From Gaumukh to the Bay of Bengal: one man’s voyage of discovery takes him the length of the Ganges
- Rency Thomas tackles mountainous waves, money troubles and long days during 2,750km journey
- Travel guide uses bikes, kayaks and his own legs to tackle trip under his own steam
If it wasn’t for desire and gumption, Rency Thomas would have led an ordinary existence. Instead, the 37-year-old has just completed a human-powered expedition the length of the river Ganges.
Twenty years ago, doctors asked Rency to adapt to a conservative lifestyle after diagnosing chronic arthritis. He simply stopped visiting them and embraced a life of adventure.
It laid the groundwork for his biggest undertaking yet, navigating the Ganges under his own steam.
The challenges were considerable, but this month he endured massive waves and strong gusts to end his 2,750km journey at Sagar Island in the Bay of Bengal.
This was a far cry from his conservative, middle class upbringing, when Rency aspired to follow in his father’s footsteps and sign up with the armed forces.
But his dreams of joining the Indian Air Force were cut short as a teenager. Over time, Rency developed acute pain and inflammation in the joints and for six months, was bound to a wheelchair.
