Pushing Limits at High Altitude: Niteshwar Kumar’s 122 KM Ultra Run

At RunPlayGo, our goal is to bring inspiring stories from runners who dare to push their limits - physically, mentally, and emotionally. Through this platform, we aim to showcase real experiences from endurance athletes, giving readers insights into preparation, challenges, and triumphs. In this article, Niteshwar Kumar shares his journey tackling the Ladakh Marathon, a race that is as much a test of character as it is of physical endurance.

Why I Chose the Ladakh Marathon

For me, the Ladakh Marathon is not just a race – it’s a grueling test of physical and mental resilience. Having previously completed the 72 km Khardung La Challenge in 2019, the next obvious challenge was to take on the 122 km Silk Route Ultra.

Preparing for high-altitude running requires a strategic blend of physical conditioning, mental resilience, and altitude adaptation.

Physical Conditioning: Building aerobic endurance, strength training, and elevation/altitude training.
Mental Resilience: Maintaining a positive attitude, visualization and self-talk, breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga.
Altitude Adaptation: Acclimatization, proper hydration and nutrition, good sleep, and recovery.

Arrival and Acclimatization in Leh

I flew from Delhi to Leh and arrived two weeks before the race to acclimatize.

First 2 days: Complete rest
From day 3: Small walks
From day 4: Small jogs/runs
Route recce: On days 7 and 10, covering North Pullu, K Top, and South Pullu twice
Stadium run: 8–10 km on day 12

Throughout my stay, I maintained ample hydration and nutrition, ensuring my body was ready for the challenge ahead.

Memorable Moments on the Course

Crossing the Silk Route Ultra finish line well within the cut-off time was the highlight of the race.

Even with careful preparation, the thin air made quick movement difficult, but I managed it with deep breathing, hydration, nutrition, and positive thinking. Being aware of the landscape and having recce’d the route beforehand helped me stay prepared physically and mentally.

Race Day Atmosphere

The atmosphere on race day was electric. I ran alongside strong runners from across India, motivating and supporting each other throughout the course.

How Ladakh Compares and Advice for Future Runners

Compared to other marathons, Ladakh is uniquely challenging due to high altitude and thin air.

My advice for anyone considering this race:

Train hard
Acclimatize well
Maintain ample hydration
Ensure good sleep
Keep a positive mindset

With proper preparation and respect for the altitude, the Ladakh Marathon is a life-changing experience that tests your limits while rewarding you in ways few other races can.

Author :

Niteshwar Kumar

Niteshwar Kumar brings over two decades of leadership experience in Human Resources, where he has shaped people strategies and driven organizational growth. Beyond the boardroom, he is a passionate ultramarathoner, embodying resilience and endurance both in work and on the road.