Belagavi Hill Survival Challenge
December 28
Western Ghats Trail Running Festival
The Belagavi Hill Survival Challenge (BHSC) is a premier trail running event in Belagavi (Belgaum), Karnataka, set against the rugged, scenic hills of the Western Ghats. Organised by Belagavi Endurance Sports – a volunteer-led non-profit trail running community – this event celebrates off-road endurance running across multiple distances and terrains.
Held annually in late December, the BHSC attracts trail lovers who enjoy hilly terrain, natural trails, and a graded endurance challenge. The 2025 edition took place on 28 December 2025 and the 2026 edition is expected around the same period (official confirmation pending).
Event Dates & Location
- Expected Race Day: Late December 2026 (based on previous edition scheduling)
- 2025 Edition Race Date: 28 December 2025 (reference)
- Start Time: 07:00 AM (for main trail categories)
- Location: Belagavi (Belgaum), Karnataka, India
- Organiser: Belagavi Endurance Sports (non-profit community)
Participants should check the official registration portal for confirmed 2026 dates and start times.
Race Categories & Details
BHSC offers multiple trail running distances to challenge runners at different fitness levels:
13K Hill Challenge
- Distance: ~13.22 km
- Elevation Gain/Loss: ~+335 m / −335 m
- Time Limit: 2 hrs 30 min
- Aid Stations: 1
- Participants: ~100
- ITRA Points: Mountain Level 3 / Finisher Level 310
This is a great introduction to hill trail running, steeped in scenic hills, suitable for beginners wanting a trail taste.
25K Hill Survival Challenge
- Distance: ~24.82 km
- Elevation Gain/Loss: ~+712 m / −712 m
- Time Limit: 5 hrs 30 min
- Aid Stations: 3
- Participants: ~100
- ITRA Points: Mountain Level 3 / Finisher Level 270
An intermediate trail distance that combines steady climbs and descents on natural hill terrain. Perfect for runners graduating from shorter trail races.
50 KM Ultra Trail
- Distance: ~49.66 km (approx. 50 km)
- Elevation Gain/Loss: ~+1424 m / −1424 m
- Time Limit: 10 hrs
- Aid Stations: 6
- Participants: ~100
- ITRA Points: Mountain Level 3 / Finisher Level 360
The 50 KM Ultra is a serious endurance challenge – more than double the 25 K distance – designed for trail runners ready to tackle sustained climbs and longer terrain. The race starts early and requires strategic pacing, nutrition and hill conditioning.
Course & Trail Experience
All BHSC distances are run on 100 % natural trails – no paved roads – with undulating terrain typical of the Western Ghats. Runners should expect:
- Rolling hills with significant elevation changes
- Mixed surface trails (rocky, earthy, grassy)
- Forest and open hill terrain
- Limited shade in some sections at higher elevations
Trail marking and aid stations are placed throughout the course to guide runners and support hydration.
Key Features of BHSC
- ITRA-Rated Trail Races: Recognised on the International Trail Running Association calendar – with official points for trail runners.
- Multiple Distances: From beginner-friendly 13 K to demanding 50 K Ultra – there’s a category for every trail runner.
- Western Ghats Terrain: Natural hill trails with scenic views and varied surface conditions.
- Community Atmosphere: Organized by a volunteer trail running group passionate about growing trail culture in India.
Who Should Join?
- Trail runners looking to test endurance on hills
- Runners transitioning from road to trail running
- Ultra runners preparing for longer ultras
- Nature lovers who enjoy scenic route challenges
- Fitness athletes seeking an ITRA-certified experience
Tips for Runners
- Train specifically for hill climbs and descents
- Use trail shoes with good traction
- Practice pacing and nutrition strategy for 50 km distances
- Prepare for varying weather conditions typical of December in the Western Ghats
**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.
