Garhwal Post Bureau
Pithoragarh, 2 Nov: The state’s first high-altitude ultrarun marathon was successfully held today in the sacred shadow of Adi Kailash, Uttarakhand’s mythological and spiritual heritage site. Held to mark the state’s 25th anniversary, the event is being seen as the beginning of a new era for Uttarakhand’s adventure sports potential, natural heritage, and tourism potential.
The 60-kilometre ultra run, which began at Adi Kailash, saw over 700 runners from 22 states across the country participate. Despite the high altitude, harsh weather, and challenging Himalayan trek, the participants displayed remarkable courage, endurance, and fitness.
Participants praised the excellent arrangements made by the Uttarakhand government and district administration. Runners noted the incomparable support and guidance from the ITBP and the Indian Army, which ensured a successful and safe event on this difficult route.
Participants and locals expressed their appreciation for the tourism sector’s rapid growth following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Adi Kailash. The Prime Minister’s vision of promoting winter tourism in the Himalayan region, combined with the state government’s continued efforts, is reshaping adventure tourism, religious tourism, and the rural economy in the border region.
The event was attended by the Tourism Secretary, ITBP officials, district administration, police department officials, and local public representatives.
The event witnessed tremendous enthusiasm among the local population, with thousands cheering on the runners. This Silver Jubilee year marks a historic achievement for Uttarakhand, marking the rise of adventure tourism and sports culture in the state’s mountainous regions. Launching this adventure initiative from a sacred and culturally significant site like Adi Kailash is considered a step with far-reaching consequences.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami congratulated all the participants, organisers, and local citizens on the successful conduct of the first high-altitude ultrarun marathon at Adi Kailash, saying, “This event is a proud moment for Uttarakhand. This historic ultrarun, held at a sacred and spiritual shrine like Adi Kailash, not only exemplifies courage and dedication, but will also give a new direction to adventure tourism and sports culture in the border areas. This event, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the state’s establishment, symbolises Uttarakhand’s bright future and limitless possibilities.”
The Chief Minister said that following the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his visit to Adi Kailash, tourism and spiritual activities in the entire region have received unprecedented encouragement. The State Government, under the Prime Minister’s guidance, is also working tirelessly to promote Himalayan and winter tourism.
He added, “Development of border areas is our priority. Events like ultra marathons not only boost the local economy but also generate enthusiasm for adventure sports among the younger generation. In the future, Uttarakhand will become a global hub for adventure sports and mountain tourism.”
