The Most Beautiful Race in India Honoring Fitness, Culture, and the Namsai Spirit
The announcement of the Namsai Marathon 2025, the inaugural Golden Pagoda Marathon, sparked a flurry of enthusiasm among the Press Club of India in the crystal-clear embrace of Delhi’s winter. The Golden Pagoda Marathon, India’s most picturesque race, is set for Sunday, February 9, 2025, and invites both runners and tourists to take in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh’s alluring appeal. Following the announcement, the event’s official jersey was unveiled in front of Honorable MLA Shri Ninong Ering and Secretary of Sports & Youth Affairs Shri Abu Tayeng, IAS.
The subject for this year, “Marathon & Namsai Tourism,” highlights the area’s stunning scenery and rich cultural legacy. The legendary Golden Pagoda, a stunning representation of Thai-inspired architecture and Namsai’s cultural heritage, serves as the background for the race’s start and finish lines, creating an unmatched combination of stamina, natural beauty, and spiritual connection. Every element of the event, from eco-friendly practices to traditional performances and regional specialties, is intended to highlight the area’s distinct personality.
Both Indian and foreign runners will find the Golden Pagoda Marathon’s flat track and appropriate single-loop full marathon route ideal. The event offers ideal running conditions with an average temperature of about 20°C on race day. Every competitor will get a finisher medal, an official Dri-fit race t-shirt, and full route assistance that includes energy drinks, food, and water.
The Namsai Marathon 2025 will take place in the following categories and has a total prize fund of INR 36 lakhs:
| Category | Age Group | Distance | Prize Money |
| Full Marathon | 18+ Years | 42 Km | INR 2,00,000 |
| Half Marathon | 18+ Years | 21 Km | INR 1,50,000 |
| Standard Run | 18+ Years | 10 Km | INR 1,00,000 |
| Fun Run | All Ages | 5 Km | INR 20,000 |
The event will be more than just a marathon; it will be a live tribute to the tribal knowledge, breathtaking scenery, and long-standing customs of Arunachal Pradesh, said Shri Ninong Ering, Honourable MLA, who spoke at the kickoff. The event is expected to capture the essence of the area by combining eco-friendly practices, regional food, and traditional tribal entertainment.
During the launch, Shri Abu Tayeng, IAS, Secretary of Sports & Youth Affairs, said, “The spirit of Arunachal Pradesh is really embodied in the Namsai Marathon 2025. It combines sustainability, culture, and adventure to provide participants with an experience that is profoundly in line with our nation’s values. Without a doubt, this project will put Namsai on the map of the world and encourage tourists to explore its undiscovered splendor and cultural diversity.
Arunanchal Pradesh’s rich tapestry of tribal cultures and lush paradise of natural beauty are shown by Namsai. From customary entertainment and regional cuisine to environmentally aware
procedures, every facet of this occasion is intended to highlight the distinctive character of the area. Additionally, the marathon is a component of a bigger initiative to improve the state of tourism in Arunachal Pradesh. The festival is drawing thrill-seekers from all across India and beyond by highlighting adventure sports like kayaking and bamboo rafting, establishing the Namsai as a center for eco-tourism and sustainable travel.
