The scenic Boulevard Road in Srinagar was awash with rhythm and colour on November 2, 2025, as the second edition of the Kashmir Marathon witnessed an incredible turnout. With over 1,500 runners from 27 Indian states and 11 countries, the event has firmly established itself as a premier sporting spectacle in the region.
The marathon was officially flagged off by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who himself participated in the 21 km Half Marathon, echoing his commitment from the inaugural event. Adding Bollywood glamour to the occasion was actor Suniel Shetty, who joined locals in cheering the participants along the picturesque route beside Dal Lake.
VIDEO | Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) and Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty (@SunielVShetty) flag off second edition of the Kashmir Marathon 2025.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 2, 2025
(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/9GDFGyQmyE
Organized by the Department of Tourism, Kashmir, in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council, the event featured both a 42 km Full Marathon and a 21 km Half Marathon, boasting a generous prize pool of Rs. 25 lakh.
The marathon route, described by participants as among the most scenic in the world, passed the shimmering Dal Lake, Zabarwan foothills, Pari Mahal, and Mughal Gardens, with the full marathon ending at Hazratbal and the half marathon concluding at Makhai Point.
Eyewitnesses described a vibrant atmosphere as amateurs and elite athletes alike ran with the sun rising behind the Zabarwan range. The entire route was lined with enthusiastic locals, from children handing out water bottles to crowds waving flags. Traditional Kashmiri samawars and tea stalls were set up along the shores of Dal Lake, offering refreshments and a unique cultural touch.
Kashmir Marathon 2025 as a Catalyst for Tourism
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha praised the event, stating, “Within two years of its launch, Kashmir Marathon has become one of the most prestigious running tournaments in the country. It has infused a sense of pride and passion among people and is inspiring a new generation of runners.”
He expressed confidence that the marathon would act as a major economic catalyst for the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
Echoing this sentiment, Suniel Shetty told reporters that he is hopeful for a “vibrant and exciting winter tourism” season, noting that Bollywood is also returning to Kashmir for film shoots in a significant way.
Following the race, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah posted on his personal X handle, congratulating all the runners. From his official account, he celebrated the “fitness, resilience and unstoppable spirit of Jammu & Kashmir.”
Just completed the Kashmir Half Marathon. I didn’t set a personal best but I did improve on my effort last year. Congratulations to all the runners who completed the full marathon & the half marathon. Well done 👏🏼. #KashmirMarathon pic.twitter.com/Mkc0YfLYFD
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) November 2, 2025
As the last runners crossed the finish line, the event concluded with resounding cheers, music, and echoes of celebration across the Boulevard, marking the Kashmir Marathon 2025 as a triumphant moment for sport, spirit, and the future of tourism in the valley.
