My first-ever ultra-trail marathon, the Jumla Rara Ultra, wasn't just a race; it was a deep immersion into the raw, breathtaking beauty of the Nepali Himalayas. Spanning the rugged trails between Jumla and Mugu, this event was a test of endurance, spirit, and connection, bringing together the vibrant trail running community of Nepal.

​A Gathering of Mountain Runners

​The spirit of the event, held on May 10th, 2025, was electric. With over 500 participants across various categories, the air buzzed with excitement and camaraderie. What made it truly special was the opportunity to meet and run alongside some of the most dedicated trail runners in Nepal—a shared passion played out against the world's most dramatic backdrop.

​While the total turnout was high, the sheer difficulty of the main ultra-trail category quickly became apparent. Out of 74 brave souls who started the ultra, only 54 crossed the finish line, a testament to the unforgiving nature of this course.

​The Unforgiving Course: 55KM of Majesty

​The Jumla Rara Ultra is more than just a challenging race; it's a globally recognized mountain endeavor. Being ITRA and UTMB certified means this annual event is internationally benchmarked for difficulty and prestige, offering runners a true taste of high-altitude ultra-running.

​The 55-kilometer route was brutal yet magnificent. My initial goal was ambitious: to finish within 10 hours. However, the mountain had other plans. It pushed me, tested my limits, and ultimately demanded more respect, resulting in a finish time of 12 hours and 42 minutes. Every minute of that extra time was earned through steep climbs and thin air.

​The most daunting statistic? The cumulative elevation gain. The course soared to an incredible peak of nearly 3,800 meters from sea level, turning every step into a monumental effort.

​Rara Lake: The Ultimate Finish Line

​The journey culminated in a moment of pure, overwhelming joy as we descended to the magnificent Rara Lake. This pristine, azure body of water - often called the "Queen of Lakes" - served as the ultimate reward. Reaching the lake, and covering its periphery to the finish line, was a truly sensory experience.

​The fatigue from the 55KM vanished, replaced by a surge of enthusiasm and the profound satisfaction of having conquered the Himalayas. Finishing the race here, amidst the stunning natural panorama, wasn't just about completing a distance; it was about embracing the ultra-trail spirit and knowing I now stood among the finishers of this iconic Himalayan race.

​This experience has profoundly deepened my understanding of ultra-trail running and its vast scope, setting the stage for future adventures on the world's highest trails.

More Photos from Race Day:


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