Ladakh Marathon Tour
It is not easy to a run a marathon. To run one at 3500m in rough terrain with multiple gradient shifts needs a different level of athleticism. This is for people who thrive on endurance running. For the brave and really resilient. Welcome to a new high. The Ladakh Marathon!
Ladakh Marathon had their first edition in Sep, 2012. Over the years it has grown by leaps and bounds and is now one of the most sought after mountain marathons in the country and the world. Billed as one of the toughest marathons, it is a big draw for serious runners both for the intense challenge it offers and the insanely beautiful race course. Beautiful monasteries built on hill tops, rugged arid landscape, serene Indus River, azure blue sky and a vibrant atmosphere. The race course has it all and a killer incline before the finish. Running this marathon is truly a cathartic experience and will drain you physically and emotionally. At the end, the reward of completing it is a feeling that you will prize for a long time.
The marathon happens at an altitude of 3500m with rarefied oxygen levels, it is important to come in much early. This helps the body acclimatize and and ready itself for race Day. Our tour is an acclimatization and sightseeing run up to the Ladakh Marathon.
We start with 2 days of acclimatization in Leh with local sightseeing of ancient monasteries and palaces. We then head to Nubra Valley across one of the highest motorable passes in the World – Khardungla and descend to the breathtaking valley of Nubra. From here we drive along the Shayok to the high altitude lake of Pangong that stretches all the way into Tibet. We return to Leh over the Chang la and spend the next day whitewater rafting down the gorge section of Zanskar. The day before the Marathon is reserved for complete rest.
The itinerary is designed to support you and help you achieve the dream of completing one of the toughest Marathons. We will have some from our core team also running along for motivation and support. If you are serious about achieving this glory, we are here to support you in your endeavour.
Like they say, if you can run this. You can run anywhere.
Registration for the Ladakh Marathon opens in March.
Overview
Ladakh Marathon Tour – Overview
It is not easy to a run a marathon. To run one at 3500m in rough terrain with multiple gradient shifts needs a different level of athleticism. This is for people who thrive on endurance running. For the brave and really resilient. Welcome to a new high. The Ladakh Marathon!
Ladakh Marathon had its first edition in Sep, 2012. Over the years it has grown by leaps and bounds and is now one of the most sought after mountain marathons in the country and the world. Billed as one of the toughest marathons, it is a big draw for serious runners both for the intense challenge it offers and the insanely beautiful race course. Beautiful monasteries built on hill tops, rugged arid landscape, serene Indus River, azure blue sky and a vibrant atmosphere. The race course has it all and a killer incline before the finish. Running this marathon is truly a cathartic experience and will drain you physically and emotionally. At the end, the reward of completing it is a feeling that you will prize for a long time.
The marathon happens at an altitude of 3500m with rarefied oxygen levels, it is important to come in much early. This helps the body acclimatize and and ready itself for race Day. Our tour is an acclimatization and sightseeing run up to the Ladakh Marathon.
We start with 2 days of acclimatization in Leh with local sightseeing of ancient monasteries and palaces. We then head to Nubra Valley across one of the highest motorable passes in the World – Khardungla and descend to the breathtaking valley of Nubra. From here we drive along the Shayok to the high altitude lake of Pangong that stretches all the way into Tibet. We return to Leh over the Chang la and spend the next day whitewater rafting down the gorge section of Zanskar. The day before the Marathon is reserved for complete rest.
The itinerary is designed to support you and help you achieve the dream of completing one of the toughest Marathons. We will have some from our core team also running along for motivation and support. If you are serious about achieving this glory, we are here to support you in your endeavour.
Like they say, if you can run this, you can run anywhere.
Registration for the Ladakh Marathon opens in March.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Running the Ladakh Marathon
- Training walks and runs at different altitudes
- Scenic drive along the Shyok river
- Sand dunes and double-humped camels in Nubra
- Surreal Pangong Lake in Changthang
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
Day 01: Arrive Leh(3500m). Rest and Acclimatization
Day 02: Leh Local Sightseeing
Day 03: Drive to Nubra Valley over khardung La(5359m)
Day 04: Excursion to Turtuk/Thang & back
Day 05: Drive to Pangong Lake(4250m)
Day 06: Drive to Leh
Day 07: Rest Day before the marathon
Day 08: Race Day
Day 09: Depart
*Optional whitewater rafting option on Day 7 at extras. Not recommended for HM, FM runners.
Cost Inclusions
Ladakh Marathon Tour – Cost Details
COST PER PERSON:
INR 58500 + 5% GST
USD 890 + 5% GST
COST INCLUDES
- Accommodation: Entire accommodation during the trip
- Hotel in Leh
- Resort in Nubra
- Deluxe Tents in Pangong
- Transport as mentioned in the itinerary
- Tempo Traveller for all the driving involved in Leh
- Meals as mentioned in the itinerary. Only breakfasts in Leh
- Whitewater Rafting on Zanskar
- Experienced Trip leader and Support Team
- Inner Line Permits
- Marathon and Race Day Support
COST EXCLUDES
- Airfares and Travel Insurance
- Personal equipment and sleeping bags
- Any additional transport or activities apart from the trip itinerary
- Expenses rising through unforeseen conditions like bad weather, natural calamities, flight cancellations, etc
- Rescue and evacuation services
- Expenses of any personal nature like phone calls, drinks, cigarettes, souvenirs, laundry, etc
- Tips
- Anything not explicitly mentioned in Cost includes
- 5% GST
Itinerary
Ladakh Marathon Tour – Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive Leh(3500m). Rest and Acclimatization
Fly into one of the highest airports in the World at 3256m. The mountain flight to Leh(IXL) will mesmerize you. Our representative will greet you at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Sudden change in altitude does not go too well with the body and it needs to be rested to adjust to rarefied oxygen levels. We are all here on a misssion, so it is paramount that we give our bodies complete rest today to help it acclimatize to high altitude.
In the evening we go out for a relaxed market walk.
Driving Time: 15 mins
Overnight Leh Hotel. Meals: B
Day 02: Leh Local Sightseeing
After breakfast, we go for our half day sightseeing tour of monasteries and palaces. We visit Shey, the erstwhile capital of Ladakh which has a palace. Shey also is a famous picnic spot for the locals because of the grassy fields with water bodies in front of the palace. We then move to Thiksey monastery which resembles the Potala Palace of Tibet and is a miniature version of it. The main attraction inside, is the 2-storeyed statue of Maitreya Buddha which was the poster picture for incredible India campaigns. The view from atop Thiksey monastery is simply stunning. We return to Leh for lunch. Post-lunch we can walk around the charming markets of Leh.
Driving Time: 2-3 hrs
Overnight Leh Hotel. Meals: B
Day 03: Drive to Nubra Valley over khardung La(5359m)
We drive over the highest motorable pass to Nubra Valley, which used to be an integral part of the silk route. Infact, the famous double-humped camels in this Valley were actually brought in by traders from across the Hindu Kush during the silk route days. Nubra Valley borders with Pakistan and is the gateway to the Karakoram Range. The highest battlefield on Earth- Siachen lies in the Nubra Valley.
Our first stop after lunch will be Diskit monastery with the giant statue of the Maitreya Buddha overlooking the massive expanse and the old monastery of Diskit.
In the evening we visit Hunder sand dunes, to enjoy the sunset over the dunes and witness the double humped Bactrain Camels. It is a small desert just next to the Shyok river. Evening free to enjoy some star gazing.
Driving Time: 5-6 hrs
Overnight Nubra Hotel. Meals: BLD
Day 04: Drive to Pangong Lake(4250m)
Today morning will be our first jog in the Nubra Valley.
After Breakfast, we take the road that runs along the Shayok river towards Pangong Lake. This road is seldom used and is very picturesque. There are umpteen view points and photography points on the way. This road can be used only late in the season when the water from the Shayok is low. We have lunch on the way at Durbuk and head to Pangong Lake.
Pangong Tso is the biggest lake in Ladakh and spans 135Kms with just one third of the lake lying in India. The rest lies as part of China. The cobalt blue Pangong Tso, can be reached after a 5 hr scenic drive along the Shayok river. The Chang Chenmo mountains make the backdrop of this stunning lake. The colours around will send the photographer in you into a tizzy! Cobalt lake, arid brown mountain range with snow white summits and the azure blue of the skies!! This could be heaven. We spend a night here enjoying Pangong in all its colours as the light shifts. A great place to look into oneself as you look out at the blue expanse. People spontaneously slip into a meditative state at this enchanted lake.
Driving Time:5-6 hrs
Overnight Pangong Deluxe Tents. Meals: BLD
Day 05: Drive to Leh
Early morning we go for a jog on the shores of Pangong. Dont forget to watch the water birds the dot the shore. Mostly Bar headed Goose and Brahminy ducks.
After a relaxed breakfast, we make our way back to Leh through a different route, over the Chang La(5360m). Another day to savour the spectacular arid scenery on route.
Driving Time:5-6 hrs
Overnight Leh Hotel. Meals: BL
Day 06: Rafting Day trip
Early morning we take a short run towards Shanti Stupa and return.
Rafting is one of thrilling activities you can indulge in when in Leh. Indus and Zanskar offer classic day trip sections. The Zanskar day trip is graded 3+ and is in a gorge section. We drive for about 2 hrs from Leh, upstream the Zanskar river to the starting point called Chilling. The Zanskar river carries a lot of silt, is very cold and has some fantastic rapids. A great way to experience the Zanskar Gorge. You are kitted up with wet suits, life jackets, helmets and paddles for the raft trip. Post trip, we have a sumptuous lunch on the riverside, getting warm in the strong sun. We visit the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib on our way back.
In the evening, we walk to Shanti Stupa again for the magnificent sunset over Tsemo Castle.
Overnight Leh Hotel. Meals: BL
Day 07: Leisure Day
After an early morning run towards Tsemo Castle and a hearty breakfast, we rest our legs for the rest of the day reading a book, meditating or just enjoying the blue skies in Leh.
Overnight Leh Hotel. Meals: B
Day 08: Marathon Day
The Big Day. We make a super early start and head to the start point of the Marathon in a vehicle. After that , its just some prayer and a lot of action. The culmination of months of dedicated hardwork. Running at 3500m above sea level in one of the most breathtaking of locations – Ladakh. Go ahead , enjoy the run.
Gala Dinner party in the evening.
Overnight Leh Hotel. Meals: BL
Day 09: Depart
An early breakfast and departure to the airport. Trip Ends.
Meals: B
Gallery
Ladakh Marathon Tour- Images
Extended Gallery on Facebook
Ladakh Marathon Tour – Sep 2018
Highlights Of Ladakh – July 2018
Inquiry
Talk to an Expert : Call +91-9886022521
1 review for Ladakh Marathon Tour
Add a review
Related Treks
Goechala Trek
₹50,000
Goechala Trek is your chance to visit the hallowed land of the highest mountain in India and the 3rd highest mountain in the World - Khangchendzonga(8586m) in the Kingdom of Sikkim. You will be delighted each day of the trip by the Buddhist culture of the place, its natural beauty and the warmth of the locals. The trip spans the Nepalese hinterland of East India covering Darjeeling and West Sikkim. Right from day 1, the Khangchendzonga range covers the north sky and grows in size as we inch closer and closer until Goechala, where we are just 9 kms away from its formidable North face. You will have to crane your neck to get a good sight at the summit from here.
The trip starts with 2 days at the Tea Capital of Darjeeling, the charming hill station town built by the British. We then move on to Yuksom in West Sikkim, the start point for the 8 day trek rich in flora and fauna. There is a wide variety of orchids, ferns, rhododendrons and bamboo…the thick vegetation with snow mountains peeking through the branches, the yaks and dzos ambling along with load on their backs is a common sight along the trail. During Spring, this region is home to some of the biggest and most colourful rlooming hododendrons in the Himalaya.
Rated among the finest walks in the Indian Himalaya, the trek to Goechala and back will leave you craving for more.
Deo Tibba Base Camp Trek
₹50,000
Deo Tibba peak at 6001m is one of the higher peaks in the Pir Panjal Range of the Indian Himalayas. Starting from Jammu and Kashmir, the Pir Panjal range extends all the way into Himachal. Mt. Deo Tibba and Indrasan mark the eastern end of this range. The Deo Tibba Valley trek takes you to the base camp of this big mountain through dense conifer forests, lush green meadows, high altitude lakes and snow-capped mountains. Starting from the beautiful hill town of Manali, we make a small circuit over 5 days starting at Shuru village and ending at Jobri, where there is a small dam. Shuru is the first and last village on the trail. Post that, the only people we get to meet on this Himalayan trail would be the Gaddi Shepherds and Gujjar cattle herders. Gaddis camp in the mountains with their huge flocks of sheep and goat throughout the Summer and Monsoons. Gujjars are few and are normally found at Tilgan and Jobri with theirs herds of buffaloes.
The trek is of moderate difficulty with a couple of tough days which includes steep ascents. Starting at 2000m, we ascend to the highest altitude of 3700m at Rourikholi, the enchanting grazing grounds for all horses of Prini and Shuru Villages in Manali. You can count about a hundred horses and mules in this sprawling meadow with views of Deo-Tibba and Indrasan on one side and Dhauladhar range on the other. Each campsite on the trail is picturesque, enhancing the joy of camping in the mountains. For first time trekkers and visitors into the Himalaya, this trek works as a classic introduction to the beauty and rigour of trekking in the Indian Himalaya. For the seasoned trekker, this is a relaxed walking holiday with a lot of #metime that will leave you totally des-stressed and rejuvenated by the end of it all.
Deo Tibba Base Camp trek is the perfect active Himalayan getaway for over stressed souls.
Annapurna Panorama Trek
₹50,000
The 5-day Ghorepani-Poonhill trekking loop is one of the most pleasant and sought after short treks of Nepal and affords beautiful views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna and Macchapucchre ranges. Poon Hill, which is the highest point of the trek at 3210m is one of the finest vantage points in the Himalaya from where you can witness many peaks higher than 6000m and the Giants – Dhaulagiri(8167m) and Annapurna 1(8091m). A great introduction to Himalayan trekking and Nepalese Himalaya, this trek passes through farmlands and picturesque villages nestled in the foothills of Annapurna. We will be staying at simple tea-houses on the trail, a charming way to experience Nepali hospitality and witness the lifestyle of the natives. The traditional villages – Ghorepani and Ghandruk are the biggest Magar and Gurung settlements in the Annapurna sanctuary with wonderful views of the Himalayan ranges.
The trip starts with your arrival at Kathmandu and a day of sightseeing followed by the 5-day trek in Annapurna sanctuary with the beautiful lake city of Pokhara as base. Kathmandu and Pokhara, the 2 main cities of Nepal will play host before and after the trek.
THIS IS A GUARANTEED DEPARTURE.
Hampta Pass Trek
₹50,000
Hampta Pass trek is the epic crossing from the lush green Kullu Valley into the arid, semi-desert like valley of Lahaul. For generations, this pass has been used by locals and Gaddi Shepherds in the summer months for crossing over into Lahaul with their herds of sheep and goat. The other pass that takes us across is the Rohtang La(3985m) which is a motorable road.
Standing on Hampta pass(4270m), it is amazing to notice the stark contrasts in scenery between the 2 valleys. We begin our adventure with a beautiful 4 day acclimatization trek through Deo Tibba Valley reaching the base camp of Mt. Deo Tibba(6001m) at Pyangneru. Deo Tibba(6001m) and Indrasan(6221m) are the highest peaks in the Pir Panjal range and this trek gives us some of the best views of both these peaks and the adjacent ones. The snout of the Deo Tibba glacier is just 2 hrs away from the basecamp.
We then enter Hampta Valley through Jobri Nallah and ascend to the pass at 4270m. It is a common sight to meet Gaddi shepherds all along the route with their big flocks. Sometimes our campsites are just next to theirs and it is great to get insights of the mountains and wildlife from these wise, hardened men. Each campsite on this trek is an absolute beauty, with the campsite at Rourikholi taking the cake.
Trekking in Himachal is definitely an uplifting experience and this trek in particular, with its variety, pacing and beautiful landscape will leave you completely rejuvenated.
Spiti Village Walks
₹50,000
God seemed to have created Spiti at complete leisure. There are few people in the world whose imagination is not instantly captured by Spiti at first sight…such is its beauty. As you drive down from Kunzum La, you are transported to a different world of arid lands, multicoloured mountains, impressive chortens, fluttering prayer flags, and 1000 year old monasteries built on high spurs. Between such landscape are nestled picturesque villages with toiling locals in their lush green farms of barley, buckwheat, and mustard. Solar energy has been well harnessed in the valley and it is not surprising to see entire villages subsisting on just solar power.
Spiti is cut-off from the rest of the world during its severe winters, when temperatures drop drastically to sub zero degrees. Its approach road from Shimla via the Hindustan-Tibet road is dangerous while Kunzum La, the gateway to Spiti Valley is closed under heavy snow most of the year. Spiti is open only in summers for a brief period between July and Sep, the only time you get to witness the bewitching beauty of this self sufficient valley.
Our trek takes us through some of the highest villages in Asia, staying in homestays and partaking local meals. A great way of exploring Spiti up and close, from the living rooms of the ever smiling, warm natives of Spiti.
Interestingly Spiti, and especially our trekking path has a lot of rock fossils reminding us of an age when the Himalaya used to be under the Tethys sea. This trek is also famous as the Fossil trail!
Ladakh – Bike, Hike, Raft
₹79,600
This adventure is specifically designed for the active traveller, somebody who relishes a destination while being on the move. For anybody who wants to get a good feel of Ladakh up and close, and in action mode.
We spend the first 2 days acclimatizing to high altitude, something mandatory after arriving in Leh. The next 2 days are for mountain biking down the highest motorable road to Leh and then on to Likir, the start point of our trek. 2 days of trekking to follow, through Ladakhi villages with green cultivated fields and staying in homestays for the night. A great way of getting to know the local lifestyle and interact with the natives of Sham Valley.
Before going on to our last adventure, we take a long and beautiful drive through Suru and Zanskar to reach Padum, the main town of Zanskar. The next 3 days is reserved for high octane white water adventure on the Zanskar river over a class 4+ section through Zanskar canyon, famously referred to as “The Grand Canyon of Asia”. The penultimate day for visiting the famous turquoise Pangong lake at the Tibetan border and the final day to just sit and vegetate!
For energetic ones visiting Ladakh for the first time, there is no better way of soaking in the Ladakh feel in 2 weeks.
Highlights of Ladakh
₹50,000
This is an itinerary which covers most of the highlights of Ladakh in an action-packed 14-day package. We start our trip from New Delhi with an overnight Volvo to Manali, a lush Himalayan Hill station famous for its apple orchards. After a day of relaxing and local sightseeing in Manali, we embark on an epic 2-day trans-Himalayan road trip to Leh rated as one of the finest road trips in the World crossing 5 high passes with stunning scenery.
We have a day’s rest to recoup from the driving when we checkout the famous monasteries and palaces in Leh. The next 2 days we visit the northernmost tip of India - Nubra Valley which used to be a major stopover for traders during the silk route days. Enjoy rides on the double-humped camels there and visit Diskit monastery with the 32 mtr statue of the Maitreya Buddha. On the way back to Leh, we enjoy mountain biking from the highest motorable pass - Khardung La(5359m).
We then hike for 3 days through the picturesque Sham Valley interspersed with villages with green farm fields. One of the best ways to feel the essence of Ladakh. We also get an opportunity to stay in Homestays and view first hand the lifestyle of people in Ladakh. We end the trek at Tingmosgang and to Lamayuru, one of the most popular monasteries of Ladakh. Lamayuru is situated in mud spires in a moonlike surroundings which will leave you in total awe. The next day at Leh is reserved for rest and leisure. Checkout sunrise over Tsemo Castle or sunset over Shanti Stupa. A heart warming experience just seeing the sun light up the Valley and turn it crimson during sunset. Visit the charming and bustling market in Leh and shop for your loved ones.
The next 2 days are reserved for a visit to Pangong Lake and a thrilling whitewater rafting experience on the Zanskar.
This is one trip that will leave you with vivid images and special experiences that you will be talking about for a long time.
Singalila Ridge Trek
₹50,000
The Singalila Ridge Trek is one of the finest ridge walks in the Indian Himalaya affording amazing views of some big mountain ranges including Khangchendzonga and Everest. The highlight is the Khangchendzonga and surrounding mountains including Janoo and Pandim which from this distance, resembles a man sleeping and is famously referred to as “The Sleeping Buddha”.
The Singalila ridge comes off one of the ridges from Khangchendzonga in Sikkim. Sandakphu at 3636m, the highest point on this trek is a classic vantage point to view the Himalayan ranges from. Right ahead is the Khangchendzonga range, to the left is Everest range and to the right are the mountains of Bhutan. Trekkers and tourists flock to Sandakphu all year round, to get a glimpse of the magnificent Sleeping Buddha and to rejoice in its cool climes. This short getaway of 7 days is sure to leave you completely energized and feeling light.
#ChristmaswithChai
Markha Valley Trek
₹50,000
If you had to choose just one trek to do in Ladakh, it must be the Markha Valley Trek. It’s not “the most popular trek” in Ladakh without reason. Right from ease of access, remoteness of valley, wilderness experience and just the feel of trekking in Ladakh - it is all there on this trail. The long hours of walking in wind swept arid landscape with green villages suddenly appearing as a welcoming Oasis, is exactly how trekking in Markha is. Right in between the valley is the quaint Tacha Gompa perched high up on a cliff adding some mystic to this trek. What really adds to the experience is the presence of little hamlets along the way affording a high degree of interaction with the hardy natives. This is the first valley where the concept of homestays was pioneered in the 2000s and later replicated across other trekking valleys in Ladakh. The high altitude grazing grounds at Nimaling with splendid views of snowcapped Kang Yatse is yet another highlight.
The Markha Valley was connected to the mainland via a steel bridge across the Zanskar river in Feb,2016. This bridge was sadly washed off later that year from the Tsarap Chu floods. A new bridge has been proposed here and will soon see the light of day. It gives the trekkers the last few years to enjoy trekking in this fabulous valley sans vehicles! Make the most of it, when you can.
Khangchendzonga Circuit
Khangchendzonga Circuit is easily one of the finest treks the Indian Himalaya has to offer. Set in the kingdom of Sikkim, the hike takes you to touching distance of the 3rd highest mountain in the world and other snow jewels of Sikkim. Starting from as low as 1800m at Uttarey, the trek reaches its crescendo at Goechala(4940m), where the Khangchendzonga face is only 9 kms as the crow flies. It is an amphitheatre of huge mountains ranging from small peaks to 6000ers, 7000ers and the highest one in India!Some notable mountains are Janoo, Talung, Pandim, Jopuno, Narsing, Simvo and Kabru.
The first half of the trek straddles the border with Nepal passing through dense forests of rhododendron and sprawling meadows where Yaks and Dzos graze. Midway through the trek we camp beside high altitude holy lakes, before entering the Indian side of the border.
This is a demanding trek with some long days of walking where not many trekking groups venture. The route is mostly isolated all the way to Dzongri after which it joins the popular YuKsom-Dzongri Circuit where the footfall of hikers is higher. The Nepalese culture, rugged mountain route, heartwarming scenery, and the pacing of the route make this our personal favorite.
Consider this if you have a few treks under your belt, and lead a reasonably active lifestyle.
Hitesh Joshi – :
The literal translation of the Hindi word “Vishwas” in English is “Trust” which is the basis of all relationship and the foundational stone for lasting relationship. When it comes to Business it becomes equally important to be a “Trusted Advisor” and Vishwas from Adventure Sindbad just epitomises the true essence of that. His professionalism and attention to details are just awe inspiring. Taking care of minutest of details such as giving us a detailed list of items to be carried, Acclimatisation needs, need to have our Marathon requirements met while clubbing with site seeing and what kind of altitude will suit better. How much time we should have in hand before Marathon starts. Every single need has been taken care by Vishwas.
I fell ill while on the trip and he literally ensured that I get proper medication and attention while keeping an eye on my main purpose of visiting Ladakh I.e. Marathon. I was just fit 2 days before my marathon and was able go out for a practice run with Vishwas for good 5 KM a day before the marathon. I have never experienced such a service and would highly recommend Vishwas for his services.
I look forward to come back again and use Vishwas’s services.
Wish you good luck Vishwas.