12th MTB Shimla set to enthral cyclists across India

ANI May 15, 2025 496 views

The 12th MTB Shimla kicks off with 100 cyclists tackling a 120 km route through scenic trails. Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu flagged off the event, which includes a heritage ride showcasing Shimla’s culture. Organized by HASTPA, the race promotes adventure tourism and youth cycling in the state. The challenging route passes through Kufri-Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, blending sport with nature.

"Our journey over 20 years has positioned Himachal as a global cycling hub" – Mohit Sood, HASTPA
12th MTB Shimla set to enthral cyclists across India
Shimla, May 15: The 12th edition of the MTB Shimla, India's premier mountain biking challenge, is set to take place from May 16 to 18.

Key Points

1

100 cyclists from 28 cities to tackle 120 km route

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Heritage ride through Shimla town highlights local culture

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Trail includes Kufri-Chail Wildlife Sanctuary routes

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Event promotes ecotourism and youth cycling in Himachal

Organised by the Himalayan Adventure Sports & Tourism Promotion Association (HASTPA) in association with Himachal Tourism, Government of Himachal Pradesh and the Cycling Association of Himachal Pradesh, the event will be flagged off from the historic Ridge by the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

This year, 100 cyclists from 28 cities and 20 states will embark on a thrilling journey, covering a challenging 120 km course. The main highlight of the event will be a 20 km heritage ride through the main town of Shimla on May 16, in the presence of many youth and invited school children, to show the world our rich heritage, beauty, and history.

The trail, designed to test endurance and skill, features jeep tracks, meadow sections, and cross-country routes. Participants will ride through the breathtaking landscapes of the KufriChail Wildlife Sanctuary and the Potters Hill Glen Reserve Forest, highlighting Shimla's natural beauty to the world.

The MTB Shimla not only promises an exhilarating experience for cyclists but also aims to elevate ecotourism and promote cycling as a sport among the youth of Himachal Pradesh. The event showcases the state's unparalleled potential as a hub for adventure tourism, especially mountain cycling, one of the world's biggest activities.

Mohit Sood, Founder and President of HASTPA, remarked, "Our journey over the past 20 years has been nothing short of incredible. We've worked tirelessly to position Himachal Pradesh as a premier destination for cycling enthusiasts across the world. The MTB Shimla embodies our vision of blending adventure with nature and culture, inspiring countless young minds to embrace cycling as a sport and activity and explore the majestic beauty of our state."

The MTB Shimla continues to set new standards in adventure sports, fostering a vibrant community of cyclists, sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As the event gears up for another edition, it reaffirms the commitment to sustainable tourism, nurturing sporting talent and the promotion of healthy living.

Reader Comments

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Rahul K.
What an amazing initiative! Himachal Pradesh is truly blessed with natural beauty and such events put it on the global adventure tourism map. I participated last year and the trails were breathtaking. Kudos to HASTPA for their consistent efforts! �
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Priya M.
The heritage ride through Shimla town sounds wonderful! It's a great way to showcase our culture while promoting cycling. Hope they maintain proper safety measures though - those mountain trails can be quite challenging.
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Arjun S.
As a cycling enthusiast from Bangalore, I've always wanted to participate in MTB Shimla. The combination of adventure and nature conservation is brilliant. Maybe next year I'll finally make it! Any tips from past participants?
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Neha T.
While I appreciate the event, I hope organizers ensure minimal environmental impact. The Kufri-Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is ecologically sensitive. Adventure tourism should not come at nature's cost. Otherwise, great initiative to promote sports!
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Vikram J.
Shimla's weather in May is perfect for cycling! This event is putting Himachal on the world cycling map. I remember when it started small 12 years ago - look how it's grown now with participants from 20 states. Desi version of Tour de France! 😄
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Sunita R.
The involvement of school children is the best part. Getting our youth interested in outdoor activities instead of mobile phones is much needed. Hope they organize similar events in other hill stations too. Uttarakhand would be perfect next!

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Tags:
MTB Shimla mountain biking India Himachal tourism Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu HASTPA adventure sports