Monster climbs at altitude, high humidity and 40-degree heat – it’s fair to say the latest BikeforDGH fundraising challenge wasn’t for the fainthearted.

Thankfully, though, it was a big success. The five-day event – originally created by DGHUK Honorary Vice President John Webster in 2006 – took place in September and, thanks to the efforts of the 12 cyclists and hundreds of donors around the world, it has now raised thousands of pounds for the Homes and our sponsored children.

Starting in the Kingdom of Bhutan, this year’s route crossed 250 miles of mountainous terrain until it reached Dr Graham’s Homes in Kalimpong – where the intrepid team were given a hero’s welcome by the pupils and staff.

We asked DGHUK supporter Karen Hills, whose father and uncles grew up at the Homes, to tell us about her experience.

PS: you can still donate to the cause! To help boost the total, please visit Karen’s fundraising page on JustGiving: Karen & Janet’s cycle ride for Dr Graham’s Homes

How tough was this year’s ride, Karen?

It was a little less challenging than the last one in terms of the total amount of metres climbed, but the overall distance was greater. There also wasn’t a rest day to recover before the final day’s ride, which included a 40km continuous climb up to the town of Lava, before continuing to Kalimpong. Combining that with the higher altitude in Bhutan (average 2,300m) and the 40°C+ temperatures and high humidity when we reached India, I found this year’s ride tougher than the last one.

What was the greatest highlight?

The breathtaking scenery of the Bhutanese Himalayan foothills was very special. We enjoyed some incredible views throughout our climbs; the mountains and valleys are magnificent, and wherever you looked you could see brightly coloured prayer flags blowing in the breeze.

How did the Homes greet you when you arrived?

There was a large welcoming group at the school gates, consisting of teachers and other school workers, OGBs (old boys and girls of DGH), plus Board of Management, Global OGBs and DGHUK representatives. We were greeted with a song performed and played by a quartet dressed in traditional clothes, and then the school pipe band struck up with Scotland the Brave. They continued to play as we walked to the Betty Sheriff basketball area. The route was lined with children from the school, who clapped, welcomed us and thanked us for our efforts. After that we were guests of honour at a dance exhibition put on by several of the school children, and we were also presented with a certificate of thanks from everyone at the school.

Would you recommend BikeforDGH to anyone who might be tempted next time?

BikeforDGH is a unique experience and not your usual cycling challenge. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an incredible experience and an unusual / alternative cycling event. You will ride through areas not usually frequented by tourists, you will experience different cultures and cuisines, you will challenge yourself both physically and mentally, all while raising money for a very deserving cause.

The next BikeforDGH challenge is expected to take place in 2026.