Breaking Boundaries on Two Wheels: A Pakistani Woman’s Epic Journey

In the scenic district of Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan’s northernmost region, Zenith Irfan set out to accomplish what her late father could not: a motorcycle tour around the world. Despite societal taboos in a country where women often don’t venture out alone, Irfan’s audacious journey is an inspiration.

The 21-year-old Lahore-based student embarked on two significant journeys last summer: a six-day trip to Kashmir and a 20-day exploration to the Khunjerab Pass on the China border. During her travels, she was thrilled to discover that she was the first Pakistani female motorcyclist the locals had met.

Irfan admits some apprehension about traveling solo as a female biker in a society where women riders are marginalized. However, she received very little negativity. “When I was on the road, it was like a coming together of my mind, body and soul. I felt free,” she shares.

Her attire—a helmet, boots, and a bulky jacket—concealed her feminine form and led people to assume she was male. She fondly recalls the astonishment people displayed when realizing she was a woman.

In 2013, Irfan learned to ride a motorbike after her younger brother purchased one. Her mother urged her brother to teach her to ride, encouraging Irfan to fulfill her father’s unachieved dream. Initially, learning was a struggle, but she eventually got the hang of it and started using the bike for errands around Lahore.

Her first long-distance journey took her through the Azad Kashmir region, a disputed region bordering India and China. The trip was marked by beautiful mountains, rivers, lush landscapes, and picturesque towns. Following the successful venture, she embarked on a more challenging trip through North Pakistan to the Khunjerab Pass on the China border, clocking in 3,200 kilometers over 20 days.

Despite facing hostility in certain areas and the inherent risk of accidents on treacherous roads, Irfan was undeterred. She learned to adapt to societal reactions by concealing her identity. The occasional negative comment did little to dampen her spirit.

Irfan found overwhelming support along her way, from other tourists, security checkpoint soldiers, and even the few women she encountered. Her journey was marked by unforgettable experiences, such as seeing snow for the first time and the overwhelming sense of achievement upon reaching the Khunjerab Pass.

Although her travels are on pause as she focuses on her studies, Irfan plans to embark on more journeys in the future. She maintains a blog, Zenith Irfan: 1 Girl 2 Wheels, documenting her adventures and continuing to inspire and challenge societal norms in Pakistan.

One cannot ignore the sense of defiance and courage that underscores Irfan’s journeys. From learning to handle the gears of a 70cc motorbike to traversing across treacherous terrains, Irfan’s journey is a testament to her determination and resilience. The often perilous roads, inclement weather, and the sheer physical demand of the journey did not deter her. Instead, these challenges further solidified her resolve.

Each destination brought with it a new set of experiences. The Deosai Plains, one of the highest plateaus in the world, presented an otherworldly beauty. On the other hand, the small village of Chilas posed threats from residents hostile to outsiders. Irfan’s journey was far from a smooth ride, but every bump in the road contributed to the rich tapestry of her experiences.

Among all the memories she’s created, two moments hold a special place in her heart. Seeing snow for the first time was an overwhelming sensation that struck an emotional chord. “It was something I usually see on the Internet or TV, and when I saw it in real life – so clear and white and very beautiful – I can’t express how it made me feel. It got me emotional,” Irfan recalls.

The second memorable moment was reaching the Khunjerab Pass, the culmination of many days of struggling with her motorcycle over demanding terrain. The joy and sense of accomplishment she felt upon reaching the destination epitomize the spirit of her journey.

Irfan’s adventures have brought her in contact with diverse cultures and people. Her encounters with women in remote regions, often speaking different languages, stand out for their shared sense of amazement and encouragement. These interactions only serve to emphasize the universality of her boundary-breaking endeavor.

Through her blog ‘Zenith Irfan: 1 Girl 2 Wheels’, Irfan continues to share her experiences, inspiring not just women in Pakistan, but across the globe. She’s shown that societal norms and expectations can be challenged and broken, and dreams, no matter how unconventional, can be achieved.

In memory of her father and his unfulfilled dream, Irfan continues to ride, unbridled by societal conventions and fueled by the sheer joy of exploration. As she maps her future travels, it’s clear that this is just the beginning for Pakistan’s boundary-breaking motorcycle girl. Irfan’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration, empowering others to follow their dreams and defy societal norms, all on their terms. Surely, her father would be immensely proud.”