Ladakh’s Ultimate Test: My 122 km Silk Route Ultra Journey
Why I Chose the Silk Route Ultra
When I signed up for the Silk Route Ultra 122 km in Ladakh, I knew it wasn’t going to be just another race – it was going to be a journey that would test every part of me. Having completed the Ladakh Full Marathon in 2017 and the Khardung La Challenge (72 km) in 2019, I had a fair idea of what running in Ladakh meant. But this time was different. This was the ultimate challenge, one of India’s toughest ultramarathons, run at 11,500 feet above sea level, through unforgiving terrain, under intense UV rays, and with far less oxygen than my body was used to.
I registered in April 2024 and began preparing with absolute focus. Hill runs in Nahargarh built my climbing strength, swimming aided my recovery, and I followed a disciplined routine of ice baths, balanced nutrition, proper sleep, and gut health management. I quickly realized that ultra running isn’t just about training harder – it’s about training smarter. Recovery, staying injury-free, and building mental resilience became as important as clocking miles. Meditation kept me centered, and my family’s constant support kept me motivated.
I reached Leh on August 24 to acclimatize. Those first couple of days were all about patience – light meals, rest, and hydration to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness. Slowly, I eased into short walks, pranayama, and gentle exposure to the altitude. I explored Shanti Stupa, strolled through Leh market, and ran up to Khardung La Pass. These moments reminded me that this race wasn’t just about running, it was about connecting with this land and respecting its challenges.
Training at high altitude taught me humility. The climb to Khardung La Top (17,582 ft) was relentless. Some days I struggled with headaches and nausea, and plans had to change. But every setback reinforced the need to adapt. And there were moments of pure gratitude – fellow runners cheering each other on, strangers offering lifts, locals welcoming me with quiet warmth.
Race Day: A Conversation with Myself
Race day finally arrived, and with it came a mix of nerves and calm determination. I had prepared everything – gear, hydration, strategy but I knew the real race was between my mind and the mountains. The Silk Route Ultra isn’t a race you simply run; it’s a conversation with yourself. There were moments when my lungs burned, when my legs screamed to stop, when the silence felt heavier than the distance. But then there were also moments when the beauty of Ladakh took my breath away – its vast valleys, stark peaks, and prayer flags fluttering against a cobalt sky.
Crossing the Finish Line
When I finally crossed the finish line, it wasn’t about the clock. It was about transformation.
“Success here isn’t the medal – it’s every struggle you overcome, every lesson the mountains teach you.”
This race humbled me. It reminded me that true strength lies in patience, resilience, and respect for yourself, for others, and for the environment you’re moving through. The Silk Route Ultra is more than a race; it’s a life lesson I’ll carry with me forever.
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