Staff Reporter
Dimapur, June 11
Whether you go on a planned tour or merely rent a bike for the day, cycling is a great means to see enormous amount of a country. This is what six cyclists Mirik (Czechoslovakia), Mike (USA), Daniela (Switzerland), Chris (USA), Min Sung (South Korea) and Katya (Slovenia) and residing in Thailand said on their arrival here today. They are currently on a tour to China and Central Asia.
Unlike other cyclists who tour around raising awareness on a particular idea/matter, the six cyclists admitted that their voyage is for fun, to learn the cultures of other countries, and they are of the view that instead of taking transport, touring on a bicycle is the best way to reach out to people and get a sight of the town knowing people from different backgrounds.
Briefing media persons at the Conference Hall of SBI Regional Office at Supermarket Complex, Dimapur, the cyclists said they started their journey from Yangon on May 7. Their encounter with an official of State Bank of India (SBI) Dimapur in Manipur proved lucky for them as he guided them to Kohima and then to Dimapur where they were received by SBI officials. Like any traveler who doe a research before embarking on a journey, the adventurous cyclists too searched Nagaland through internet and said they found the Naga people with tattooed face, history on hunting and wildlife. With this in mind, they expected to meet exotic populace but on reaching Nagaland, they found completely different people from what they had pictured. They acknowledged the hospitality they received from people of Nagaland which they say is unusual for strangers to get.
But the road condition and reckless drivers of Nagaland have not spared them. “Drivers and roads are scary,” said a woman cyclist. On her experience on Nagaland’s roads, she said riding here left her in confusion whether to make a move or not as there are vehicles pouring in from all sides and drivers seem to be in a hurry. Sad but true, the road conditions take away the pride of Nagaland making visitors forget the warm hospitality of people of the State.
Though having faced challenges and obstacles during the course of their voyage, the cyclists are determined to carry on their journey as long as they live and have life.
