"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
10 Feb 2025
Vadodara's own Everester, Nisha Kumari, has just completed an awe-inspiring journey, cycling over 15,000 km across 16 countries to champion climate change awareness. After seven arduous months on the road, she triumphantly arrived in London, marking an extraordinary achievement in both endurance and environmental activism. deter her. Her unshakable spirit kept her going through difficult terrains, including glass ice roads in Russia and icy paths in Poland, where cycling laws added to the obstacles.
Nisha’s resilience is nothing short of inspiring. Having lost nine fingers to frostbite during her 2023 Everest expedition, she refused to let physical challenges deter her.
Throughout her journey, Nisha encountered stark evidence of climate change. She witnessed landslides in Nepal, the drying Aral Sea in Uzbekistan, and diminishing snow levels in Russia. These experiences reinforced her mission, urging global communities to act before it’s too late.
Accompanied by her coach Nilesh Barot, who piloted the expedition vehicle, Nisha did more than just cycle—she took action. The duo planted over 1,100 trees across various locations, including Paris, and engaged with climate experts in different countries. Their campaign, “Change Before Climate Change,” resonated with people worldwide, sparking conversations about sustainability.
Covering 100-130 km daily, Nisha relied on discipline and endurance. She maintained a strict routine of meditation and morning workouts to keep both her body and mind strong. She and her coach are pure vegetarians and they often cooked their own meals. They also relied on dry snacks from India. Her training as an Everester helped her tackle the toughest conditions, ensuring she stayed on course despite delays and logistical hurdles.
Initially slated to conclude by November, the expedition was delayed by 45 days due to border permissions while crossing from Nepal to China. However, with support from the Ministry of External Affairs and local Indian embassies, they overcame the bureaucratic challenges. Within India, Gujarat Police and other state forces ensured their security, making the initial leg of the journey smooth.
Nisha Kumari’s journey was about more than personal triumph—it was a call to action. She and her team committed to planting trees in 200 cities and educating people about environmental conservation. She shared her experiences and gratitude on social media, stating, “This is just the beginning – let’s continue pushing for a greener, sustainable future.”
Nisha Kumari's journey is a powerful reminder that individual actions can ignite global change. As she pedaled through diverse landscapes, she connected with countless individuals, inspiring them to reflect on their environmental impact. Nisha's story encourages us all to take that first step, however small, towards a more sustainable future.