The sixth edition of the Stupa to Stupa Trail Race is taking place on Saturday. The race is organised by Mira Rai Initiative, founded by renowned trail runner Mira Rai.

According to the Initiative, participants from over 15 countries will take part in the race. The organisers estimate the participation of 250 runners in two categories: a 54-kilometer and a 35-kilometer race. The 54-kilometer race will start from Swayambhunath Stupa, while the 35-kilometer race will commence from Mudkhu—both ending at Bauddhanath Stupa.

Races (of both categories) will begin at 7 am. Winners of the 54-kilometre race, for both men and women, will receive Rs50,000, with second place earning Rs30,000, third place Rs15,000, fourth place Rs10,000, and fifth place Rs5,000.

In the other category of the 35-kilometer race, winners will receive Rs20,000 for first place, Rs10,000 for second place, Rs5,000 for third place, and Rs3,000 for fourth place.

Padam Kumari Sunuwar, a trail runner and a student of the Mira Rai Initiative, speaking at the press meet, said, “The Trail Race is a testament to Mira Rai’s dedication to the sport and her commitment to empowering trail runners. It’s an honour to be part of this initiative and witness the positive impact it’s creating in the trail-running community.”

All participants who complete the race will be awarded a medal and certificate. Winners from both categories will receive a trophy shaped like a Bajra. “The reason this race is mapped out by focusing on two stupas is because we intend to promote our heritage as well,” said Rai. The design of the trophy as Bajra is also done for the same reason, she added.

GPS tracker will be used during the race, with technical support provided by Nepal Run. This technology will make it easier to track the timing and positions of the runners, which the organisers claim is being used in Nepal for the first time.