Pune: In an extraordinary feat of endurance and devotion, Vikas Shankar Jadhav, a passionate cyclist from Wagholi, Maharashtra, completed a 9000-km solo cycling journey across 13 states in just 63 days. His expedition included visits to nine sacred Jyotirlingas across India.
Vikas embarked on his journey on January 26, 2025, from Shivneri Fort, seeking blessings from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. His first spiritual stop was Bhimashankar Temple, followed by Trimbakeshwar, Grishneshwar, Omkareshwar, Mahakaleshwar, Kashi Vishwanath, Baba Baidyanath, Mallikarjuna, and Rameshwaram.
The route covered Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Goa. He completed the journey on March 29, returning to Wagholi at 5 PM.
Cycling 150-180 km Daily
Vikas pedaled an average of 150 to 180 km per day, carrying a tent and basic supplies for shelter. He often camped at petrol pumps or temple premises and cycled from 6 AM to 6 PM, sometimes extending until 8 PM. The entire journey cost him just ₹30,000, thanks to the hospitality of generous locals, who welcomed him into their homes and provided food along the way.
A Passion for Cycling and Devotion
This is not Vikas's first cycling expedition. Previously, he cycled to Ayodhya for the Ram Mandir inauguration and undertook a Shakti Peetha Yatra during Navratri. A dedicated cyclist, he regularly trains by cycling 30 to 40 km daily.
"My journey to Ayodhya filled me with energy and inspiration. It strengthened my confidence, and I knew I could take on an even greater challenge. This 9000-km journey is just the beginning—there are many more places I want to explore on my bicycle."
– Vikas Jadhav, Cyclist, Wagholi
Upon returning to Wagholi, Vikas received a grand welcome from locals, who celebrated his remarkable achievement.
