High-Altitude Automotive Challenge in the Himalayas - The Most Challenging Motoring Event
The Raid De Himalayas, a renowned motorsport rally, first commenced in 1999 and has since become one of the most challenging and prestigious events in Asia. Held annually in the Himalayas, this endurance event tests the limits of participants through extreme terrain and altitudes, making it a formidable challenge for both man and machine.
Established as India's longest, highest, and most strenuous motorsport event, the Raid De Himalayas attracts accomplished rally racers and adventurers from around the world. The rally traverses some of the highest mountain roads in the world, with altitudes often exceeding 15,000 feet, subjecting vehicles and riders to severe environmental stress.
The route of the rally includes difficult and remote circuits like Spiti, Kashmir, and Ladakh, which feature treacherous conditions and unpredictable weather. Participants face long hours of challenging driving or riding, demanding high levels of fitness, concentration, and mental toughness. The rally's dangerous routes have led to fatal incidents, underscoring the perilous nature of the event.
Navigating lodging, supplies, and luggage across remote Himalayan areas is complex, necessitating well-organized support systems for the participants. Mechanical failures are common due to the harsh conditions, requiring teams to have excellent technical preparedness and resilience to continue despite setbacks.
The Raid De Himalayas has a nine-time winner, Suresh Rana, who has demonstrated exceptional endurance and skill in this gruelling competition. The rally takes racers through some of the world's highest motorable roads, including Jalori Pass, Rohtang Pass, Kunzum La, Baralacha La, Tanglang La, and Khardung La.
The 19th edition of the Raid De Himalayas is scheduled to take place from October 06-14, 2017. This edition is anticipated to boost tourism in the region due to its popularity and is expected to maintain its reputation as a significant motorsport event in India. The routes of the Raid De Himalayas change every year, leading through some of the toughest roads and various landscapes.
Since 2001, Maruti Suzuki has been the active sponsor of the Raid De Himalayas, fostering its growth and recognition as a mega motorsport event. The rally continues to be one of the most awaited motorsport events in the country, showcasing the scenic routes of the Himalayas at high altitudes and cementing its place as one of the top ten toughest rallies in the world.
- For those seeking an adventure-travel experience, the Raid De Himalayas offers a challenging and prestigious motorsport event that combines lifestyle elements with extreme conditions.
- During their training for auto-racing, participants must not only focus on racing skills but also enhance their fitness levels and mental toughness to overcome the demanding terrain and unpredictable weather conditions encountered on the rally's travel routes.
- Traveling to remote regions of the Himalayas for the Raid De Himalayas isn't just about sports and racing; it's also about experiencing the breathtaking scenery, including the world's highest motorable roads, and immersing oneself in a lifestyle of endurance and adventure.
