Classic Himalayan Drive 2025 Conquers Rohtang Pass, Celebrates a Decade of Mountain Motoring Heritage

Manali/ Delhi – November 10, 2025: The Classic Himalayan Drive 2025 reached its grand finale after a thrilling 10-day journey from Mussoorie to Delhi, conquering one of the most iconic mountain routes in the world — the Rohtang Pass. The event, which took place from November 5 to 10, saw participants tackle steep climbs, snowbound trails, and heritage Himalayan routes in their vintage and classic cars, celebrating endurance, engineering, and timeless adventure.

Mussoorie to Theog: The Longest and Most Demanding Leg

The drive began with a marathon 267 km run from Mussoorie to Theog, covering gravel rally trails, forest roads, and river-side stretches. Participants completed the leg in just 10.5 hours, two hours ahead of schedule, describing it as one of the most exhilarating drives of the event — a true taste of Himalayan rally spirit.

A Pause in Shimla: Restoration and Exploration

The following day offered a rest stop in Shimla, where rallyists explored heritage sites such as the Railway Museum, The Ridge, Mall Road, and Christ Church. Meanwhile, technical crews worked meticulously on restoring and fine-tuning the participating classics before the final ascent into higher altitudes.

Jalori Pass: A Journey Through Rally History

The drive resumed with a 247 km stretch over the historic Jalori Pass (10,800 ft), one of the most legendary sections of early Himalayan rallies. Tight bends, apple orchards, and slush-laden climbs challenged the drivers before they descended safely into Manali, gearing up for the high-altitude highlight of the expedition.

Conquering Rohtang Pass and Atal Tunnel

The defining moment of the 2025 edition came on November 8, when participants drove from Manali to Rohtang Pass (13,095 ft) via the Atal Tunnel under clear blue skies and fresh snowfall. The breathtaking ascent revived the spirit of the original Himalayan Rally of 1980, combining nostalgia with modern motoring resilience.

Despite the biting cold and thin mountain air, the classic machines — some over 40 to 60 years old — powered through the snow-laden climbs, evoking admiration from all present. The day concluded with a farewell dinner and awards night in Manali, marking a triumphant moment for all crews.

Manali to Chandigarh: A Warm Pit Stop at Batra Tyre Service

The next leg saw the convoy descend towards Chandigarh, with a special stop at Batra Tyre Service, one of India’s largest Yokohama dealerships. The pit stop featured live music, interactive sessions, and technical inspections by Yokohama’s expert team. Drivers praised how their vintage vehicles performed flawlessly on Yokohama tyres through gravel, snow, and high-altitude routes — a testament to durability and trust.

Grand Finale in Delhi

The final chapter unfolded with a 295 km drive from Chandigarh to Delhi, where participants were welcomed at Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Dwarka, with high tea and a cake-mixing ceremony. Classic cars lined the hotel entrance, drawing enthusiasts and guests eager to relive the tales from the mountains.