Everest Marathon
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Overview of Everest Marathon
Everest Marathon: The Ultimate High-Altitude Adventure
The Everest Marathon, known as the world’s highest marathon, is not just a race; it’s an adventure that tests the limits of human endurance. Celebrating its 20th edition on 29th May 2023, this extreme event offers three distinct categories: the Extreme Ultra-Marathon (70KM), the Full Marathon (42.195KM), and the Half Marathon (21KM). Each category provides a unique experience, taking runners through the heart of the Himalayas, offering breathtaking views and challenging terrains.
The journey begins on 20th May from Lukla, a town in the Khumbu area of the Solukhumbu District in the Sagarmatha Zone of north-eastern Nepal. From Lukla, participants embark on a trek towards the Everest Base Camp, acclimatizing to the high altitude and preparing for the race.
Itinerary of Everest Marathon
Welcome to Kathmandu! Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Rest and refresh after your journey, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Nepal’s capital city.
Start your day with a comprehensive trek briefing, where you’ll learn about the journey ahead. Then, embark on a half-day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, exploring the city’s rich history and culture. If your flight is from Ramechhap, we will drive there after that time, a journey of about 5-6 hours through scenic landscapes.
Take a short flight to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. From there, begin your trek to Phakding. You’ll walk through beautiful forests and cross suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River.
Trek to Namche Bazaar, the bustling heart of the Everest region. This challenging trek rewards you with your first glimpse of Mount Everest and other Himalayan peaks.
Take a rest day in Namche Bazaar to acclimatize. Explore the local markets, visit the Sherpa museum, and enjoy the stunning mountain views.
Trek to Khumjung, a traditional Sherpa village. Visit the local monastery and the Hillary School, established by Sir Edmund Hillary.
Trek to Deboche via Tengboche, home to the famous Tengboche Monastery. Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Trek to Dingboche, a picturesque village surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes. The town is known for its stone walls that protect crops from the cold winds.
Spend another day in Dingboche for acclimatization. You can explore the village, hike up to Nagarjun Hill for fantastic mountain views, or rest and relax.
Trek to Lobuche, a small settlement with amazing views of Mt. Lobuche, Mt. Pumari, and the Nuptse. The trail is challenging but filled with stunning Himalayan scenery.
Trek to Gorakshep, the last stop before Everest Base Camp. The trail offers stunning views of the Khumbu Icefall and Everest.
Start your day with an early morning hike to Kalapatthar, the best viewpoint to see Mount Everest in all its glory. Then, trek to Everest Base Camp, a dream destination for many adventurers worldwide.
Take a well-deserved rest day at Everest Base Camp. Enjoy the incredible mountain views, take photos, and prepare for the marathon.
The big day is here! Depending on your category, you’ll run from Everest Base Camp to Namche Bazaar or Dingboche to Namche Bazaar. Push your limits and enjoy the race!
After the marathon, take a morning rest. In the afternoon, trek to Monjo, enjoying the region’s natural beauty.
Trek back to Lukla, reflecting on your incredible journey. Celebrate your last night in the Everest region.
Fly back to Kathmandu. Spend the afternoon leisurely, exploring the city, shopping for souvenirs, or simply relaxing at your hotel.
Enjoy a free day in Kathmandu. You can go on a mountain flight for a bird’s eye view of the Himalayas or embark on another sightseeing tour.
Your Everest Marathon journey ends here. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your international departure. Take home memories of a lifetime and stories to tell!
Added Insights
Includes/Excludes
What's Included?
- Airport Transfers: We provide pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle to ensure your comfortable journey to and from the airport.
- Accommodation in Kathmandu: Enjoy a 3-night stay at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu, with breakfast included, on a twin-sharing basis.
- Kathmandu Valley Sightseeing: Explore the rich history and culture of Kathmandu with our private vehicle tour, guided by an experienced tour guide.
- Flights: Your package includes round-trip flights from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region.
National Park and Village Entrance Fees: The Sagarmatha National Park fee and Pasang Lhamu Village entrance fees are covered in your package. - Experienced English-speaking Guide: Benefit from the knowledge and expertise of our experienced English-speaking guide, with all his expenses and insurance covered.
- Porter Services: We provide a porter for every two trekkers, covering all their expenses and insurance.
- Full-Board Meals and Accommodation During Trek: Enjoy full-board meals (18 Breakfasts/15 Lunches/16 Dinners) with 3 complimentary teas daily and comfortable teahouse accommodation.
- Tented Camp at Everest Base Camp: Experience the thrill of camping in a tented camp at Everest Base Camp.
- Marathon Entrance Fees: Your package includes the entrance fees for the Everest Marathon.
- Medal and Certificates: Runners will receive a medal and certificates to commemorate their participation in the marathon.
- Complimentary Gear: We provide complimentary sleeping bags and down jackets for your comfort during the trek.
- Trekking Route Map: You will receive a map to guide your journey.
- First Aid Kit: A first aid kit is included for any minor health emergencies.
- Government Taxes and Service Charges: All governmental taxes and service charges are included in your package.
What's Excluded?
- International Airfare: Your package does not include international airfare.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included and is the traveller’s responsibility.
- Nepal Visa Fees: Visa fees for Nepal are not included in the package.
- Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses such as Wi-Fi, bar bills, laundry services, hot showers during trekking, gadget charging fees (US$ 1- US$ 5 per gadget), mobile recharge, etc., are omitted.
- Extra Nights in Kathmandu: In case of early arrival from the trek due to unforeseen circumstances, extra nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu is not included.
- Extra Luggage Charges: The package includes 15 kgs (10kgs+5kgs) of luggage. Any extra baggage will be charged at US$ 2 per kilogram.
- Emergency Evacuation: Emergency evacuation costs are not included, but our company will assist in arranging the evacuation if needed.
- Tipping: Tips for guides and porters are not included and are at the discretion of the traveller.
- Anything Not Mentioned in the Inclusion List: Any services or items not mentioned in the inclusion list are not covered in the package.
Essential Information - Everest Marathon
Everest Marathon-Extreme Ultra-Marathon: The Ultimate Test of Endurance
The Everest Extreme Ultra-Marathon, a 70 km race, is the world’s highest ultra-running event. Starting at the Everest Base Camp (EBC) at 5356m, near the Khumbu Icefall, this race is not for the faint-hearted. The trail passes through five high Himalayan passes, making it one of the world’s most challenging uphill routes.
Unlike the standard EBC route, the Ultra-Marathon takes a different path, allowing runners to experience various village settlements. Participants spend two nights at EBC, a privilege usually reserved for expedition climbers. This race demands extreme endurance from its athletes, making it an ultimate adventure run.
The 70KM Ultra-Marathon, also known as the 70th Everest Ascent Anniversary Celebration Trail, starts from Everest Base Camp and ends at Namche Bazaar like the full marathon. However, the Ultra-Marathon takes a detour towards Bibre to Chhukung from Dingboche and to Nha La from Phortse, descending via Mongla towards Namche Bazaar.
In the 20th edition of the Everest Marathon in 2023, the first open-category winner of the Everest Extreme Ultra-Marathon was Mr Tirtha Bahadur Tamang from Nepal, who completed the race in 8 hours, 38 minutes and 9 seconds.
The Full Marathon: Following the Footsteps of Legends
The Full Marathon, a 42.195KM race, also starts at Everest Base Camp (EBC), 5,356m, at the Khumbu Icefall. This race is the highest marathon in the world and sees enthusiastic participation from local and international runners.The race track follows the historical route to Mount Everest, pioneered by Late Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary. Participants spend two nights at EBC, where only expedition climbers can camp.
The Full Marathon, also known as the Golden Jubilee Celebration Trail, ends at Namche Bazar. Each year, hundreds of participants run this category in the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon. The course is mostly downhill and is a trekking trail, so caution while running is necessary.
In the 20th edition of the Everest Marathon in 2023, the first open-category winner of the Full Marathon was Mr Suman Kulung from Nepal, who completed the race in 3 hours, 48 minutes, and 54 seconds.
The Half Marathon: A Spiritual Journey
The Half Marathon, a 21KM race, is open only to foreigners, from novices to veterans. This race is fun, fast, and the best way to experience the Everest region.
The 21KM Marathon, also known as the Spiritual Digits Marathon, is the shortest distance in the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon. The race is divided into three seven-digit segments (7 +7+7 km), which hold high spiritual meaning in Buddhism. The race adds another seven for 7 meters, making the marathon 21km + 7 m to spiritualize the run connected with Lord Buddha’s Life.
In the 20th edition of the Everest Marathon in 2023, the first winner of the Half Marathon was Ms Emma Williams from Australia, who completed the race in 3 hours, 21 minutes, and 40 seconds.
Looking Forward to the 21st Edition of the Everest Marathon
As we reflect on the 20th edition of the Everest Marathon, we eagerly anticipate the 21st edition, set to take place on 29th May 2024. This event promises to be another exciting chapter in the history of this high-altitude adventure. Whether you’re an experienced runner looking for the ultimate challenge or a novice seeking a unique adventure, the Everest Marathon offers an unforgettable experience. So, lace up your running shoes, train hard, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.
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