Mana Pass MTB Challenge 2025 – India’s Highest Mountain Biking Race!

Mana Pass MTB Challenge is back again with its 4th edition, happening on 27th September 2025. This epic event is not just a race – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to ride your mountain bike at 5,632 metres above sea level on one of the world’s highest motorable roads, just before the Indo-Tibetan border.

This MTB race from Mana Pass to Badrinath is proudly organised by the Ski Mountaineering Association of Uttarakhand, and it already holds a place in the India Book of Records.\

Where is Mana Pass?

Mana Pass lies on the border of India and Tibet, near Mana Village, which is famously known as the last Indian village. This high mountain pass connects Uttarakhand with the Tibet Autonomous Region of China and remains under the strict watch of the Indian Army.

Usually, civilians are not allowed beyond Mana village, but during this MTB challenge, special permission is given, making it one of the rarest opportunities to explore this region on cycle.

Quick Facts – Mana Pass MTB Challenge

Event Highlights

• 🚴 Downhill MTB Race from Mana Pass to Badrinath

• 👨‍🚴‍♂️ Separate categories for Male and Female riders

• 🏆 Cash Prizes Worth ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000

• 🎽 Event T-shirt, ID card, Finisher Certificate

• 🏅 Mana Pass MTB Trophy for winners

• 📍 World’s 3rd Highest Motorable Road

Categories & Entry Fee

Itinerary – 4 Days of Adventure

Dates: 25th to 28th September 2025

• Day 1 – 25 Sept:
  Arrival at Joshimath → Transfer to Badrinath → Evening briefing

• Day 2 – 26 Sept:
  Visit Mana Village, Trek to Vasudhara Falls
  Cultural program, Rawal Ji’s pooja at Badrinath, flag hoisting

• Day 3 – 27 Sept (Race Day):
  4:00 AM – Depart for Mana Pass
  5:30 AM – Race flag-off
  Route: Mana Pass → Ghastoli → Mana → Badrinath
  2:00 PM – Return and rest
  4:30 PM – Closing ceremony

• Day 4 – 28 Sept:
  Breakfast and Departure

Mandatory Requirements

To participate, you must have:

• ✅ Adventure Sports Insurance (with Heli Rescue cover)

• ✅ Medical Fitness Certificate

• ✅ Valid Photo ID

• ✅ MTB Bike & Safety Gear (helmet, hydration bag, gloves, thermals, etc.)

⚠ Organizers are not responsible for any insurance-related claims or damages.

 

Prize & Goodies

All registered riders will receive:

• 🎽 Event T-Shirt

• 🎟️ Race ID card

• 🏁 Finisher Certificate

• 🏆 Mana Pass MTB Trophy (for winners)

• 💸 Cash Prize for Main Race Winners

• 🧢 Local support, discounted stay & meals at Badrinath (optional)

Registration Process

Transfer fee to this bank account:

• Send payment proof to any of these contacts:

  • 📞 Vikesh Dimri – 7310555509

  • 📞 Rajeev Mehta – 7453807401

  • 📞 Vimal Panwar – 9412418725

  • 📧 Email: auliskiing@gmail.com

  • 📲 WhatsApp: 7830158809

• Fill the registration form (available through organizers).

Safety First

Due to the high-altitude terrain and remote location, every rider must:

• Get properly acclimatized by arriving 2 days before race day

• Have insurance that covers heli rescue and accidents

• Carry all essential MTB & cold weather gear

• Ride responsibly and respect local environment

Tips for Participants

1. Acclimatise properly – Arrive a few days early to adjust to high altitude.

2. Stay hydrated, but avoid overexertion before race day.

3. Practice uphill riding and breathing control.

4. Listen to your body – health comes first, always.

Why Join Mana Pass MTB Challenge?

Racing through the clouds on Himalayan roads above 18,000 ft is not just thrilling – it’s legendary. If you’re a mountain biking lover, this is your ultimate test of spirit, endurance, and passion.

What Makes Mana Pass MTB Challenge So Special?

1. Extreme Altitude: Cycling above 18,000 ft is not a joke. The air becomes thin, oxygen levels drop, and every pedal stroke becomes harder.

2. Scenic Beauty: The route passes through Badrinath, Mana village, and Ghastoli, offering views of snow-covered peaks, alpine valleys, and untouched nature.

3. Adrenaline & Endurance: This is not just a race – it’s a personal challenge. The route is a test of stamina, mental strength, and survival skills in high-altitude terrain.

4. Rare Opportunity: Reaching Mana Pass is restricted for civilians. This race is among the very few chances where non-military people can touch this sacred and strategic Himalayan road.

The views, the people, the terrain – everything makes this event unforgettable.

So, if your heart beats for adventure… Mana Calling – Are You Ready?

Ajay Bhatt – The Man Behind This Event and a Record Holder

Ajay Bhatt is a well-known name in the world of Indian skiing and mountaineering. He belongs to Joshimath, Uttarakhand, and has been a professional ski athlete and certified mountaineering coach for years. Apart from training young talents in the snow sports field, he is also known for promoting adventure tourism in the Himalayas.

Ajay Bhatt is the main brain behind this adventurous event. The first edition of this event was initiated by him alone. With his efforts and local team support, the event grew successfully and completed its 3rd edition. But that’s not all.

In November 2024, Ajay Bhatt and his team achieved a big milestone by setting a record in the India Book of Records. The title was “Maximum bikers and cyclists participated in a rally held at Mana Pass.” This rally took place at Mana Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. This was a proud moment not just for the team but also for Uttarakhand and India’s adventure community.

You can read about this official record on the India Book of Records website here:
👉 Maximum bikers and cyclists participated in a rally held at Mana Pass

Ajay Bhatt’s dedication and vision are truly taking Himalayan adventure sports to new heights.

Conclusion

The Mana Pass MTB Challenge is not just a competition – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey for cycling lovers. With snow peaks above, army camps beside, and tough Himalayan trails under your wheels, this race defines the true spirit of Bharat ke brave riders.

If you’re a cycling enthusiast who loves pushing limits, then the Mana Pass MTB Challenge should be on your bucket list. Come and be a part of this unique experience where the air is thin, but the adventure is limitless.

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You can also explore more on Himalayan treks like Darma Valley, Adi Kailash, and others on my website mohitbangari.com, where I share full guides, routes, permit tips and cultural info.

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