The Manjushree Trail Race 2026 has officially been rescheduled to April 17β19, 2026, moved from its original mid-March dates due to the national elections. Organizers made the change to ensure smooth coordination with local authorities and to provide runners with the best race experience possible.
This legendary event traces the entire Kathmandu Valley Rim Trail, blending ancient footpaths, dense forests, traditional villages, and ridgeline views that capture the essence of the Himalayas. Inspired by the mythical journey of Manjushree, the bodhisattva who opened the valley by cutting through the Chobar Gorge, the race is a spiritual and physical challenge through Nepalβs cultural heartland.
ποΈ Race Categories & Elevation
π 100 Miles (160 km) β βThe Full Manjushree Loopβ
- Elevation Gain: ~9,500 m
- Cutoff Time: 48 hours
- The ultimate endurance challenge β a complete circumnavigation of the Kathmandu Valley following the ancient ridgelines through Shivapuri, Nagarkot, Lakuri Bhanjyang, Champadevi, and Chandragiri.
- 85% forest trail and singletrack, with technical climbs, cultural sections, and night running through serene village trails.
πͺ 100 km Ultra
- Elevation Gain: ~6,500 m
- A demanding loop covering the major ridgelines and forest sections with spectacular sunrise views over the Himalayas.
- Popular among experienced ultrarunners and Asia Trail Master elites.
π² 50 km Trail
- Elevation Gain: ~3,000 m
- A challenging yet accessible ultra-distance for runners seeking to test endurance and enjoy panoramic ridgeline sections.
ποΈ 30 km Trail
- Elevation Gain: ~2,000 m
- A fast, scenic route connecting the cultural high points and forest sections β perfect for those stepping into longer trail runs.
π 10 km Fun Run
- Elevation Gain: ~500 m
- A short, beautiful introduction to the Manjushree trails β ideal for local runners and newcomers to trail running.
πΈ Why Runners Love the Manjushree Trail Race
- 80% forest and mountain trail around the entire valley rim
- Views of Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Gaurishankar, and Jugal ranges
- Passes through centuries-old temples, stupas, and traditional Newar and Tamang villages
- Fully marked routes with professional aid stations, timing, and local support
- Official Asia Trail Master (ATM) and UTMB Index qualifying event