TAAN Langtang–Gosainkunda Half Marathon

The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) is set to organise the first-ever TAAN Langtang–Gosainkunda Half Marathon on May 29, 2016, coinciding with its 38th Establishment Day, in a landmark initiative aimed at revitalising tourism in the Langtang–Gosainkunda region.

The event carries special significance as it marks the first time in Nepal’s tourism history that national and international media and journalists have been comprehensively coordinated for a tourism sporting event in the Langtang region. This unprecedented media coordination has been led by Surya Bahadur Ghimire, Media and Press Coordinator of TAAN (Promoter/Managing Director of Great Nepal Treks & Expedition), who has successfully mobilised both domestic and international media platforms to amplify global visibility of the region.

According to the organisers, the half marathon is designed to disseminate a strong message that the Langtang–Gosainkunda region is fully revived, safe, and welcoming tourists once again after the devastating earthquake of 2015, following years of recovery and rebuilding. Through extensive media engagement, the event aims to reposition Langtang as a premier high-altitude trekking and adventure destination on the international tourism map.

The race will commence from the sacred Gosainkunda Lake at an elevation of 4,380 metres, making it one of the highest-altitude half marathons in the world. The route will pass through Lauribina, Cholangpati, Chandanbari, and Deurali before concluding at Dhunche (1,960 metres), offering athletes a unique blend of spiritual, cultural, and alpine landscapes.

The top three finishers in both men’s and women’s categories will be awarded cash prizes of Rs 50,000, Rs 30,000, and Rs 20,000 respectively. The organisers expect the participation of around 100 athletes from across the country.

The registration fee is set at Rs 5,000, which includes round-trip transportation from Kathmandu, accommodation, and meals. TAAN officials believe that the event will not only promote adventure tourism and sports tourism but also contribute to local livelihoods and strengthen confidence among international travelers.