Gulmarg, Sep 22 – A thrilling chapter in India’s mountain biking history is about to begin. Zabarvan, a community-driven sports organization, has officially announced the MTB Downhill – Zabarvan Legends Series — India’s first international downhill mountain biking event — to be held in the stunning slopes of Gulmarg from October 9 to 12.
The high-adrenaline event will bring together elite riders from across the globe — including participants from Australia, Taiwan, the Czech Republic, Italy, Brazil, and Indonesia, alongside India’s rising stars.
At a press conference, a Zabarvan official unveiled that this flagship event marks the launch of Phase Three of their ambitious mission to unite and empower India’s mountain sports community.
“We started with a vision: to bring together a fragmented mountain sports culture in India,” the official shared.
“In Phase One, we focused on developing affordable and safer gear within India. Phase Two saw us scouting, training, and sponsoring local talent, like Zubair Ahmad Lone — a Winter Olympics hopeful in snowboarding — and Guinness World Record-holder Adil Teli, who will represent India at the UCI event in Australia.”
Now, with Phase Three, Zabarvan is integrating grassroots development with global competition, encouraging wider participation and lifting the standard of Indian riders. This landmark series has received governmental and corporate support after 18 months of negotiations, with major sponsors including Indigo, Spoke Hub, Kirloskar Ferrous, and Span Foundation.
More Than Just a Race
The Zabarvan Legends Series will span three culturally rich and geographically distinct locations:
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Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
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Shillong, Meghalaya
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Guwahati, Assam
Each venue offers not just a unique terrain challenge, but also a window into the region’s culture, folklore, and food. In Gulmarg, the race will be held on the Draksheen Vaar trail, a demanding 2.5 km course. Riders will use the iconic Gulmarg Gondola for ascent, recovery, and additional practice runs — blending adventure with convenience.
The event owes its realization to the unwavering support from key stakeholders, including J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, MLA Farooq Shah, and Gulmarg Development Authority CEO Tariq Hussain Naik. Contributions from the Wildlife and Forest Departments, JKCC Corporation, ATV Association, and local trail-builders like Hassan Lalla, Zubair Ahmad Lone, and Farhat Naik have also been instrumental.
