Niti Extreme Ultra Run 2026
May 31

High-Altitude Himalayan Ultra Marathon
The Niti Extreme Ultra Run 2026 is an upcoming high-altitude ultra running event held in the breathtaking Niti Valley, situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India — near the Indo-China (Tibet) border. Organised in consultation with the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board and local adventure partners, it’s designed to showcase high-altitude endurance running against dramatic Himalayan mountain landscapes.
Event Details
- Event: Niti Extreme Ultra Run 2026
- Date: Sunday, 31 May 2026
- Start Time: 05:00 AM (IST)
- Base Camp: Joshimath, Uttarakhand, India
- Race Location: Niti Valley & Malari (Chamoli district) **Disclaimer: While we aim to provide accurate, timely event information, all details, including date, venue, category, and race logistics, are subject to change by the official organizers. Please verify the latest information through the official event channels before registering or participating.
Race Categories & Distances
This Himalayan ultra run features multiple categories with distinct starting points, terrain, and experience requirements:
75 km Ultra Run
- Start: Rimkhim (approx. 4340 m)
- Finish: Malari (approx. 3100 m)
- Cut-off: 14 hrs
- Eligibility:
- Certified finisher of a 42 km run within the past 10 months
- OR two 21 km finishes in the last 6 months
- OR ultra finishers (e.g., Adi Kailash Ultra Run or similar)
- Note: Only Indian participants are eligible, as an Inner Line Permit is not available for foreigners.
42 km Marathon
- Start & Finish: Malari (3100 m) (loop course)
- Cut-off: 8 hrs
- Eligibility:
- Completed any 21 km high-altitude run within the last 6 months
- OR two half marathons completed within past 10 months
- Open to foreign participants, as no Inner Line Permit is required for this distance.
️ Race Experience & Terrain
The ultra takes place in Niti Valley, a remote, high-altitude valley famed for its stark Himalayan beauty, traditional mountain villages, and dramatic landscapes. Elevation along the course ranges from approximately:
- Malari: ~3100 m
- Niti Village: ~3600 m
- Rimkhim: ~4340 m
Runner support and strategy at altitude — including pacing, acclimatisation, hydration and nutrition — are critical given the oxygen-thin conditions typical of high Himalayan terrain.
Logistics & Support
- Base Camp: Joshimath — central hub for pre-race coordination, logistics, transportation and participant support.
- Travel & Transport: Organized transport may be available from Joshimath to race start points (participants may bear cost).
- Accommodation & Food: Available in Niti Valley areas (participants to arrange their own).
- Pre-race Requirements: Participants must carry a medical certificate (valid within 15 days prior to the race) confirming suitability for high-altitude running.
- ID Proof: Required at check-in (e.g., Aadhaar, Driving Licence).
What’s Included
All registered runners typically receive:
- Official race T-shirt
- Finisher medal
- Electronic timing chip
- E-certificate of completion
- Goodie bag
- Hydration & aid support structures
- Official race bib & timing
Who Should Participate
- Experienced ultra runners comfortable with mountain and high-altitude terrain
- Athletes seeking to test endurance in a challenging Himalayan environment
- Runners with valid high-altitude race experience or qualifying finishes
- Adventure racers and travel enthusiasts looking for Himalayan ultra experiences




