Srinagar, July 10 (NVI): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday unveiled the official merchandise and launched the promotional campaign for the Kashmir Marathon 2026, saying the event is aimed at placing Kashmir firmly on India’s marathon calendar while giving a major boost to sports tourism in the Union Territory.
The merchandise, including the marathon cap, finisher’s medal and racing kit, was unveiled during a function held at the Royal Springs Golf Course (RSGC) in Srinagar. The Chief Minister also released the promotional video for the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Omar Abdullah said the marathon is part of the government’s broader strategy to diversify tourism in Jammu and Kashmir by promoting sports and adventure tourism alongside traditional tourist attractions.
He said the government wants the Kashmir Marathon to achieve the stature of leading marathons held across the country, including those in Delhi, Mumbai and Ladakh, and attract participants from across India and abroad.
The Chief Minister said the event would also send a positive message that Kashmir is peaceful, safe and welcoming for visitors, encouraging more tourists to experience the Valley.
Officials informed the Chief Minister that the third edition of the Kashmir Marathon will be held in Srinagar on October 25, 2026.
According to officials, the half marathon route will pass through the Jhelum riverfront, Lal Chowk, Dalgate and the Boulevard Road along Dal Lake, while the full marathon will extend towards Hazratbal and the University of Kashmir. The course has been designed with a mix of flat and hilly stretches, with an overall elevation gain of around 960 metres.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary Tourism Ashish Chandra Verma, Secretary RSGC Haris Ahmed Handoo, Director Tourism Kashmir Syed Qamar Sajad, Director Tourism Jammu Vikas Gupta and other senior officers were present on the occasion. (NVI)
