The Ladakh Marathon routes are globally famous for combining extreme altitude, Himalayan landscapes, Buddhist cultural heritage, and physically demanding terrain. The Full Marathon and Half Marathon begin and finish at NDS Memorial Stadium in Leh and pass through areas such as Choglamsar, Saboo, the Indus River valley, Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, and willow-lined mountain roads. The ultra events are the true centerpiece of the festival: The 72 km Khardung La Challenge climbs to Khardung La Pass at 5,370 m and is regarded as one of the toughest ultra-marathons in the world. The 122 km Silk Route Ultra begins in Nubra Valley’s Kyagar Village and follows the ancient Silk Route through remote Himalayan terrain before crossing Khardung La and descending into Leh. The combination of low oxygen levels, dramatic weather changes, freezing temperatures, and steep mountain terrain creates one of the most unique endurance race environments on Earth.