Shimla’s historic Ridge echoed with cheers and celebration as Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu flagged off the 12th edition of the MTB Himalaya cycle race—an iconic event that continues to blend the thrill of adventure with the serene beauty of the Himalayan landscape. Organized by the Himalayan Adventure Sports and Tourism Promotion Association (HASPTA) in collaboration with Himachal Tourism, Heatrex Tyres, and the Cycling Association of Himachal Pradesh, the event has emerged as a prominent feature on India’s cycling calendar.
The latest edition of this celebrated mountain biking event draws participation from over a hundred elite riders from across India, including national champions and globally recognized cyclists. Beginning with a Prologue Heritage Ride through the heart of Shimla—from the Ridge to the Indian Institute of Advanced Study and back—the race will traverse challenging terrains including the popular Kufri-Chail stretch and the demanding Shimla-Summerhill-Potters Hill segment. The high-octane event will culminate on May 18, 2025, after offering both athletes and spectators an unforgettable tour through the pristine wilderness and winding mountain roads of Himachal Pradesh.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the broader vision of integrating sport, sustainability, and tourism. He remarked that cycling, beyond being a competitive sport, holds immense value for personal health, environmental conservation, and eco-friendly transport. The event, he said, is not just a race but a cultural journey that brings global attention to Himachal’s rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and commitment to a greener future.
Reflecting the state government’s intent to boost adventure tourism, the Chief Minister announced fresh initiatives to promote cycling as a mainstream activity. Plans are underway to identify and develop dedicated cycling tracks in key regions of the state, including Shimla. Simultaneously, the state capital is undergoing infrastructure upgrades, including the widening of the circular road to ease traffic flow and the construction of a state-of-the-art ice-skating rink at an investment of ₹37 crore—both designed to enhance the city’s appeal to tourists and sports enthusiasts alike.
Highlighting Himachal Pradesh’s firm steps towards environmental leadership, Shri Sukhu reiterated the state’s goal to become a Green Energy State by March 31, 2026. A one-megawatt green hydrogen plant, being set up in Nalagarh, Solan in collaboration with Oil India Limited, will serve as a key milestone in this transition. The Chief Minister reaffirmed that within the next year, Himachal will shift entirely to green energy, setting a precedent for other states in India.
The launch event also featured a spellbinding stunt cycling performance by world champion Lakshay Jangid and a captivating musical presentation by the Indian Army Band, infusing the ceremony with both adrenaline and patriotic fervor.
Chairman of HASPTA, Mohit Sood, welcomed the Chief Minister and lauded the state government’s active support in promoting adventure sports, expressing gratitude for the continued encouragement towards turning Himachal Pradesh into a globally recognized destination for outdoor sports and eco-tourism.
The event was graced by prominent personalities including MLAs Harish Janartha and Sudarshan Babloo, Mayor Surender Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, Councillors, and Chairman of the H.P. Buildings and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board, Nardev Kanwar, among others—marking it as not just a sporting occasion but a celebration of Himachal’s collective spirit and forward-looking vision.
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