SRINAGAR: The sixth edition of the Patnitop Marathon commenced successfully on Sunday, drawing more than 800 runners from over 30 cities and 15 states, reaffirming its status as Jammu and Kashmir’s largest multi-category hill race.
Organised by IKA Sports and Events Pvt Ltd in collaboration with the Patnitop Development Authority, Directorate of Tourism Jammu, and the district administrations of Udhampur and Ramban, the event was held in support of the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan to promote a healthy, active and drug-free lifestyle.
The marathon featured four race categories — the 50-km Ultra Marathon, 21.1-km Half Marathon, 10-km race and 5-km race — with participants competing across five age groups. The races witnessed the participation of elite athletes, amateur runners, armed forces personnel, fitness enthusiasts, tourists and local residents.
The highlight of the event was the 50-km Ultra Marathon, considered one of India’s most demanding road ultra-marathons. The route began outside the Youth Hostel at Patnitop and passed through Kud, Nathatop and Sanasar Lake before returning to Patnitop, presenting runners with a gruelling challenge amid the Himalayan terrain.
The 50-km race was flagged off at 4.30 am, followed by the other categories at scheduled intervals, creating a vibrant sporting atmosphere throughout the day.
Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Alyas Khan, Chief Executive Officer of Patnitop Development Authority Virender Kumar Manyal, SDM Chenani Ranjeet Singh, Deputy Director Tourism Jammu Pankaj Sasan, Assistant Director Tourism Mohd Arif Lone and SDPO Chenani Sukhvir Singh, among other officials, attended the event.
Officials said the marathon generated significant tourism activity in the region, benefiting local hotels, restaurants, transport operators and small businesses. They noted that such events play a vital role in promoting wellness tourism, adventure tourism and destination sports in Jammu and Kashmir.
The 2026 edition was strengthened through partnerships with 10 running clubs from across the country, including Jammu-based groups MOBE Club and C9 Club, which helped expand the event’s national reach.
Winners and podium finishers across all categories and age groups were felicitated during the prize distribution ceremony held in the presence of dignitaries and participants.
Organisers said the successful completion of the sixth edition has further cemented the Patnitop Marathon’s reputation as one of India’s premier mountain races and a flagship sporting event on Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism calendar.
