The Roof of the World Marathon (ROWM) is a record-breaking endurance event held in Tibet, China, and is officially recognized as the highest elevation marathon on the planet. Unlike standard races, this event is a "high-altitude expedition" where the primary challenge is surviving oxygen levels that are roughly 50% of those at sea level.
The course is legendary for its extreme environment, starting at an altitude of over 5,213 meters (17,103 ft)—a height that surpasses the North Base Camp of Mount Everest. Runners typically navigate a mix of paved roads and high-plateau trails, often starting near the sacred Namtso Lake or the Yangbajing region. Because of the thin air and unpredictable weather, finishing times usually double those of standard road races, with most participants completing the distance in approximately 8 hours.
| Feature | Technical Details |
|---|---|
| Starting Elevation | 5,213 meters (17,103 ft) above sea level. |
| Time Limit | Generous 10-hour cut-off due to the extreme physical strain. |
| Aid Stations | Mobile support using cars or horses to carry water, oxygen, and supplies. |
| Personalization | Every finisher receives a one-of-a-kind medal engraved with their name. |
The 2026 itinerary is designed for safety, beginning with a group flight from Beijing to Lhasa on May 2nd. The schedule includes several days of mandatory acclimatization, visiting landmarks like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, before moving to higher elevations. A "warm-up" race, the Lonely Yak Half Marathon, is held on May 6th at Yanghu, followed by the main marathon event on May 8th, 2026.
Participants must be between the ages of 10 and 60 and are required to provide a medical certificate. Due to the sensitive location, the organizers handle the mandatory Tibet Travel Permits as part of the race package. Registration is currently open through the official GWCM portal and major platforms like Active.com, with 24-hour support available for international runners.
May 08, 2026
Distance — 10K
Type — Running
16:00
$2780.00
May 08, 2026
Distance — 21.1K
Type — Running
16:00
$2780.00
May 08, 2026
Distance — 42.2K
Type — Running
16:00
$2780.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in Lhasa.
Learn more about the host city, Lhasa.
Lhasa is the capital of the Tibet autonomous region in China. It is 3,650 m (11,980 ft) above sea level on the northern slopes of the Himalayas.
Read more launchWatch highlights and course previews from previous years.
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