In 2010, Ladakh was ravaged by devastating flash floods. An already challenging environment, which could only be tackled by a hardy people like the Ladakhis, was rendered even more hazardous. People lost their livelihood, their lives…..
Ladakh Marathon was started in 2012 to show the world that Ladakh was up and running. The Marathon was also started to encourage the youth to take up running not only to lead a healthy lifestyle but also to give them a platform to participate and perform at a competitive level.
From 1,500 participants in the 1st edition to close to 5,500 in the 8th edition, from India and around the world, Ladakh Marathon has grown over these years because of the most valuable support from the people of Ladakh and its runners. Being a very unique race in the Himalaya with its stunning & picturesque landscape of mountains, rivers & valleys it is growing in participation each passing year.
Ladakh Marathon is an annual event certified by AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) and one of Asia’s most important Marathons. It is a key stop on the global marathon calendar!
The 72 km ultra Khardungla Challenge, considered one of the toughest races and ultimate test for endurance, grew from 11 participants in 2012 to 168 participants in 2019. This race is becoming one of the most prestigious Ultra Marathons in the world attracting ultra runners from across the globe.
Beginning from the 8th edition of Ladakh Marathon, a conscious decision was made to reduce the use of single use plastic to protect our fragile environment. We remain committed to same in achieving our ideology of “leave only footprints behind” in the years to come.
Also beginning from the 9th edition of Ladakh Marathon in 2020 we are pleased to introduce two more races from the easy 10.5 km Run to the challenging the 122 km Silk Route Ultra.
Our goal remains to make Ladakh Marathon most reputed high altitude marathon and attract the best of runners from around the world leaving them with lifelong memories and a chance to say they ran Ladakh, the world’s highest marathon.
