Sullia’s Rehman family achieves historic feat on Umling La

Team Udayavani, Sep 9, 2023, 8:25 AM IST

Tauheed Rehman, a seasoned adventurer from Sullia, along with his wife Jashmiya and their three-and-a-half-year-old son Jazeel Rehman, achieved a historic milestone by conquering Umling La, the world’s highest motorable road, on a bullet bike. This remarkable feat took them to an elevation of 19,024 feet, a staggering 50% higher than the base camp of Mount Everest, where oxygen levels are notably scarce.

The Rehman family’s remarkable journey has brought them international acclaim, and it is expected to be officially recognized in the India Record Book as a testament to their unparalleled determination and courage.

Located on the China border in Ladakh, Umling La stands as the highest motorable road globally, towering at approximately 19,024 feet above sea level. This treacherous 52-kilometer route connects Chishumme to Demchok and runs along the Line of Control (LAC), a contentious point of friction between India and China.

Tauheed Rehman, who had previously explored the region by car, embarked on his latest adventure with friends in Himachal Pradesh and Srinagar. This was his seventh visit to Ladakh, but the first on a bike, aiming to conquer Umling La.

Leaving from Sullia on August 15th, the Rehman family, braving challenging terrains and adverse weather conditions, reached Umling La in a remarkable 19 days. They proudly unfurled the national flag, the Kannada flag, and the Tulunad flag at their destination, marking their monumental achievement.

Covering a distance of 5,000 kilometers, the Rehman family’s journey tested their endurance, resilience, and unwavering spirit.

Upon reaching Umling La, Tauheed Rehman and his family were warmly greeted by army officials, who extended their congratulations on this extraordinary adventure. This daring accomplishment comes shortly after a couple from Kolkata reached Umling La with their nine-year-old son, setting a previous record. However, the Rehman family’s feat has now eclipsed that record, with their three-year-old son, making them pioneers in the world of adventure biking.

Tauheed Rehman’s achievement is a testament to human determination and the spirit of adventure, as he and his family etch their names in the annals of history as pioneers of Umling La.