KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysian motorcyclist Katiravan Subarayan continued his epic journey across South America this week, exploring some of Peru's most famous historical and cultural sites, including the world-renowned Nazca Lines and the capital city of Lima.
The 63-year-old retired electrician from Melaka began his global journey in January 2023, riding his BMW R 1200cc GSA motorcycle, affectionately named "Parameswara", from Malaysia to advocate for environmental awareness and national pride.
In an interview with Bernama, he provided insights into his travels across Peru, following his adventures in various South American countries, including Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Brazil.
"On Sept 21, at around 9.30 am, I took a 35-minute flight from Nazca to the Nazca Lines at a cost of 463 soles (RM 520), including airport taxes.
"Nazca Lines is one of the popular tourist attractions in Peru, where some say the lines were drawn by aliens,” he said.
The Nazca Lines, a series of large ancient geoglyphs located in the Nazca Desert in southern Peru, are believed to have been created by the Nazca civilisation between 500 BCE and 500 CE.
Covering nearly 1,000 square kilometres and featuring over 70 animal and plant designs, the Nazca lines were first discovered in the 1920s by commercial aeroplanes and were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 for their cultural significance.
After two days in Nazca, Katiravan travelled 220 km to Paracas, where he viewed the Nazca Lines from a nearby observation tower for just 2 soles (RM 2.20), before staying at a local hostel near the beach.
"In Paracas, I explored the Islas Ballestas, a group of rocky islands known for their beautiful rock formations, as well as the seals and penguins that inhabit the area, during a two-hour boat tour,” he said.
Lima Adventures: Culture, History, and Serenity
On Sept 23, Katiravan’s journey continued to the capital city of Lima, where he would spend the next five days.
"There were no tolls for motorbikes, and the cool weather was a refreshing change, with the temperature hovering around 15°C,” he said.
On Sept 26, Katiravan took time to explore the local culture, visiting the Museo de Sitio Pucllana, an archaeological museum located in the heart of the city that includes a pyramid and offers insight into ancient Peruvian civilisations.
"The museum, which opened in 1984, houses a collection of cultural artifacts from archaeological excavations conducted since 1981 under the Huaca Pucllana Research, Conservation, and Enhancement Project,” Katiravan said.
He noted that Lima, despite its large size, experiences very little rainfall, with the last major downpour occurring in 1971.
A Meeting with the Ambassador
The next day, he met the new Malaysian Ambassador to Peru, Ahmad Irham, who had just been appointed two days earlier.
"We planted a tree at the embassy, with Second Secretary Syaifulludin Mahamad Ayub and Personal Assistant to the Ambassador, Hafis Hanapi, also present.
"After planting the tree, Syaifulludin took me to his house, where his wife Amirah prepared a delightful spread that included "Ayam Asam Pedas”, fried fish, eggs, vegetables, fruit, and rice. Having loved Malay cuisine since childhood, I found the food absolutely delicious,” he said.
Onward to Chimbote & Chiclayo
After spending five days in Lima, Katiravan made his way to Chimbote, 440 km north of the capital, on Sept 28.
"While the Peruvian police initially stated that Malaysian number plates are not allowed, I clarified my situation by providing the necessary documentation.
"I showed the document issued by Aduana (Customs) at the border, which mentioned the Malaysian number plate, along with my Malaysian driving licence, and everything was fine,” said Katiravan.
He stayed at Paris Senlis Hostel Plus for US$29.20 (RM120) per night, enjoying the cold weather, with temperatures dipping to 12°C.
On Sept 29, Katiravan reached Chiclayo after a 340 km ride, arriving at 3.30 pm. According to him, the road to Chiclayo was under construction in several areas, but the journey went smoothly.
"I settled into the Zentrico Hotel, where my stay, including breakfast, cost US$16 (RM73), and in the evening, I took a stroll around the city before enjoying sweet and sour chicken with rice for dinner at a local Chinese restaurant, priced at 20 soles (RM22),” he stated.
As Katiravan continues his journey through the heart of South America, he not only champions the spirit of adventure but also embodies the essence of cultural diplomacy, inspiring others to explore the world while fostering a deeper understanding of Malaysia's rich heritage. - BERNAMA