Course Map
Route based on 2025 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Kathmandu Marathon is a course through the Nepalese capital's valley, run at roughly 1,400 metres of altitude past ancient temples and the bustling streets on undulating terrain. The mild elevation and rolling profile shape the day in the historic Himalayan-region city. Held in a favourable window, it offers cool conditions and richly characterful scenery. The temples and the valley define the day. It suits runners who want an exotic, characterful South Asian race and don't mind the altitude and rolling terrain over a fast time.
Course Insight
Kathmandu sits in a valley at around 1,400 metres, a marathon where Himalayan-foothill altitude and rolling terrain shape the effort. Adjust your pace for the thinner air and run the climbs by feel. The mountain-ringed valley is spectacular. Conditions can be dusty and warm. Respect the altitude and run within yourself, and the course stays manageable.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (325m), tough late hills, meaningful altitude.
Course Details
- Course type
- Loop
- Elevation gain
- 325m
- Elevation loss
- 325m
- Highest point
- 1349m
- Lowest point
- 1291m
- Net elevation
- 0m
- Start
- Satdobato, Lalitpur
Race History
The Kathmandu Marathon is a course through the Nepalese capital's valley, run at roughly 1,400 metres of altitude past ancient temples and bustling streets on undulating terrain. Its mild elevation and characterful Himalayan-region setting gave it appeal. Over the years it drew a field to the historic valley. It remains an exotic, characterful South Asian race.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Tribhuvan International Kathmandu (KTM)
- Best area to stay
- Thamel for proximity to the route and traveller-friendly stays, Durbar Marg for upscale central options, and Patan for atmospheric, quieter stays.
- Getting to the start
- The start is near the centre/a stadium; take a taxi to the start, as transit is limited.