J&K Mountain Biking Association

JKMBA Trio Successfully Completes Historic Leh–Umling La Mountain Biking Expedition

Srinagar, August 29, 2026: Three proud members of the Jammu & Kashmir Mountain Biking Association (JKMBA)—Dr. Riaz, Dr. Sajad and Er. Rayees—have successfully completed the challenging Leh to Umling La Mountain Biking Expedition, covering an impressive 347 kilometres and reaching an altitude of 19,024 feet at Umling La Pass.

The expedition proved to be a demanding test of physical endurance, mental strength, courage, teamwork and determination. Before undertaking this high-altitude challenge, all three riders had already completed numerous difficult mountain biking routes across the Kashmir Valley, gaining valuable experience, endurance and confidence.

Speaking about the expedition, Dr. Riaz, one of the members of the team, said that extreme altitude was the biggest challenge faced by the riders. The trio covered more than 300 kilometres during the first three days, but the final stretch demanded even greater strength, patience and determination.

The team subsequently decided to dedicate an additional fourth day to complete the expedition. The final stretch of approximately 25 kilometres from the gateway of Umling La to Umling La Pass took the riders to an extraordinary altitude of 19,024 feet, completing the total journey of 347 kilometres in four days.

The expedition was monitored by Riyaz Wani, Mountain Biking Expert and President of JKMBA, who closely followed the team's progress throughout the challenging journey.

Speaking about the achievement, Riyaz Wani said:

“I personally monitored the entire expedition. All three riders performed excellently. Their determination, discipline and teamwork throughout the journey were truly commendable. I am extremely proud of all three riders.”

Nazir Wani, Senior Member of JKMBA, also congratulated the riders and said:

“What an achievement! What courage and determination. You have made the whole group proud. Heartiest congratulations to the trio for successfully completing the Leh to Umling La expedition and reaching an incredible elevation of 19,024 feet. Keep inspiring us.”

Er. Rayees Shares His Experience

Speaking about the challenging ride, Er. Rayees said:

“We are very happy to complete the ride at this altitude. It was not simple. Every pedal counted, and every breath mattered. It was a challenging but unforgettable experience.”

The successful completion of the expedition marks a proud moment for JKMBA and the entire cycling and mountain biking community of Jammu & Kashmir. The achievement demonstrates the growing spirit of adventure sports and high-altitude mountain biking in the region.

JKMBA congratulated Dr. Riaz, Dr. Sajad and Er. Rayees for their remarkable achievement and expressed hope that their accomplishment will inspire more young riders from Jammu & Kashmir to take up mountain biking and explore challenging high-altitude routes.

A Remarkable Achievement for JKMBA! 🏔️

Two proud members of JKMBA — A. R. Bhat and Naxir Ahmad Wani — have created a new milestone by reaching Tangdhar via Sadhna Top today, at an altitude of approximately 3,000 metres above sea level.
Starting their cycling journey from Srinagar, they became the first two cyclists to reach Tangdhar via Sadhna Top entirely by pedalling, covering an impressive 162 km, as recorded on Garmin.
This is not just a ride—it is a testament to strength, endurance, determination and passion for mountain cycling.
Personally, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to both of you on this outstanding achievement. Your dedication and spirit are an inspiration to the entire JKMBA cycling community.

Congratulations A. R. Bhat & Naxir Ahmad Wani!

Congratulations to Dr. Raiz Sofi & Sajad Mir!

The JKMBA proudly congratulates Dr. Raiz Sofi and Sajad Mir on successfully completing an incredible 3-day high-altitude cycling expedition.
Their challenging route began from Daksum, climbing to Sinthan Top (12,500+ ft), followed by an 80 km downhill ride to Kishtwar. They then continued to Doda, returned to Kishtwar, rode to Baderwah, back to Kishtwar, and finally completed the journey at Daksum.
Throughout the expedition, they covered 200+ km, conquered 12,500+ ft altitude, and explored many of the breathtaking landscapes of Jammu & Kashmir.
Your determination, endurance, and passion for adventure are truly inspiring.
JKMBA is proud of both of you!

Ride • Build • Engage

Condolence Meeting Held in Memory of Dr. Sheikh Tariq's Father

Srinagar, June 24, 2026:
The members of the Swim & Survival Society Kashmir and the JK Mountain Biking Association expressed profound grief over the demise of the father of Dr. Sheikh Tariq, Vice President of the Swim & Survival Society Kashmir and a senior member of the JK Mountain Biking Association.
The deceased passed away on June 23, 2026, at his residence in Sheikh Hamza Colony, Lal Bazar, Srinagar.
A condolence gathering was held at the Water Sports Centre, Nigeen, where swimmers, officials, coaches, and members of both organizations assembled to offer prayers for the departed soul. Participants prayed for eternal peace for the deceased and conveyed their heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family.
The gathering concluded with a collective prayer, seeking strength and patience for the family during this difficult time.
Later, a team of Water Sports Centre experts, including Riyaz Wani, Zahid Iqbal, Mehraj Madni, Majid Gul, Yasir Makdoomi, and Mudasir Chesti, Mushtaq Wani, Shahkeel Shah, Moshin Fayaz, Imran Sofi, Sheikh Rashid visited the bereaved family at their residence to offer Taziyat (condolences) and express solidarity with them in their hour of grief.
The members prayed for the departed soul and shared in the family's sorrow, reaffirming the spirit of unity and support during this period of mourning.
"May Almighty Allah grant the departed soul the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous and bestow patience and strength upon the bereaved family. Ameen."