Manjushree Trail Race 2026

The Manjushree Trail Race 2026 is Nepal’s premier ultra trail running event, scheduled to take place from April 17 to 19, 2026. Bringing together runners from across the globe, this race offers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes of the Kathmandu Valley while pushing your physical and mental limits. With race categories ranging from the elite 100-mile challenge to beginner-friendly 10 km events, the Manjushree Trail Race caters to athletes of all levels and ambitions.

The event features multiple race options designed to accommodate different endurance levels:

• 100-Mile Race: The ultimate test of stamina and strategy, starting from Kathmandu.

• 100 km Race: Starting at 8:00 pm from Nagarkot, runners experience a first-of-its-kind night start, navigating trails under starlight and headlamps.

• 50 km, 30 km, and 10 km Races: Perfect for intermediate and recreational runners, offering breathtaking valley views without the extreme demands of the ultra courses.

The 100-mile race spans an incredible 165 km with a total elevation gain of 12,695 meters, making it one of the most challenging trail races in Asia. Runners follow the ridge line of the Kathmandu Valley, crossing all seven surrounding peaks: Jamacho, Shivapuri, Nagarkot, Pulchowki, Champadevi, Basmandur, and Chandragiri.

Along the route, runners encounter a mix of terrain: dense forests, technical single-track trails, rocky ascents, and exposed ridges offering sweeping views of the valley and Nepal’s capital city. The combination of physical challenge and natural beauty makes every step of the journey unforgettable.

The 100 km race introduces a novel twist—a night-time start from Nagarkot. Participants will navigate rugged Himalayan trails by headlamp, requiring focus, skill, and determination. This night's start adds excitement and unpredictability to the race, testing both endurance and trail-running experience.

The Manjushree Trail Race is more than a physical challenge; it is a celebration of Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Along the trails, runners pass through traditional villages, verdant forests, and open ridges with panoramic mountain views. Spectators and participants can enjoy scenic lunches along the valley rim, offering a chance to witness elite runners on the 100-mile and 100 km courses while taking in the breathtaking Himalayan backdrop.

The event has gained international recognition, attracting trail runners from around the world and establishing itself as a highlight in the global trail running calendar.

Whether you are a competitive ultra-runner aiming to conquer the 100-mile course, a dedicated trail runner tackling the 50 km or 30 km, or a beginner exploring the 10 km route, the Manjushree Trail Race 2026 offers:

• A once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure with epic scenery.

• A diverse race experience, from night runs to ultra-distance challenges.

• An opportunity to connect with the local culture and communities.

• A chance to join a global trail running community in Nepal’s iconic landscapes.

🏃‍♂️ Manjushree Trail Race 2026 — Q & A

❓ What is the Manjushree Trail Race?

It is a premier trail running event in Nepal featuring multiple distances from 10 km up to 100 mile, following rugged trails around the Kathmandu Valley rim and surrounding peaks.

📍 When and where will it happen?

• Dates: April 17–19, 2026
• Location: Trails around the rim of Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
• Start: find the all different start point on our guide book

🏅 What race distances are offered?

• 100 mile (full ultra)
• 100 km
• 50 km
• 30 km
• 10 km

🕐 What are the start times?

Start times vary by distance:

• 100 mile — early morning, April 17
• 100 km — evening, April 17
• 50 km — morning, April 18
• 10 km — morning, April 19

(Exact start times will be confirmed by organizers.)

🥾 What is the terrain like?

• Technical singletrack trails
• Steep ascents and descents
• Forest paths, ridges, and rocky sections
• Mostly natural, rugged terrain with limited road sections
• Mostly running from the ridgelines with mountain views 

🥾Will there be Altitude sickness in MTR?

Not really as the highest point of the race is 2746m only but we encourage you to come few days early to acclimatize and try some of the highest peaks with our team so that you also know the terrain.

🌄 Why is it called “Manjushree”?

Named after the Bodhisattva Manjushree, who, according to legend, drained the ancient lake to form the Kathmandu Valley.

🏆 Is it accredited?

• Yes — the race is ITRA accredited and counts toward global ultra-trail qualification systems.
• Asia Trail Master Qualifying race 

🎽 Who can participate?

Open to Everyone Nepali and international runners

🍲 What support is provided?

• Aid stations with food and hydration
• Drop bag service for longer distances
• Crew on the Check point
• Photographs
• Medals and Gift hampers (may not apply all the time)
• Cash Prize (may not apply all the time)
• Best experience 
• Once a lifetime running experience in the mountains 
• Trekking destination after race with our travel partners with best price

🧗‍♂️ Tips for runners

• Train on trails and hills for elevation gain
• Mandatory gear for longer distances: hydration pack, navigation tools, first aid
• Check the official race guidebook before racing

🧗‍♂️will the MTR get affected by election?

Yes, after the Gen-Z protest and upcoming election we have a new date so hopefully this time we will not have a problem with the election.

📌 Where to get more info or register?

• Registration and detailed guidebook will available on website
• Manjushree Trail Race