Snow Marathon Lahaul: Asia's Highest Snow Run on March 23
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Snow Marathon Lahaul, Asia's only and the world's highest snow marathon, will take place on March 23 at an altitude of 11,000 feet in Sissu, Himachal Pradesh, featuring over 300 participants in various categories.
Key Takeaways
- Event Date: March 23
- Location: Sissu, Lahaul-Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 11,000 feet
- Participants: Over 300 runners
- Categories: 42 km, 21 km, 10 km, 5 km
Chandigarh, March 18 (NationPress) The fourth iteration of the Snow Marathon Lahaul, recognized as Asia’s only and the world’s highest snow marathon at an elevation of 11,000 feet, is scheduled for March 23.
This exhilarating event will occur in Sissu, located in the Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, as officials confirmed on Monday.
Participants will face the challenge of running in extreme conditions, with over 300 competitors from across the nation taking part this year, divided into four categories: 42 km (Full Marathon), 21 km (Half Marathon), 10 km, and 5 km.
This marathon plays a crucial role in India’s representation in the global high-altitude snow marathon scene, aiming to attract elite endurance athletes and adventure lovers.
Previous editions have seen significant involvement from the Indian Army and the Indian Navy. Notably, this year, the Indian Air Force Adventure Team will participate with 20 runners.
The Indian Army is sending 25 top-tier runners, including athletes from the Ladakh Scouts, Dogra, and Kumaon Regiments.
Moreover, paramilitary forces like the ITBP and the SSB will join elite runners and outdoor athletes in the competition.
Col (retd) Arun Natrajan, the event organizer, emphasized the environmental importance of this marathon.
“Lahaul’s winter scenery provides an exhilarating experience for runners and adventurers. However, the melting glaciers and reduced snowfall are pressing issues. We hope this event raises awareness about the urgent need to safeguard our delicate environment,” Col Natarajan stated.
Sachin Sharma, a high-altitude trainer, referred to the race as a unique experience for outdoor and endurance runners.
“It’s the only race in India that offers a demanding run in snow while allowing participants to connect with the area's rich culture and traditions,” he remarked.
Event founder Gaurav Schimar reiterated the marathon’s ecological message. “While the race is tailored for extreme sports enthusiasts, its primary aim is to spotlight the ecological challenges faced by the Himalayas and the Trans-Himalayan region.”
