MTB Shimla 2026 to Bring 100 Cyclists to Himalayan Trails
The hills around Shimla are once again set to come alive with the spirit of adventure as the 13th edition of MTB Shimla takes centre stage from October 23 to 25. Nearly 100 mountain bikers from 20 states across India will take on a gruelling 130-kilometre race through some of the region’s most demanding terrain, competing not just for prize money but also for the prestigious King of the Himalayas title.
Organised by the Himalayan Adventure Sports and Tourism Promotion Association (HASTPA), the event is supported by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department, Himachal Pradesh Police and the Forest Department. Over three days, riders will navigate steep climbs, rugged forest trails and challenging mountain routes, facing a cumulative elevation gain of around 3,800 metres.
The competition will offer a total prize purse of ₹8 lakh, including ₹6 lakh in cash rewards and ₹2 lakh worth of prizes in kind. The event is expected to attract some of the country’s top cyclists, including national champions, elite competitors, promising young riders and professional cycling teams.
The race will begin with a ceremonial flag-off from the historic Ridge in Shimla at 3 pm on October 23. Participants will first take part in a heritage ride that will pass through several iconic landmarks, including Chaura Maidan, the Indian Institute of Advanced Study and Summerhill, giving riders and spectators a glimpse of Shimla’s rich cultural heritage.
The real test begins on October 24 and 25, when cyclists will ride through the dense forests of the Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary and tackle demanding mountain trails around Kufri, Mashobra, Charabra, Koti and Fagu. The challenging route is designed to push riders to their limits, testing endurance, technical ability and mental toughness amid the breathtaking Himalayan landscape.
Two Decades of Building a Cycling Legacy
MTB Shimla is part of HASTPA’s long-running effort to develop mountain biking in India and position Himachal Pradesh as a premier adventure sports destination. Since launching its mountain biking initiatives in 2005, the organisation has played a key role in nurturing cycling talent and fostering a growing community of riders across the country.
Over the past 21 years, events such as MTB Shimla and MTB Himalaya have attracted participants from more than 30 countries, helping bring international attention to Himalayan cycling routes while generating opportunities for local tourism and businesses.
HASTPA founder and president Mohit Sood said the organisation’s journey has been about much more than organising races. According to him, it has been about inspiring sporting careers, producing champions and encouraging thousands of young people to embrace cycling as a lifestyle and sport.
He described MTB Shimla as a celebration of courage, resilience and the enduring spirit of the Himalayas, adding that HASTPA remains committed to developing world-class cycling trails and creating opportunities for future champions.
Promoting Safety and Sustainable Mobility
Beyond the competition, this year’s edition will also focus on road safety and environmental awareness. HASTPA, in collaboration with Royal Enfield’s Social Mission initiative, will conduct a helmet and road safety awareness campaign aimed at promoting responsible riding practices.
The initiative will encourage cyclists and motorists alike to adopt safer road habits, respect fellow road users and prioritise helmet use. Special emphasis will be placed on reaching young riders, students and local communities.
Organisers also hope the event will encourage more people to view cycling as a healthy, eco-friendly mode of transport. The involvement of the Police, Forest Department and Tourism Department underlines the broader goals of promoting sustainable tourism, environmental responsibility and youth engagement.
Sandeep Kumar, Secretary (Tourism), Government of Himachal Pradesh, said mountain biking offers immense potential to strengthen the state’s position as a world-class adventure tourism destination. He noted that events such as MTB Shimla not only showcase the natural beauty of the Himalayas but also create economic opportunities for local communities while encouraging healthy lifestyles and sustainable travel.
As riders prepare to conquer the mountain trails around Shimla, MTB Shimla 2026 promises to be more than just a race. It will be a celebration of adventure, endurance and the growing appeal of Himalayan cycling on both the national and international stage.
