The 13th edition of India’s renowned Ladakh Marathon was inaugurated this morning. More than 8,000 runners from India and abroad have taken part in it.
The 13th Ladakh Marathon had been announced to be held over four days, from September 10 to 13. On the final day today, events such as the full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21.1 km), and 11.2 km run are being held.
The marathon was flagged off by Ladakh Union Territory Lieutenant Governor Vinay Kumar Saxena.
It is inspiring to see runners from India and around the world gather in Ladakh under the spirit of endurance, resilience, and adventure. My best wishes to all those participating. The growing popularity of this marathon has established it globally as a prestigious sport,” he said.
Ladakh Marathon:
The Ladakh Marathon is one of the world’s highest and toughest marathon races. It is held annually in Ladakh in the month of September.
This marathon is held at an altitude of about 11,500 feet to 17,618 feet (3.5 km - 5.3 km) above sea level. Since the oxygen level is low at that altitude, it is considered a challenging race for runners.
After the massive flood in Ladakh in 2010, this marathon was first started in 2012 to inspire the local people.
Race categories:
There are 5 categories in the Ladakh Marathon.
1. Silk Route Ultra Marathon (122 km) - This is the toughest marathon, held on mountain trails over a distance of 122 km.
2. Khardung La Challenge (72 km) - This is an ultra marathon that takes place along the Khardung La Pass, the world’s highest motorable road.
Certificates proving that full marathon races have been completed within a specified time are required to participate in the first 2 categories.
3. Full Marathon (42.2 km) - This marathon is held on a 42.2 km route through the town of Leh and along the banks of the Indus River.
4. Half Marathon (21.1 km)
5. 11.2 km Run & 5 km Fun Run - This is a short-distance run for beginner runners and local residents.
It is a mandatory rule that marathon participants must register in advance and arrive in the Leh area 7 to 14 days earlier to acclimatize their bodies to high altitudes.
Flagged off the “42 km Full Marathon” and “21 km Half Marathon” at the 13th Ladakh Marathon in Leh, today, that saw a huge participation of over 8,000 people.
— LG Ladakh (@lg_ladakh) September 13, 2026
It is inspiring to see runners from across India and the world come together in Ladakh, embracing the spirit of… pic.twitter.com/VDDOP8lhY9