Ladakh Marathon Returns With ₹1 Crore Prize Pool This Sept; Check Date, Races & More

Athletes, this is for you! Ladakh is all set to host the 13th Ladakh Marathon with a ₹1 crore prize pool, the highest cash award in the event’s history since its inception in 2012! Recognised as the World’s Highest AIMS-Certified Marathon, the event attracts runners from 28 countries across six continents. Here’s everything you need to know about the race.

Ladakh Marathon 2026 To Be Held In September 

The Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh has announced a record ₹1 crore prize pool for the 13th Ladakh Marathon. According to the Instagram post by Ladakh Tourism, the 2026 edition is scheduled to be held from September 10 to September 13. Recognised as the World’s Highest AIMS-Certified Marathon, the race is expected to draw over 10,000 visitors. This includes elite athletes, amateur runners, supporters and the runners’ family members.

Since its inception in 2012, the event has welcomed runners from all 28 states and six Union Territories of India. Athletes from 28 countries across six continents have also participated in the marathon. The ₹1 crore prize pool is the highest cash reward in the event’s history. It reflects Ladakh’s commitment to strengthen the event’s global stature and attract more participants from across the world.

Also Read: Good News! Ladakh To Get India’s 1st High-Altitude Safari To Spot Snow Leopards & Birds

Marathon 2026 To Feature Several Challenging Races

According to the Instagram page of Ladakh Tourism, the 2026 edition will feature the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 11.2 km Run and 5 km Run for Fun. Athletes can also participate in two of the world’s most challenging ultra-distance races: the 72 km Khardung La Challenge and the 122 km Silk Route Ultra. Together, these races are expected to attract more than 500 ultra runners.

The athletes will brave the iconic Khardung La Pass at an elevation of 17,618 feet, making it one of the toughest challenges in the world. But the best part is that the Ladakh Marathon is not just about races. The event helps boost tourism as visitors spend several days here exploring the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. They also use local transport, shop from small businesses and stay in hotels, which helps benefit the local economy.

Also Read: Not Ladakh, Raghav Juyal Spots Rare Snow Leopard At THIS Place In Uttarakhand

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Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Pallab.banerjee and @DivyaOYR/X

 

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