Uttarakhand Hosts Historic First High-Altitude Marathon at 14,000 Feet in Sacred Adi Kailash

The inaugural "Adi Kailash Parikrama Run," spanning 60 kilometers, commenced at 5 am on Sunday in extremely cold conditions.

Uttarakhand achieved a remarkable milestone on Sunday with its first high-altitude marathon at Adi Kailash, a sacred location situated 14,000 feet above sea level in Pithoragarh district. The 60-kilometer "Adi Kailash Parikrama Run" began at 5 am amid freezing temperatures, attracting participants from 22 different states across India.

Union Minister of State for Road Transport Ajay Tamta officially launched the marathon from Jolingkong. The event was organized to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Uttarakhand's formation, with the state traditionally observing its foundation day on November 9th each year.

During the ceremony, Tamta emphasized that the marathon manifested Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resolute commitment to revitalize the Adi Kailash region, which typically remains uninhabited during winter months. The initiative aims to maintain year-round activity in the area for locals, adventure sports enthusiasts, and religious pilgrims alike.

He highlighted how the marathon's success aligns perfectly with the Prime Minister's vision of promoting continuous economic activities in border villages throughout the year.

Tamta also expressed confidence that this event would inaugurate a new chapter for winter tourism in the snow-capped Himalayan region, drawing tourists throughout all seasons.

The Minister extended his gratitude to the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Army personnel, district administration, and local residents for providing accommodation and essential facilities in Gunji for athletes arriving from across the country.

State Tourism Secretary Dheeraj Garbyal reported that more than 580 runners between the ages of 15 and 60 participated in the marathon. He noted that participants completed the challenging race in extremely harsh conditions with temperatures ranging from minus 9 to minus 14 degrees Celsius.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami congratulated all participants, organizers, and local communities for successfully hosting the state's first high-altitude marathon.

Dhami described the event as a moment of immense pride for Uttarakhand, stating that this historic ultra run, conducted at the sacred and spiritual site of Adi Kailash, represents extraordinary courage and dedication.