In the early 1900s, the Aga Khan, ruler of much of India, instructed his men to build a trail in the North-East Himalayan ranges. He had heard great tales of a spot high in the mountains, bordering present-day Nepal, where it was possible to see four Giants at once, and he wished to travel there. The trail was built, and though the Great Khan never made it to that spot, much of that trail still exists, as do the giant mountains that he wished to see.
The Himalayan 100-Mile Stage Race was first organized in 1991 to retrace the trail of the Aga Khan. Beginning with a team of just thirteen adventurers, it expanded in 1994 to include the Mt. Everest Challenge Marathon. Taking place entirely in Indian territory along the border with Nepal, the Himalayan 100 Mile Stage Race & Mt. Everest Challenge Marathon (HSR/ECM) is now one of the world’s premier mountain racing events, featuring five race stages of 24, 20, 26, 13 and 17 miles. The altitude along the course varies from 6000 to 12000 feet above sea-level, and offers participants amazing views of four out of five of the highest mountains in the world: Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu.
Over the years, the HSR/ECM has built a reputation for providing a world-class event that combines a spectacular race-course with uncompromising ground support services. Unique to this event, this race imposes no age limits or stage cut-off times. The HSR/ECM was also an early pioneer in creating an eco-friendly and culturally-sensitive event, consistent with its guiding philosophy on presenting a positive message on life and nature to its participants, with positive cultural interaction.
The magnificent landscape tempts runners to slow down to look at the stunning views of snow-capped peaks, sprawling valleys dotted with centuries-old monasteries, scenic villages, pristine forests, crystal-clear skies, and natural water channels. There is so much to see, feel, and experience during this race that it should come as no surprise that so many participants describe it as their “once-in-a-lifetime adventure.”
The goal of the Himalayan 100 Mile Stage Race and Mt. Everest Challenge Marathon is to continue to offer runners from around the globe an exceptional experience that transcends socio-economic and cultural barriers, uniting them in a unique adventure that aims to provide excitement, community, committed conservation, and above all, strives to expand global peace and tranquility.