High in the Himalayas, where icy winds sweep across vast mountains and lakes freeze solid in winter, Ladakh has added a remarkable achievement to the world of adventure sports. The region recently hosted an extraordinary race on the frozen surface of one of its most famous lakes, attracting runners ready to face extreme cold and high altitude. The Union Territory of Ladakh hosted the world’s highest frozen lake half marathon at Pangong Tso, where the race took place at an altitude of about 13,862 feet above sea level. Around 75 runners participated in the 21-kilometre half marathon, which started at Lukung village and ended at Maan village, running across the frozen lake surface.
Ladakh Pangong Tso hosts record-breaking frozen lake race:
The race was held in extremely challenging conditions, with winter temperatures in the region falling to around –30°C. Despite the icy terrain and thin mountain air, the marathon was completed safely and no injuries were reported among the runners. The event has been officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the highest frozen lake half marathon ever held. The marathon was organised by the Adventure Sports Foundation of Ladakh with support from local authorities.
Named The Last Run, the event was designed not only as an extreme sports challenge but also as a way to highlight the impact of climate change on the fragile Himalayan environment. Organisers hope the race will draw attention to the need to protect the region’s glaciers, lakes and ecosystems.
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