It’s not often you can plan your vacation time around an event that is almost guaranteed to change how you look at the world. But getting to know India while driving a pimped out auto rickshaw isn’t on any travel agents’ roster and it isn’t for the faint of heart.

The Rickshaw:

The beautiful beast recently celebrated its’ 50th anniversary since first rolling off Indian production lines in 1957. For all that time the auto rickshaw has remained almost entirely unchanged. Thanks to the sheer simplicity of the engine anyone can figure out how to diagnose and solve problems, which is super important because you will break down.

Q: Why am I driving a vehicle that I know will break down?
A: Why not? Seriously, it’s really easy to put back together and even the most remote villages will have parts. If you don’t want to do it yourself you get to make friends with other people who can come along and start a conversation besides just fixing your ride. People will be happy to see and talk to you and appreciative for the small cost of the repair. When was the last time you could say that for your local mechanic at home?

By racing in a rickshaw you have to slow down, after all the top vehicle speed is 80 kmh or 50 mph. (Way faster than any of the local wildlife, FYI.) This way you’re forced into enjoying the adventure: from the awesome views to the local people and fellow racers. Relax, we’ll be at a party soon.

Pimping:

Our Pimp Masters in Chennai are the original kings of three-wheeled BLING. Not to toot our own custom horn, but no parade on earth is quite the spectacle that 30 bangin’ rickshaws is. Want to peep the details? Head on over to our boys at: www.pimpmyshaw.com

Driving Lessons:

You’ll be a pro before you know it. The day before the event starts (after registration) we fully demonstrate how to drive and participants are let loose for the first time with their own beautiful racing auto rickshaw. If you’ve ever thought of yourself as a pro auto rickshaw driver just itching to break free… this could be it.

Accommodations:

Accommodations are entirely the responsibility of the participants. The last night of the event in Mumbai (Mumbai Xpress) or Kanniyakumari (Classic Challenge), everyone gets one free night in a luxury hotel to celebrate or sleep. For the rest of the time you can camp out, spring for the penthouse suite or anything in between. We make a list of the most comfortable and reliable hotel/hostel options available to you in the roadbook prior to the event. Participants can also choose to purchase an accommodations package from us and this is further detailed under the financial page.