Munish Dev Becomes First Indian to Complete La Ultra Marathon: Day-by-Day Experience

Munish Dev

I Became the First Indian to Complete the La Ultra Marathon: My 3-Day Journey

Day 1: From Nubra Valley to Wari La

The La Ultra marathon began for me in Nubra Valley at 6 pm. The first 20 km were flat, so I maintained a steady pace to save time for the tougher Khardung La ahead. I managed to save 45 minutes at the first cut-off and 15 minutes at Khardung village.

Khardung La Pass, at 17,800 ft, was my first major challenge. I reached the pass at 7:30 am. From there, I aimed for North Pullu, 14 km away, where runners can meet their crew. I finally reached South Pullu at 10:30 am, took a 30-minute break, and then ran 33 km to Shanti Stupa in Leh.

After a 45-minute break at Shanti Stupa, I moved toward Wari La Pass at 17,400 ft. Strong headwinds and sand slowed me down, but I kept pushing. By 6 pm, I had completed 123 km—day one was done.

Day 2: Conquering Uphills and Warila Top

I started day two at 7:30 pm, running in darkness with headlights on. By 8:30 pm, I had completed 137 km. After a quick rest and foot massage, I reached 148 km by 10:20 pm.

The next milestone was Wari La Top at 17,500 ft, 199 km into the race. I crossed 159 km at Karu at 2 am. The uphill terrain tested my mental strength more than anything. I rested at Serthi Guest House for an hour and a half before tackling Wari La. After six hours of climbing, I reached the top at 2 pm. I pushed to reach the 222 km mark by 5:30 pm, ending day two after a short rest.

Day 3: Tanglang La Pass and the Finish Line

Day three began at 9 pm as I prepared to conquer Tanglang La Pass. My target was Lato, 50 km from the 222 km mark. Running downhill from Serthi gave me a boost, and I reached Lato at 5:15 am, 272 km into the marathon.

The final 61 km included the mighty Tanglang La Pass at 17,500 ft. My right leg was swollen, and fatigue was intense, but I focused on my pace. My crew updated me every kilometer, helping me manage my speed and heart rate. I reached Tanglang La Top at 1 pm.

Finally, I crossed the finish line at Debrink, completing 333 km in 71 hours, 30 minutes, and 28 seconds. I became the first Indian to finish the La Ultra marathon, celebrating with my father, my friend Manish, and a Ladakhi companion. The sense of accomplishment was indescribable.