Nepal to hold international marathon

A high-altitude international marathon will take place in quake-ravaged Langtang Valley of Nepal on May 19, the organiser said here on Thursday.

The marathon is being organised by Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN), an umbrella organisation of trekking agencies spread across the country, under the theme Adventure Sports for Sustainable Tourism, reports Xinhua news agency.

According to the organiser, over 100 Nepali and foreigners will participate in the full marathon in both male and female categories. The marathon will start from Kyanjin Gompa of Langtang valley, located at nearly 4,000 meters above the sea level.

"Langtang valley, which was devastated by the earthquake of 2015, has revived now with intact infrastructures and all necessary facilities. Thus, we are holding this marathon to promote adventure tourism in the region," said Nava Raj Dahal, President of TAAN.

He further said that the marathon also aims to develop the Himalayan country as an international destination for sports and adventure tourism.

According to TAAN, the event will also draw international attention to the conservation of Himalayan biodiversity and protection of rare and elusive species like Red Panda which is mostly found in Langtang valley.

Langtang, located to the north of the capital city Kathmandu, is the most popular trekking destination among the foreign trekkers after Qomolangma and Annapurna base camps. The valley is renowned for the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, lakes, flora and fauna and the rich culture of the local inhabitants.

Over 300 people including 80 foreign trekkers had lost their lives in Langtang region alone in the devastating earthquake of April 2015.

--IANS

pur/bg