Welcome to Manali Marathon

A Story of Resilience, Growth, and Global Ambition
The Manali Marathon is more than just a race; it's a testament to the indomitable spirit of Manali and its people. Born from adversity, it has rapidly evolved into one of India's most cherished and internationally recognized mountain running events.

Our Genesis: Rising from the Floods of 2023
The dream of hosting an extraordinary marathon in the picturesque adventure sports capital of India, Manali, was envisioned by the Himalayan Xtreme Sports Association in 2022. However, 2023 brought the worst floods in 50 years, dealing a severe blow to Manali's vital tourism industry. Instead of despair, Team Himalayan Xtreme saw an opportunity to demonstrate the town's unwavering resilience.

With the unwavering support and collaborative spirit of the Kullu Administration, the Tourism Department, Kullu Police, the Forest Department, local tourism stakeholders, and the entire community, spearheaded by the wholehearted backing of SDM Manali, we meticulously planned the inaugural Manali Marathon in 2023. Our goal was clear: to send a powerful message to the world that Manali was back on its feet, safe, and ready to welcome tourists once again.

A Triumphant Beginning: Manali Marathon 2023
The inaugural event in 2023 exceeded all expectations, attracting 460 participants across five diverse races: the 5km Run for Manali, the 13km Manali Majestic Run, the Half Marathon, the Full Marathon, and the challenging 100km Rohtang Pass Ultra. Runners aged 4 to 86, including 96 tourists, professional runners from across India, and 35 international athletes from three countries, came together. The sight of enthusiastic participants and supportive spectators filling the iconic Mall Road brought smiles to everyone's faces, highlighting the incredible teamwork and community celebration behind the scenes.

Growth and Global Recognition: The Journey to 2025
Following its successful debut, the Manali Marathon continued its remarkable trajectory. In 2024, we proudly welcomed 659 runners, including 45 international athletes, a testament to our growing appeal. The event was grandly flagged off by the MLA Manali, in the presence of local administration and other VIP guests, further solidifying its status as a significant regional and national event. We have consistently received immense backing from the Government of Himachal Pradesh, the Kullu Administration, Kullu Police, and the Forest Department, along with our invaluable local stakeholders and associations, who see this event as a cornerstone for Manali's resurgence and sustainable development. The event has truly become a two-day community celebration on the iconic Mall Road, drawing thousands of spectators and outdoor adventure enthusiasts.

As we look forward to the 3rd edition in 2025 (September 20-21), we promise an even bigger, more challenging, and exciting event. We are proud to announce that our races are now internationally recognized, attracting serious trail runners from throughout the country and globe!

Our Internationally Recognized Races: Conquer the Mountain Trails
The Manali Marathon is far from a regular road race. It's a true mountain trail running event, offering unique challenges and unparalleled beauty. We are thrilled to be the first event in North India to be recognized for UTMB Index points, solidifying our position on the global trail running map.

Himalayan Xtreme: Hamta Pass Sky Traverse (36km): This iconic trail running event goes over a 4300m (14,107 ft) high pass, a route famous as India's most renowned trekking route, typically taking trekkers 4 days. It is now part of the UTMB Index and is an ITRA certified race, earning 2 ITRA points for finishers. It will test runners on similar extreme terrain, from freezing temperatures near glaciers to potential heat in the lower valleys.

100km Rohtang Pass Ultra Challenge: Our ultimate ultra-distance race, taking on the legendary Rohtang Pass at 3870m (12,697 ft), featuring elevation climbs and descents of 2000m. This grueling challenge is also now officially part of the prestigious UTMB Index!

Manali Trail X Marathon (42km): A challenging hybrid race of trail and road, offering diverse terrain and breathtaking views, designed to push limits and offer 2 ITRA Endurance Points.

Half Marathon, 13km Manali Majestic Run, 5km Run for Manali, and 1km Green Warrior Run: Diverse categories catering to all fitness levels, ensuring everyone can be a part of this grand celebration.

Runners will experience breathtaking landscapes, from apple orchards and pine forests to glacial streams and majestic mountains.

Join Us: Be Part of the Resilience!
The Manali Marathon 2025 is more than a race; it's an experience that defines endurance, adventure, and the resilient spirit of a community. Every step you take is a testament to perseverance, set against the backdrop of one of the world's most stunning natural wonders.

Manali Marathon 3.0 is going Green & with Social Impact Initiatives: Beyond The Finish Line

More than a marathon — it’s a movement.
The Manali Marathon 2025 isn’t just about miles and medals — it’s about making meaningful, lasting impact where it matters most. Nestled in India’s adventure capital, Manali is on the frontline of climate change. From declining snowfall to devastating floods, the Himalayas are sending an urgent message to the world. What happens here will eventually ripple across the country and planet — and we believe we can act together.
This is our small, powerful step.

Why This Matters
Manali Marathon’s Green & Social Initiatives aim to champion sustainability, health, and community spirit — creating visible, measurable, positive change that resonates long after race day.

Key Initiatives for 2025
Green Warriors Initiative A youth-powered campaign where school children earn free 5K entries by collecting a sack of plastic waste from their surroundings. On race day, they run as proud ‘Green Warriors’ in special bibs and are honored on stage — nurturing a generation of eco-conscious citizens.
Tree Plantation & Adoption Drive Not a token tree planting. A serious, monitored, long-term program inviting runners, locals, tourists, and sponsors to plant and adopt trees for 2-3 years, ensuring survival and fostering a personal connection with Manali’s green future.
Philanthropy With Purpose Raising funds and awareness for NGOs and essential mountain causes — from animal welfare to education and disaster resilience. This isn’t corporate charity, it’s community-backed, sponsor-driven impact in actions.