Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, is set to host the eighth edition of the Manipal Marathon on Sunday, 08 February 2026, beginning at 5:00 a.m. at KMC Greens, Manipal. Recognised as one of India’s largest student-led community fitness initiatives, the event is expected to attract over 20,000 participants, including more than 100 international athletes, competing for a prize pool exceeding ₹25 lakh.
This year’s marathon carries the theme “Miles for a Greener Tomorrow”, supported by the call to action “Run for a Sustainable Future.” The event reflects MAHE’s continued commitment to environmental responsibility, inclusive fitness, and community well-being. It also aligns with the university’s broader sustainability efforts, including tree plantation drives, biodiversity conservation, solar energy adoption, waste management programmes, rainwater harvesting systems, and sustainable transport initiatives.
Multiple Race Categories and Global Participation
Manipal Marathon 2026 will feature five race categories: the 42K Full Marathon, 21K Half Marathon, 10K Run, 5K Run, and the 3K Fun Run. The event welcomes elite athletes, amateur runners, students, and fitness enthusiasts across age groups. Participants are expected from across India, along with international runners representing Dubai, England, Ethiopia, Germany, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the United States, further strengthening the marathon’s global presence.
Race Schedule
The race day will begin with the 42K Full Marathon at 5:00 a.m., followed by the 21K Half Marathon at 5:30 a.m., the 10K race at 6:00 a.m., the 5K race at 6:20 a.m., and the 3K Fun Run at 7:30 a.m. Special category races for differently abled participants will be flagged off at 8:30 a.m.
Attractive Prize Pool for Top Finishers
The marathon offers competitive cash rewards across categories. Winners of the 42K Full Marathon will receive ₹1,00,000 for first place, ₹75,000 for second place, and ₹50,000 for third place. In the 21K Half Marathon, the top three finishers will be awarded ₹50,000, ₹30,000, and ₹20,000 respectively. The 10K category will offer prizes of ₹20,000, ₹15,000, and ₹10,000, while the 5K category will carry awards of ₹10,000, ₹7,000, and ₹5,000 for the top three positions.
Scenic Route and Social Impact Focus
One of the signature attractions of the Manipal Marathon remains its scenic beachside route for the 42K Full Marathon, offering runners a memorable coastal racing experience. This year, the 10K route has been newly designed to include the Manipal Hospice Respite Centre (MHRC), Manipal, highlighting the marathon’s growing emphasis on social awareness and community engagement.
MHRC is a unique initiative that integrates advanced palliative care with education and research. As India’s only hospice connected to both a medical college and a tertiary care hospital, it provides specialised care for cancer and non-cancer patients while training future palliative care professionals.
Inclusivity, Safety and Post-Run Celebrations
In line with MAHE’s focus on equity and accessibility, the marathon will include dedicated categories for differently abled and visually challenged runners, along with age-based classifications. A strong team of volunteers and medical professionals will be stationed along the route to ensure participant safety and support throughout the event.
The marathon will conclude with a lively post-run carnival at KMC Greens, featuring music performances, cultural activities, fitness engagement zones, and a variety of food stalls, creating a festive environment for runners and spectators alike.
Institutional Support and Partnerships
Manipal Academy of Higher Education extends its sincere appreciation to the District Administration for their cooperation and support. The coordinated efforts of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Superintendent of Police, Municipal Administration, and Panchayat authorities have played a vital role in ensuring the smooth execution of the event.
ICICI Bank joins Manipal Marathon 2026 as the Title Sponsor, while UNext, Deloitte, and Bank of Baroda (Credit Card Division) come on board as organisation partners, reinforcing the marathon’s vision of promoting fitness, sustainability, and community engagement.
Bib Expo and Registration Details
Participants can collect their race bibs and kits at the Bib Expo scheduled for 06 and 07 February 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at KMC Greens, Manipal. The expo will also feature partner stalls and pre-race guidance to help runners prepare for race day.
Registrations are currently open and can be completed through the official marathon website.
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