Day three of The Classic Himalayan Drive 2025 began with a sunrise that promised adventure and the unmistakable thrill of the open road. Participants awoke to the calls of the wild at Corbett National Park, ready for a guided early morning Jeep Safari through one of India’s most iconic wildlife sanctuaries. The early chill of dawn gave way to excitement as the convoy of jeeps rolled into the heart of Corbett, where nature revealed herself in all her splendour — herds of spotted deer and majestic sambar, playful Rhesus monkeys and Langurs swinging between the trees, wild boars rustling through the undergrowth, and the occasional jackal darting into the shadows. It was a tranquil yet thrilling start to the day, an ode to the wilderness that frames this legendary drive.
By late morning, engines once again came to life as the Rallyists set off for the next leg — Corbett to Rishikesh. The route was one of remarkable beauty and texture, weaving through causeways and along canals that mirrored the sky, with the Rajaji Tiger Reserve forming a verdant backdrop. It was a golden hour drive, where sunlight kissed chrome and the reflections danced on car bonnets — a photographer’s dream and a driver’s delight.
Upon arrival in Rishikesh, participants checked into their riverside resort and found themselves immersed in an atmosphere of serenity. As dusk approached, all gathered for the Ganga Arti, where chants and the flicker of lamps lit the banks of the sacred river. The Ganges shimmered under the fading sun, with the mighty Himalayas standing guard in the distance — a moment that united soul, sky, and road. A lavish high tea followed, featuring piping hot Indian snacks and fragrant tea, leading seamlessly into a sumptuous buffet dinner that rounded off a day steeped in wonder.
River Rush and Mountain Roads
The spirit of adventure continued the following morning, as the more daring participants took to the Ganges for an exhilarating session of river rafting. Laughter and splashes filled the air as Rallyists navigated the rapids, trading their driving gloves for paddles — a true Himalayan cardio session! The morning closed with a hearty Indian breakfast, laden with regional favourites that fuelled both appetite and camaraderie.
After check-out, the convoy embarked on the next leg — the scenic Himalayan drive to Mussoorie. This segment was a tribute to rallying nostalgia, recreating the iconic route of the Old Himalayan Rally from Chamba to Mussoorie via Dhanaulti. The winding roads, hairpin bends, and sweeping mountain views ignited pure motoring joy as the classic beauties purred and roared through the hills, each curve offering both a challenge and a thrill.
A Royal Welcome to Mussoorie
Awaiting them at the destination was the timeless charm of Welcomhotel The Savoy Mussoorie, where Rallyists received a grand royal welcome. Check-in was steeped in history, featuring a nostalgic photo gallery of past editions of The Classic Himalayan Drive hosted at The Savoy. The day’s highlight came in the form of a heartfelt video message from Mussoorie’s own literary legend — Ruskin Bond, who greeted participants and wished them safe travels through the mountains he so lovingly wrote about.
In true Savoy hospitality, guests were treated to an elegant Welcome Tea, followed by the ceremonial kick-off to the Christmas season — the much-loved Cake Mixing Ceremony. Amid laughter and chatter, fruits and nuts were muddled with cheer, marking the beginning of festive camaraderie in the hills.
Later that evening, the town came alive as the rally’s classic cars paraded down Mall Road — a slow, graceful cavalcade of vintage splendour. Tourists and locals alike lined the streets, waving and capturing the spectacle, as local law enforcement ensured a smooth and seamless passage for the convoy.
The evening concluded in style with a Gala Dinner hosted by Welcomhotel The Savoy Mussoorie. The air filled with the sounds of live music and golden oldies, as Rallyists danced, dined, and celebrated another unforgettable leg of their Himalayan odyssey. It was an evening that perfectly balanced nostalgia, festivity, and the enduring elegance of heritage motoring.
The Journey Continues
As dawn broke, the crisp mountain air and steaming cups of tea set the tone for an early start. After a hearty breakfast featuring freshly baked breads, local pahadi specialties, and hot coffee, Rallyists assembled beside their classic machines, ready for the next stage — Mussoorie to Theog, via Nayagaon, Purola, Hatkoti, Rohru, and Jubbal.
A special flag-off ceremony was held at the historic Welcomhotel The Savoy Mussoorie, led by Mr. Kishore Kaya, owner of The Savoy, and Mr. Ganesh Saili, noted Indian author and historian. Mr. Saili spoke of the Himalayas as “a storyteller’s paradise,” while Mr. Kaya highlighted The Savoy’s legacy in celebrating travel and exploration. With warm wishes and the wave of the chequered flag, engines came alive and the convoy rolled out.
This would be the longest and perhaps the most challenging leg yet, spanning 275 kilometres through winding roads, forested valleys, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas. Engines revved once more, exhaust notes echoing through the hills, as the convoy rolled out in unison — a ribbon of chrome and colour weaving its way through the mountains, bound for new roads and stories waiting to be written.
Acknowledging Our Partners
This extraordinary motoring experience is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors — Club ITC, ICSA International Clearing and Shipping Agency, Yokohama, Uttarakhand Tourism, LGT Wealth India, Radha TMT Steels, Welcomhotel The Savoy Mussoorie, Welcomhotel ITC Dwarka New Delhi, Inatur, and Vamcy Merla.
Their partnership and commitment to heritage motoring, sustainability, and the spirit of travel continue to make The Classic Himalayan Drive a hallmark event on India’s motoring calendar.
