SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday unveiled the official merchandise for the Kashmir Marathon 2026 and launched the promotional campaign for the event, saying the initiative will help establish Kashmir as a major destination on India’s marathon calendar while giving a boost to sports tourism.
The merchandise, including the marathon cap, finisher’s medal and racing kit designed for participants, was unveiled at the Royal Springs Golf Course (RSGC) in Srinagar. The Chief Minister also released the promotional video for the event organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department.
Speaking on the occasion, Omar said the marathon was more than a sporting competition and was part of the government’s larger strategy to diversify tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Marathon is an event in itself. We are trying to increase tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. Tourism is not limited to destination weddings or conferences. We want to give recognition to the many unique experiences that Jammu and Kashmir offers, including skiing, the gondola, white-water rafting, fishing and other adventure activities,” he said.
The Chief Minister said efforts were being made to turn the Kashmir Marathon into one of India’s flagship sporting events, similar to major marathons held in Delhi, Mumbai, Ladakh and other regions.
“I have seen marathons in Delhi, Mumbai and several other states and Union Territories. Today, runners from across the country and the world participate in the Ladakh Marathon. We want the Kashmir Marathon and the Jammu Half Marathon to attain the same stature and recognition,” Omar said.
Highlighting the broader message behind the event, he said the marathon would showcase Kashmir’s peaceful environment and hospitality.
“The positive message of the marathon is that Kashmir is comfortable, safe and welcoming for everyone. We want people from across the country and around the world to come here, participate and experience Kashmir,” he added.
Officials said the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon will be held in Srinagar on October 25, 2026.
The half marathon route will take runners through some of Srinagar’s prominent landmarks, including the Jhelum riverfront, Lal Chowk, Dalgate and the Boulevard along Dal Lake. Full marathon participants will continue towards Hazratbal and Kashmir University.
The course, featuring a mix of flat and hilly stretches with an elevation gain of around 960 metres, has been designed to offer participants both a challenging and scenic running experience.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary Tourism Ashish Chandra Verma, Secretary RSGC Haris Ahmed Handoo, Director Tourism Kashmir Syed Qamar Sajad, Director Tourism Jammu Vikas Gupta and other senior officers attended the event.
