Rally of Himalayas 2026 begins with historic Zanskar debut

The sixth edition of the Rally of Himalayas 2026, a demanding Cross-Country Rally (CCR) event, commenced in Manali on Saturday. Organized by Himalayan Xtreme Motorsports and Adventure X Fusion Tribe, this year’s rally marks a significant milestone with its first-ever route into the Zanskar region.

The five-day competition features 140 participants divided into three categories: Moto, Extreme, and TSD (Time, Speed, Distance). The Moto category includes 80 riders, the Extreme category consists of 35 participants including five Army teams, and the TSD category includes 24 competitors. The field includes professional competitors, private entrants, and female participants.

The route traverses high-altitude and remote terrain, passing through Kaza, Jispa, Padum, and Pensi La, before concluding in Padum, Zanskar, on September 30. The ceremonial flag-off was attended by Chief Guest MLA Bhuvneshwar Gaur and Guest of Honour V. P. S. Jasrotia.