Odyssey on wheels: Here's how you can explore these five beaches in Vasai

The bike tour will take a slow-paced approach to soak in Vasai’s views. PICS COURTESY/CHALO CHALE

Ayushi and Rohit Kalparuksh have spent years pulling together Vasai's cyclists for weekend rides. So, when they caught wind of the recent resurgence of interest in Homer's Odyssey, they did what any Vasaikar would do, slowed it right down. A complete change of scenery from Odysseus' exhausting journey, the duo will lead a group of bikers on a leisurely ‘Beach Odyssey' on Vasai's coastal roads, soaking in green views, chatting with locals, and sampling local tastes. "We don't believe in ticking places off a list. There is always time to stop, breathe, and sip on chai. The journey is the experience," the duo reminds us.

Participants at a previous Beach Odyssey earlier this monsoon

ON August 16; 8 am to 3.30 pm
MEETING POINT Revealed on registration
CALL 8446345340
ENTRY Rs 1999 (includes bike costs and refreshments)

What's the plan?

>> Brekkie bonds: Become one with the villagers as you sit down with locals at an Anganwadi for a hearty breakfast.

>> Chase the wave: Stop by five beaches on a slow-paced one-way journey. The organisers advise you give your phones a break and hear the waves crash and the birds chirp.

>> Wadi wow: A local wadi (orchard) will host the post-journey rendezvous and a homecooked lunch spread featuring locally foraged greens.

Slow and steady

The organisers stress that this is neither a race nor a fitness challenge. Riders will be expected to keep a slow pace, with emergency backup support on hand. The rest is up to riders: stay safe, don't rush and let your fellow explorers enjoy the ride. All participants must have a valid driving licence.

Also check out

Midnight Cycling Club
ON Every day; 10.30 pm
MEETING POINT Jambori Maidan, Worli.
LOG ON TO @mumbaimidnightcycling
ENTRY Rs 199

45 km
The total distance covered by the bike tour