Srinagar: Srinagar is set to host the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon on Sunday, October 25, with runners from India and abroad expected to participate in the event showcasing the region’s scenic landscapes and cultural heritage.
Organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, the international long-distance running event will feature a full marathon of 42.195 kilometres and a half marathon of 21.0975 kilometres. The routes will take participants past prominent landmarks, including Dal Lake, Chinar-lined avenues and the historic Mughal gardens.
The event offers a prize of ₹25 lakh each to the overall male and female winners of the full marathon. The overall winners in the men’s and women’s half-marathon categories will receive ₹15 lakh each.
Attractive Prize Money for Participants
The prize structure also includes awards for different age groups and local participants. In the full marathon, winners in the 18–35, 36–50 and above-50 age categories, in both men’s and women’s divisions, will receive ₹1 lakh each. The top male and female participants from Jammu and Kashmir will receive ₹4 lakh each.
In the half marathon, winners across the three age categories will receive ₹75,000 each, while the top male and female participants from the Union Territory will be awarded ₹2 lakh each.
The registration fee is ₹2,200 for the full marathon and ₹1,800 for the half marathon.
Building on Previous Editions
The inaugural Kashmir Marathon was held on October 20, 2024, and was flagged off by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also felicitated participants during the event, which attracted nearly 2,000 runners from across India and 13 foreign countries.
Sher Singh won the men’s full marathon in 2 hours, 23 minutes and 22 seconds, while Tamsi Singh claimed the women’s title in 3 hours, 3 minutes and 25 seconds. Omar Abdullah also participated in the event, completing the half marathon.
The second edition, held in 2025, further strengthened the event’s presence on Srinagar’s sporting calendar, with multiple race categories and associated activities attracting attention to the Valley as a destination for sports tourism.
Scenic Route Highlights Kashmir’s Heritage
The organisers have highlighted the marathon’s route as a major attraction, combining the challenge of long-distance running with views of the Zabarwan mountain range, Dal Lake and prominent heritage sites.
Participants are expected to pass landmarks such as Shankaracharya Temple, Pari Mahal, the Dargah Shrine and the Mughal gardens. The autumn colours of the Chinar trees are also expected to add to the experience.
The tourism department aims to use the event to showcase Kashmir’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and hospitality while promoting tourism through sporting activities.
Traffic Advisory Issued for October 25
Meanwhile, Srinagar Traffic Police has issued an advisory warning of road closures, designated cut-off points and diversions along the marathon route on Sunday.
Commuters have been advised to follow traffic instructions and use alternative routes wherever necessary. Residents and visitors have also been urged to plan their journeys in advance to minimise inconvenience during the event.
[DD news]