About the race
Set in the heart of Maharashtra, Matheran Ultra offers trail runners a rare opportunity to experience one of India's most unique landscapes. Organised by Run Monks, the event combines endurance, history, and nature in India's only car-free hill station. Whether taking on your first trail ultra or chasing an ITRA-certified challenge, the race delivers a demanding course through dense forest trails, red-earth paths, colonial-era routes, and panoramic viewpoints.
Why Run Matheran Ultra?
- A completely car-free race environment
- Dense forest trails and historic colonial-era pathways
- Scenic viewpoints overlooking the Western Ghats
- Technical trail sections
- ITRA-certified categories
- A unique opportunity to explore one of Maharashtra's most preserved hill stations
The Legacy of Matheran
The name Matheran translates to 'forest on the forehead.' Discovered in the 19th century by Hugh Poyntz Malet, Matheran became a popular retreat during the British era and continues to preserve its historic charm through strict environmental protection. Today, motor vehicles remain prohibited, helping preserve its biodiversity, famous heritage toy train, colonial architecture, and peaceful atmosphere.
Who Should Participate?
- Trail runners and ultramarathon runners
- Road runners looking to transition to trails
- ITRA point seekers
- Adventure enthusiasts
- Athletes looking to experience a new side of the Western Ghats
Mandatory & Recommended Gear:
- Trail-running shoes
- Hydration system
- Energy nutrition
- Fully charged mobile phone
- Personal medical essentials
- Weather-appropriate clothing
Event Rules
- Participants must follow the designated course.
- Race bibs must remain visible throughout the event.
- Littering is strictly prohibited.
- Participants must follow instructions from race officials and volunteers.
- Course cutting may result in disqualification.
- Participants are responsible for ensuring they are medically fit to participate.
- The organiser reserves the right to modify the course or schedule for safety reasons.
Cancellation policy
Applies if you cancel your own registration. If the organizer cancels the event, every paid athlete is refunded in full automatically. Cancellations and refunds are the organiser's responsibility and are processed by them. Endurace helps where it can, but cannot guarantee a refund.
The course
10 km30K50K
100% trail-based course through forest paths, red-soil trails, rolling terrain, technical sections, continuous elevation changes, and climbs/descents through the Western Ghats. Expect hot and humid conditions.
The Course & Categories
The Matheran Ultra takes runners through an entirely trail-based course featuring forest paths, red-soil trails, rolling terrain, technical sections, and elevation changes in the Western Ghats. The 30K and 50K routes are ITRA-certified.
- 10K / 13K: An accessible introduction to trail running in Matheran.
- 30K: Distance: 27.89 km | Elevation Gain: +1,086 m | ITRA Mountain Level: 4 | 100% trail paths.
- 50K: Distance: 50.58 km | Elevation Gain: +2,338 m | ITRA Mountain Level: 5 | 100% trail paths.
Race weekend schedule
8th Jan (Evening)
Bib collection and race briefing
Good to know
Is Matheran Ultra suitable for beginners?
Yes. Shorter categories provide an introduction to trail running, while longer distances are designed for experienced runners.
Does the race offer ITRA points?
Yes. The 30K and 50K categories are ITRA-certified.
What kind of terrain can I expect?
Participants will run entirely on trail paths, including forest sections, climbs, descents, and technical terrain.
Are vehicles allowed inside Matheran?
No. Matheran remains one of India's few completely car-free hill stations.
Is prior trail-running experience recommended?
Trail-running experience is strongly recommended for the longer categories.