About Us
Message from the Chairman
Dear all participants,
Annapurna Marathon is an annual event organized on Annapurna Day, which falls on the 3rd of June every year. This marathon is organized in memory of the day when Annapurna I (8,091m) was conquered by the French expedition group of Maurice Herzog. June 3rd is celebrated as Annapurna Day in Nepal to mark the first successful summit over the 8,000m peaks in the history of mountaineering expeditions. In this context, the Annapurna Marathon has been organized since 2018 in order to contribute to developing tourism infrastructure promoting Annapurna Base Camp through Sports Tourism.
The huge publicity campaign has been conducted to promote adventure sports in Nepal and encourage the maximum number of locals and international athletes from all around the world. It will also help all the runners in the world gather in the same forum and maintain mutual friendship and solidarity.
The marathon begins at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) and ends at Ghandruk village via Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Bagar, Deurali, Himalaya, Dovan, Bamboo, Banuwa, Sinuwa, Chhomrong, Ghurjung, Chuile, Kimrong Danda, Kimrong Khola, and Uri. The marathon route has been determined based on the site study report of a technical team. According to the technical team involved in the route assessment, the Annapurna marathon route has all the elements for a fun and challenging trail running event.
Since 2018, we have been organizing the Annapurna Sanctuary Tourism Festival in three different phases, including the Annapurna Marathon as one phase. However, after the pandemic in 2023, the Annapurna Sanctuary Tourism Festival was continued in one phase with the Annapurna Marathon being the main event.
We would like to welcome all the participants for the upcoming fourth edition of the Annapurna Marathon.
Lalit Gurung
Chairman
Annapurna Marathon Organizing Committee
About Annapurna Marathon
The Annapurna Marathon is a challenging trail race held annually in Nepal, in the Annapurna region of the Himalayas. The race takes place on June 3rd and covers a distance of 42.195 kilometers (26.2 miles) with an elevation gain of over 2,528 meters.
The race starts at an altitude of 4,130m at Annapurna Base Camp. The route passes through Fishtail Base Camp, several traditional villages, and lush forests before reaching the finish line at Ghandruk, nestled in the shadow of the great Annapurna mountain range. Athletes will have to deal with a variety of terrains, including steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and river crossings.
Due to the high altitude and rugged terrain, the Annapurna Marathon is considered to be one of the most challenging trail races in the world. The event attracts runners from around the globe who are seeking a unique and unforgettable running experience.
In addition to the full marathon distance, there is also traditional dancing, concerts, and various other sports events held at the finish line for those willing to be a part of Annapurna Day. The Annapurna Marathon is not only a physical challenge but also an opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty and culture of Nepal.
Our Mission
At Annapurna Marathon, we are passionate about combining the thrill of running with the beauty of nature. Our mission is to provide a unique and unforgettable racing experience that allows participants to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of the Annapurna region while pushing their limits and achieving their running goals.
A Race Like No Other
What sets the Annapurna Marathon apart is its unique blend of challenging terrain, rich cultural experiences, and the chance to witness some of the world's highest peaks up close. Participants will traverse lush forests, charming villages, and high mountain trails, all while breathing in the crisp, clean air of the Himalayas. With varying race distances to cater to runners of all levels, our event offers something for everyone, from seasoned ultramarathoners to adventurous first-timers.
Community and Sustainability
We are deeply committed to the local communities that call the Annapurna region home. By organizing the marathon, we aim to support the local economy, promote responsible tourism, and contribute to the well-being of the people who graciously welcome us into their villages.