From Shane:
This truly was a “once-in-a-lifetime trip” and one for the ages. If you are looking for a challenge or unique running event I recommend you keep reading.
This 5-day stage race offers fabulous scenery, grueling challenges, different terrain, local cuisine, and the opportunity to meet like-minded people from all over the world who support each other daily.
The organization of the trip, once I landed in Delhi until leaving my last day from Bagdogra to come home, was beyond what I could imagine. Upon arrival at each airport, I was greeted by a staff member who helped with baggage and transportation to my hotel or destination of choice whether it was for food or a tour. I always felt safe everywhere I visited.
The race begins in the village of Maneybhanjang (6600 ft) and ends after 24 miles with a 12,000 verticle challenge to base camp in Sandakphu. From the base camp, you experience views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. Day 2 we stayed in the mountains with an out-and-back 20-mile run on the open road rugged trails with mountain views the entire day. Day 3 was the marathon challenge that started once again at base camp and ended in Phalut-Molle-Rimbik. On this run, you experience peak views for 18 miles and then we started a descent through the jungle with the finish in the middle of the village where we spent the night at the Sherpa & Tenzing Lodge. Day 4 is a 13-mile road run that allows runners to let it all go since we have been on mostly rugged trails the last few days. Day 5 runs the final 17 miles mostly all downhill on road surface from Rimbik to Maneybhanjang where you are cheered on by the locals to help celebrate the 100-mile accomplishment. Each day we had aid stations with plenty of food, potassium, and water fillups. After running each day we were treated to soups, teas, beers, and delicious home-cooked Indian dishes to help prepare us for the next day’s run.
Mr. Pandey operates a first-class tour with detailed instructions and information to help you plan for this adventure. His staff goes above and beyond the call of duty to help make you feel at ease while visiting this remote area of India. The staff was spot on with constant communication and support.
I still can’t believe the daily experiences spanning from the beauty of the Himalayan mountain ranges to the lush green jungles and the colors throughout these remote villages we ran through. I was amazed at how many people from the villages who were out in the middle of the week cheering us on as we were passing.
“Well done, Mr. Pandey & all of the team. As a race director, I realize the logistical difficulty involved in organizing such an event and you have done a fantastic job.,
See you again soon,
Shane A. Asbury
Owner Wanderlust Running
