Sikkim to host first mountain biking championship

Gangtok, May 4 (UNI) After cementing its position in the country's eco-tourism map in just two years, Hee-Bermoik located in the alpine regions of West Sikkim is all set to host the first Kanchenjunga Mountain Biking Championship on May 12.

The championship is being organised by the Hee-Bermoik tourism development and heritage conservation society in co-partnership with Nepal Mountain Tour, experts in organising mountain biking.

''We have also approached the Asian Cycling Federation countries to participate in the biking championship,'' T N Sharma, president of the society told UNI.

The Nepal tour company would also be bringing their share of bikers, Mr Sharma said.

The local tour operators from the state have promoted the event and would bring their clients, he added.

'' We expect around 30 to 40 participants for the event,'' he said.

With Kanchenjunga range as a perfect backdrop, the participants would be criss-crossing 30 kms of metalled roads, rough roads and trek routes from 13th Mile, Hee Gaon to reach up to Samater which falls under the famous Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary.

The Hee-Bermoik area boasts of a spectacular view of the mighty range with the altitude ranging from 4000 ft to 8000 ft.

The biking event falls on the third day of the annual Kalez valley heritage festival 2007 which starts from May 10 at Gufa dara, Hee Bermoik.

MORE UNI