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About Adi Kailash In Brief

Adi Kailash, also known as Chhota Kailash, is one of the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva in the Sacred Himalayas of India. Located in the remote Kumaon Himalayas of Uttarakhand, close to the Indo-Tibet border, this divine mountain is believed to be a reflection of Mount Kailash in Tibet. With its snow-covered peak, serene Parvati Kund, and nearby Om Parvat, the region holds deep spiritual energy that attracts both pilgrims and adventure seekers.

The Adi Kailash Parikrama 2025 follows the ancient Parikrama tradition, where devotees walk around the holy mountain to seek blessings from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Legends say that this is the very place where Shiva resides with Maa Parvati, making it one of the holiest sites for Hindus. The villages of Gunji, Kutti, and Jolingkong, located along the Parikrama path, reflect the raw Himalayan culture and devotion of local people living in harmony with nature.

The same sacred trail now hosts the Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025, blending adventure, endurance, and spirituality together. Running on this divine route is not just a physical challenge but also a soulful experience — a rare opportunity to connect with the Himalayas and the spirit of Kailash.

For a complete travel guide and Yatra details, you can also read my detailed article here 👉
🔗 Adi Kailash Yatra 2025–26 – Detailed Itinerary & Travel Guide

🏔️ Event Venue, Route Map, and Distance of Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025

The Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025 is the first-ever high-altitude ultra marathon in India, held in the sacred Himalayan region of Gunji–Jolingkong, located in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand.
This grand event will be organized on 2nd November 2025, with pre-race activities scheduled on 31st October and 1st November 2025 at Gunji village.

The marathon aims to promote Vibrant Village Border Adventure Tourism and spread awareness for a healthy lifestyle with the message – “Say No to Drugs.”

I have written a detailed article on Vibrant Villages Programme. You can read it here.

📍 Event Venue

The race will take place at the base of Adi Kailash (10,300–15,000 ft), one of the holiest peaks of the Indian Himalayas.
Gunji Village will serve as the main base camp for all participants, while the 60KM Ultra Marathon will start from Jolingkong (Adi Kailash Base) and finish at Gunji.

Other races including 42KM, 21KM, 10KM, and 5KM runs will be held on a loop route between Gunji and Kutti Village.
This region lies close to the Indo-Tibet border and offers a unique mix of spirituality, adventure, and stunning mountain views.

Event Location: Gunji–Jolingkong, Pithoragarh District, Uttarakhand
Base Camp: Gunji Village
Altitude Range: 10,300 ft – 15,000 ft

🗺️ Route Map & Elevation Details

The Adi Kailash Parikrama Run Route passes through breathtaking Himalayan valleys, sacred lakes, and ancient villages. Runners will experience divine energy and high-altitude challenges along the path.

60KM Ultra Marathon

• • Start: Jolingkong (Adi Kailash Base – 15,000 ft)

  • Route: Jolingkong → Parvati Kund → Kutti → Gunji → Nabidang → Kalapani → Gunji

  • Elevation Gain: 1,588 meters

  • Cut-off Time: 10 Hours

  • Mandatory: Minimum 2 days acclimatization at Gunji

Other Categories

• • 42KM Marathon: Gunji to Kutti Loop – Elevation Gain 1,295m, Cut-off Time 7 hrs

  • 21KM Half Marathon: Gunji to Kutti Loop – Cut-off Time 4 hrs

  • 10KM Run: Gunji Loop – Cut-off Time 2 hrs

  • 5KM Fun/Charity Run: Gunji Loop – Cut-off Time 80 min

Each participant must undergo a medical check-up and acclimatization period before the race to ensure safety at this high-altitude Himalayan terrain.

📏 Distance and Elevation Summary

🚐 How to Reach the Event Starting Point – Gunji

The starting point of Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025 is Gunji Village, a beautiful high-altitude Himalayan village located in Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand, near the India–Nepal–Tibet border.
Gunji serves as the base camp for both Adi Kailash Yatra and Om Parvat, and now it will also host the first-ever high-altitude ultra marathon in India.

Reaching Gunji is itself a part of the adventure. The route passes through deep valleys, beautiful rivers, and scenic Himalayan roads.
Here’s a complete guide on how to reach Gunji by air, train, and road.

✈️ By Air – Nearest Airports to Gunji

The nearest airport to Gunji is Pantnagar Airport (PGH), located in Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand.
From Pantnagar, you can travel by road to Pithoragarh or Dharchula, and then continue toward Gunji.

• • Pantnagar Airport to Pithoragarh: 240 km (approx. 8–9 hrs by road)

  • Pantnagar Airport to Dharchula: 290 km (approx. 10–11 hrs by road)

  • Pantnagar Airport to Gunji: Around 370 km (approx. 12–14 hrs by road)

Another nearby option is Naini Saini Airport (Pithoragarh Airport), located just 5 km from Pithoragarh town.
Currently, there are limited Alliance Air flights connecting Pithoragarh to Dehradun and Pantnagar.

• • Pithoragarh Airport to Dharchula: 95 km (approx. 3 hrs)

  • Pithoragarh Airport to Gunji: 175 km (approx. 6–7 hrs)

So, the most convenient way is to fly to Pantnagar or Dehradun, then continue your journey by road.

🚆 By Train – Nearest Railway Stations to Gunji

There is no direct railway line to Gunji or Dharchula.
The nearest railway stations are Tanakpur and Kathgodam, both well-connected to major Indian cities.

• • Kathgodam Railway Station: 365 km from Gunji

  • Tanakpur Railway Station: 340 km from Gunji

From either Kathgodam or Tanakpur, you can take a shared cab or private taxi toward Pithoragarh → Dharchula → Gunji.

Train Options:

• • From Delhi to Kathgodam: Ranikhet Express, Kathgodam Shatabdi, and Uttar Sampark Kranti Express.

  • From Delhi to Tanakpur: Purnagiri Jan Shatabdi Express and Tanakpur Express.

🛣️ By Road – Most Scenic Route to Gunji

Reaching Gunji by road is a thrilling experience. The journey passes through the lush valleys of Kumaon Himalayas, following the course of Kali River near the India–Nepal border.
You can hire a taxi, join a shared jeep, or travel with the Adi Kailash Parikrama Run official transport service from Dharchula.

Main Route to Gunji (from Delhi / Haldwani / Dehradun):

Delhi → Haldwani → Pithoragarh → Dharchula → Gunji → Jolingkong

From Dharchula, the road climbs sharply along the Kuti valley, crossing scenic villages like Budhi, Garbyang, Napalchu, and Kalapani before reaching Gunji.

🏞️ Special Permits and Acclimatization

Since Gunji lies near the international border, every Indian participant must carry:

• • A valid Aadhar card and 2 passport-size photos

  • Inner Line Permit (ILP) issued by the SDM Office, Dharchula (I have written a detailed article on ILP. You can read it here).

  • A medical fitness certificate

For foreign nationals, a passport and valid Indian visa are mandatory, and the Inner Line Permit is also required.

Also, due to the high altitude (approx. 10,300 ft), at least two days of acclimatization at Gunji is compulsory before the race.

🚗 Travel Tips for Participants

• • Book your travel to Pithoragarh or Dharchula at least 3–4 days before the marathon.

  • Carry warm clothes, as Gunji experiences sub-zero temperatures in early November.

  • Keep local currency (cash) since digital payment options are limited in border villages.

  • Roads after Dharchula are narrow mountain tracks — 4×4 or Bolero-type vehicles are recommended.

  • Stay hydrated and follow organizer’s medical guidelines during your journey.

Reaching Gunji is not just about the destination — it’s a journey through the heart of the Himalayas.
Every turn of the road offers a breathtaking view of the mountains and the spiritual charm of the Adi Kailash region.
So pack well, travel safely, and get ready to experience the Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025 in the land of the gods.

🏃‍♂️ Event Categories – Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025

The Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025 is not just a single race — it’s a grand Himalayan event designed for different levels of runners, from professionals to beginners. Each category offers a unique mix of spiritual energy, mountain adventure, and physical challenge, making it one of the most diverse high-altitude ultra marathons in India.

The event will be held on 2nd November 2025 in the Gunji–Kuti–Jolingkong circuit of Pithoragarh District, Uttarakhand. Participants will compete in five major categories, each starting at different altitudes and covering different distances.

🏔️ 1. 60 KM Ultra Marathon – The Ultimate Himalayan Challenge

• • Start Point: Adi Kailash Base (Jolingkong – 15,000 ft)

  • Finish Point: Gunji Village (10,300 ft)

  • Route: Jolingkong → Parvati Kund → Kutti → Gunji → Nabidang → Kalapani → Gunji

  • Elevation Gain: 1,588 metres

  • Start Time: 4:00 A.M.

  • Cut-off Time: 10 Hours

This is the main event and the toughest of all categories, designed for seasoned ultra runners.
Participants will run along the Adi Kailash Parikrama route, surrounded by snow peaks and spiritual energy.
All runners must reach Gunji at least 2 days before the race for mandatory acclimatization and medical check-up.

🏞️ 2. 42 KM Marathon – Himalayan Classic Run

• • Start/Finish: Gunji Village

  • Route: Gunji → Kutti → Gunji (Loop of 21 KM)

  • Elevation Gain: 1,295 metres

  • Start Time: 5:00 A.M.

  • Cut-off Time: 7 Hours

This full marathon category gives participants the true feel of a high-altitude marathon in Uttarakhand.
The loop covers scenic landscapes, ancient villages, and the flowing Kali River.
At least two days of acclimatization are compulsory before participation.

🏃‍♀️ 3. 21 KM Half Marathon – The Mid-Altitude Challenge

• • Start/Finish: Gunji Village

  • Route: Gunji → Kutti → Gunji (21 KM)

  • Start Time: 5:20 A.M.

  • Cut-off Time: 4 Hours

Perfect for intermediate-level runners, this route combines adventure with spirituality, offering glimpses of Om Parvat and Adi Kailash peaks on a clear morning.

🏃 4. 10 KM Run – Beginner’s Himalayan Adventure

• • Start/Finish: Gunji Village

  • Route: 10 KM segment on the same Gunji–Kutti loop

  • Start Time: 5:30 A.M.

  • Cut-off Time: 2 Hours

This category is open for enthusiasts and local youth, promoting the mission “Say No to Drugs – Run for Health and Himalayas.”

👟 5. 5 KM Fun Run / Charity Run

• • Start/Finish: Gunji Village

  • Start Time: 6:00 A.M.

  • Cut-off Time: 80 Minutes

The 5 KM Fun Run is for everyone — families, villagers, and visitors who wish to take part in the event’s spiritual and community spirit.
It’s a non-competitive category aimed at spreading fitness awareness and Himalayan pride.

🏅 Prize Pool and Awards

All participants will receive:

• • Premium Dry-Fit T-shirt

  • Official Medal and Goody Bag

  • Time-chip Race Bib

  • On-route Hydration Support & Post-race Refreshments

  • E-Certificate of Participation

🎖️ Cash Prizes & Trophies

• • Top Five in each open category (60K, 42K, 21K, and 10K) will get cash prizes + trophies.

  • Age Categories: (40–50 yrs, 50–60 yrs, and 60+ yrs) – Top 3 runners in each age group will receive cash prize + trophy.

  • 5 KM Category: Only Trophy & Gift Hampers (no cash prize).

  • The Prize Pool will be officially announced soon, and prize cheques will be encashable within 50–60 days after the event.

⚡ Event Schedule Summary

Each race category not only tests endurance but also connects participants with the spiritual aura of Adi Kailash, one of the holiest mountains dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Whether you’re running 60 KM from Adi Kailash Base Camp or 5 KM through Gunji Village, this marathon will give you memories of a lifetime.

 

Registration Process for Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025

As of now, the Uttarakhand Government and Tourism Department have not officially announced the registration process for the Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025. The event is under planning, and updates are expected to be released soon through official channels. Once the official notice is out, we will update this article with direct registration links, fees, and guidelines.

However, based on previous Himalayan ultra-marathon registration patterns, here’s what you can expect regarding the eligibility, documents required, and safety conditions.

⚠️ Beware of Fake Registration Portals

Many websites are already offering online registration for the Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025.
Please note that none of them are government-approved as of now. These may be third-party organizers or even potential scams. Always register only through the official Uttarakhand Tourism or District Administration Pithoragarh portal, once it’s announced.

Eligibility Criteria

1. 1. Participants must be physically fit and medically cleared for high-altitude endurance sports.

   2. Acclimatization:

      • Runners from outside Uttarakhand must spend at least two days at high altitude before the race.

   3. Age Limit: Likely to be between 18 to 60 years (official confirmation awaited).

   4. Past experience in high-altitude marathons or ultra-marathons will be an advantage.

Documents Required

Participants are generally expected to provide the following:

1. 1. Valid ID Proof:

      • For Indian nationals: Aadhaar Card (mandatory).

      • For foreign nationals: Passport and valid Indian visa.

   2. Passport-size Photographs: Two recent copies.

   3. Medical Fitness Certificate: Must be issued within one month before the race day.

   4. Past Marathon Record (if any): Proof of participation in any ultra or high-altitude marathon in the last one year (before 30th September 2025).

   5. Disclaimer Form: To be signed mandatorily at Gunji before participation.

   6. Insurance Copy: Organizers will assist in connecting participants to approved insurance services before the event.

Registration Fee (Tentative)

While the official registration fee has not been declared, based on similar Himalayan ultra events, it may range between ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 for Indian nationals and $50 – $100 USD for foreign participants. The official amount will include logistics, medical support, and race coordination.

Inclusions (Tentative)

Once registration is open, it is expected to include:

• • Official race bib and timing chip.

  • Medical and rescue support during the event.

  • Basic accommodation and meals at Gunji.

  • Transportation from the start to the base camp after the event.

  • Participation certificate and finisher medal.

How to Register (Once Official Portal Opens)

1. 1. Visit the official website of Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) or the Pithoragarh District Administration portal.

   2. Click on the “Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025” registration link.

   3. Fill in the details carefully.

   4. Upload all required documents (ID, photo, medical certificate, etc.).

   5. Pay the registration fee online.

   6. Keep a copy of the confirmation receipt for entry verification at Gunji.

Important Tips for Participants

• • Spend at least two days in Gunji or nearby areas for proper acclimatization before the marathon.

  • Carry personal essentials like thermal wear, gloves, hydration packs, sunscreen, and energy gels.

  • Get a thorough medical check-up before applying.

  • Ensure your insurance covers high-altitude activities.

  • Avoid overexertion during the run — focus on steady pacing and hydration.

  • Always follow local administration and race marshal instructions during the event.

🏃‍♂️ Fitness and Altitude Tips for Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025

Participating in the Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025 is not just about endurance — it’s about strength, discipline, and preparation for high-altitude challenges. The marathon takes place between 10,300 ft to 15,000 ft in the Kumaon Himalayas of Uttarakhand, where oxygen levels drop significantly, and the terrain tests both body and mind.

🏋️‍♀️ 1. Training Tips

Start your training at least 3 to 4 months before the event. Focus on long-distance running, hill sprints, and strength workouts for legs, core, and shoulders. Include stair climbing, cycling, and interval training. Practice running on uneven terrain or trails, as the Adi Kailash route involves rocky, muddy, and steep stretches.

🌄 2. Acclimatization Advice

Runners should reach Gunji at least two days prior to the marathon for acclimatization. During these days, avoid overexertion — take short walks and keep yourself hydrated. The body needs time to adjust to low oxygen levels. Gradual exposure to altitude helps prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

🥗 3. Nutrition and Hydration

At high altitudes, your body burns calories faster. Include carbohydrates, proteins, and hydration salts in your diet. Drink plenty of warm water and ORS to stay hydrated, but avoid alcohol and caffeine. Carry energy gels, nuts, and glucose sachets during the marathon.

🫁 4. Altitude Sickness Awareness

Common symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. If any symptom becomes severe, descend immediately and seek medical help. The Adi Kailash Ultra Marathon team and ITBP support units will have medical assistance available along the route.

Proper training, acclimatization, and awareness can make this sacred run — a once-in-a-lifetime experience — safe and memorable. Prepare well, respect the mountains, and let your spirit rise with every step toward Adi Kailash!

🏥 Safety, Support & Medical Facilities during Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025

Safety is the topmost priority of the Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025. The event is being organized under strict supervision and with complete coordination from local administration, ITBP, and medical teams. As this marathon happens in the high-altitude Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, where altitude ranges from 10,000 ft to 15,000 ft, several safety and emergency measures are in place to ensure the well-being of every participant.

🧭 ITBP & On-Ground Support

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) will provide on-route support throughout the Adi Kailash Parikrama route, especially near Jolingkong, Gunji, Kutti, and Nabidang areas. They will assist with rescue operations, route guidance, and help in case of altitude or weather-related emergencies.

🚑 Emergency Response & Medical Team

Each route — 60 km, 42 km, 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km — will have designated medical checkpoints at fixed intervals. Qualified doctors, paramedics, and rescue vehicles will be stationed along the route. Oxygen cylinders, stretchers, and first aid kits will be available at all major checkpoints and finish points.

📍 Checkpoint Arrangements

Every participant will pass through multiple checkpoints, where they will get hydration, energy supplements, and medical check-ups if needed. Each runner’s Time Chip Bib will help monitor real-time progress and ensure safety tracking in case of delays or emergencies.

📡 Communication Setup

Due to limited network availability in the Gunji–Jolingkong–Kutti belt, the organizers are setting up satellite-based communication systems and wireless radios for coordination among volunteers, medics, and security personnel.

🛡️ Insurance & Safety Protocols

All participants are required to have personal insurance coverage before the event. Organizers will assist with additional safety and travel insurance. A mandatory medical fitness certificate and signing of a disclaimer form at Gunji are part of the registration process.

In short, the Adi Kailash Ultra Marathon ensures complete preparedness with medical, technical, and rescue support — allowing runners to focus on their goal while staying safe amidst the divine Himalayas.

🕉️ Cultural and Religious Significance of Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025

The Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025 is not just an adventure race — it’s a spiritual journey that runs through one of the most sacred landscapes in the Himalayas. The marathon route passes through the divine valleys of Gunji, Kutti, Nabidang, Jolingkong, and Parvati Kund, places deeply connected with Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

🏔️ The Sacred Adi Kailash

Known as the “Chhota Kailash”, Adi Kailash is considered the earthly replica of Mount Kailash in Tibet. Standing tall at around 6,191 meters, it holds immense religious significance for Hindus. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati reside here, and that this is where they once performed meditation. The calm Parvati Kund, situated at the base of Adi Kailash, reflects the holy peak’s image, making it one of the most spiritually powerful spots in India.

🌄 Om Parvat – The Mountain of Divine Symbol

Just near Gunji, the Om Parvat naturally displays the sacred symbol “ॐ” formed by snow on its black rock surface. This miraculous formation attracts thousands of pilgrims every year, as it is believed to be a direct sign of Lord Shiva’s presence. During the Parikrama route, participants pass near this divine mountain — making the event both a physical and spiritual experience.

🙏 Connection with Kailash Parikrama Tradition

The Adi Kailash and Om Parvat region is also considered part of the Kailash Parikrama tradition, where devotees circle sacred mountains as a mark of faith and surrender to the divine. The Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon beautifully merges this ancient tradition with modern endurance — giving runners an opportunity to connect devotion with discipline.

🪔 Myths, Rituals, and Local Culture

Local villages like Kutti, Gunji, and Nabidang hold annual rituals, prayers, and traditional songs dedicated to Lord Shiva and Nanda Devi. The residents, mostly from the Byans and Chaudans valleys, believe that every pilgrim or traveler who completes the Parikrama receives divine blessings. The marathon also aims to revive the border Himalayan traditions and promote spiritual tourism in this remote yet holy region.

In essence, the Adi Kailash Ultra Marathon is not just a test of stamina — it’s a sacred call of the Himalayas, blending faith, fitness, and divinity in one extraordinary journey.

🏕️ Accommodation and Food during Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025

During the Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025, comfortable accommodation and nutritious food will play an important role for all runners, organizers, and visitors. Since the marathon takes place in the high-altitude region of Gunji–Kuti–Jolingkong, arrangements are made keeping both comfort and acclimatization in mind.

🏡 Stay Options in Gunji, Kuti & Jolingkong

The main base camp for the event is Gunji village, located at around 10,300 ft in Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand. Here, participants will find GMVN rest houses, homestays, and tented camps managed by local villagers and event authorities. These provide basic but clean rooms, attached toilets, and warm bedding suitable for cold mountain nights.

At Kuti village (around 13 km from Gunji), some temporary tent accommodations and local guest huts will be arranged for runners and support staff. In Jolingkong, being the high-altitude start point near Parvati Kund, limited stay is available in event tents for acclimatization days (31st Oct–1st Nov). All participants are advised to carry sleeping bags, thermals, and personal essentials, as weather can turn cold and windy anytime.

🍛 Food Facilities & On-Route Support

During the marathon, participants will be provided with on-route hydration and refreshment stations at regular intervals. Each checkpoint will offer water, energy drinks, fruits, and light snacks to maintain stamina during the run.

At the base camps (Gunji and Kuti), participants and volunteers will get nutritious vegetarian meals prepared by local cooks — including rice, dal, chapati, vegetables, soup, and tea. The focus will be on easy-to-digest, high-energy food that supports performance and acclimatization.

🌿 Promoting Local Hospitality

The event also aims to promote Vibrant Village Tourism, encouraging travelers to experience the warm hospitality of border Himalayan villages. Staying in these remote yet welcoming villages not only supports local livelihood but also helps participants experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the Byans valley.

Overall, accommodation and food arrangements during the Adi Kailash Ultra Marathon will ensure a safe, hygienic, and memorable Himalayan experience — where simplicity meets spirituality.

❓ FAQs – Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about the Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025, covering everything from registration and altitude to travel and gear essentials.

🏃‍♂️ 1. What is the Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon?

It’s a high-altitude ultra marathon taking place in the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat region of Uttarakhand. The event combines spirituality and adventure, promoting Vibrant Village Border Adventure Tourism and a healthy lifestyle with the slogan “Say No to Drugs.”

📅 2. When will the event be held?

The marathon will take place on 2nd November 2025. Pre-race activities like BIB distribution, medical check-up, and briefing will be held at Gunji on 31st October and 1st November 2025.

🗺️ 3. Where is the event venue and what is the route?

The route covers the sacred Himalayan circuit — Jolingkong–Parvati Kund–Kutti–Gunji–Nabidang–Kalapani–Gunji. The terrain includes high-altitude roads, rocky paths, and mountain trails, ranging from 10,300 to 15,000 ft.

🧾 4. How can I register for Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025?

Official registration details will be announced soon by the organizing committee and tourism department. Be careful of unverified websites claiming registration — some may be scams. Always check official Uttarakhand tourism or event portals before registering.

🏅 5. What are the race categories and distances?

There are multiple race categories — 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, 42 km, and 60 km Ultra.
Each has different elevation gains and cut-off times, with the main 60 km Ultra starting from Jolingkong and finishing at Gunji.

🌡️ 6. What is the altitude and weather condition during the event?

The marathon takes place at altitudes between 10,000 ft to 15,000 ft. The weather in early November is cold and dry, with temperatures ranging between 0°C to 10°C during the day and dipping below freezing at night.

🧘‍♂️ 7. What kind of fitness level is required?

Participants should be in excellent health and have prior experience in long-distance or high-altitude marathons. A medical fitness certificate and at least two days of acclimatization at Gunji are mandatory before the race.

🎒 8. What gear and clothing should participants carry?

Runners should carry thermal wear, gloves, cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottles, and personal medicines. For long routes, trail running shoes, hydration packs, and energy gels are highly recommended.

🪪 9. Are any permits required to visit Gunji or participate?

Yes. Indian participants need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) with a valid Aadhaar card and two passport-size photos.
Foreign participants require passport and visa copies. The event team usually helps participants in completing these formalities.

🏕️ 10. What about accommodation and food?

Stay options include GMVN guesthouses, homestays, and tents in Gunji, Kuti, and Jolingkong. Participants will get vegetarian meals, hydration support, and post-race refreshments as part of their package.

🧭 11. How to reach the event starting point, Gunji?

Gunji can be reached from Pithoragarh or Dharchula via road. The nearest airport is Pithoragarh (Naini Saini Airport) and the nearest major railway station is Tanakpur, about 300 km away.

🕉️ 12. What makes this marathon spiritually special?

The race passes through sacred locations like Adi Kailash and Om Parvat, considered abodes of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Running here is not just physical endurance — it’s a spiritual experience combining faith, fitness, and devotion.

🏁 Conclusion – A Journey Beyond Limits

The Adi Kailash Parikrama Ultra Marathon 2025 is not just a race — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual and physical adventure set in the heart of the sacred Himalayas. Running on the divine trail that circles Adi Kailash and Om Parvat, every participant becomes part of a historic moment where devotion meets determination.

This high-altitude marathon, held in Gunji–Jolingkong region of Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, is more than a test of endurance — it’s a journey through faith, culture, and the breathtaking beauty of the Kumaon Himalaya. Every step here reminds runners that the human spirit is capable of conquering mountains, both within and outside.

Whether you’re a professional athlete, a mountain lover, or a spiritual traveler, the Adi Kailash Parikrama 2025 offers something unique — a blend of fitness, faith, and patriotism under the theme “Vibrant Village Border Adventure Tourism – Say No to Drugs.”

So, prepare your body, calm your mind, and open your heart to this incredible Himalayan challenge. Because in the end, at Adi Kailash, it’s not about how fast you run — it’s about how deeply you connect with the mountain, the divinity, and yourself.

– Mohit Bangari