Beyond Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s visible participation in marathons, a larger transformation is taking place in Kashmir, driven by growing international interest. 

Runners from around the world are coming to explore high-altitude trails, scenic lakes, and mountain roads, turning Kashmir into more than a recreational destination. 

It is emerging as a true paradise for athletes.

This global interest is rebranding the valley. Marathon participants from mainland and foreign countries are training and competing in Kashmir, drawn by challenging routes and breathtaking landscapes. 

High-altitude trails test endurance, while routes along Dal Lake, through Mughal gardens, across city streets, and up mountain paths combine variety with beauty that few places can match. 

Each year, more international runners join races and local sessions, adding energy to an ecosystem where local talent meets visiting athletes.

Local initiatives have built the foundation for this growth. 

The Kashmir Runners Club organizes daily runs, training sessions, and community events that support participation at all levels. 

The club has fostered a culture of consistent practice and encouragement, while international attention has added a new dimension, attracting athletes who see Kashmir as a serious destination for both performance and adventure.

Events such as the 2023 Kashmir Marathon show the valley’s appeal. Podium finishes by local runners highlight the results of disciplined training, while visiting athletes tackle routes that challenge both body and mind. 

Stories, images, and videos of runners moving through lakes, gardens, and mountains are spreading across the world, introducing audiences to a Kashmir defined by energy, endurance, and natural beauty.

Running is influencing daily life in the valley as well. 

Children and adults join morning sessions, building strength, focus, and community connection. Streets, parks, and trails fill with activity, blending local routines with the excitement brought by visiting athletes. 

The combination of global attention and local support is creating an ecosystem that encourages health, competition, and shared experience.

And Omar Abdullah’s poster boy athletic avatar is only fuelling this race, drawing participants from around the world and redefining what it means to experience the Himalayas.