ITANAGAR, SEP 28:
Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday unveiled the new logo, official T-shirt, medal and mascot of the Tawang Marathon 2026, describing the high-altitude event as a platform to showcase the state’s Himalayan landscape, cultural heritage and responsible tourism to the world.
The chief minister also launched the official website and registration platform for the fourth edition of the marathon, scheduled to be held on October 24 at around 10,000 feet above sea level against the backdrop of the Eastern Himalayas, an official statement said.
Addressing the gathering at his office here, Khandu said the marathon was conceived not merely as a race but as an initiative bringing together sport, the natural beauty of Tawang, its culture and the warmth of its people.
“When we first envisioned Tawang Marathon, the idea was never just to organise a race. It was to create a platform where sport meets the majesty of our Himalayan landscape, where the culture and warmth of our people find a global stage, and where Arunachal Pradesh’s story of responsible tourism is told to the world,” he said.
He added that each element of the new identity unveiled carries a distinct part of the Tawang story.
“The logo reflects the spirit of the mountains and its people, while the mascot represents the warmth of Tawang. The finisher medal symbolises the grit required to overcome the challenging altitude and terrain, while the official T-shirt would carry the story of Tawang wherever the runners travel,” the chief minister said.
Organised by the state government in association with the Indian Army, the marathon is expected to draw more than 4,000 participants this year, including over 200 elite runners from across India as well as Kenya, Ethiopia and Nepal.
Civilian runners, defence personnel, amateur runners and fitness enthusiasts will take part in the event.
The high-altitude course poses a distinctive endurance challenge, with the terrain, altitude and weather requiring participants to prepare carefully. Runners have been advised to reach Tawang two to three days before the race for acclimatisation, bib collection and medical guidance, the statement said.
Preparations for the event include race operations, medical support, hydration and aid stations, with organising authorities and local stakeholders coordinating arrangements. Runner preparedness, community participation and protection of the mountain environment will also remain important aspects of the event.
The marathon is also expected to give a further boost to sports tourism in the state. The arrival of runners and their families could create opportunities for local hotels, homestays, transport operators, guides and other businesses.
The event will also offer participants and visitors an opportunity to experience Tawang’s Monpa traditions, its historic monastery and local hospitality, linking the sporting event with the region’s cultural and tourism attractions.
Khandu invited runners, sports enthusiasts and travellers from India and abroad to participate in the fourth edition and experience Tawang.
“I invite runners, sports enthusiasts, and travellers from across the country and beyond to come, experience Tawang, and be part of this remarkable journey,” he said. (Source: PTI)
