States » EastPosted at: Sep 28 2026 5:48PM


Khandu unveils Tawang Marathon 2026 logo, mascot and official merchandise

Itanagar, Sep 28 (UNI) Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu unveiled the logo, official T-shirt, finisher medal and mascot of the Tawang Marathon 2026, besides launching its official website and registration platform, here at the Chief Minister's Office on Monday.
The fourth edition of the high-altitude endurance event is scheduled to be held on October 24 at Tawang, with the marathon being organised by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh in close association with the Indian Army.
The event will bring together civilian runners and defence personnel on a course situated at approximately 10,000 feet above sea level against the backdrop of the Eastern Himalayas. More than 4,000 participants are expected to take part in this year's edition, including over 200 elite runners from across India and from Kenya, Ethiopia and Nepal, along with amateur runners and fitness enthusiasts.
Addressing the gathering, Khandu said the Tawang Marathon was conceived not merely as a sporting event, but as a platform that brings together sport, Arunachal Pradesh's Himalayan landscape, cultural heritage and the warmth of its people, while showcasing the State as a destination for responsible tourism.
"When we first envisioned Tawang Marathon, the idea was never just to organize a race. It was to create a platform where sport meets the majesty of our Himalayan landscape, where the culture and warmth of our people find a global stage, and where Arunachal Pradesh's story of responsible tourism is told to the world," he said.
The Chief Minister said each element of the new marathon identity represented a distinct aspect of Tawang. The logo reflects the spirit of the mountains and their people, while the mascot represents the warmth of Tawang. The finisher medal symbolises the grit and determination required to overcome the high altitude and challenging terrain, while the official T-shirt is intended to carry the story of Tawang wherever the runners travel.
The high-altitude course presents a distinctive endurance challenge, with altitude, terrain and weather conditions requiring participants to undertake adequate preparation. Runners have been advised to reach Tawang two to three days before race day to facilitate acclimatisation, bib collection and medical guidance.
Preparations for the event include race operations, medical support, hydration and aid stations, with coordination among the organising authorities and local stakeholders. Runner preparedness, community participation and respect for the fragile mountain environment have also been identified as key components of the event.
Beyond the sporting aspect, the marathon is expected to contribute to the State's emerging sports tourism sector. The participation of runners and accompanying family members and visitors is likely to create opportunities for local hotels, homestays, transport operators, guides and other service providers.
The event will also provide participants and visitors an opportunity to experience Tawang's Monpa traditions, historic monastery and local hospitality, thereby linking the sporting experience with the region's cultural and tourism attractions.
Inviting runners, sports enthusiasts and travellers from India and abroad to participate in the fourth edition, Khandu said, "I invite runners, sports enthusiasts, and travelers from across the country and beyond to come, experience Tawang, and be part of this remarkable journey."
The Chief Minister also placed on record his appreciation for the organising team, VAS Coreworks LLP, and all stakeholders associated with the marathon for their efforts in building the event over the years.
Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Kento Jini joined the programme through video conference. Secretary Sports Abu Tayeng, Special Secretary Sports Akshat Kaushal, and Director Sports Tadar Appa were also present.
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Tags: #Khandu unveils Tawang Marathon 2026 logo# mascot and official merchandise
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