When most people imagine breathtaking landscapes worthy of a Windows wallpaper, their minds often wander to European countrysides. But Nepal’s own Jumla district, nestled in Karnali Province, is proof that some of the world’s most stunning scenery lies closer to home. Known in textbooks as an underdeveloped and remote region where life can be challenging, Jumla is rarely spoken of beyond that reputation. Yet, hidden within its rugged terrain is a wealth of natural beauty, culture, and inspiring human stories waiting to be discovered.
Book Your Trip to Your Destination
Price Per Person: $0
Total: $0
Jumla Beyond the Stereotypes
For decades, Jumla has carried the label of being an isolated and underprivileged part of Nepal. While it’s true that the region faces economic and infrastructural challenges, there’s much more to Jumla than what history books have told us. From lush green hills and snow-covered ridges to valleys blossoming with apple orchards, Jumla offers a different view with every season. Each visit reveals a new layer of its charm—a mix of scenic grandeur, cultural depth, and the resilience of its people.
The Rise of Sports Tourism in Jumla
A significant shift in how Jumla is perceived is being driven by sports, particularly through the efforts of the Karnali Sports Club (KSC). Founded by Hari Rokaya, a three-time Everest Marathon winner and Guinness World Record holder for the fastest completion time of the Everest Marathon, KSC has transformed Jumla into a hub for high-altitude athletic training. Rokaya, a native of Jumla, not only achieved personal success but also dedicated himself to training future champions like Sunmaya Budha, raising the region’s profile in national and international athletics.
Through KSC, local youths find opportunities to excel in long-distance running while connecting their identity with the trails and mountains they call home. These efforts have turned Jumla into a beacon for sports tourism, attracting athletes and adventurers from across Nepal and abroad.
The Jumla Rara Ultra Marathon (JRUM)
One of KSC’s most celebrated initiatives is the Jumla Rara Ultra Marathon (JRUM)—a challenging 51-kilometer race that not only tests endurance but also showcases the wild beauty of western Nepal. Starting from Khalanga Bazaar, the bustling heart of Jumla, the marathon trail weaves through steep ascents, forested paths, and rugged landscapes before reaching its spectacular finish line—the pristine Rara Lake, Nepal’s largest and one of its most mesmerizing natural wonders.
Key Highlights of the Trail:
- Daphe Pass (3,690 meters): A demanding stretch with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
- Chuchemara Pass (4,017 meters): The highest point of the race, challenging even seasoned runners with its altitude and terrain.
- Local Checkpoints: Along the route, volunteers provide water, quick snacks, and encouragement, ensuring the runners are fueled for the grueling journey.
This marathon is not just about competition; it’s a celebration of community. Locals gather in large numbers, turning the event into a festival of unity and sportsmanship. The energy of the crowd, the hospitality of the people, and the shared love for running make JRUM a truly special experience.
6th JRUM: May 10, 2025 – Event Highlights
The 6th edition of the Jumla Rara Ultra Marathon was successfully held on May 10, 2025, gathering 591 participants from Nepal and abroad. Despite rugged trails and thin air, smiles were everywhere—from athletes lacing their shoes to locals proudly telling visitors, “This is our Jumla.” The event not only highlighted the endurance of the participants but also strengthened Jumla’s identity as a rising sports tourism destination in Nepal.
🏆 Results & Winners – JRUM 2025
Men’s Elite Category:
- 🥇 Dal Bahadur Kunwar (Nepal) – 5:53:57
- 🥈 Hom Lal Shrestha (Nepal) – 6:07:55
- 🥉 Chandra Rawat (Nepal) – 6:19:28
Women’s Elite Category:
- 🥇 Kalpana Budha (Nepal) – 7:51:25
- 🥈 Rajya Laxmi Rawal (Nepal) – 8:28:41
- 🥉 Sandipa Budha (Nepal) – 8:46:03
Top finishers received cash prizes (NPR 100,000, 75,000, and 50,000), medals, and certificates, celebrating not just victory but community spirit.
Stories of Grit and Inspiration
Many runners in JRUM have roots in Jumla’s highlands. Take Manju Rawat, for example—a KSC athlete and winner of the female category in the 4th JRUM. Her running journey began while searching for Yarsagumba, a valuable medicinal herb found at high altitudes. Competing with friends to see who could reach the top first revealed her natural stamina, eventually shaping her into a long-distance runner.
These stories highlight how the challenging landscape of Jumla shapes resilient, world-class athletes, turning everyday survival skills into extraordinary sporting achievements.
A Future for Sports Tourism in Karnali
The impact of JRUM and KSC extends beyond athletics. These initiatives are putting Jumla on the map, attracting domestic and foreign runners while boosting local tourism and economy. With every edition, JRUM is proving that even the most remote corners of Nepal can host world-class sporting activities, inspiring new opportunities for the younger generation.
Leave a Reply