Kathmandu Marathon

Course & Elevation

The Kathmandu Marathon is a road race through the Kathmandu Valley, held on a Saturday in early October. The organisers describe it as Nepal's largest and most recognised road-running event. It was founded in 2007 by Nilendra Raj Shrestha, and the 2026 race on 10 October was the 18th edition. The race is held every year on the first Saturday before Ghatasthapana. The marathon starts at 05:30 at Dasrath Rangashala in Tripureshwor, Kathmandu. According to the organisers, the route passes through the three historic cities of Kathmandu, Lalitpur (Patan) and Bhaktapur. Landmarks named on the course include Sahid Gate, Ghantaghar, Dharahara, Thimi, Bhaktapur Durbar Square and the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, and on a clear morning runners see the Himalayan mountains. The 2026 programme had thirteen race categories, including a half marathon, 10K, 5K and 3K races, and the organisers expected more than 10,000 participants. Runners in the marathon must be 18 or older.