Adi Kailash Parikrama Run 2025: The Ultimate High-Altitude Challenge in Uttarakhand
The Adi Kailash Parikrama Run 2025 is set to become one of India’s most unique and spiritually charged ultra-marathon events. Scheduled for 2nd November 2025, this extraordinary run will take place in the remote and sacred Vyasa Valley of Uttarakhand — home to the revered Adi Kailash, often called “Chhota Kailash,” the earthly counterpart of Mount Kailash in Tibet.
This isn’t just a marathon; it’s a fusion of spiritual devotion, Himalayan adventure, and physical endurance. Organized under Uttarakhand’s “Vibrant Village” initiative, the run aims to promote adventure tourism, youth engagement, and healthy lifestyles in the state’s border regions. The event also celebrates 25 years of Uttarakhand’s formation — making it a landmark occasion in every sense.
The Concept Behind the Run
The Adi Kailash Parikrama Run marks the first time such a high-altitude ultra-marathon is being held in the Kumaon Himalayas, at elevations ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 feet. The race combines breathtaking natural beauty with challenging mountain trails, testing runners’ stamina and mental grit against rugged Himalayan terrain and thin air.
The route winds through stunning locations such as Gunji, Kutti, Nabidang, Kalapani, and Jolingkong, offering glimpses of snow-clad peaks, sacred lakes like Parvati Kund, and the mighty Adi Kailash itself.
Categories and Distances
The 2025 edition offers several race categories to suit all levels of runners.
The main event is the 60 km Ultra Marathon, which starts from Jolingkong, the base of Adi Kailash. The route takes runners via Parvati Kund, Kutti, Nabidang, and Kalapani before finishing at Gunji village. This high-altitude route features steep ascents, rocky paths, and breathtaking vistas — a true test of endurance and spirit.
The 42 km Full Marathon offers a slightly shorter but equally demanding course around the Gunji–Kutti region. The 21 km Half Marathon provides a moderate challenge for experienced runners, while the 10 km and 5 km runs are designed for local participants and those looking for a less intense but equally inspiring Himalayan experience.
All races are scheduled for 2nd November 2025, with the ultra categories starting before dawn to take advantage of the early morning conditions.
How to Register
Registration for the Adi Kailash Parikrama Run 2025 is open through Townscript, the official ticketing partner. Participants can visit the Townscript website and search for “Adi Kailash Parikrama Run” to select their preferred category.
The entry fees vary depending on the distance, with prices starting from around ₹700 for the 5 km category and going up to ₹2,000 for the 60 km Ultra. International runners can also register through the same portal, with special slots available that include insurance coverage and added logistical support.
Once registered, participants receive a race kit that includes:
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A race T-shirt and bib number
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Timing chip for official tracking
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Refreshments and hydration support during the event
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Finisher medal and e-certificate
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Access to luggage storage facilities at the race venue
Medical and Acclimatization Requirements
Running at high altitude requires careful preparation. All participants must undergo a mandatory medical check-up and are strongly advised to arrive in Gunji at least two to three days before race day for acclimatization.
The pre-race schedule includes:
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31st October – 1st November 2025: Medical check-up, bib distribution, and race briefing in Gunji.
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2nd November 2025: Race day — Ultra runners will begin early morning around 4 AM, followed by other categories later in the morning.
Since Adi Kailash lies near the Indo-Nepal border, foreign nationals may require special permits to access the region. Organizers will assist with necessary documentation where applicable.
Participants and Global Interest
The event has already attracted significant attention from runners across India and abroad. Athletes from Africa and other countries are expected to participate, making it an international gathering of endurance runners united by their passion for mountains and spirituality.
The mix of categories ensures that everyone — from professional marathoners to amateur adventure seekers — can participate in this celebration of human endurance and cultural heritage.
Accommodation and Logistics
Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation in Gunji and nearby villages. The organizers will share a list of recommended hotels, guesthouses, and tented camps on the event’s official social media pages.
Due to the remote location, it’s advisable to book stays well in advance. Facilities are basic but comfortable, offering a true taste of Himalayan hospitality.
Luggage storage and essential support services will be available at the start and finish points. Organizers will also have medical teams and rescue personnel on standby to ensure participant safety throughout the race.
What Makes the Run Special
What sets the Adi Kailash Parikrama Run apart from other ultra-marathons is its spiritual and cultural depth. Runners will pass sacred sites associated with Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, including the holy Parvati Kund, where pilgrims traditionally perform parikrama of Adi Kailash.
The event not only challenges physical limits but also connects participants to the divine energy of the Himalayas — a rare blend of sport, spirituality, and adventure.
Additionally, the run supports local communities by bringing economic activity to remote villages through homestays, food stalls, and cultural programs. It aligns with Uttarakhand’s vision of “Vibrant Villages”, promoting sustainable tourism and rural development.
Preparation Tips for Runners
If you’re planning to participate in the Adi Kailash Parikrama Run 2025, here are a few key things to keep in mind:
1. Train for Altitude and Endurance
Start your training months in advance. Include long-distance trail runs, hill sprints, and strength exercises. High-altitude running is not about speed but stamina and consistency.
2. Acclimatize Properly
Arrive at least two to three days before race day. Spend time walking or light jogging in Gunji to let your body adapt to lower oxygen levels.
3. Carry Proper Gear
Invest in good-quality trail shoes with excellent grip, lightweight hydration packs, and weatherproof clothing. The temperature can drop drastically at dawn and rise sharply by noon.
4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
High-altitude running dehydrates the body faster. Drink plenty of fluids, carry energy gels, and maintain a steady intake of carbs and electrolytes.
5. Be Mentally Prepared
The terrain will be tough and unpredictable. Stay calm, pace yourself, and soak in the surreal beauty of the mountains. Remember — this run is as much about self-discovery as it is about competition.
Why It Matters
The Adi Kailash Parikrama Run 2025 symbolizes a new era for adventure sports in India. It blends spirituality with athleticism, showcasing Uttarakhand as a premier destination for high-altitude endurance events.
For local communities, the event offers economic upliftment and cultural pride. For runners, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to test limits amidst one of the most sacred and stunning landscapes on Earth.
Final Thoughts
Participating in the Adi Kailash Parikrama Run 2025 is not just about crossing a finish line — it’s about embarking on a transformative journey through devotion, endurance, and the divine Himalayas.
If you’re looking to combine fitness with faith, and adventure with purpose, there’s no better race to run.
Registration is now open on Townscript, and slots are limited due to the region’s logistical constraints. So lace up your shoes, start your training, and prepare to run alongside the gods — at the Adi Kailash Parikrama Run 2025.
