Itanagar: The third edition of the Tawang Marathon concluded on October 24, attracting over 6,200 participants from across India and abroad. Held at an altitude of nearly 10,000 feet, the marathon featured four categories – 42 km, 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km – challenging runners to navigate the region’s rugged Himalayan terrain.
The marathon saw a strong presence of local engagement, with civilians, students, and security forces, including the Indian Army, SSB, and ITBP, joining to turn the event into a broader celebration of community and Himalayan culture. The competitors ran past the Tawang Monastery, Asia’s largest Buddhist monastery, and through cloud-kissed valleys, experiencing what organisers called “Running Above the Clouds.”
Lieutenant General Gambhir Singh, General Officer Commanding, Gajraj Corps, flagged off the event, highlighting its role in promoting fitness, adventure, and national integration in the Himalayan frontier. The marathon also saw participation from 1,200 women and girls and three international runners from Kenya, offering a vivid showcase of endurance and resilience.
The theme for this year’s event was “Strive for Sustainability,” reflecting the marathon’s growing focus on environmental awareness alongside physical achievement. The Tawang Marathon 3.0 reaffirmed the spirit of determination, proving that high-altitude challenges can be met with preparation, courage, and collective enthusiasm.
