7th Jan, 2026

Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon – World’s Highest Marathon in Nepal

- soleencounters

The Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon is one of the most challenging and prestigious endurance events in the world. Held annually on May 29, the race commemorates the historic first ascent of Mount Everest in 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay.

Recognized internationally as the world’s highest marathon, this extraordinary event begins at Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters and descends through the heart of the Khumbu Valley to finish in Namche Bazaar. The combination of extreme altitude, rugged Himalayan terrain, and rich Sherpa culture makes this marathon a true test of endurance, preparation, and mental strength.

Sole Encounters Adventures organizes complete Everest Marathon packages, taking care of every detail so participants can focus fully on running and enjoying the experience.

Everest Marathon Overview

The Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon is not a typical road race. It is a high-altitude endurance event conducted in the remote Himalayan environment during the Everest climbing season.

Participants from around the world come to challenge themselves on rocky trails, glacial moraines, suspension bridges, and mountain paths while running through traditional Sherpa villages. Because of the extreme altitude, proper acclimatization, medical planning, and professional logistical support are essential, and all of these are included in our organized packages.

Event Location, Route, and Key Details

Event Date: May 29 (held every year)
Region: Everest Region, Nepal
Start Point: Everest Base Camp (5,364 m / 17,598 ft)
Finish Line: Namche Bazaar (3,440 m / 11,286 ft)
Race Categories: Half Marathon, Full Marathon, Ultra Marathon
Terrain: High-altitude trails, rocky paths, glacial sections, suspension bridges
Participants: International marathon runners, endurance athletes, adventure runners

Race Categories and Distances

Half Marathon (21 km)

The Half Marathon starts from Dingboche and finishes in Namche Bazaar. This category is suitable for strong runners who want a high-altitude challenge without attempting the full marathon distance.

Participants choosing the half marathon are allowed to trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar during the acclimatization period. However, they must return to Dingboche before race day for health checks, race briefings, and final preparation.

Full Marathon (42 km)

The Full Marathon is the main event of the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon.

Start Location: Everest Base Camp
Race Start Time: Early morning on race day
Finish Location: Namche Bazaar

The route descends through Gorak Shep, Lobuche, Dingboche, Pangboche, and Tengboche. Due to the altitude, long descent, and technical terrain, this is considered one of the most demanding marathons in the world.

Ultra Marathon (70 km)

The Ultra Marathon begins at Everest Base Camp and finishes in Lukla. It is designed for elite endurance and ultra-distance runners with extensive experience in mountain and high-altitude running.

Complete Acclimatization, Safety, and Medical Support

Safety is our highest priority. Due to the extreme altitude, all participants must complete a guided acclimatization trek to Everest Base Camp before race day.

Throughout the trek and on race day:

Professional guides and support teams accompany participants
Medical staff are positioned at key points along the route
Regular health checks are conducted
Water, juice, and hydration support are provided
Emergency response planning and evacuation coordination are in place

You are supported at every stage. You are never alone on the trail or during the race.

What We Organize for You (Complete Package)

Sole Encounters Adventures offers fully organized Everest Marathon packages, designed to remove stress and allow you to focus entirely on your performance.

We Organize and Provide:

Official race registration and all paperwork
Complete trekking and marathon logistics
Experienced, licensed guides and Sherpa support staff
Porters to carry your main luggage
Accommodation throughout the trek and race period
All meals during trekking and race days
Domestic flights and ground transportation
Trekking permits and national park fees
Medical support, hydration stations, and health monitoring
Coordination with race organizers and officials

What You Carry:

Only a light day pack
Daily essentials such as water bottle, jacket, snacks, and personal items

Everything else is handled by our team.

Registration and Eligibility

How to Join the Everest Marathon

Participants can join the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon through Sole Encounters Adventures. We manage the entire registration process, documentation, and coordination with race organizers on your behalf.

Eligibility Requirements

Minimum age: 18 years
Prior marathon or endurance running experience recommended
Medical fitness certificate for high-altitude running
Strong physical and mental preparation

This event is recommended for experienced runners and endurance athletes.

Finish Line and Celebration in Namche Bazaar

The marathon officially concludes in Namche Bazaar, where runners are welcomed with a final ceremony and celebration. Finishers receive recognition and certificates, and the achievement is celebrated with fellow participants, support teams, and the local Sherpa community.

Crossing the finish line in Namche Bazaar is an unforgettable moment and a symbol of endurance and determination.

Why Choose Sole Encounters Adventures

Complete marathon packages organized from start to finish
Experienced local guides and Sherpa teams
Strong focus on safety, acclimatization, and medical care
Ethical and responsible operation in the Everest region
Stress-free experience with all logistics handled for you

From your arrival in Nepal to the finish line in Namche Bazaar, we take care of everything.

Join the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon With Us

Sole Encounters Adventures warmly welcomes runners from around the world to join the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon with confidence and peace of mind.

Trip Page: https://www.soleencounterstrek.com/trip/tenzing-hillary-everest-marathon
Website: https://www.soleencounterstrek.com
Email: info@soleencounterstrek.com
WhatsApp: +977 9808979061

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Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon – World’s Highest Marathon in Nepal

Table of Contents

Everest Marathon Overview

Event Location, Route, and Key Details