Bhutan International Marathon Saw Strong Participation from Local and International Runners
The 12th Bhutan International Marathon saw 575 runners from Bhutan and abroad compete across full and half marathon races.
The 12th edition of the Bhutan International Marathon drew strong participation this year, with a total of 575 runners competing in the full and half marathon categories. The event welcomed both Bhutanese and international athletes, reflecting the growing appeal of Bhutan as a unique destination for endurance runners.
In the Full Marathon category, 112 runners took to the challenging Himalayan course. Among them were 27 Bhutanese men and seven Bhutanese women, alongside 54 international male runners and 24 international female participants.
The Half Marathon attracted a significantly larger field, with 463 runners participating. This included 256 Bhutanese men and 62 Bhutanese women, as well as 70 international men and 75 international women.
Despite the strong turnout, a few disruptions affected participation. Seven international runners were unable to join the race after flight cancellations from Dubai left them stranded at their hotel. In another incident, one participant had to withdraw from the event due to a severe muscle injury.
Prizes and Awards
The marathon offered substantial prize incentives across both race categories.
In the Half Marathon, the male and female champions each received Nu 30,000. Second place finishers were awarded Nu 22,000, followed by Nu 15,000 for third place. Fourth and fifth place winners received Nu 7,000 and Nu 5,000 respectively.
Samten Dema secured first place in the women’s half marathon category, completing the race in one hour and 26 minutes.
Sangay secured first place in the men’s half marathon at the Bhutan International Marathon, completing the race in one hour and 13 minutes.
For the Full Marathon, the top male and female finishers each received Nu 60,000 in prize money. Second place winners earned Nu 45,000, while third place finishers received Nu 30,000. Fourth and fifth place were awarded Nu 15,000 and Nu 7,500 respectively.
Tashi Norbu secured first place in the 42-kilometre full marathon, which began at Yoemana in Khamaed Gewog, Gasa.
Special recognition was also given in the Master’s Category, where certificates were presented to the youngest and oldest male and female participants.
Beyond cash prizes, winners in both the male and female categories received mobile phones. The top 10 runners in the Full Marathon were also awarded TCell data packages worth Nu 999, while the top 10 finishers in the Half Marathon received data packages valued at Nu 777.
Gift vouchers were additionally presented to the fastest, youngest, and oldest male and female participants, celebrating both performance and participation in one of Bhutan’s most anticipated sporting events.
A Marathon Like No Other
The Bhutan International Marathon takes runners through one of the most scenic courses in the Himalayas, weaving through mountain valleys, rural settlements, and historic landscapes. For the 2026 edition, the full marathon began at Yoemana in Khamaed Gewog, Gasa, before descending through winding mountain roads and traditional villages towards the Punakha Valley.
Along the way, runners passed terraced fields, forested slopes, and riverside stretches before reaching the finish area near Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks.
A Growing International Event
Since its inception, the Bhutan International Marathon has steadily grown in popularity. Each year, hundreds of runners from Bhutan and across the globe gather to participate in the event, creating a vibrant international atmosphere.
The marathon has become more than just a sporting competition. For many participants, it is a cultural journey that offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s unique way of life. Along the route, runners are often greeted by local villagers and school children who cheer them on, adding a uniquely Bhutanese warmth to the experience.
