Dehradun: The hills of Uttarakhand are preparing for a grand event: the Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon, scheduled for November 2, 2025. This will be the first high-altitude ultra run in the region, aiming to promote adventure tourism, economic development in border areas, along with the spiritual heritage of Adi Kailash.
Organizers announce that participants will cover approximately 60 km, beginning and ending in Gunji, moving through Kalapani and other sacred points.
Adi Kailash Marathon organized in Uttarakhand. 🏃♂️ pic.twitter.com/NyQmBUO3JS
— ࿗ Pranav Anand Iyer ࿗ 🕉️ (@pranavanandm) September 7, 2025
It will be organized at 15,000 feet altitude
The course will traverse altitudes between 10,300 and 15,000 feet, crossing terrains like Jolingkong, Parvati Kund, Kutti, Nabidang, and return to Gunji. The event offers multiple categories: 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, 42 km, and the marquee 60 km ultra. It is open to runners from across the country, and possibly abroad, with prize incentives and infrastructure support.
On September 21, 2025, Uttarakhand’s CM Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off a promotional run in Dehradun and unveiled the official logo for the event. This launch also commemorates Uttarakhand’s 25th statehood anniversary.
Today, Hon’ble CM Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off the Adi Kailash Parikrama Promo Run, marking the beginning of an incredible journey. Now, get ready for 2nd November 2025 — when the grand Ultra Marathon from Gunji to Adi Kailash will create history! pic.twitter.com/ALHyXY53eM
— Uttarakhand Tourism (@UTDBofficial) September 21, 2025
ITBP and the army will be deployed for security
As a part of planning, athletes will be required to arrive in advance for acclimatization, especially since the high altitude demands proper physiological preparation. Medical support, emergency rescue via helicopters, and collaboration with the ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police) and army teams are being organized for participant safety.
Tourism department envisions it as transformative initiative
Uttarakhand Tourism Secretary Dhiraj Garbyal stated that the tourism department envisions this ultra marathon as a transformative initiative — it is expected to enhance border area tourism, empower rural and homestay economies, curb migration from hill areas, and showcase Uttarakhand’s spiritual‑adventure identity. The event also aligns closely with the Vibrant Village Scheme, aiming to uplift remote communities.
Organizers hope that the run will mark a new chapter for Uttarakhand
While the challenges are many — extreme cold, high altitude, rugged terrain, logistics for remote areas — organizers hope that the run will mark a new chapter for Uttarakhand. Athletes, adventure tourists, pilgrims, and local communities all stand to benefit from this bold mountain experiment.