How to Join the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon – Registration, Cost & Training Tips

- soleencounters

The Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon is widely recognized as the world’s highest marathon, starting from Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and ending in Namche Bazaar. Held every year on May 29, this extraordinary race commemorates the first successful ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa in 1953.

For athletes, trekkers, and adventurers, joining this marathon is not just about completing a race—it’s about experiencing the thrill of high-altitude running, trekking through the Everest region, and immersing in Sherpa culture. If you’re planning to join the Everest Marathon 2026, here’s everything you need to know about registration, cost, travel logistics, and training preparation.

How to Register for the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon

International runners must join through licensed operators in Nepal, as the marathon involves trekking and logistical support. Registration typically includes:

• Race entry and official permit

• Trekking package to Everest Base Camp (including guide, porters, meals, and accommodation)

• Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla–Kathmandu)

• Race-day logistics, including medical support and checkpoints

• Accommodation before and after the race in Kathmandu

At Sole Encounters Trekking Pvt. Ltd., we offer a seamless experience with our dedicated Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon package. Our package is designed to ensure proper acclimatization, expert guidance, and professional race-day support.

Registration Process Step by Step

1. Choose Your Race Category – Full Marathon (42.195 km), Ultra Marathon (60 km), or Half Marathon (21 km).

2. Book With a Licensed Operator – Secure your spot by booking with an official local operator.

3. Submit Required Documents – Passport copy, health clearance, and signed liability waiver.

4. Pay the Registration & Trekking Package Fee – Costs vary depending on the category and inclusions.

5. Receive Confirmation & Itinerary – Once registered, you’ll receive a detailed travel plan.

For assistance, you can talk to our experts to guide you through the process.

Cost of Joining the Everest Marathon

The cost of the Everest Marathon 2026 depends on your chosen race category and package inclusions. Typically, prices range between USD 3,500 – 5,000 for international participants.

What’s included:

• Race entry and official marathon T-shirt/certificate

• Trekking permits (Sagarmatha National Park entry, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu permit)

• Kathmandu–Lukla flights (round trip)

• Accommodation in Kathmandu (before and after the trek)

• Lodges/tea houses during the trek

• Professional trekking guide and porters

• Race-day medical support and logistics

What’s not included:

• International flights to/from Nepal

• Personal running gear and equipment

• Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking

• Extra snacks, drinks, or personal expenses

Compared to regular treks like the Everest Base Camp Trek, the marathon package includes more specialized logistics, ensuring your race experience is safe and successful.

Training Tips for the Everest Marathon

Running a marathon at extreme altitude requires more than just standard marathon training. Proper preparation ensures both safety and performance.

Key Training Areas

• Altitude Preparation: Train at elevation if possible. If not, focus on endurance and acclimatization once in Nepal.

• Endurance Training: Build stamina with long-distance runs, gradually increasing weekly mileage.

• Hill and Trail Running: Simulate Himalayan terrain with uphill/downhill runs on uneven surfaces.

• Strength & Core Training: Focus on legs, glutes, and core stability to handle rugged trails.

• Breathing Techniques: Practice deep breathing and pacing strategies to cope with thinner air.

Recommended Gear for Training and Race Day

• Lightweight trail running shoes with strong grip

• Breathable, layered clothing for cold mornings and warm afternoons

• Hydration vest or pack

• Trekking poles for support on steep terrain

• UV-protective sunglasses and sunscreen

Trekking to the Start Line – Everest Base Camp

Before race day, participants trek to Everest Base Camp, following the legendary trail through Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorakshep. This trek typically takes 10–12 days, allowing gradual acclimatization.

Highlights of the trek include:

• Crossing suspension bridges over the Dudh Koshi River

• Visiting Tengboche Monastery with views of Ama Dablam

• Experiencing Sherpa hospitality in tea houses

• Standing at the foot of Mount Everest before race day

For trekkers, this journey is similar to the Everest Base Camp Trek, but tailored with additional rest and acclimatization days for runners.

Best Time to Join the Everest Marathon

The marathon is held on May 29 each year, marking the anniversary of the first Everest summit. This period falls in Nepal’s spring season, offering:

• Stable weather and clear skies

• Temperatures ranging from -10°C at Base Camp to 15°C in Namche

• Blooming rhododendrons and alpine scenery

It is also considered one of the best trekking seasons in Nepal, making it perfect for the marathon and side treks like the Gokyo Valley Trek.

Travel Logistics: Getting to the Marathon

Joining the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon involves careful planning:

• International Arrival: Fly into Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.

• Kathmandu Stay: Pre-race briefing, gear checks, and cultural sightseeing.

• Kathmandu–Lukla Flight: Scenic flight to the gateway of Everest.

• Trek to Base Camp: 10–12 days with acclimatization stops.

• Race Day – May 29: Start from Everest Base Camp and finish at Namche Bazaar.

• Return Journey: Trek back to Lukla and fly to Kathmandu for post-race celebration.

Our team at Sole Encounters Trekking handles all logistics, so participants can focus on training and enjoying the adventure.

Why Join with Sole Encounters Trekking?

Choosing a trusted local operator is key to a successful Everest Marathon experience. At Sole Encounters Trekking Pvt. Ltd., we provide:

• Licensed guides and Sherpa support team

• Acclimatization-focused itineraries for safe performance

• Complete race and trekking logistics

• Personalized advice from local experts

• Options to combine the marathon with treks in the Everest region

Conclusion

The Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon 2026 is more than just a race—it’s a life-changing adventure through the Himalayas. From registering and trekking to the starting line at Everest Base Camp to running alongside breathtaking peaks, the journey is as rewarding as the finish line itself.

If you’re ready to take on the world’s highest marathon, start your preparation today. Secure your place through our official marathon package or contact us for personalized guidance.