*Priya Rai winning the women’s race in record time.*

The 2nd edition of Panchase 55 km, a hilly circumnavigation of Pokhara’s Fewa Lake, like many races in the pandemic era, was long overdue. The 1st edition took place in 2018, but then due to COVID-19 and other issues, the 2nd edition had to wait until April 1st, 2023.

At this time of year, there was always the chance of heavy rain and race cancellation. Happily, the weather was perfect for the most part of the race, and the event was successful.

The winner Arjun Kulung Rai broke the previous record of 06:22:00, by completing the race in 06:06:00. Priya Rai also broke previous record of 08:29:00, by completing the race in 07:25:00.

The next trail running events in Pokhara

The next event from Pokhara Trail Series is all about chasing the sunrise. The organiser Rajiv Shrestha is making a bold offer in order to build the trail running momentum in Pokhara. The entry fee is only Rs. 100! “Morning shows the day,” he says, “this is offering platform for runners to come experience the sport, and perhaps surprise themselves.”

Find out more: CHASING SUNRISE: METHLANG RUN 25 KM & 5 KM

Then if you are trailed up enough, there is the opportunity to race any of these distances: 80 km, 55 km, 21 km, 10 km & 5 km. The 55 km of this event is the same route as the Panchase 55 km, which is being merged together with the longer and shorter races.

Find out more: OVER THE CLOUDS ULTRA 80 KM, 55 KM, MOUNTAIN HALF-MARATHON & FUN RUN 5 KM