At 77 years of age, Lt. Col. Sohan Roy (Retd), an army veteran from Pune, completed a monumental solo ride to Umling La Pass in Ladakh-the world’s highest motorable road at over 19,000 feet. Traveling from August 20 to 30, 2025, on his Royal Enfield Classic 500, he braved extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain, landslides, and communication blackouts, over a challenging route passing through Jammu, Srinagar, Drass, Kargil, and Leh.
His journey was also a moving tribute to India’s martyrs, with stops at key war memorials. Widely praised by military officials, riding communities, and the Border Roads Organisation, Roy’s feat breaks stereotypes about ageing and showcases how determination, discipline, and passion transcend physical limits.
A Journey of Endurance and Tribute
Between August 20 and 30, Lt. Col. Roy undertook this ten-day expedition on his trusted Royal Enfield Classic 500, named Wizard. The journey was fraught with difficult terrain and severe environmental challenges: relentless rainfall that often caused landslides, power cuts, and areas with no mobile network connectivity.
Despite these hurdles, he persevered and safely conquered the demanding conditions that deter many younger riders. Beyond personal adventure, the ride had deep patriotic significance. Roy made solemn visits to the Kargil War Memorial and the Battle of Badgam Memorial to honour fallen soldiers. Reflecting on his journey, Roy said, “You don’t stop biking as you age. You age when you stop biking. At 77, Umling La reminded me that the spirit of a soldier never fades.”
His message is clear-the drive to serve, honour, and inspire can fuel extraordinary achievements regardless of age.
Breaking Stereotypes, Inspiring Generations
Lt. Col. Roy’s achievements extend well beyond this ride. A former footballer, boxer, and marathon runner, he served nearly 30 years in the Indian Army, including postings along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir and counter-insurgency operations in the Northeast.
Despite undergoing knee surgeries and angioplasty, Roy embraced motorcycling as both a passion and a mission. He has covered over 2,50,000 kilometres across India and internationally, often riding to war memorials to pay tribute and spread messages encouraging rural youth to pursue education and defend the nation. His record-breaking rides have earned recognition from the Limca Book of Records, the India Book of Records, and prestigious awards from various forums.
His family, including his wife, daughter, and 12-year-old grandson, remain his steadfast supporters. The Border Roads Organisation and Ladakh authorities have praised him, recognising his journey as a beacon of resilience and a powerful example that age is no barrier to physical and mental endurance.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Lt. Col. Sohan Roy’s exceptional journey is more than an adventure; it is a profound social statement about ageing, resilience, and purpose.
His inspiring ride calls on society to rethink limiting stereotypes about seniors and honour their ongoing contributions to community, nation, and culture. In a world often divided by age and experience, his story encourages empathy, unity, and respect across generations.
The Logical Indian applauds his commitment to patriotism and social responsibility and urges communities to support opportunities for elders to pursue their dreams and inspire others.
