Sikkim’s adventure sport is going up a notch as it is set to host the world’s highest mountain biking race between June 26 and 29. The race, named Epic 17k, is being organized in collaboration with Mountain Goats Adventure Company, Hub Outdoors and the North District Administration of Sikkim.
“Safe Himalayas” and “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” are the two major themes of the race this year. When it was introduced last year, the dangerous mountain biking race by Red Bull made headlines. While during the first edition the participants were only local, this year the riders are coming from different parts of India, Nepal and Bhutan. Going forward, the program aims to bring mountain biking to a global level.
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Talking about the race, this race will be of 330 kilometers which will have four stages. It will take four days to cover this distance and the race will start from Mangan to Lachung on the first day. On the second day, riders will compete between Lachung and Yumesamdong and then back to Lachung. The journey from Lachung to Thangu will be covered on the third day, and Thangu to Gurudongmar Lake will be covered on the final day of the race.
The event is expected to bring a big boost to the tourism scenario as well as entrepreneurship development of Sikkim. Medical and logistics support will be taken care of by the Indian Army. The rescue team is being led by Everester Qazi Sherpa. To avoid any medical emergencies, there will be ambulances around the riders during the race as well, as the terrain is really rocky and the oxygen levels are also below normal. The winner of the race will receive a prize of Rs 2,50,000 – which is sponsored by Rajya Sabha MP Hsieh Lachungpa and the district administration.
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Would you like to witness this remarkable event in the coming month? Well, now it is time for you to choose the best from our Sikkim tour packages.
read ahead: 14 Best Places to Visit in Sikkim in Summer to See the Grandeur of Nature!
