Snow Marathon League Debuts to Champion Himalayan Conservation
India’s first high-altitude racing league unites adventure sports with environmental protection and animal welfare. CHANDIGARH – A pioneering initiative, the Snow Marathon League (SMLg), has officially launched in India. This league aims to promote high-altitude adventure sports while driving awareness for environmental conservation and animal welfare across the Himalayas. The team behind Asia’s only Snow Marathon in Lahaul conceptualized this new league. Having successfully completed four editions in Lahaul, the organizers now seek to unite mountain communities and adventure enthusiasts. Consequently, the initiative fosters responsible engagement with fragile ecosystems. A major highlight of the league is the upcoming SnowTails Fest, scheduled from March 20–22, 2026, in Lahaul. This event is celebrated as the world’s highest snow dog race. It features dogs and their owners competing together. This year’s fest follows three previously successful editions in the region. Furthermore, the Snow Marathon League will introduce the world’s highest Snow Ultra and a Snow Walkathon. These additions ensure a wider section of the public can participate. “The Snow Walkathon provides an opportunity for participants who may not be ready for a challenging marathon to still walk for causes close to them,” stated Race Director Col. Saurav Schimer. Looking ahead, the league will expand to Kashmir. Col. J.S. Dhillon, Principal Chief of the event, invited runners to the inaugural Snow Marathon Kashmir at Gulmarg on February 14, 2027. He noted that the Indian Institute of Skiing & Mountaineering (IISM) will serve as the technical partner for the international event. Event Chief Col. Arun Natarajan explained that efforts are underway to institutionalize the league with support from the Indian Armed Forces. Meanwhile, medical safety remains a priority. Abhijit Singh, Director of Fortis Hospital Mohali, emphasized that high-altitude sports require extensive preparation. “Fortis Hospital will continue supporting the league’s medical needs,” he confirmed. Finally, the league focuses heavily on animal rights. Dr. Becky Metcalf, Co-founder of Manali Strays, invited pet owners to the SnowTails Fest to support rabies eradication. Founder Gaurav Schimar added that the league encourages people to reconnect with nature. Therefore, the SMLg stands as a beacon for harmony between humans and the Himalayan wilderness.