Maruti Suzuki Raid-De-Himalaya to kick off from October 9

The Maruti Suzuki Raid-De-Himalaya has entered its 17th edition and promises to be exciting as each year. Set to kickstart from October 9, 2015 from Shimla, over 150 adrenaline junkies are expected to participate and cover a total distance of approximately 2,000km over six days.

Maruti Suzuki’s new crossover is set to make its first appearance in the off-road rally. A total of four S-Cross’ will participate in the rally this year.

Participants will traverse through the tough and undulating, yet some of the most scenic and picturesque areas which include Manali, Dalhousie and Rangdum. The Maruti Suzuki Raid-De-Himalaya will culminate at the valley city of Srinagar.

The rally has been split into two categories Adventure and X-treme. Participants will traverse through some of the highest altitudes – above 15000 ft, thereby getting exposed to the harsh climate. For the first time ever, Maruti Suzuki Swift will participate in the Xtreme category.

Adding to the buzz are the all-women teams, who promise to give tough competition to the men in the rally. Bani Yadav, who has already been part of the Raid-de-Himalaya last year and Dakshin Dare this year, is one to watch out for. This year has seen a total of 10 women participants, as against the average of five over the last few years. 

Meanwhile, Suresh Rana from Manali who is  nine times winner of the Maruti Suzuki Raid-de-Himalaya and three times winner of Maruti Suzuki Desert Storm rally will be back to raise the bar higher for the other drivers.