Virajit Mungale, a British citizen of Indian origin, has achieved a unique feat by driving 18,300 km through 16 countries to reach Thane. For this journey, he spent 59 days travelling in his SUV. His mother lives in the Raunak Park area of Thane. He began his journey on April 20 and completed it on June 17. Usually, he would fly from London to visit his mother, but this time he wanted to do something special and decided to travel by car.

Countries explored

During his epic journey, Virajit Mungale visited France, Germany, Belgium, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Russia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, China, Tibet, and Nepal while travelling from London to Thane. 

Planning the trip

According to media reports, Virajit planned this trip after reading about the historical silk route and a couple who embarked on the same journey previously. He even received support from his wife for his endeavours. After planning the entire trip, he embarked on this exciting journey. 

Virajit actually planned the trip before the pandemic, however, it couldn't be completed at that time due to various reasons. He eventually achieved this remarkable feat by starting the trip on April 20, 2024, and concluding it on June 17. 

The Silk Route

Silk Route was a trade route for silk, and it also facilitated the exchange of other goods such as spices, precious metals, gemstones, ceramics, textiles, and exotic animals. Over time, ideas, religions, philosophies, and technologies (like papermaking and gunpowder) also spread along these routes.