The Ladakh Marathon, the world’s highest AIMS-certified race, is set to return for its 12th edition from September 11 to 14 with record-breaking participation. More than 6,600 runners from 30 countries are expected to compete across six categories, making it the biggest edition in the event’s history.
The four-day event will once again test athletes against Ladakh’s dramatic landscape, with races spanning from the 5 km “Run Ladakh for Fun” to the two ultimate endurance challenges — the 72 km Khardung La Challenge and the 122 km Silk Route Ultra.
The Silk Route Ultra, starting on September 11, will see runners traverse a 122 km stretch from Kyagar village at 10,000 ft, cross the Khardung La pass at 17,618 ft, before finishing in Leh Market. A day later, nearly 300 athletes will take on the Khardung La Challenge, a 72 km course that begins from Khardung village at 13,000 ft. Over 60 km of this route lies above 13,000 ft, making it the highest ultramarathon in the world.
The shorter races — including the Full Marathon (42.195 km), Half Marathon (21 km), and the 11.2 km race — will be held on September 14, while the 5 km community run takes place a day earlier on September 13.
All participants are required to spend at least seven to ten days in Ladakh before race day for mandatory acclimatisation due to the extreme altitude conditions.
Chewang Motup Goba, Chairperson of the High Altitude Sports Foundation and founder of the Ladakh Marathon, said the event has grown far beyond its early vision. “When we started the Ladakh Marathon in 2012, we saw it as Ladakh’s gift to the world. Today, it is one of India’s biggest races and certainly among the most unique anywhere. The Khardung La Challenge and Silk Route Ultra push the limits of human endurance, and this year’s record registrations reflect a newer, fitter India,” he said.
Launched in the aftermath of the devastating 2010 flash floods as a symbol of resilience, the Ladakh Marathon has steadily evolved into one of the country’s signature sporting events. The organisers continue to prioritise sustainability with the motto “Leave Only Footprints Behind,” eliminating single-use plastics since 2019 and implementing strict waste management measures along every route.
From running along the Indus River to climbing some of the highest mountain passes in the world, the marathon has carved out a distinct place on the global calendar, attracting athletes eager to test themselves against both altitude and terrain.
