride

This solo trip to Trimbakeshwar wasn’t just about the ride—it was a journey of self-discovery, spiritual connection, and learning from the people I met along the way. Metgezel and I had once again bonded over the thrill of the open road.

For those planning a visit to Trimbakeshwar, remember to book your darshan tickets online, enjoy the scenic Jawhar route, and don’t miss the local food along the way. 

 

Until the next ride, keep riding, keep exploring!