Embark on our epic India-Nepal cross-country drive to Gupha Pokhari with Mahindra Adventure—mountains, culture, and thrill in every mile.
The Mahindra Adventure’s Gupha Pokhari Escape presented an opportunity for us to witness firsthand the evolving landscape of adventure travel, traversing borders and challenging terrains. CarBlogIndia joined this meticulously organized expedition, a convoy of eleven vehicles that included our media car, customer vehicles, and crucial support units, all bearing the Mahindra badge. Our media car, a white Mahindra Thar Roxx petrol, embarked on a journey that would redefine our perceptions of its capabilities.
The Overture
The expedition’s prelude began with a flight from Delhi to Bagdogra, a common gateway to the Eastern Himalayas. Upon landing, a seamless transition saw us chauffeured in a Mahindra XUV700, making for a comfortable and swift journey to Purnia, Bihar. This initial leg served as a gentle easing into the adventure, setting the stage for the more rugged experiences to come. The actual commencement of the drive was marked by the flag-off from Mahindra Brajesh Automobiles in Purnia, where the convoy gathered to begin the cross-country endeavour.
Crossing the International Border
The drive towards the India-Nepal border crossing at Jorbani was characterized by smooth, well-maintained highways, a testament to the regional infrastructure. The border formalities, though a necessary pause, were handled efficiently by the support staff. This allowed for a swift transition into Nepalese territory. Immediately, a distinct change in atmosphere was perceptible. Nepal greeted us with an unexpected sense of orderliness in its traffic, an almost pristine cleanliness, and an evident civic sense that was both refreshing and impressive. It was a subtle yet profound indication of the cultural nuances awaiting us.
Our first notable stop within Nepal was at Dharan, a bustling town that offered a chance for local interaction. Here, we indulged in quick snacks, while the convoy of diverse Mahindra SUVs – ranging from the rugged Thars and Thar Roxx models to the sophisticated Scorpio N and the intriguing BE6 electric SUV – drew considerable attention. The locals, visibly intrigued by this procession of distinctive vehicles, engaged with us, exchanging smiles and curious glances. This served as a clear testament to the welcoming nature of the Nepalese. The day’s drive culminated near Dhankota, where the convoy settled for the night. A convivial atmosphere quickly enveloped the hotel stay as everyone congregated around a crackling bonfire, sharing anecdotes and forging new connections, transforming mere participants into a cohesive community.
Mahindra SUVs Tame the Rough Nepal Terrain
The subsequent day marked the true test of the expedition, as the route transitioned from paved highways to largely off-road terrain, leading towards the mystical Gupha Pokhari. This segment of the journey was an eye-opener, challenging both vehicle and driver with varied surfaces. While the plains of Nepal, near the border, presented a warm and humid climate, the weather had gradually cooled, with crisp mountain air replacing the plains’ warmth atmosphere. Even the terrains had shifted from relatively flat agricultural lands to undulating hills, eventually giving way to rough, rocky trails, muddy patches, and steep ascents as we ventured deeper into the mountainous regions.
It was in these challenging conditions that the Mahindra fleet truly shone. Every vehicle in the convoy proved more than capable, venturing into areas where conventional cars would scarcely dare to tread. The performance of our Thar Roxx petrol 4×2 was particularly surprising. Despite being a two-wheel-drive variant, its generous ground clearance, the robust output of its petrol engine, and the commanding driving position afforded the driver a significant advantage, allowing it to power through hurdles with remarkable ease. This proved that careful navigation and the inherent ruggedness of the Thar design could compensate for the absence of a 4×4 drivetrain in many demanding situations.
However, the real revelation was the Mahindra BE 6 electric SUV. Its seamless and almost silent ascent through the challenging off-road sections was a testament to its torque delivery and robust build. The instant torque of the electric motor provided effortless traction, while the intelligently designed battery packaging ensured its underbelly remained protected from impacts. Furthermore, Nepal’s surprisingly robust EV infrastructure, including strategically located charging points, ensured that the BE 6 occupants never suffered from any range anxiety. The participation by the BE 6 was a clear indicator that such electric vehicles are not just for urban commutes but can conquer the wilderness with equal aplomb.
The culmination of this demanding drive was Gupha Pokhari itself – a serene and picturesque location that felt like a well-deserved reward. Here, amidst the tranquility of the mountains, we set up camp in tents, enjoying another night under the stars. The evening was a continuation of the camaraderie, marked by another warm bonfire, the rhythmic beats of folk music, and spontaneous dancing, creating an unforgettable atmosphere shared by Mahindra customers, officials, and support staff alike.
My Impressions – A Road Trip of a Lifetime
The Mahindra Great Escape to Gupha Pokhari was, without equivocation, a trip of a lifetime. It showcased not only the breathtaking natural beauty of Nepal but also the remarkable engineering and resilience of Mahindra vehicles across diverse and often unforgiving terrains. The journey underscored that true adventure isn’t just about conquering obstacles but also about forging connections, experiencing new cultures, and pushing the boundaries of what is possible, all while appreciating the subtle yet significant changes in the landscape and climate that define such a cross-country endeavor.
Participating in Your Own Mahindra Adventure
For those inspired to embark on their own Mahindra Adventure, the path to participation is straightforward. Mahindra Adventure organizes a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from single-day “Great Escapes” to multi-day “Expeditions” and specialized “Off-Road Training Academy” courses. To get started, those interested can visit the official Mahindra Adventure website. Here, a comprehensive calendar of upcoming events is typically available, detailing locations, dates, and the type of event. Events like the “Great Escape” are often open to Mahindra SUV owners, providing a platform to test their vehicle’s off-road capabilities on curated trails. For those looking to hone their driving skills, the “Off-Road Training Academy” offers structured courses at various levels, often providing Mahindra 4×4 vehicles for the training.
Multi-day expeditions, similar to the cross-country drive we attended, are also listed. Such events offer immersive experiences to diverse and often remote locations. Registration for these events is typically conducted online through the website. Participants can usually choose from various packages, often catering to single drivers, or a driver with co-passengers. The website also provides details on what is included in the package (such as meals and recovery services) and what is not (fuel, personal insurance).
