MTB Himalaya is an annual mountain bike race in India host in the foothill regions of Himalaya Mountain Range in India. MTB Himalaya is not only popular among the young generations of India, but also among the foreign tourists who love to do adventure and run for a great social cause.
Hosting of MTB Himalaya
MTB Himalaya is held in the mountainous state of Himachal Pradesh.
Introduction of MTB Himalaya
MTB Himalaya was started in 2005 to have a strong initiative on social awareness through cycle racing with minimal prize money.
Covering of MTB Himalaya
MTB Himalaya covers nearly 500 km (310 mi) in a span of 8 days.
Sponsoring of MTB Himalaya
MTB Himalaya is sponsored by Hero Cycles India. For the initial 8 years MTB Himalaya was sponsored by Hercules. For 2 years now, MTB Himalaya has been sponsored by Hero Cycles. In the recent events Discovery channel and The Times of India officially partnered the MTB Himalaya. The International Mountain Bicycling Association has been a race partner with MTB Himalaya from the beginning of this popular event.
Participation in MTB Himalaya
MTB Himalaya has seen about 1200 people take part totally in the 10 years of existence. They have seen participants come from United States, Austria, Germany, Nepal, Bhutan and India. In 2011, 104 riders started the MTB Himalaya and only 42 finished of them.
Races in MTB Himalaya
MTB Himalaya organising the races in Himalayan foot belt with the 5 races which took the route from Shimla to Manali. These are the two popular destinations in northern part of India after Delhi.
Changing of the Route of MTB Himalaya
From 2010, the route of MTB Himalaya has been altered and it follows a loop, where the race begins from Shimla and ends at Shimla. It passes through Shimla District, Kullu District and Mandi district, covering Dalhousie and Prashar Lake.
Format of MTB Himalaya
MTB Himalaya has had the following categories for cyclists:
•Open Men Solo
•Open Women Solo
•Open Masters (age 40 and above) Solo
•Teams of two riders
From the year 2011, a trail running category has also been introduced simultaneously with the biking.
Related Articles
Indian Athletics
Cycling in India
Himalayan Mountain Range
Traditional Sports in India
Mountain Biking in India
Adventure Sports in India
Adventure Sports in Karnataka
Tourism in India
