Udupi: At 57 years old, Kundapur’s Wilma Crasta Carvalho has once again shown that passion and determination know no age. Already celebrated for her daring 2023 motorcycle ride with her daughter Cherish Carvalho to Umling La, the world’s highest motorable pass, she has now completed another extraordinary journey.
Marking Independence Day, Wilma rode 1,300 kilometres over eight days, braving rugged terrain to hoist the national flag near the China border at Siachen Glacier—one of the most demanding regions on earth.
A corporate trainer by profession, Wilma has long pursued biking as a shared passion with her daughter. Recalling the expedition, she admitted this was among her most testing rides: “I had set my heart on hoisting the flag at Siachen. Though I missed my morning goal, by afternoon I finally made it, and the joy was indescribable.”
She was part of a six-member riding team, setting out from Leh, travelling through the Zanskar Valley, moving towards Gurkhan Valley near Kargil, and finally reaching Siachen. Near the final stretch—just 60 km from the destination—she almost considered giving up, but perseverance saw her through. Along the way, she met fellow Kundapur adventurer Dinesh Karna, a cyclist, and exchanged inspiring travel stories.
This marks Wilma’s third biking expedition to Ladakh. In 2023, at age 55, she and her daughter conquered Umling La at 19,024 ft, a feat very few riders attempt.
Wilma credits yoga, pranayama, and meditation for her stamina and clarity. Her remarkable spirit continues to inspire many, proving that age is no obstacle when dreams are pursued with passion.