We were drinking tea in the Banjara Guest House, Tabo, when a large motorcycle group roared up. First person dismounted, pulled off the helmet, and it was a woman, Suzie Livingston, leader of the group. And, right behind her were 16 other motorcyclists. Suzie Lumsden started Blazing Trails in 2001.

This group had ridden over 120 tough miles from Sangla that day. They were spending 15 days in the Himachal, starting and ending in Shimla, averaging 90 miles per day, 800-900 miles for the entire route.

Spiti/Kinnear map, India
Blazing Trails had two support vehicles, a nurse, and head mechanic (Jamal) who rode “shepherd” to fix any breakdowns. They carry spare parts, water, duffels, etc., ride Royal Enfields (made in India), all the motorcycles (along with gear) are provided by Blazing Trails, and stay at the best available hotels with everything included!

The mechanics went over all the motorcycles every morning…tightening, making repairs, cleaning them off. It was very impressive to see and there were two other women riding in the group – one was the nurse. Even though there were only 16 in this group, they will take up to 20. They also run motorcycle tours to Goa and Kerala and are thinking of Rajasthan for next year.

motorcycles lined up in Tabo, Spiti Valley, India
You can’t imagine the looks on our faces when Suzie, roared up to the guesthouse and pulled off her helmet! A strong lady, who was riding THREE tours this year with her guests. If motorcycling adventure appeals to you, contact them. A great website – complete and concise – very exciting…to say the least.

Blazing Saddles motorcycle group in the Spiti Valley, India
Next, we found that Tabo and most of the Spiti Valley has been without electricity for several days because of floods downriver, taking out bridges along with the electricity. Good thing we have a flashlight, or “torch”, along.
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