SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister’s Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani on Sunday said the Kashmir Marathon was gaining popularity, with rising participation reflecting growing public interest in running and the event’s potential to promote tourism in the Union Territory.
Speaking about the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon 2026 in Srinagar, Wani said the event was part of the Tourism Department’s and the Jammu and Kashmir Government’s efforts to attract more people to the region through sporting activities.
“There is enthusiasm and the numbers are also high. Obviously, day by day, people’s inclination and interest in this marathon and running is increasing,” Wani said.
He said the marathon offered participants an opportunity to experience Kashmir’s scenic beauty, adding that runners from across the country and abroad could help promote the region after visiting it.
“Today, because at the end of the day, whether it is a national-level tourist or a marathon runner who is at the national or international level, they come here and enjoy the scenic beauty of the track, which is one of the best in the world,” he said.
Wani said visitors participating in the marathon could become ambassadors for Kashmir by sharing their experiences with others.
“So obviously, the tourists will be our ambassadors hereafter once they turn up in the shape of, in the form of marathon runners,” he added.
Earlier, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah flagged off the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon in Srinagar. More than 2,000 athletes participated in the 42-km full marathon and the 21-km half marathon, with runners passing through Lal Chowk.
The event has a total prize pool of Rs 3.17 crore, with the winner in the open category set to receive Rs 25 lakh. The marathon has attracted participants from across India and abroad, strengthening its position among the country’s prominent athletics events.
