New Delhi

The world’s highest AIMS-certified marathon, the Ladakh Marathon, will return for its 13th edition in 2026, to be held from September 10 to 13 amid the stark and rugged terrain of Ladakh, according to an official release.

Widely regarded as one of the most demanding endurance events in the world, registrations for all six races of the Ladakh Marathon opened on Thursday through the event’s official website. The race line-up includes two extreme ultra-distance events — the Silk Route Ultra (122 km) and the Khardung La Challenge (72 km) — both considered among the toughest ultra races staged at very high altitude.

Apart from the ultra races, the event will feature the full Marathon (42 km), Half Marathon (21 km), an 11.2 km run, and a 5 km Run for Fun. Age eligibility begins at 12 years for the 5 km category, while participants in the Silk Route Ultra must be at least 24 years old as of September 13, 2026.

All timed races require runners to meet qualifying standards achieved within a prescribed period, reflecting the rigour of competing at altitudes exceeding 11,500 feet in thin air. Acclimatisation is mandatory for all participants, with ultra runners required to arrive in Leh at least 10 days before race day.

The Khardung La Challenge and Silk Route Ultra remain application-based and strictly capped. These races climb to an altitude of 17,618 feet at Khardung La and are open only to runners with proven marathon and ultra-distance credentials, subject to document verification and mandatory medical clearance. Detailed eligibility criteria have been published on the official Ladakh Marathon website.

Speaking on the announcement, Chewang Motup Goba, Chairperson of the High Altitude Sports Foundation and founder of the Ladakh Marathon, said running in the region is defined by altitude, terrain and discipline rather than distance alone.

“Running in Ladakh demands preparation, respect for the mountains and an understanding of risks far beyond the ordinary. The eligibility criteria are not procedural but protective,” he said, adding that they ensure runners are adequately prepared for one of the world’s toughest endurance challenges.

Conceived in the aftermath of the 2010 flash floods and formally launched in 2012 as a symbol of resilience, the Ladakh Marathon has grown into one of India’s most distinctive sporting events. In 2025, the marathon recorded participation from runners representing all 36 states and Union Territories for the first time.

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The event is also known for its strong emphasis on sustainability. Guided by the motto “Leave Only Footprints Behind,” it has phased out single-use plastics, introduced reusable hydration systems, biodegradable cups, steel serveware and water-efficient dry pit sanitation systems, reinforcing the message that high-altitude sport must go hand in hand with environmental responsibility.