Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday launched the logo, official T-shirt, finisher medal and mascot of the Tawang Marathon 2026, along with its official website and registration platform, at a function at the CMO here.
The fourth edition of the high-altitude endurance event is scheduled for October 24, 2026.
Organised by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh in close association with the Indian Army, the Tawang Marathon will bring together civilian runners and defence personnel on a course situated at approximately 10,000 feet above sea level against the backdrop of the Eastern Himalayas.
More than 4,000 participants are expected to take part in this year’s edition, including over 200 elite runners from across India and from Kenya, Ethiopia and Nepal. Amateur runners and fitness enthusiasts will also participate.
Addressing the gathering, Khandu said the Tawang Marathon was conceived not merely as a sporting event but as a platform bringing together sport, Arunachal Pradesh’s Himalayan landscape, its cultural heritage and the warmth of its people, while showcasing the state’s approach to responsible tourism.
“When we first envisioned Tawang Marathon, the idea was never just to organise a race. It was to create a platform where sport meets the majesty of our Himalayan landscape, where the culture and warmth of our people find a global stage, and where Arunachal Pradesh’s story of responsible tourism is told to the world,” he said.
Khandu said each element of the new marathon identity carried a distinct part of the Tawang story. He said the logo reflected the spirit of the mountains and people, the mascot represented the warmth of Tawang, the finisher medal symbolised the grit involved in overcoming the altitude and terrain, while the official T-shirt would carry the story of Tawang wherever runners travelled.
The high-altitude course presents a distinctive endurance challenge, with altitude, terrain and weather requiring participants to prepare carefully. Runners are being encouraged to reach Tawang two to three days ahead of race day for acclimatisation, bib collection and medical guidance.
Preparations for the event include race operations, medical assistance, hydration and aid stations, with coordination among organising authorities and local stakeholders. Runner preparedness, community participation and respect for the mountain environment remain key components of the event.
The marathon is also expected to contribute to Arunachal Pradesh’s growing sports tourism sector. The influx of runners and their families is likely to create opportunities for local hotels, homestays, transport operators, guides and other businesses.
The event will also provide visitors with an opportunity to experience Tawang’s Monpa traditions, historic monastery and local hospitality, linking the sporting experience with the destination’s cultural and tourism offerings.
The Chief Minister invited runners, sports enthusiasts and travellers from across India and abroad to participate in the fourth edition and experience Tawang.
“I invite runners, sports enthusiasts, and travellers from across the country and beyond to come, experience Tawang, and be part of this remarkable journey,” he said.
Khandu placed on record his appreciation for the organising team, VAS Coreworks LLP, and all stakeholders associated with the marathon for their efforts in building the event over the years.
Minister of Sports Kento Jini joined the meeting through video conference. Also present were Abu Tayeng, Secretary Sports, Akshat Kaushal, Special Secretary, and Tadar Appa, Director Sports.