India's leading trail runner, Shashwat Rao, has achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new speed record on the iconic Hamta Pass route in Himachal Pradesh. The challenging 39-km trail, which usually takes trekkers four to five days to complete, was covered by Rao in just 5 hours and 10 minutes.
The route begins at Chattru in Lahaul, climbs to the 4,300-metre Hamta Pass, and descends to Manali. Known for its steep climbs, rocky terrain and changing weather, it is considered one of the most demanding trekking routes in the Indian Himalayas.
Rao's record came during the first edition of the Himalayan Xtreme Trail Running Fest 2026. The event is part of the Indian National League and is certified by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA), allowing participants to earn international ranking points.
The festival was organised by the Himalayan Xtreme Sports Association (HXSA) with support from Himachal Tourism, the Kullu district administration and the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (ABVIMAS).
Given the high-altitude terrain and challenging conditions, organisers put extensive safety measures in place. Medical support was provided by Rapid Tactical, while mountain rescue teams from the Adventure Tour Operators Association (ATOA), Manali, remained stationed at key points along the route.
The event brought together 35 elite runners from across the country, who competed in three race categories designed to test endurance, speed and climbing ability.
The flagship Hamta Pass Sky Traverse (39 km) took participants from the cold desert landscape of Chattru at around 3,300 metres over the 4,300-metre Hamta Pass before descending into the green valleys of Kullu to finish at ABVIMAS in Manali.
The Chikka Jobri Dash (18 km) offered a shorter but technically demanding course through forests, riverbeds and mountain trails, while the Manali Vertical Challenge focused entirely on steep uphill climbing.
The event also saw an impressive performance from Manali's Natasha Mahar. The local runner, who was the only woman competing in the main 39-km race, finished third overall, marking a significant achievement in Indian trail running.
"What these athletes achieved has raised the bar for mountain running in the Indian Himalayas," an event spokesperson said.
The spokesperson added that successfully organising an event of this scale on the Hamta Pass route reflects India's growing capability to host international-standard skyrunning competitions while maintaining high safety standards, thanks to the support of Himachal Tourism, the Kullu administration, ABVIMAS and the event's rescue and medical teams.
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