Neither rain nor heat nor sand can keep the runners in these marathons from charging toward the finish line. If running through the desert, up the Great Wall and around Mount Everest sounds like a challenge you’d like to conquer, sign up for one of these most exciting marathons Asia has to offer.
Mongolia Sunrise to Sunset, Hovsgol National Park, Mongolia
No matter how far you run during this trail race (42 or 100 km), all profits go to support the ecoLeap foundation, which works to protect Hovsgol National Park. Depending on what travel package runners sign up for (this year’s registration has ended; 2014 sign-up opens soon), the days leading up to the race are filled with horseback riding, trekking and fishing all while getting acclimated to the climate. After the race is done, there’s a celebratory awards ceremony and feast, bringing together local Mongolians and seasoned runners from the world over. August 7, 2013
This competition kicks off in front of Bangkok’s Royal Grand Palace and runs along a route that takes you through the city’s varied neighborhoods, winds down the Chao Phraya River and goes past a number of historic sites such as the National Museum. Registration is open through September 20 but runners be warned — Thailand’s heat and humidity make this race a particularly tough test of endurance. November 17, 2013
That one of Asia’s most fascinating races won’t happen for another 10 months hasn’t stopped runners from signing up for the Great Wall full- and half-marathons (or the 7.5 km fun run). The bragging rights one gets from completing a grueling race on an ancient World Wonder are, for many, worth the huffing, puffing, cramps and sweat. Albatross Travel runs the marathon and, if you live outside of China, you have to purchase a package in order to sign up for the race. Registration for 2014’s event will open in early August. May 17, 2014
Everest Marathon, Nepal
Intrepid travelers who want the thrill of not only hiking to Everest Base Camp but also participating in the world’s highest marathon should start packing for Nepal. Marathoners-turned-mountaineers fly from the capital Kathmandu to Lukla, trek through tiny villages and stop at Kalapatharr (stretching 18,200 feet into the sky) for (literally) breathtaking views. It’s then on to Everest Base Camp, the race’s starting point, and soon down the mountain to the finish at Namche Bazaar at an altitude of 11,286 feet. Because this is as much an intense mountain trek as it is a marathon, runners need to have solid experience traversing rough terrain (and a medical certificate from a doctor) to register for the race. May 2014
Proving its popularity, this marathon’s November 2, 2013 run has been filled up since early this year. Thankfully, the stunning running route makes this a wonderful spectator event. Organized by the same group behind the Great Wall Marathon, the Bagan Marathon (both full and half) takes runners through 2,000 11th- and 12th-century temples, stupas and pagodas, many of which remain completely untouched. Though it’s a relatively flat run, marathoners will hit mostly gravel and sand rather than pavement. It’s also quite hot (high 80s in November), and there’s little shade to be had. Though the run can be grueling, the vistas of ancient temples are plenty rewarding. November 2014
Photos courtesy of Albatros Travel, eco Leap and Everest Marathon
