Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon

Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon Overview

Enjoy the special experience of the world`s highest marathon

Starting at Everest Basecamp (5364m), close beneath the spectacular Khumbu Icefall, this is the highest marathon in the world. First run in 2003 as an event for local runners, the race now has a more international reputation and typically includes runners from 20 or more nations. The race route leads mostly downhill on rough tracks and trails, through the spectacular homeland of the Sherpa people, to Namche Bazaar (3446m). A sting in the tail, however, is the 500 metre ascent from Phunki Tenga to Kunde, before the final descent into Namche. In 2006, Deepak Rai set the record for the route at 3 hours, 28 minutes and 27 seconds. Tim Watson, a member of the 2014 KE group, broke the then UK record for the event with a time of 5 hours 45 minutes. To take part in the race, runners must sign up for this three-week Mount Everest Marathon package. We recognise just how important the acclimatisation process is and we now include an additional acclimatisation day at Lukla (2860m), before setting off on the trek to Everest Basecamp. There are 4 further days for acclimatisation in our itinerary, including the day at Everest Basecamp. During the trek, the runners will be accompanied by experienced local guides and a full local support crew, including doctors who will monitor the runners' physical condition. On race day, there will be an official timekeeper, a team of marshals, regular checkpoints and drinks/feeding stations, as well as medical and emergency evacuation support. Although mostly downhill, this is a challenging route, with snow and ice at the highest level and a lot of rocky and exposed sections of trail. The race is only suitable for runners who train or race under cross-country, trail, fell or mountain conditions. Relatives and friends can sign up for the trek and accompany the competitors as non-running group membeers. With 3 nights in Kathmandu and lots of time to enjoy the approach to Everest Basecamp, this is a great adventure.