Malari (Mohan Bhulanie): With the aim of giving a new identity to Uttarakhand’s border region on the tourism map, the grand inauguration of ‘Niti Xtreme Ultra Run’ took place on Sunday in the Niti Valley of Chamoli district. This ultra marathon, held in an area of immense historical, cultural, and strategic importance, is not only a challenging event for sports enthusiasts but also a significant step towards promoting ‘Border Tourism’.
The event was inaugurated by Chamoli district in-charge and Rural Development Minister Bharat Singh Chaudhary. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was scheduled to reach Niti Valley himself to inaugurate the event, but due to sudden bad weather and low visibility in the area, his helicopter could not take off. However, in the Chief Minister’s absence, his Secretary Shailesh Bagoli participated in the run, adding special significance to the programme. Bagoli ran a distance with the athletes and boosted the morale of local residents.
This marathon is based on the theme ‘Beyond the Canyon’. It is considered one of the highest ultra runs in the world. Runners will race from an altitude of 10,000 feet above sea level to over 14,000 feet in the Rimkhim area. During the run, they will face extremely low oxygen levels, freezing winds, steep climbs, and difficult terrain, making it a tough test of both physical endurance and mental strength.
Tourism Secretary Dhiraj Garbyal said, “The main objective of this event is to promote border tourism in this sensitive area near the China border. We want local youth and women to get new employment opportunities through homestays, guiding, transport, and the sale of local products. Niti Valley is not only rich in natural beauty but its ancient temples, traditional culture, and border lifestyle will also attract tourists.”
Hundreds of runners from 27 states across the country are participating in this ultra run. They include professional ultra runners, trail running enthusiasts, and young adventure sports lovers. The race features multiple categories including short, medium, and full ultra distances. Organizers have given top priority to the safety of runners. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Indian Army, district administration, health department, and local volunteer organizations are fully mobilized. Medical teams are stationed at every checkpoint and emergency helicopter services have also been kept on standby.
Niti Valley is a highly sensitive area from a strategic point of view. It is located about 60 kilometers from Joshimath and is very close to the India-China border. After the land subsidence in Joshimath in 2021-22, this region had been in national discussions. In such a scenario, events like this will not only help revive tourism but also present a positive image of the area.
There is tremendous enthusiasm among local people regarding this event. Many women have prepared homestays, and shops showcasing local handicrafts and organic products have been set up. Rural Development Minister Bharat Singh Chaudhary said, “This event is not just a sports programme, but a medium to showcase Uttarakhand’s border heritage to the world. Chief Minister’s vision is that every valley in the hills becomes self-reliant through tourism.”
Despite the weather challenges, the enthusiasm of the runners is commendable. Many participants said that running at such high altitudes is going to be the most memorable experience of their lives. After the success of this event, there is a plan to organize it every year, which will establish Uttarakhand as a hub for adventure tourism.
Chief Minister’s Secretary Shailesh Bagoli said this event is not only connecting sports and tourism but is also proving to be a unique initiative in the direction of developing border areas and strengthening the local economy. Niti Xtreme Ultra Run is a symbol of Uttarakhand’s new journey, where challenges are turning into opportunities.