Srinagar, September 24, 2025* – The Kashmir Valley is gearing up for an exhilarating showcase of endurance and natural splendor with the second edition of the Kashmir Marathon 2025, set to take place on November 2 in the heart of Srinagar. Organized by the Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department, this flagship event promises runners a transformative journey through iconic landscapes, blending physical challenge with cultural immersion, while offering a staggering prize pool of up to ₹3 Crore to top performers. With registrations now open, athletes from across the globe are invited to lace up and experience the paradise on earth from a runner’s perspective.Building on the resounding success of its inaugural 2024 edition, which drew thousands of participants and accolades from figures like Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Bollywood star Suniel Shetty, the 2025 marathon aims to elevate Kashmir’s profile as a premier destination for sports tourism. The event, rescheduled from an initial October date to avoid clashing with the Delhi Marathon and Diwali festivities, underscores the government’s commitment to promoting fitness, youth engagement, and the region’s serene beauty amid its autumnal hues of Chinar leaves.
Key Highlights of Kashmir Marathon 2025
- Race Categories and Routes: The event features a Full Marathon (42.19 km), Half Marathon (21.09 km), and a 10 km run, winding through Srinagar’s most picturesque spots including Dal Lake, Polo View, Rajbagh, Lal Chowk, TRC grounds, Nishat Garden, Mughal Gardens, Zabarwan Mountains, Shankaracharya Temple, Pari Mahal, and the Dargah Shrine. The terrain mixes flat avenues with hilly challenges, boasting an elevation gain of about 960 meters, set against vibrant autumn backdrops.
- Prizes and Incentives: A record-breaking ₹3 Crore prize pool awaits winners, with top honors in the Full Marathon including up to ₹25 lakh for category leaders, as seen in the previous edition. Cash rewards, medals, and certificates will recognize excellence across genders and age groups.
- Registration Details: Open to participants aged 18 and above, with fees of ₹2200 for the Full Marathon and ₹1800 for the Half Marathon. Spots are limited; runners can register online via the official portal at https://kashmirmarathon.jk.gov.in, ensuring medical fitness and adherence to event guidelines.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who completed the Half Marathon last year and recently launched a promotional video for the event, emphasized its broader impact during a high-level review meeting. “The Kashmir Marathon is more than a race—it’s a celebration of our youth, culture, and tourism potential. With special packages from hotels and local businesses, we’re inviting the world to run through paradise and discover our hospitality,” he stated, directing officials to enhance infrastructure for a seamless experience.
Broader Context: Promoting Fitness and Tourism in Kashmir
Launched as a beacon of normalcy and vibrancy post-regional challenges, the Kashmir Marathon aligns with initiatives like the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat campaign, fostering national unity through sports. The 2024 edition not only boosted local economies but also highlighted Kashmir’s peaceful ambiance, with winners like Sher Singh (men’s Full Marathon) and Tamsi Singh (women’s) setting benchmarks. For 2025, organizers anticipate even larger crowds, with tie-ups for accommodations, cuisine explorations, and heritage tours to complement the races.Srinagar’s Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, just 13 km from the start line, ensures easy access for international runners. Social media is abuzz with teaser videos of crimson Chinar-lined paths and lake reflections, trending under hashtags like #KashmirMarathon2025 and #RunInParadise. As autumn paints the Valley in gold, the marathon stands as a testament to resilience, inviting fitness enthusiasts to claim their spot on the global stage while rediscovering Kashmir’s timeless allure.
