Fishtail 100 - Ultra

The Fishtail 100 Ultra 2026 is an extreme endurance event scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, in the mountainous region of Pokhara, Nepal. Organized by Himalayan Trail Running, this ultra edition of the regular Fishtail Race offers 100K and 50K categories. The course is highly technical, traversing a mix of trails and graveled roads through the Himalayas, and is designed for experienced runners seeking ITRA points and UTMB indexes.

The 100K course covers an actual distance of 98.86 km with a staggering elevation gain of approximately 7,603 meters. Due to the extreme nature of the terrain, participants are required to have previous experience with a Fishtail race or a similar ultra-marathon. Mandatory gear is strictly enforced, including headlamps with extra batteries, a full rain jacket set, and a running backpack. The race begins in Ghachowk and concludes in Dhampus or Lakeside, Pokhara, with 15 designated checkpoints along the route.

Nepal’s trail running scene is deeply influenced by the country’s unique geography and the legendary endurance of local mountain communities. In 2026, Nepal remains a top destination for international ultra-runners. The country's population is approximately 31 million, comprising over 125 ethnic groups. The Chhetri (16.6%), Brahman-Hill (12.2%), and Magar (7.1%) are the largest groups. Many elite Nepali trail runners come from the Sherpa and Gurung communities, known for their physiological adaptations to high altitudes. Research indicates that approximately 10% of Nepal's GDP is driven by tourism, with adventure sports like the Fishtail 100 contributing significantly to the economy of the Gandaki Province.

Participation in ultra-events in Nepal is growing among both locals and foreigners. In high-altitude regions like Pokhara, the local population density is about 480 people per square kilometer. The region has seen a 15% increase in sports-related tourism since 2023. While trail running is physically demanding, it is also a vital cultural bridge; international runners often make up about 40% of the participants in "Extreme" category races in Nepal. The event provides essential permits, such as the ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management Systems), which are included in the logistical support for all runners.

Registration for the event closes on May 1, 2026. Beyond the race itself, the organizers offer various add-ons to assist international and SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) participants, including shuttle services, hotel packages at the Big Pillow Inn, and internal flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara. For inquiries regarding the GPX data or specific route technicalities, the Himalayan Trail Running office can be contacted at (+977) 98460 31080.