Events that complete the Ladakh Marathon

The Ladakh Marathon consists of four events or races, all of which start from N.D.S Memorial Stadium (apart from the Khardung La Challenge), which is close to Shanti Stupa and one of the must-see attractions in Leh. These are listed below:

◼ SILK ROUTE ULTRA (Thursday 08 September 2022)

Runner who fulfils any one option listed below is eligible to APPLY for this race.

• Finisher of Khardung La Challenge 2019.
• Finisher of Khardungla Challenge of previous years but having either an  ultra marathon (over 100 km) certificate or marathon certificate (under 5 hrs) in past three years prior to race day.
• Finisher of two ultra marathons which are over 100 km in past three years prior to race day.
• Finisher of a WTC Ironman race in past three years prior to race day.

Note: Stadium run within cut-off time from year 2020 onwards will also be accepted (Timings of virtually run marathons or Strava timings are not acceptable)

Registration for Silk Route Ultra Click Here

◼ 5 km Run Ladakh for Fun (Friday 09 September 2022)

Shortest amongst all the events, the 5 km Run Ladakh for Fun race witnesses participation from runners across the world. Besides this, the race also lures almost everyone including elders, students, families and armed forces. Although covering a short distance, the task is not easy at all.

• Distance Covered: 5 km
• Age Limit: 12 years or above
• Prize: All the participants will get a medal
• Cut Off Time: NIL
• Hydration Points: There will be 2 hydration & aid stations providing water and energy drinks en route.

Registration for 5 km Run Ladakh for Fun Click here

◼ Khardung La Challenge (Friday 09 September 2022)

Take up the Khardung La Challenge if you have the courage to run on the highest motorable road in the world. The race captures the interest of the top athletes as it moves from lovely Khardung hamlet to the Khardung La. The heart-pounding race also tests athletes to their absolute boundaries because it is the highest ultramarathon in the world. The race is only for the most seasoned and physically fit runners due to its difficulties. In addition, the challenging weather conditions make things more challenging. Unexpectedly, the marathon has been dubbed the "Mother of all Marathon races."

Note: The race restricts the count of participants to a maximum of 150 runners only.

• Distance Covered: 72 km
• Age Limit: 20 years or above
• Prize: Runners will get a certificate depending upon the stages conquered by them. All the finishers will get a certificate with official time and a medal.
• Cut off Time: From 8 hours to 14 hours depending upon the stages
• Hydration Points: There will be hydration & aid stations after every 5 km. Runners can get energy drinks, water, snacks, hot drinks, energy bars and bananas from here. Apart from these points, there will be mobile units offering snacks and drinks.

Registration for Khardung La Challenge Click Here

◼ 10.5 Km Run (Sunday 11 September 2022)

Runner must have completed two 10 km runs under 1 hour 30 minutes in past three years prior to the race day.

Note: Stadium runs (with finisher certificate) from year 2020 onwards will also be accepted (Timings of virtually run marathons or Strava timings are not acceptable)

Registration for 10.5 Km Run Click Here

◼ Half Marathon (Sunday 11 September 2022)

You'll be running a loop that passes through Leh and has the same starting and ending points as the Half Marathon. The Ladakh half-marathon course also touches the town's periphery and starts and finishes on the grounds of the NDS Memorial Stadium. The half marathon is extremely difficult, but it provides the necessary warmup before the major event. Although the event is shorter than a full marathon, it nevertheless has an intriguing route that is full of surprises

• Distance Covered: 21.1 km
• Age Limit: 16 years or above
• Prize: All the finishers will get a certificate with official time and a medal
• Cut Off Time: 3 hrs 45 mins
• Hydration Points: There will be 8 hydration & aid stations providing energy drinks, water and bananas en route

Registration for Half Marathon Click Here

◼ Marathon (Sunday 11 September 2022)

The Ladakh Full Marathon, which is regarded as the highest AIMS-IAAF certified marathon in the world, is the goal of many adventure enthusiasts. Enjoy a special run while the sky is clear and encouraging you to reach new heights.

Enjoy the tranquility of a beautiful monastery. Admire the gorgeous scenery as it relieves your fatigue and restores your sense of vitality. The Ladakh Full Marathon is intended for all serious long-distance runners.

• Distance Covered: 42.1 km
• Age Limit: 18 years or above
• Prize: All the finishers will get a certificate with official time and a medal
• Cut Off Time: 6 hrs 30 mins
• Hydration Points: There will be 14 hydration & aid stations providing energy drinks, water, bananas and snacks en route.

Registration for Marathon Click here

Besides the above, the following nationalities cannot participate in the Silk Route Ultra and the Khardung La Challenge as they are excluded from the restricted area permit which is required for the Khardung La pass
a) Citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, China, Pakistan and foreign nationals having their origin in these countries
b) Diplomatic passport holders

Tips and acclimatization

Acclimatization becomes the main concern because you will be running at elevations between 11,500 and 17,600 feet. The best way to prepare for the race is to arrive in Ladakh a few days beforehand. In addition, here are some advice that will be useful for both the marathon and your time in Ladakh.

• Follow the pre-marathon work-out schedule.
• Keep camphor close at hand. When you feel like you don't have any oxygen, it will assist.
• If you're taking part in the Khardung La challenge, get to Leh two weeks before to the race.
• On day 1, be completely restful.
• It's crucial that you maintain your fluid intake. Bring a lot of water with you so that you can accomplish this.
• Bring appropriate attire with you.
• Don't forget your water bottle.
• Bring a sleeping bag of your own.
• Keep medications, sunscreen, antiseptic cream, and other items on hand.

Partaking in the Ladakh Marathon is definitely the best thing to do in Leh. Take up the challenge before it’s too late.