6th Assam Rifles Half Marathon Shillong 2026

The 6th Assam Rifles Half Marathon returns to Shillong, Meghalaya, on Sunday 22 November 2026. Its scenic but challenging routes take participants onto the hill roads of Upper Shillong, with all three distances starting and finishing at Assam Rifles Public School (Sports), Laitkor-10. The event brings together civilian runners, defence personnel, veterans, students and families to celebrate distance running and community fitness.

Three race options

The flagship 21K Cloud Chase is for runners ready to tackle Shillong's hilly terrain over a half-marathon distance. The 10K Pine Path provides a shorter endurance and pace challenge, while the 5K Crystal Stream is intended as an approachable fun run for families and newer runners. The official organiser site identifies the three routes and says the final 2026 course guidance will follow. Maps currently labelled Half Marathon 5.0 refer to the previous edition and should not be used as a definitive 2026 course map.

Preparation and race-day support

Hill roads in Upper Shillong can make pacing and preparation noticeably different from a flat city race. The organiser recommends a suitable warm layer for Shillong's cool November morning, proper running shoes and carrying any personal medication. Participants should wear their bib visibly on the front and bring the same identification used at registration.

Organiser information confirms water and nutrition along the course, medical assistance including ambulance cover, baggage facilities, washrooms, and pre- and post-race refreshment areas. Registered participants receive an official run kit; finishers are to receive a medal and electronic certificate. Awards are planned for leading finishers, but the final age-group categories and prize money have not yet been announced, so no amount should be assumed.

Race-pack collection and timing

Bib collection is before race day, not on the race morning. Participants must bring their registration confirmation and government-issued photo identification. The organiser will publish the collection venue, days and hours separately. The precise flag-off times for each category have not yet been confirmed on the official race website; the stored event start time is a date-only administrative placeholder, not a confirmed flag-off. Check the 2026 organiser updates and registration confirmation before travelling.

Shillong is a hill city, so plan transport to Laitkor with extra time and avoid relying on last-minute access to the start. This event's distinguishing appeal is the Upper Shillong setting and the opportunity to race alongside Assam Rifles personnel and the broader local running community.