DHARAK: Nanda Sacred Trails 2026

DHARAK: Nanda Sacred Trails

Mountain Trail Running Event – Uttarakhand, India

DHARAK: Nanda Sacred Trails is a mountain trail running event set in the high-altitude landscapes of the Garhwal Himalaya in Uttarakhand, India. Based in the village of Lohajung, the event explores the traditional pilgrimage and shepherd trails leading toward the alpine meadows and sacred highlands of the Nanda Devi region.

The courses follow established mountain paths through dense temperate forests, remote villages, steep ridgelines, and expansive Himalayan bugyals (high-altitude meadows). Runners experience sustained climbs, technical descents, uneven terrain, and sections of exposed alpine environment. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and the terrain demands strong mountain awareness and endurance.

All races are designed as out-and-back routes, starting and finishing in Lohajung. Strict checkpoint cut-offs and mandatory gear requirements are enforced to ensure participant safety in this remote mountain setting.

DHARAK aims to deliver an authentic Himalayan trail running experience while respecting the ecological sensitivity and cultural significance of the Nanda region. The event promotes responsible mountain sports, local community engagement, and sustainable trail use practices.

The race is intended for trained and self-sufficient runners with prior experience in mountain environments.

Race Categories: 

1. DHARAK – NANDA BEDNI KUND
50 KM | Himalayan Ultra Trail | Out & Back

Distance: 50 km
Elevation Gain: ~2,979 m
Maximum Elevation: ~3,615 m
Start: Kuling, Wan-Lohajung Road, Uttarakhand, India
Finish: Lohajung, Uttarakhand, India
Cut-off Time: 12 hours 
ITRA Points: 3

2 . DHARAK – NANDA AALI BUGYAL
40KM | High Mountain Trail Run | Out & Back
Distance: 40 km
Elevation Gain: ~2,541 m
Maximum Elevation: ~3,540 m
Start: Kuling, Wan-Lohajung Road, Uttarakhand, India
Finish: Lohajung, Uttarakhand, India
Cut-off Time: 10 hours
ITRA Points: 2

3 .DHARAK – NANDA TOLPANI TOP

30 KM | Mountain Trail Run | Out & Back
Distance: 30 km
Elevation Gain: ~2,069 m
Maximum Elevation: ~3,100 m
Start: Kuling, Wan-Lohajung Road, Uttarakhand, India
Finish: Lohajung, Uttarakhand, India
Cut-off Time: 8 hours
ITRA Points: 2

4. DHARAK – NANDA DIDINA
20 KM | Mountain Trail Run | Out & Back
Distance: 20 km
Elevation Gain: ~1,126 m
Maximum Elevation: ~2,500 m
Start/Finish: Lohajung, Uttarakhand, India
Cut-off Time: 6 hours
ITRA Points: 1