Patnitop, Jammu & Kashmir: The sixth edition of the Patnitop Marathon 2026 witnessed an enthusiastic response on Sunday as more than 800 runners from across India participated in the scenic hill event, reinforcing the message of fitness, drug-free living, and tourism promotion in Jammu and Kashmir.
Held amidst the picturesque landscapes of Patnitop, the marathon featured four categories — 50 km Ultra Marathon, 21 km Half Marathon, 10 km Run, and 5 km Run — attracting athletes from 32 cities across 13 states.
Patnitop Marathon Supports Drug-Free Campaign
The event was organized jointly by the Patnitop Development Authority (PDA), Department of Tourism, Patnitop Hoteliers Association, running clubs, and corporate sponsors.
Speaking on the occasion, Virender Manyal, Chief Executive Officer of the Patnitop Development Authority, said the marathon aligns with the ongoing “Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir” campaign aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and discouraging substance abuse.
“Various activities are being conducted across Jammu and Kashmir to spread awareness about a drug-free lifestyle. The Patnitop Marathon is one such initiative that encourages fitness and motivates participants to spread this message among their families and communities,” Manyal said.
Tourism Gets Major Boost During Marathon Weekend
Officials noted that the marathon significantly contributed to local tourism, with hotels and accommodations in Patnitop witnessing full occupancy as runners arrived with family members and support teams.
Manyal highlighted that both private hotels and Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC) properties reported strong bookings due to the event.
The marathon has increasingly become a major sports tourism attraction for the region, drawing participants from different parts of the country.
Marathon Aligns with Fit India and Nasha Mukt Bharat Initiatives
Kapil Arora, Founder of IKA Sports & Events, flagged off the 50 km Ultra Marathon at 4:30 am and emphasized the larger objectives behind the event.
“This is the sixth edition of the Patnitop Marathon. It supports the government’s Fit India Movement and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan while simultaneously promoting tourism and creating livelihood opportunities for local residents,” Arora said.
According to organizers, women accounted for nearly 25-30 percent of the total participants, reflecting the growing popularity of distance running among female athletes.
Scenic Route Attracts Runners from Across India
The challenging 50 km ultra-marathon route took runners through some of the region’s most picturesque locations, including Kud and Sanasar Lake, before returning to Patnitop.
Participants competed across multiple age categories ranging from 18 years to above 65 years, with winners recognized in their respective divisions.
Runners Praise Patnitop’s Natural Beauty and Weather
Participants from across the country described the marathon as one of India’s most scenic running events.
Pragati from Jalandhar, participating in her first 50 km ultra-marathon, praised the route and weather conditions.
“Patnitop is an amazing destination with beautiful roads, fresh air, and stunning natural surroundings. Anyone interested in running an ultramarathon in pleasant weather should experience this event,” she said.
Lotika Bharti from Jammu, a five-time participant, described the marathon as one of India’s finest hill races.
“The breathtaking mountain views and well-organized event make Patnitop Marathon a unique experience for runners,” she noted.
Satyavir Singh from Meerut, who participated in the 10 km category, highlighted the region’s lush greenery and excellent event management.
“I have participated in races in Mumbai and Delhi, but Patnitop’s deodar forests, scenic environment, and pleasant climate make it special. The organizers have made excellent arrangements for participants,” he said.
Patnitop Marathon Emerging as Sports Tourism Destination
The annual Patnitop Marathon has evolved into more than just a sporting event, becoming a platform to promote health awareness, anti-drug campaigns, local tourism, and economic opportunities for the region.
With growing participation and national recognition, the marathon continues to strengthen Patnitop’s reputation as a leading sports tourism destination in India while encouraging healthier lifestyles among citizens.
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