The Union Territory of Ladakh has entered the Guinness World Records after successfully hosting the world’s highest frozen lake half-marathon at Pangong Tso, situated at an altitude of 13,862 feet.
The 21-kilometre trail run was conducted in sub-zero temperatures on the frozen surface of the lake, which spans India and China and covers about 700 square kilometres.
During winter, temperatures at Pangong Tso can drop to minus 30 degrees Celsius, causing the saltwater lake to freeze.
The event, held on Monday, began at Lukung and concluded at Maan village. Leh District Development Commissioner Shrikant Balasaheb Suse told PTI that the four-hour marathon concluded without any injuries among the 75 participants.
Named “The Last Run” to raise awareness about climate change and the need to protect the Himalayas, the marathon was organised by the Adventure Sports Foundation of Ladakh in collaboration with the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh, the Tourism Department of Ladakh, and the Leh district administration.
Suse said the event has been officially registered as the highest altitude frozen lake half-marathon by Guinness World Records. He added that beyond promoting ecological awareness, the marathon aimed to boost sustainable winter tourism in eastern Ladakh’s border villages under the Vibrant Village Programme.
The run was flagged off by LAHDC Leh Chief Executive Councillor Tashi Gyalson. Five energy stations equipped with medical teams, oxygen support, and mobile ambulances were set up along the route. Participants underwent six days of acclimatisation and medical screening before the race.
Medical centres along the route were staffed with trained personnel, and support was provided by the Indian Army and ITBP. Disaster Response Force personnel and members of the Ladakh Mountain Guide Association were also deployed to ensure safety.