New Delhi, Oct 1 (IANS): The 17th edition of the Raid-de-Himalaya, the highest altitude motor rally in the world, will see over 150 contestants vie for top honours when it is flagged off in Shimla on October 9.

The event, which will also include 10 women participants, will cover a total distance of approximately 2000 km over six days.

Known as one of the toughest rallies in the world with the most trying terrains, this year's Raid will traverse a new and extra strenuous route.

After the flag-off from Shimla, the rally will pass through some of the harshest yet most picturesque landscapes of Manali, Dalhousie and Rangdum before culminating at the valley city of Srinagar.

Split into Adventure and X-treme categories, the rally will take its participants through altitudes of above 15,000 feet, exposing them to the harshest of climates.

With low oxygen levels and temperatures dipping to -21 degrees centigrade during the night, the rally tests the endurance of the machine as well as the physical and mental fitness of the men and women driving these.

Adding to the buzz are the all-women teams. Bani Yadav, who has already been part of the Raid-de-Himalaya last year and Dakshin Dare this year, is one to watch out for.

Meanwhile, local lad Suresh Rana, who has won the rally nine times in the past, will be back to raise the bar higher for the other drivers.