Omar Di Felice: Winter TransHimalaya

Bike to Happiness – Pedaling Beyond the Clouds in Search of Happiness

We met with Omar Di Felice, ultracyclist and Ferrino ambassador, after the completion of his latest expedition: the Winter TransHimalaya. In just 22 days, Omar covered more than 3,000 km and 50,000 meters of elevation gain across India, Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet — cycling over passes above 5,000 meters and through extremely cold temperatures. A journey that was not only physical, but also spiritual and symbolic, as part of the “Bike to Happiness – Road to 1.5°C” project, aimed at raising awareness about the climate crisis and the importance of sustainable happiness.

The Himalayas are a place you know well and have visited before. What made you want to return to these lands?
The Himalayas have always had a special place in my heart. After crossing the Upper Mustang, climbing the Thorung La, and riding the Annapurna Trail to Everest Base Camp, I felt a strong desire to relive those emotions. This time, however, I wanted to combine adventure with cultural exploration, traveling through countries like Bhutan and Tibet, to reconnect with the humanity and hospitality that define these lands.

What was the most challenging moment of the journey?
The challenges were both logistical and physical. Logistically, crossing land borders between countries with complex bureaucracies was tough. For instance, I spent an entire afternoon at customs between India and Nepal, and I nearly got stuck between Nepal and China because of a missing stamp. Physically, entering Tibet was particularly difficult: due to the limited time allowed in the country, I had to schedule intense stages without any room for delays. I went from 1,500 to over 4,000 meters of altitude in just 24 hours, without time to acclimatize, facing headaches and insomnia.

Which country impressed you the most?
Without a doubt, Bhutan. It’s a country where Gross National Happiness isn’t just a slogan but a tangible reality. The population lives in harmony with nature, preserving traditions and displaying deep humanity. It’s an example of how we can live well while respecting the environment and our roots.

Bhutan as the starting point of your journey for its Gross National Happiness index: what message lies behind your cycling expedition?
Bhutan, with its Gross National Happiness index, represents a model of society that places the well-being of people and the environment at the center. Through this journey, I wanted to show that it’s possible to live in harmony with nature without giving up modern comforts. It’s a call to reflect on how we can adopt a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle.

Your journeys involve lots of kilometers and elevation gain, but there's always a human touch. What were the people like along the way? Was there any encounter in particular that stood out to you?
Human connection is one of the most beautiful aspects of my travels. In every country, I encountered hospitality and kindness. However, in Tibet, I noticed a certain level of mistrust: people were reluctant to speak, likely due to fear of the authorities. It was painful to see how such a rich culture has been partly silenced.

What would you recommend to someone who wants to take on a similar journey?
Preparation and adaptability are key. Nepal and India are more accessible for independent travelers, while Bhutan and Tibet require special permits and often the accompaniment of guides. It’s important to research thoroughly, respect local cultures, and be ready to face both logistical and climatic challenges.

If you had to describe your journey with three adjectives, which would you choose?
Silent: because I spent many hours immersed in nature, far from the chaos.
Welcoming: for the hospitality and kindness encountered along the way.
Steep: for the demanding climbs and high altitudes I had to face.