impact marathon nepal

Single day race · Trail races in Nepal

Impact Marathon Nepal 2026

Race Information

Date
Mon 16 Nov 2026
Stages
1
Distance
10 km, 23 km, 42 km
Max altitude
2300 m
Elevation D±
up to +/- 2000m

Nepal Impact Marathon 2026 – Event Summary

The Nepal Impact Marathon 2026 is the eighth edition of the original Impact Marathon and takes place from 16–22 November 2026 in Batase, Nepal. More than a race, it is a week-long immersive experience combining trail running, community impact, cultural exchange, and adventure travel in the foothills of the Himalayas.

The event is designed for runners and adventurers who want their participation to have meaning beyond finishing times. Participants live and run alongside local communities, take part in hands-on development projects, and directly witness the outcomes of their fundraising and involvement. The experience emphasizes connection — with people, place, and purpose — while challenging runners physically and mentally in a remote mountain environment.

Community & Cultural Experience

Throughout the week, participants engage in community project work, often focused on regenerative agriculture and sustainable livelihoods. These projects are delivered in partnership with local organizations and are structured to create genuine, long-term benefits for host communities.

Cultural immersion is central to the event. Participants stay in a temporary Athletes’ Village within Batase, eat traditional Nepali meals such as dal bhat and momos, and experience daily village life. This close interaction allows for meaningful cultural exchange and a deeper understanding of rural Nepal.

Race Distances & Routes

The Nepal Impact Marathon offers three trail running distances, all of which are demanding due to terrain and elevation:

  • 42 km – The Beast of Batase
    A full marathon with approximately 2,000 metres of elevation gain, designed as a tough but achievable challenge with generous cut-offs, strong route marking, and full medical support.
  • 23 km – Mountain Ridge
    A half-marathon distance with over 1,000 metres of climbing, featuring ridgelines, technical trails, and expansive mountain views.
  • 10 km – Starter for Ten
    Despite being the shortest option, this route still includes nearly 600 metres of ascent and some of the steepest climbs on the course. Many participants choose to hike this distance.

Weekly Structure

The week typically begins in Kathmandu, with group introductions and cultural orientation. Participants then travel to the rural project area before trekking into Batase village. The middle of the week is spent acclimatising, running short trail routes, and working on community projects. Race day brings all participants together for a shared start and a celebratory finish. The event concludes with a return to Kathmandu for a farewell dinner and departure.

What’s Included

The entry package includes accommodation (hotels and village stay), all in-country transport during the event, meals, race entry, medical support, guided runs, yoga and stretching sessions, community project activities, workshops with development specialists, and official race merchandise.

Not included are international flights, visas, travel insurance, alcohol, snacks, airport transfers, and tips for local staff.

The Nepal Impact Marathon 2026 offers a rare opportunity to combine trail running, travel, and positive impact, creating an experience that resonates long after the finish line.

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