High Altitude Ultra Marathon at the Sacred Base of Adi Kailash - Uttarakhand Ultra Marathon 2025
The pristine Himalayas of Uttarakhand are set to witness a groundbreaking sporting event that combines adventure, spirituality, and social awareness. The Adi Kailash Parikrama Run, scheduled for November 2, 2025, marks a historic milestone as India's first high altitude ultra marathon at the sacred base of Adi Kailash, taking place at breathtaking elevations between 10,300 to 15,000 feet.
A Mission Beyond Running
This extraordinary event carries a powerful dual mission: promoting Vibrant Village Border Adventure Tourism while encouraging youth to embrace healthy lifestyles with the strong message "SAY NO TO DRUGS." Set in the remote border villages of Gunji and Jolingkong in Pithoragarh District, Uttarakhand, this ultra marathon represents more than just a race—it's a movement toward sustainable tourism and youth empowerment in one of India's most pristine Himalayan regions.
Event Location and Significance
The race takes place in Gunji and Jolingkong villages in Pithoragarh District, Uttarakhand—a region renowned for its spiritual significance and breathtaking natural beauty. These remote border villages, nestled in the shadow of the sacred Adi Kailash peak, offer participants an unparalleled combination of physical challenge and spiritual experience.
Uttarakhand, known as the "Land of Gods," continues to establish itself as India's premier adventure tourism destination. For more information about the state's incredible tourism offerings, visit the official Uttarakhand Tourism website.
Race Categories and Challenges
The Ultimate 60KM Ultra Marathon
The flagship 60KM Ultra Marathon presents the ultimate high-altitude challenge:
• Route: Jolingkong → Parvati Kund → Kutti → Gunji → Nabidang Kalapani → Gunji
• Start Time: 4:00 AM from Adi Kailash Base (Jolingkong)
• Finish: Gunji Village
• Elevation Gain: 1,588 meters
• Cut-off Time: 10 hours
• Special Requirement: 3-4 days (minimum 2 days) prior acclimatization at Jolingkong
Additional Race Categories
The event offers multiple distance options to accommodate runners of varying experience levels:
42KM Marathon
• Start: 5:00 AM from Gunji Village
• Cut-off: 7 hours
• Elevation Gain: 1,295 meters
• Acclimatization: Minimum 2 days required
21KM Half Marathon
• Start: 5:20 AM from Gunji Village
• Cut-off: 4 hours
• Acclimatization: Minimum 2 days required
10KM Challenge
• Start: 5:30 AM from Gunji Village
• Cut-off: 2 hours
5KM Fun Run/Charity Run
• Start: 6:00 AM from Gunji Village
• Cut-off: 80 minutes
All races except the 60KM ultra follow a loop route from Gunji to Kutti, providing spectacular views of the Himalayan landscape.
Pre-Race Schedule and Preparation
October 31 - November 1, 2025
The event begins with essential pre-race activities at Gunji:
• BIB Distribution: Official race number collection
• Pre-Race Briefing: Comprehensive safety and route information
• Medical Check-up: Mandatory fitness assessment for all participants
Acclimatization Requirements
Given the extreme altitude, proper acclimatization is crucial:
• 60KM Ultra: All runners undergo primary medical check-up at Gunji before being taken to Jolingkong for mandatory 2-day acclimatization
• 42KM & 21KM: Minimum 2 days acclimatization required
• 10KM & 5KM: Recommended but not mandatory
Participant Benefits and Prizes
Race Premium Package
Every participant receives:
• Premium Dry Fit T-shirt
• Finisher's Medal
• Goody Bag
• Time Chip race bib
• On-route hydration support
• Post-race refreshments
• E-certificates
Prize Structure
Open Categories (60K, 42K, 21K, 10K)
• Top 5 positions receive prize money and trophies
• 5K category receives trophies only
Age Group Categories (60K, 42K, 21K, 10K)
• 40-50 years: Top 3 positions
• 50-60 years: Top 3 positions
• 60+ years: Top 3 positions
• All age group winners receive prize money and trophies
Prize cheques are encashable within 50-60 days post-event, with applicable taxes deducted.
Mandatory Requirements for Participation
For All Outsiders
1. Acclimatization: Minimum 2 days prior to race day
2. Inner Line Permit: Required for all non-locals
3. Medical Certificate: Fitness certification mandatory
4. Experience Certificate: High altitude ultra marathon/marathon completion in the last year (if applicable, as of September 30, 2025)
5. Disclaimer Form: Must be signed upon arrival at Gunji
6. Insurance: Participants will be connected with insurance providers for necessary coverage
Documentation Required
Indian Nationals: Valid Aadhar Card, 2 passport-size photographs
Foreign Nationals: Valid passport, visa copy, 2 passport-size photographs
How Pithoragarh Backpackers Can Support Your Ultra Marathon Journey
As the leading adventure tourism company in the region, Pithoragarh Backpackers is perfectly positioned to support ultra marathon participants with comprehensive services:
Transportation Solutions
• Delhi to Pithoragarh transfers: Comfortable, reliable transport from major cities
• Local mountain transport: Specialized vehicles for reaching remote race locations
• Airport/railway station pickups: Seamless connectivity from Kathgodam and other transport hubs
Accommodation Arrangements
• Pre-race lodging: Comfortable hotels and homestays for acclimatization period
• Strategic location bookings: Accommodations near race venues
• Group bookings: Special arrangements for running clubs and teams
Permit and Documentation Assistance
• Inner Line Permit processing: Expert handling of all permit requirements
• Documentation support: Assistance with required paperwork
• Local liaison services: Smooth coordination with local authorities
Acclimatization Support
• Guided acclimatization treks: Professional preparation for high altitude
• Local expertise: Knowledge of optimal acclimatization strategies
• Safety monitoring: Experienced guides for pre-race preparation
Complete Race Support Packages
We offer customized packages including:
• Transportation from your city to race location
• Accommodation during acclimatization period
• Permit processing and documentation
• Local guide services
• Post-race recovery and sightseeing options
Contact Us for more.
Register and Plan Your Adventure
Ready to take on this historic challenge? Register for the Adi Kailash Parikrama Run through the official event website.
For comprehensive support services, transportation, accommodation, and permit assistance, contact Pithoragarh Backpackers. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of high-altitude events and can ensure your ultra marathon experience is seamless from start to finish.
Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or attempting your first high-altitude challenge, the Adi Kailash Parikrama Run offers an unparalleled opportunity to test your limits while experiencing the spiritual energy of one of India's most sacred mountains. Join this historic event and become part of a movement that celebrates adventure, promotes healthy living, and supports sustainable tourism in the beautiful border villages of Uttarakhand.
Contact us today to plan your Adi Kailash Parikrama Run adventure and let us handle the logistics while you focus on the incredible journey ahead.