The Spark of a Dream

When I registered for the Pangong Frozen Lake Marathon, I felt an instant surge of excitement. The idea of running across a frozen lake at one of the highest altitudes in the world felt almost unbelievable - like stepping into a dream waiting to unfold.

The Journey Begins: Delhi to Leh

My adventure began on February 20th as I boarded my flight from Delhi to Leh. Gazing out of the window, I watched the dramatic landscapes of Ladakh reveal themselves under the crisp morning light. At over 15,000 feet, even from the sky, the mountains looked both majestic and intimidating. It was my first real taste of what lay ahead.

A Scary Welcome

Upon landing, I met the organizer’s representative and fellow runners from India and Australia. Spirits were high - until we reached our hotel. There, a shocking incident unfolded when a participant named Gawaling was bitten by a street dog. The moment was jarring and frightening, casting a brief shadow over my excitement. It reminded me that Leh, though beautiful, had its own challenges.

Preparing the Body and Mind

Health Check-Up

On the second day, I went for a medical check-up to ensure I was fit to run at such a high altitude. The thin air and cold climate demanded respect and preparation.

Test Run at Khardung La

After the check-up, we headed to Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Standing there felt surreal. We captured countless photos and shared laughter as the cold winds whipped around us. I joined the other runners for a small test run, and even that short stretch felt like a triumph in the thin mountain air.

The Road to Pangong



On the third day, all participants were transported by bus to Pangong Lake. The five-hour journey through Ladakh’s rugged terrain was an experience in itself valleys, frozen streams, and towering mountains lining the way. By the time we reached Man Village, our base for the next few days, I felt a growing sense of anticipation.

First Touch of the Frozen Lake


Touching the frozen surface of Pangong for the first time was magical. It felt as though an entire frozen ocean was whispering its stories urging us to cherish and protect it. The stillness of the lake, wrapped in a blanket of ice, left me in awe.

The Big Day Arrives

A World Record in the Making

Everyone was buzzing with excitement. This wasn’t just any marathon - it was the world’s highest-altitude frozen lake marathon. And incredibly, it earned a Guinness World Record in its first edition.

February 25th, 2025: Running on Ice

When race day finally arrived, the frozen expanse of Pangong Lake looked ethereal. Running on its surface felt like gliding through a dreamscape. The mountains stood as silent guardians, the air was crisp, and every breath felt like a moment of gratitude.

I met runners from different parts of the world, each carrying their own story, their own reason for being there. Many of them remain friends I still connect with on social media today. The camaraderie and shared sense of achievement made the experience even more memorable.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Thank you, ASFL (Asian Frozen Lake Marathon), for the incredible opportunity, warmth, and hospitality. This marathon wasn’t just a race - it was a journey that touched my heart, pushed my limits, and gifted me memories I’ll cherish forever.