Cycling Across India: Dutch Educationist Zeno Van Der Zalm Shares His Incredible 3000-Km Journey

Greater Noida (22 August 2025): In an inspiring exclusive interaction with Ten News Network at Grades International School, Zeno Van Der Zalm, an educationist, researcher, and engineer from Amsterdam, The Netherlands shared his incredible cycling journey. Zeno recently completed an extraordinary cycling expedition across India, covering approximately 3000 kilometers from Trivandrum in Kerala to Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh — a journey he undertook in just four weeks.

This was not Zeno’s first time in India — it was, in fact, his second cycling adventure across the country. Speaking with passion and admiration, he expressed a deep affection for India, a country he says has left a lasting impact on him both personally and professionally.

Returning to India with a Purpose

When asked what motivated him to return to India and cycle across, Zeno shared: This was my second time coming to India. The first time, I explored the country through its cities. But this time, I wanted to experience India in a more intimate way — from the saddle of a bicycle. I started at the southernmost point of the country and aimed to finish here at North in Grades International School — the same school that hosted me so warmly two years ago. It felt like coming full circle, and the welcome I received here once again has been overwhelming.

Memories of the Road: A Journey of Kindness

Reflecting on his long and challenging ride, Zeno emphasized how deeply touched he was by the kindness of strangers, There are countless memories, but what stood out most was how kind and helpful people were throughout my journey. Even when they didn’t know me, they guided me, warned me about dangerous routes, and treated me like an honored guest. The hospitality I experienced in India was truly heartwarming.

Lessons from the Road: More Than Just a Ride

Zeno, who works as a teacher and researcher in The Netherlands, said that the journey wasn’t just a physical or geographical one — it also had a profound personal impact on him, I’m not sure how directly it will affect my teaching or research, but I know it has made me a better and more engaged person. It taught me patience, gratitude, and how to truly connect with people around me.

Challenges on the Trail

Despite the beauty and inspiration of the journey, Zeno admitted there were some tough moments, Cycling through isolated jungle areas was mentally challenging. There were moments when I was completely alone, with no mobile signal, no help nearby — and you wonder, what happens if something goes wrong? In one instance, I went off-road into a small village and deeper into the jungle, but had to turn back because there were too many monkeys and it didn’t feel safe. You have to know when to push forward and when to pull back.

3,000 Kilometres in 4 Weeks

Zeno completed his cycling journey in just four weeks, averaging more than 100 kilometers a day. He described it as a test of endurance, determination, and resilience — especially on Indian roads, which come with their own unique challenges.

I had some experience with long-distance cycling before, but never anything quite like this. The Indian roads, the weather, the changing landscapes — it was tough but fulfilling. Finishing the ride here at Grades International School felt like a dream realized.

A Message to Indian Youth: “Dream It, Do It”

To the students and young people of India who may be inspired by his story, Zeno offered heartfelt advice, If you have a dream, don’t wait — just go for it. This journey was my dream. There were no set cycling routes, no guides, and no guarantees. But I believed in it and made it happen. Whatever your dream is — study, travel, create — take that first step. You’ll be surprised what you can achieve.

About Zeno Van Der Zalm

Zeno Van Der Zalm is an engineer, researcher, and educator based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. He has worked across various educational projects focusing on technology, innovation, and international collaboration. Passionate about sustainability and experiential learning, Zeno often combines his academic pursuits with physical challenges like long-distance cycling to explore cultures and connect with communities in meaningful ways. This remarkable ride across India adds yet another inspiring chapter to his journey of lifelong learning and global exploration.

Zeno was warmly welcomed and gracefully felicitated by the Principal Aditi Basu Roy of Grads International School , Greater NOIDA at School premises along with social workers of Greater NOIDA .

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