Srinagar, November 2, 2025 – In a vibrant display of endurance, unity, and defiance against adversity, the second edition of the Kashmir Marathon 2025 was flagged off today from Polo View in Srinagar, drawing over 1,500 runners from across India and the world. Participants from 27 states and Union Territories (UTs) of India, along with athletes from 11 countries, braved the crisp autumn morning to run through the breathtaking landscapes of the Kashmir Valley, highlighting the region’s enduring spirit and commitment to tourism revivaland peace promotion.The event, organized by the Department of Tourism Kashmir in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, commenced at 6 AM under clear skies, with runners navigating picturesque routes lined by the iconic Dal Lake, Zabarwan Mountains, and vibrant Chinar trees. This year’s marathon features two primary categories: a challenging 21 km half-marathon and a full 42 km race, catering to both professional athletes and enthusiasts.
The scenic backdrop not only tested participants’ limits but also served as a powerful symbol of Kashmir’s natural allure and cultural hospitality.Director of Tourism Kashmir, Raja Yaqoob, who flagged off the race, emphasized the event’s deeper significance. “This Kashmir Marathon 2025 is the biggest sporting spectacle in the Valley since the tragic Pahalgam attack, sending a resounding message that terrorism cannot break the spirit of Jammu and Kashmir,” Yaqoob stated. He highlighted how the gathering of international and domestic runners underscores the region’s resilience amid recent travel advisories and a temporary tourism slowdown. “We are not defined by challenges but by our strength and beauty. This run is a testament to peace, prosperity, and our unyielding resolve to welcome the world.
“The diverse participant pool reflects the marathon’s global appeal. Domestic runners hail from 27 states and UTs, including powerhouses like Maharashtra, Delhi, and Kerala, bringing a wave of national enthusiasm. International athletes from 11 countries – including Germany, Denmark, the USA, Ethiopia, Kenya, Japan, and Sri Lanka – add an exciting multicultural dimension. Early reports indicate over 1,200 athletes arrived in Kashmir with their families in the preceding days, boosting local economies through stays in hotels, guesthouses, and shopping in handicraft markets.Foreign participants expressed awe at Kashmir’s hospitality and landscapes. “The blend of adventure and serenity here is unmatched – running past Dal Lake at dawn feels like a dream,” shared one Ethiopian runner, echoing sentiments from athletes mesmerized by the Valley’s “stunning natural backdrops.” Organizers noted that the event is strategically timed for November’s ideal climate, fostering sports tourism while promoting healthy lifestyles and community engagement.Beyond the race, the Kashmir Marathon aims to revive the tourism sector, which faced setbacks post-Pahalgam. Officials anticipate a surge in visitor numbers, with the influx of runners and spectators injecting vitality into local commerce. “This is more than a race; it’s a step towards economic recovery and a global spotlight on Kashmir as a safe, vibrant destination,” added a tourism spokesperson.
As the runners push towards the finish line, the marathon stands as a beacon of hope, weaving together themes of resilience, unity, and global sports tourism. With limited spots filled to capacity, the 2025 edition has already set the stage for even grander future events, inviting adventurers worldwide to experience the heart of the Himalayas.
