The total kilometers of the route this year almost remain the same (look for details under the route section) however expect more stages, time trials and very tough hike and bike sections. Prepare yourself well; for the adventure promises surprises, obstacles and only those who are tough in their mental makeup will survive the task; though we maintain that it's not a survival course, it's an adventure, limitless and as rustic as it can get. Those not living on the edge; take respite; we do have a new comfort category being introduced this year (take a look in at the categories section). The Himalayas are rewarding, ask someone who has wheeled or hiked through its trails; its uncharted interiors; and the revelations it brings. The exquisite vistas, gushing rivers & streams, Rolling Meadows, verdant forests and golden peaks, lend to HERCULES MOUNTAIN BIKING HIMACHAL again its unique status of also being one of the most beautiful rides in the world. There is the grandeur of the Himalayas, the magnificence of deep forests of Pinus Roxburghii, Oak, Horse Chestnuts and Himalayan Cedars through which the trails wind their way, there is the sheer sense of triumph and contentment, there are moments of wilderness in solitude, there you are stretching your limitations crossing Himalayan passes, pedaling high, reaching altitudes of 3600mts and as you mountain hop through the happy trails it's a surprising 14,000 meters of total climbing (total elevation gain) through the gruesome, challenging 9 days totaling an even more surprising over 700 kilometers.

There are long downhills and grueling uphills, as there are straight stretches, there are tougher sections of hike and bike, and there are fast paced gravel roads. There is a lil' bit of everything for riders of all initiations (Mountain Bikers, Road Riders etc), just not dirt roads and singletracks. We look forward to great days of pedaling through the mountains, as do we also look forward to hiking through high meadows and trails at 3300mts.Understand the only timeless things are courage, stamina, endurance, resolve and determination and you would need these in huge reserves, if planning to have a great time exploring yourself pedaling and walking through the Himalayas. It is about passion and it is about mountains, it is about the riders as much it is about the ride. HERCULES MOUNTAIN BIKING HIMACHAL 2008 awaits all those willing to discover a new hidden self and ride high. So if you hear within, and have itchy feet; read the signs;