The Bhutanese Leading the way.
The Enduring Friendship Mountain Bike Challenge organized by Project DANTAK in collaboration with the Bhutan Olympic Committee has grown into one of the most anticipated sporting events in Bhutan, showcasing not only athletic endurance but also the profound diplomatic and cultural friendship between Bhutan and India.
Launched in 2011, the event was created to commemorate the long-standing bilateral ties and to promote healthy lifestyles through sports.
The inaugural race, held in 2011, saw modest participation but received wide support from both governments. Early editions of the race were primarily symbolic, but by 2015, participation had nearly doubled. The route—winding through Bhutan’s mountainous terrain—became a favorite among local and visiting cyclists. Support from Bhutan’s Royal Family, Dantak, Indian diplomatic missions and growing local participation played a key role in raising the event’s profile.
By 2016, the race had expanded to include more competitive categories and better-organized logistics. More local women and young riders began participating. In 2018, organizers introduced a team relay format alongside the individual competition to encourage community-level participation. The 2019 edition recorded over 160 participants, the highest at the time.
As with many global events, COVID-19 led to the suspension of the challenge for three years. Despite the pause, virtual engagement and training programs kept the spirit alive, with past participants sharing stories online and hosting informal rides.
The event made a celebrated comeback in 2023. In 2024, the focus shifted toward inclusivity, introducing special recognition for senior and junior riders.
This year the event in its 11th Edition was successfully conducted today at the iconic Changlimithang Stadium. This year too it was organized by Project DANTAK in collaboration with the Bhutan Olympic Committee, and the event celebrated the spirit of camaraderie, adventure, and deep-rooted friendship between India and Bhutan.
The event was flagged off by His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck around 7 AM in the presence of several dignitaries, marking the beginning of an exhilarating competition that drew together cyclists from across the region. A total of 183 riders, including 14 cyclists who came from India for the event, participated in the challenge which was divided into two competitive categories: a 100 km endurance race and a 65 km intermediate race. Among the participants were 18 women athletes, whose spirited participation added to the inclusivity and vibrancy of the event.
Established in 1961, Project DANTAK, a premier road construction project of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), has stood as a pillar of Bhutan’s infrastructural transformation, weaving together a legacy of progress and partnership. To celebrate this enduring Indo-Bhutan friendship, the mountain bike event was first held in 2011, and has since become a hallmark event, uniting cycling enthusiasts in a celebration of resilience, adventure, and unity.
This year’s edition bore witness to an unprecedented turnout of more than 180 cyclists from Bhutan, India, and beyond. The youngest rider was only 9 years of age, while the eldest participant, at 59, exemplified the timeless spirit of perseverance. The participation of 18 women cyclists underscored the growing inclusivity and vibrance of the event.
Traversing the breathtaking yet demanding Thimphu – Paro – Thimphu route, riders were met with steep ascents, hairpin bends, and spectacular Himalayan vistas. The Closing ceremony including prize distribution was graced by Lyonpo Chandra Bahadur Gurung, Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, who handed out awards and commended the participants for their endurance, stamina and sportsmanship. A prize money of Nu 7 lakhs was awarded across various categories, recognizing outstanding performances in both men’s and women’s segments. Many esteemed dignitaries and distinguished guests graced the occasion.
The day also featured enthralling musical performances and traditional Indian cuisine, delighting the large audience in attendance. In his address of gratitude, Brigadier Rohit Gupta, Chief Engineer, Project DANTAK, extended heartfelt appreciation to the Royal Government of Bhutan and all supporting agencies — including the Bhutan Olympic Committee, Royal Bhutan Police, Thimphu Thromde, Department of Culture, Department of National Properties, Bhutan Toilet Organisation, media representatives, sponsors, volunteers, and the people of Bhutan — for their unwavering support and collective spirit that brought the event to life.
The Enduring Friendship Mountain Bike Challenge stands as a testament to the shared values of resilience, cooperation, and mutual respect that define India-Bhutan relations. It also promotes healthy living, sustainable transport, and community engagement through sports.
Project DANTAK and the Bhutan Olympic Committee said they extended their heartfelt appreciation to all participants, volunteers, and supporters who made this event a resounding success.
