The Maruti Suzuki Raid-de-Himalaya is considered by most rally enthusiasts as the most extreme rally event in India. Come October 2nd and the 10th edition of this grueling rally will be flagged of from Shimla. This year the Raid has attracted a record number of participants, with about 150 teams in total, gearing up for this event. Of these, 130 teams are participating in the Adventure Trial (for regular cars/SUVs driven by amateurs), 80 in X-treme (for rally cars driven by professionals) and 40 in the 2-wheeler category.

The Raid-de-Himalaya 2008 has a new route this time around and will traverse through Manali, Kaza, Patseo, Leh, Kargil and Zanskar to culminate in Leh on 9th October. Srinagar route has been deleted due to the tension in the valley. The eight day event will see participants drive over 2,400 kms on some of the roughest terrain over some of the highest motorable passes in the world including the Tanglang La, the second highest motorable passes in the world.