Honda's Drive to Discover 12 took automotive journalists on a captivating journey through the picturesque landscapes of North East India, covering destinations like Siliguri, Gangtok, Pelling, and Kalimpong. The four-day drive provided a unique experience of navigating mountainous terrains, encountering challenging road conditions, and enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the region. The journey included visits to significant landmarks, such as Nathu La pass and Darjeeling, offering a blend of adventure and scenic delights.
Siliguri to Gangtok (112km)
- Journalists were introduced to the Honda fleet, including the Elevate manual and CVT, City manual, CVT, and hybrid, and the Amaze manual and CVT.
- The drive started amidst Siliguri's rush-hour traffic, showcasing the Elevate performance in challenging conditions.
- The journey to Gangtok featured a climb to higher altitudes, where the Elevate's CVT faced challenges in steep inclines but impressed with its capabilities.
- A two-hour traffic jam added a unique twist to the journey, emphasizing the need for convenience in varying driving conditions.
Gangtok to Nathu La Pass (58km)
- The drive to Nathu La pass, situated at over 14,000ft, provided an exhilarating experience with the Elevate manual.
- Snow-covered landscapes, sunroof moments, and panoramic views made the challenging ascent worthwhile.
- Altitude sickness and encounters with the Chinese border heightened the adventure, creating lasting memories.
- Challenges with LED headlamps and fog lamps were noted but overshadowed by the mesmerizing views.
Gangtok to Pelling (128km)
- The journey to Pelling faced road challenges, with concerns about ground clearance for the Honda City e:HEV.
- Potholes, rocky terrains, and a flat tire tested the resilience of the vehicles and the adaptability of the drivers.
- The picturesque views of Kangchenjunga from the hotel added a serene touch to the day's adventures.
Pelling to Kalimpong (91km)
- Challenges continued with bad roads, steep climbs, and potholes, impacting the drive to Darjeeling.
- The visit to Ging Tea House, a tea estate in Darjeeling, provided a refreshing break and insights into tea processing.
- Pictures with the famous toy train in Darjeeling added a touch of local charm to the journey.
- The day concluded in Kalimpong, fostering camaraderie among participants as they shared their experiences.
Kalimpong to Siliguri (68km)
- The final stretch featured a drive back to Siliguri, offering participants a chance to choose their preferred Honda vehicles.
- The City hybrid demonstrated its prowess on good roads, providing a comfortable and powerful ride.
- Reflecting on the unique challenges and memorable moments, participants expressed a longing for the mountains.
Honda's Drive to Discover 12 not only showcased the capabilities of Honda vehicles in diverse terrains but also highlighted the charm and challenges of North East India. The adventure-packed journey became a blend of driving enthusiasts' camaraderie, scenic wonders, and the resilience of Honda vehicles in navigating varying road conditions. As participants bid farewell to the mountains, the memories of the four-day exploration remained etched as a testament to the unique experiences encountered along the way.