Leh, Ladakh: The Ladakh Marathon, recognised as the world’s highest AIMS-certified marathon, will return for its 13th edition in 2026, scheduled from September 10 to 13 amid the rugged Himalayan terrain of Ladakh.
Registrations for all six race categories opened on Thursday via the official website, drawing endurance athletes from across India and abroad.
Six Race Categories, Including High-Altitude Ultras
The 2026 edition will feature:
- Silk Route Ultra (122 km)
- Khardung La Challenger (72 km)
- Marathon (42 km)
- Half Marathon (21 km)
- 11.2 km Run
- 5 km Run for Fun
Age eligibility begins at 12 years for the 5 km run and extends up to a minimum of 24 years for the Silk Route Ultra, calculated as of September 13, 2026.
All timed races require qualifying performances within a specified window due to the extreme conditions of racing at over 11,500 feet above sea level. Acclimatisation is mandatory for all participants, with ultra runners required to arrive in Leh at least 10 days prior to race day.
Khardung La Challenge: One of the Toughest Endurance Races
The application-based Khardung La Challenger and Silk Route Ultra remain strictly capped events. The Khardung La route climbs to 17,618 feet, making it one of the highest competitive endurance challenges in the world.
Participation is limited to runners with verified marathon and ultra-distance credentials, subject to document screening and mandatory medical clearance.
“Preparation and Respect Are Non-Negotiable”
Chewang Motup Goba, Chairperson of the High Altitude Sports Foundation and founder of the Ladakh Marathon, emphasised the seriousness of high-altitude racing.
“Running in Ladakh is not defined by distance alone. At this altitude, terrain and thin air dictate every step. Preparation, discipline, and respect for the mountains are essential. The eligibility criteria are not procedural—they are protective,” he said.
Growing National and Global Participation
In 2025, the Ladakh Marathon witnessed representation from runners across all 36 States and Union Territories of India for the first time, reinforcing its stature as a premier national endurance event set in the Himalayas.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Marathon Initiative
The Ladakh Marathon continues to lead in sustainable sports practices:
- Runners carry personal hydration packs
- Biodegradable rice-husk cups replace disposable plastic cups
- Steel serveware and reusable canvas bags substitute paper plates and plastic giveaways
- Dry pit sanitation systems reduce water usage
These eco-conscious measures are especially significant in Ladakh, where water scarcity remains a growing concern.
A Marathon Where Sport Meets Responsibility
The Ladakh Marathon 2026 is not just a test of endurance but a celebration of responsible sport in one of the most fragile and breathtaking landscapes in the world.
With its extreme altitude, rigorous qualification standards, and sustainability-driven approach, the event continues to position itself among the toughest and most environmentally conscious marathons globally.
