Welcome to "Monsoon Madness"

What are the dates? July 31st - August 15th 2009. You should allow a couple of days prior to the rally to bling your rickshaw to the max. You could opt for a custom paint job, stick on flames etc but the more adventurous teams have been known to install Dolby Surround systems, beer fridges, nitrous oxide and water cannons. You should also allow a couple of days after the event so you don't have to board a long haul flight with raging diarrhoea.

How many people in each team? Officially a rickshaw can seat a driver and two passengers. Unofficially we have managed 17 people but only over a distance of 50 yards before rolling it. Over a distance of 4,000kms we would suggest 2 people is the best combination that allows one person to drive, one person to throw things at the competition and still allows room in the back for beer and pot noodles.

How do we get a Rickshaw? The Rickshaws are hired from a local source in Chennai. It will be ready for you on arrival. All you need to do is hand it back at the end in roughly the condition you found it.

What if we crash or breakdown? This is more a case of when not if but fear not, the rickshaw is the most common vehicle in India and even the elephants know how to fix them. Simply drag yourselves and your rickshaw to the nearest village for attention.

What do we do if we get lost? Everyone gets lost at some point - that's part of the adventure. Most people tend to congregate into small groups - this is a) sensible in case of a disaster b) more fun as there are fellow competitors to crash into and to share the experience with. Not much fun if the only photos you have of the trip are of you, your co-driver and a muddy ditch. If you're determined to "go it alone" don't let us stop you - in fact you might as well just fly there yourself and do it!

Where do we stay? You can stay wherever you like, especially if you've pimped your rickshaw to include a water bed and sunken bath. Alternatively there will be some recommended waypoints where competitors can stay at preferential rates with the added bonus of being able to have a massive party every night. It is of course all optional.

Where do we get fuel? Near the bigger towns you will find modern petrol stations. The rickshaws run on unleaded to which oil needs to be pre-mixed. All stations have attendants to do this for you - in fact usually about ten people will try and fill your vehicle, take your money or ask to pose for a photograph at any one time. In the more rural areas it is wise to carry some spare as although you might find a fuel stop they might actually be pouring piss in to your tank.

What travel documents do we need? You will need a valid passport, driving licence and a visa. As with any trip (and especially this one) it would be sensible to have travel insurance and since India contains the "Who's Who" of infectious diseases you might want a few needles in your bum as well.

How much will it cost? The entry fee is 1600 Euros* for a two person team. A third team member can be added for 800 Euros. The entry fee includes the following:

• Pick up from the airport
• Help with travel arrangements and Visas
• Luxury accomodation on the first and last day of the rally
• Preferentials rates on accommodation during the rally
• Auto rickshaw insurance
• Baggage haulage service
• Hire of a rickshaw during the rally and access to the "Kings of Bling" and the "Gimps of Pimp" to assist with whatever outlandish ideas you come up with for your vehicle.
• Participation at all the official parties (and the unofficial ones)
• Free maps and GPS coordinates (which will be of no value to you whatsoever)
• Official rally clothing
• Freebies from the event sponsors
• Monstrous closing party and awards ceremony

* please note Extreme Trifle is not responsible for setting the prices. We are promoting the event in association with www.rickshawchallenge.com. As previous participants ourselves we can vouch for the fun you will have. Whether you think it is value for money is your call. We are happy to assist with processing of registration forms and payments.

If you register through Extreme Trifle you will receive a 5% discount.

Can we raise money for charity? Part of your entry fee is put towards charitable causes in India. Part of the money goes on administering the event. You are also encouraged to raise your own sponsorship money which can be given directly to good causes. One of the plans for the event is that you can "Adopt A Village". This will relate directly to a place you pass through on the event (unless you get hopelessy lost in which case we'll send you a picture of it). More details on this will be available as part of your registration pack..

How do I register for the event?

Just send us your details via the Contact Form and we'll send you the forms via email.

Do it. Do it. Do it (said in a hypnotic styley...)