New Delhi: The Ladakh Marathon will return for its 12th edition from September 11 to 14, bringing together more than 6,000 runners from 30 countries across six races — from a 5 km community run to two of the world’s toughest Ultra-marathons.
Billed as the highest AIMS-certified (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) event, the Ultra-marathons include the 72 km Khardung La Challenge and the 122 km Silk Route Ultra, described as “the pinnacle of endurance racing.”
Spanning Leh and beyond, the routes take runners along the Indus River, over the Khardung La and Nubra passes, and across some of the most breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Other races in the lineup include the Full Marathon (42.195 km), Half Marathon (21 km), an 11.2 km race, and the 5 km Run Ladakh for Fun.
The Silk Route Ultra will kick off on September 11, starting from Kyagar Village at 10,000 ft, crossing Khardung La at 17,618 ft, before finishing in Leh. On September 12, nearly 300 runners will attempt the Khardung La Challenge — a 72 km race from Khardung Village at 13,000 ft, with more than 60 km of the course above 13,000 ft, making it the highest Ultra-marathon in the world.
All participants are required to undergo mandatory acclimatisation by arriving in Ladakh at least 7–10 days before their race.
“These Ultra events push the boundaries of human endurance, and the record registrations this year reflect a new, fitter India — one that runs toward challenges, not away from them,” said Chewang Motup Goba, Chairperson of the High Altitude Sports Foundation and founder of the Ladakh Marathon.
