Nestled in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, Araku Valley is set to host one of the most scenic running events in India — the Araku Marathon on January 31. Starting from Degree College, Araku, and finishing near Pinery, the race route winds through mist-covered hills, dense forests, coffee plantations, and crisp mountain air, offering runners an unforgettable highland running experience.
An initiative by Andhra Pradesh Tourism, the Araku Marathon blends fitness, nature, and destination tourism, making it much more than a competitive race.
image source: VisakhaUtsav2026
Why the Araku Marathon Is Special
Unlike city marathons, the Araku Marathon offers a purely immersive natural setting. Runners are greeted by rolling hills, tribal hamlets, forest corridors, and panoramic valley views — all while running at a comfortable altitude that challenges endurance without extreme strain.
Key Highlights
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Scenic hill route through Araku Valley
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Pollution-free environment and cool January weather
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Mix of endurance racing and experiential travel
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Strong support from Andhra Pradesh Tourism
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Ideal for runners, adventure travelers, and nature lovers
Race Route Overview
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Start Point: Degree College, Araku
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Finish Point: Pinery area
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Terrain: Rolling hills, paved mountain roads, forest stretches
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Climate: Cool mornings, pleasant daytime temperatures
The route is designed to balance challenging elevation changes with rewarding downhill stretches, making it suitable for both competitive and recreational runners.
Race Categories & Distances – Araku Marathon
To ensure inclusivity and wide participation, the Araku Marathon is expected to feature multiple race categories, catering to different fitness levels.
🏃 Race Categories
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Full Marathon – 42.2 km
For seasoned runners seeking a demanding hill marathon through forested landscapes. -
Half Marathon – 21.1 km
A popular choice for endurance runners who want scenic elevation without the full-marathon commitment. -
10 km Run
Ideal for fitness enthusiasts and amateur runners. -
5 km Fun Run
Open to beginners, families, students, and tourists, focusing on participation and enjoyment.
Final categories, cut-off timings, and eligibility details will be announced officially by the organizers.
Registration Details – What Runners Should Know
Registration for the Araku Marathon is expected to be conducted online, following standard marathon protocols.
How to Register
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Through official Andhra Pradesh Tourism platforms
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Via designated marathon registration portals (to be announced)
Registration Likely Includes
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Official race bib & timing chip
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Event T-shirt
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Hydration & medical support
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Finisher medal (eligible categories)
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On-route volunteers and safety arrangements
Early registration is strongly recommended, as slots are expected to be limited due to the eco-sensitive nature of the valley.
Runner’s Travel & Stay Guide: Vizag → Araku
How to Reach Araku Valley
Visakhapatnam (Vizag) is the primary gateway to Araku.
🚆 By Train (Highly Recommended)
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Vizag–Araku passenger and Vistadome trains
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Famous for tunnels, waterfalls, and forest views
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Travel time: ~4–5 hours
🚗 By Road
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Distance: ~115 km
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Route: Vizag → Ananthagiri → Araku
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Travel time: ~3–4 hours
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Ideal for groups and early race-day arrivals
✈️ By Air
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Nearest airport: Visakhapatnam International Airport
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Continue by road or train to Araku
Where to Stay in Araku (Runner-Friendly Options)
🏨 AP Tourism & Mid-Range Stays
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Haritha Valley Resort, Araku – Popular with runners; scenic and well-located
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Haritha Mayuri Hill Resort – Quiet surroundings, ideal for pre-race rest
🏡 Homestays & Eco-Lodges
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Tribal homestays near Ananthagiri
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Coffee plantation stays
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Budget-friendly and culturally immersive
🏙️ Vizag Stay Option
Some runners prefer staying in Vizag and traveling to Araku a day before the race via early-morning transport.
What to Pack for the Araku Marathon
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Lightweight running gear (layered for cool mornings)
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Good grip running shoes (hill-friendly)
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Cap, sunscreen, hydration belt
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Energy gels/snacks
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Light jacket for early hours
Best Time to Arrive
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Recommended arrival: 1–2 days before race day
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Helps with altitude adjustment and route familiarization
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Allows time to explore nearby attractions like Borra Caves, Ananthagiri Hills, and coffee plantations
Beyond the Race: Explore Araku
Extend your stay to enjoy:
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Borra Caves
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Tribal Museum, Araku
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Ananthagiri Hills
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Coffee plantation tours
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Waterfalls and sunrise viewpoints
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Araku Marathon 2026
1. When is the Araku Marathon 2026 scheduled?
The Araku Marathon will be held on January 31, 2026, offering runners cool weather and scenic hill terrain.
2. Where does the Araku Marathon start and finish?
The race starts at Degree College, Araku, and concludes near Pinery, passing through forested hills and mountain roads.
3. What race categories are available in the Araku Marathon?
The marathon includes multiple categories such as:
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Full Marathon (42.2 km)
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Half Marathon (21.1 km)
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10 km Run
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5 km Fun Run
4. Who is organizing the Araku Marathon?
The Araku Marathon is an initiative of Andhra Pradesh Tourism, promoting fitness tourism and sustainable travel.
5. How can participants register for the Araku Marathon?
Registrations are expected to open online through official Andhra Pradesh Tourism platforms or authorized marathon portals.
6. Is the Araku Marathon suitable for beginner runners?
Yes. With 5 km and 10 km categories, the event is suitable for beginners, recreational runners, and families.
7. What is the weather like in Araku during the marathon?
January offers cool mornings and pleasant daytime temperatures, ideal for long-distance running.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What makes the Araku Marathon unique?
The marathon stands out for its misty hills, forest-lined routes, clean mountain air, and scenic Eastern Ghats landscape, unlike typical urban races.
How do I reach Araku Valley for the marathon?
Araku can be reached from Visakhapatnam by scenic train journeys, road travel via Ananthagiri Hills, or by flying to Vizag and continuing onward.
Where should runners stay during the Araku Marathon?
Runners can stay at AP Tourism Haritha Resorts, eco-lodges, homestays in Araku, or hotels in Vizag with pre-race travel to the valley.
Is altitude a concern for runners at Araku?
Araku sits at a moderate altitude and is generally safe. Arriving a day early helps runners adjust comfortably.
Can runners combine the marathon with sightseeing?
Yes. Many participants extend their trip to explore Borra Caves, Ananthagiri Hills, coffee plantations, and tribal culture after the race.
Conclusion
The Araku Marathon is more than a race — it is a journey through one of Andhra Pradesh’s most beautiful landscapes. With misty hills, forested roads, cultural richness, and strong tourism support, the event promises a soul-refreshing running experience that few marathons in India can match.
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply running for the joy of it, Araku Valley on January 31 offers the perfect blend of endurance, adventure, and nature.
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