Himalayan Run & Trek’s Himalayan 100 Mile Stage Race and Mt. Everest Marathon Challenge has time and again has been described as the most spectacular running course in the world. Regardless of your level of ability – whether a 10K, marathoner, or ultramarathon runner – you can run at your own pace. There are no age limits – the youngest participant was 12 years old, and the oldest was 76 - or stage cutoff times. The aim of this event is not winning, but to enjoy nature.
The first stage has over 10,000 feet of altitude gain. The first stage has over 10,000 feet of altitude gain. Five daily stages of 24 – 20 – 26 – 13 – 17 miles are designed for middle distance runners. Alternating running and walking, you can easily take in mountain views, catch a glimpse of National Park wildlife and chat with villagers at fully stocked aid stations every few miles.
The first stage has over 10,000 feet of altitude gain over 24 miles on trails in Sandakphu National Park, finishing in the village of Sandakphu at 12,000 ft. The second stage is out 10 miles on trails to Molle and back with spectacular views of Mt Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu - four of the five highest peaks in the world. The third stage of 26 miles is out past Molle and then down to Rimbik (6350 ft) on trails. The fourth and fifth stages, 13 and 17 miles, respectively, are mostly downhill on scenic rural roads.
The 100 mile course traverses through tea estates, isolated jungle, pine forests, small settlements and villages and across major rivers. Yaks, wild ponies, and the Red Panda are seen at higher elevations. Aid stations with food and support are provided along each stage course, and at each overnight stop, meals are fully catered and accommodations are provided in rustic mountain huts. Sightseeing in the Darjeeling area includes the famous Himalayan Mountaineering Museum, Toy Train, and important Tibetan monasteries.
Notable past participants include Mr. Mike Nuttall from the USA, who had undergone triple bypass heart surgery and then at age 63 completed the HSR; Mr. Shane James from Australia who, although suffering from Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS), a very rare, painful and debilitating disease, successfully completed the HSR; Mr. Richard Hope from Australia, a left arm amputee, successfully completed the HSR; and Mr. Shiv from India, who completed the HSR despite being partially blind. Thes extraordinary people have sending out the message that we can all push past the limits of our mental and physical endurance in the high Indian Himalaya.
Our organization is dedicated to environmental conservation and preserving the culture of remote areas of India while encouraging visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty of nature. Himalayan Run & Trek represents a personal commitment by the race director, Mr. Pandey, to both the mountains and to each participant/traveler. This event will continue to spread the message that becoming one with nature, and achieving balance between mind and body, is the most satisfying experience one can have.
