Chhayanath Ultra Race 2026 to Turn Mugu Into a High-Altitude Adventure Hub

Kathmandu — Mugu is preparing to host the Chhayanath Trail Ultra Race 2026 on Jestha 3, aiming to promote the district’s growing potential in adventure tourism.

The race will be organized by Mugum Karmarong Rural Municipality in collaboration with the All Nepal Sports Foundation. According to organizers, the event will help highlight Rara Lake, Chhayanath Dham and other tourism destinations of Mugu, while also supporting local infrastructure development and economic empowerment.

The race will cover around 30 kilometers, beginning from an altitude of 2,550 meters and reaching Chhayanath at 4,820 meters. Interested athletes will be able to register online, and technical support will be provided by the Nepal Adventure Running Federation.

A separate category will be available for local participants from Mugu. A 5-kilometer fun run will also be organized to encourage wider community participation.

Winners of the main 30-kilometer race in both men’s and women’s categories will receive cash prizes, medals and certificates, with NPR 200,000 for first place, NPR 150,000 for second, NPR 100,000 for third, NPR 75,000 for fourth and NPR 50,000 for fifth. Local category winners will receive NPR 30,000, NPR 20,000 and NPR 10,000 respectively.

Officials said the race is expected to promote Chhayanath Dham and the wider Karnali region internationally, while helping establish Mugum Karmarong as a strong destination for adventure sports tourism.