Ladakh Trail to Heaven introduces prize money for 2026 return

One Hundred® Ladakh Trail to Heaven will return from 6–8 August 2026, bringing athletes back to one of the world's most extraordinary endurance racing environments and introducing a competitive prize purse for the first time.

Set in the mountains of Ladakh, India, the event has expanded following its inaugural edition in 2025 and now offers 100 Mile, 100K and 42K distances designed to challenge athletes physically and mentally through altitude, technical terrain, river crossings and rapidly changing conditions.

The 2026 edition will feature prize money across the 100 Mile and 100K categories, awarded equally across the men’s and women’s categories. Another step in the event's evolution, this reflects its ambition to attract a stronger international field while continuing to celebrate the spirit of adventure that defines mountain trail running.

Held in the “Land of High Passes,” every category is contested almost entirely above 3,500 metres, with mountain passes exceeding 5,000 metres, making Ladakh Trail to Heaven one of the highest ultra-trail races on Earth.

For many athletes, the attraction of Ladakh extends beyond competition. It is an opportunity to run through one of the world's most remarkable mountain landscapes and experience a unique intersection of endurance, history, culture and nature.

The course follows the Markha River and centuries-old trade routes traversing remote mountain villages accessible only by mountain trail, delivering an experience unlike any other in endurance sport. 

Warm daytime temperatures can quickly give way to freezing nights, while the reduced oxygen levels of the Himalayas create a test that demands patience, resilience and adaptability.

Ladakh Trail to Heaven is part of the pathway to the One Hundred World Championship Grand Final, with athletes earning valuable ranking points in pursuit of qualification.

The event is also an integral part of the One Hundred Gold Slam, a challenge recognising athletes who complete three of the most demanding ultra-endurance mountain races across contrasting environments: the heat and jungle of Costa Rica 200, the high-altitude landscapes of Ladakh, and the classic alpine terrain of Cro Trail. Athletes who complete all three within a two-season window earn Gold Slam Finisher status and lifetime recognition in the One Hundred Hall of Legends.

Entries are closing soon. To register, visit the Ladakh Trail to Heaven registration page.