Day 100: From Bela to Suigam – Farm Stays, Desert Sunsets, and Petrol Pump Hospitality
On Day 100 of my Kanyakumari to Cape Town cycling adventure, I pedaled 85 km from Bela village towards Suigam, crossing the rugged roads near the Pakistan border in Gujarat’s desert landscape.
Rekindling Friendships in Bela
Staying at my friend’s farm in Bela brought back memories from my earlier all-India trip through Gujarat, where I made lasting connections—we’d exchanged numbers back then. They welcomed me warmly with homemade roti made from ಸಜ್ಜೆ (pearl millet), slathered in ghee and jaggery, a simple yet flavorful meal straight from their home. The farm’s peaceful vibe near the border was the perfect recharge spot before pushing forward.
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Desert Roads and Unexpected Stops
Starting at 9 AM, the roads were average—rideable but bumpy, especially with low air in my rear tire, which I refilled en route. I crossed over 10 km of desert, hit Gujarat’s notoriously rough patches, then fueled up with two plates of pani puri and a quick visit to the Gujarat Power Corporation Limited solar park nearby. The evening sunset stole the show: a stunning red-and-gold sky reflecting off desert water, creating a magical mirror effect.
Kindness at the Finish Line
Ending at a petrol pump in Suigam, owner Kuldeep instantly granted permission to stay without hesitation and even arranged dinner for me. I spent the evening editing footage while enjoying curd rice twice—his support made the day complete. Eggs remain elusive in Gujarat, but the hospitality more than compensated.
This leg traces my path from Kanyakumari through Bengaluru, Belagavi, Goa’s Konkan, Maharashtra, Mumbai, Surat, Rajkot, Bhuj, and sacred spots like Matha, Koteshwar, Narayan Sarovar, Lakhpat, and Dordo before entering this border stretch. Day 100 down—grateful for the people and landscapes fueling this journey.
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