March 15, 2024Western Ghats, India162 km2450 m elevationon Gravelmonk
gravelcenturyclimbing
It was supposed to be a casual long ride. It turned into something else entirely.
The Route
Started from the foothills before sunrise. The first 40km were smooth — rolling tarmac with occasional gravel shortcuts. Then the real climbing began.
The Suffering
Kilometer 80 was where things got interesting. The road turned to loose rock, the gradient kicked up to 15%, and the sun decided it was time to get serious. Two hours of grinding up switchbacks with no shade in sight.
The Reward
The descent made it all worthwhile. 30km of flowing gravel through coffee plantations, ending at a roadside chai stall that served the best cup of tea I've ever had.
Lessons Learned
- Start earlier. Way earlier.
- Carry more water than you think you need.
- The suffering is part of the experience.