Mountain biking in Asia has seemingly developed leaps and bounds in the past few years, which, unbeknown to some, could be vastly attributed to by HASTPA (the Himalayan Adventure Sports and Tourism Promotion Association).

Running the oldest, toughest and apparently most successful MTB stage race, the Hero MTB Himalaya, the innovative organisation are once again putting on another anticipated event; a nine day, 500km event, taking place from 26th September to 4th October. Riders are categorised into 4 levels of ability; Open Men Solo, Open Women Solo, Team of Two Open and Master Solo.

A statement released from Team HASTPA describes the event – “From tough uphills to spiralling downhills, from crossing streams to sleeping under the stars – the race gives a beautiful tour of the wonder that is the Himalayas.”

The HERO MTB Himalaya takes place between 26th September and 4th October, covering 500km
The HERO MTB Himalaya takes place between 26th September and 4th October, covering 500km
Riders are categorised into 4 levels of ability; Open Men Solo, Open Women Solo, Team of Two Open and Master Solo.
Riders are categorised into 4 levels of ability; Open Men Solo, Open Women Solo, Team of Two Open and Master Solo.
“From tough uphills to spiralling downhills, from crossing streams to sleeping under the stars – the race gives a beautiful tour of the wonder that is the Himalayas.”
“From tough uphills to spiralling downhills, from crossing streams to sleeping under the stars – the race gives a beautiful tour of the wonder that is the Himalayas.”
Camping under the stars in the Himalaya's seems ideal...if you can handle the riding to get to each campsite.
Camping under the stars in the Himalaya’s seems ideal…if you can handle the riding to get to each campsite.

HASTPA have also created a mini version of this event, the UT MTB Shimla, which took place between 3rd and 5th April with a distance of 105km and 3024m of climbing.

For more info, visit: mtbhimalaya.com

Words: Andrew Richardson


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