Nepal Heritage Run 2025: 25K Race Through Kathmandu’s UNESCO Sites & AIMS Event
16th May 2025, Kathmandu
Nepal is preparing for a historic occasion as it welcomes the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) Board Meeting for the first time.
Nepal Heritage Run 2025
Aligned with this international event, Nepal will also host the inaugural Nepal Heritage Run — a unique running event celebrating heritage, sports, and global participation.
AIMS Board Meeting in Kathmandu
The AIMS Board Meeting is scheduled for June 4 and 5 in Lalitpur. This is the first time a global sports federation board meeting has been held in Nepal. Previously, only regional meetings had taken place in the country.
AIMS is a global organization working alongside World Athletics to promote and regulate road races. With more than 450 member races in over 120 countries, it plays a key role in course certification and international recognition of distance races.
According to T.S. Thakuri, AIMS ambassador for Nepal and founder of the Nepalgunj Marathon, Nepal’s hosting rights were secured after years of lobbying. He believes this is a milestone for Nepal’s presence in international sports.
Running Conference to Focus on Key Issues
In addition to the board meeting, Nepal will host the first Nepal International Running Conference on Jestha 23(6 June). The event will cover four major themes: sports, education, tourism, climate, and social transformation.
Experts from around two dozen countries are expected to attend. Paco Borao, Race Director of the Valencia Marathon and President of AIMS, will lead key sessions.
The conference aims to promote dialogue on how running can impact communities, drive tourism, and address climate concerns. It also sets the stage for Nepal to emerge as a global destination for sports tourism.
Nepal Heritage Run on Jestha 24(7 June)
As a highlight of the week, the Nepal Heritage Run will take place on Saturday, Jestha 24 (June 7, 2025). The event is being organized by Race Nepal to celebrate AIMS’ visit and Nepal’s cultural identity.
The main event features a 25-kilometer race, starting and ending at the Dasharath Stadium. The route passes through key heritage sites: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, and Patan Durbar Square.
Along with the 25K race, there will be a 5-kilometer fun run for students and veteran runners. The goal is to encourage broader community involvement and promote healthy lifestyles.
Promoting Culture Through Sport
The Nepal Heritage Run is designed to blend sports and heritage. The route not only tests endurance but also showcases Nepal’s rich cultural landmarks. Organizers believe this approach will offer participants a memorable experience while promoting cultural appreciation.
According to the organizing committee, registration is now open. Cash prizes will be announced soon. The run is being supported by the Nepal Athletics Family, and Rajan Khatri has been appointed as the event coordinator.
A Global Running Network
AIMS has long been recognized as a central body in the global road racing scene. It works closely with World Athletics to certify race distances, approve race courses, and uphold quality standards worldwide.
The decision to bring the board meeting to Nepal reflects the country’s growing role in the global running community. Hosting such a prestigious event could boost Nepal’s credibility and visibility on the international stage.
Boost for Sports Tourism
This series of events is expected to support Nepal’s efforts to become a hub for sports tourism. With its diverse landscapes and cultural assets, Nepal is well-positioned to attract runners and tourists worldwide.
The combination of an international conference, heritage run, and board meeting offers a new model for integrating tourism, sports, and education. It also brings attention to Nepal’s ability to host world-class events.
Expressions of Gratitude
AIMS President Paco Borao expressed his appreciation to Nepal for its hospitality and commitment. He highlighted the significance of this collaboration in expanding the global road race community.
The AIMS Board includes members from Europe, the U.S., Japan, Thailand, and other nations. Their presence in Nepal signals a strong vote of confidence in the country’s organizational capability and vision.
Looking Ahead
The Nepal Heritage Run and related events are more than just athletic gatherings. They represent an opportunity to connect communities, cultures, and causes through the power of sport.
Organizers hope this momentum will continue in future years, making Nepal a regular stop on the international running calendar.
For more: Nepal Heritage Run 2025
