Jaipur, January 31, 2026: Jaipur is abuzz with excitement as the 17th edition of the AU Jaipur Marathon gears up for a grand celebration of fitness, unity and patriotism on February 1, 2026. Organised by Sanskriti Yuva Sanstha and World Trade Park with support from AU Small Finance Bank and Rajasthan Tourism, the marathon was officially launched with a vibrant Bib Launch Expo at Shilpgram, Jawahar Kala Kendra, marking the start of the final countdown to race day.
Bib Launch Expo Kicks Off Festivities
The two-day “GCL Dreams Bib Launch Expo” began on Friday with a ceremonial lamp lighting and cultural performances, attracting runners, fitness enthusiasts, dignitaries and families. The expo not only serves as the official distribution point for bibs and race kits but also features motivational talks, entertainment and the Jaipur Legend Awards to honour inspirational personalities in the fields of running and wellness.
Pt. Suresh Mishra, President of Sanskriti Yuva Sanstha, highlighted the marathon’s deeper purpose, saying the event embodies more than just a race, it is “a movement for a Fit India and an aware society.” Expo attendees also enjoyed performances by the RPF Band, interactive sessions with ultra-runner Breeze Sharma, and cultural showcases that infused the atmosphere with energy and enthusiasm.
Official Route Unveiled
The marathon’s official route has been finalised to provide a safe, well-managed and scenic experience through key parts of the Pink City. All races will start and finish at Albert Hall (South Gate), moving through iconic landmarks and major thoroughfares that highlight Jaipur’s heritage and vibrant spirit.
- Full Marathon (42.195 km) – reporting at 2:40 AM with a 3:00 AM start; two rounds of the loop covering Albert Hall, Birla Mandir, Gandhi Circle, Malviya Nagar Flyover, World Trade Park, Jawahar Circle, Tonk Road flyover, JLN Marg and Trimurti Circle before returning to Albert Hall.
- Half Marathon (21.097 km) – flagged off at 5:00 AM following one full loop of the main route.
- 10 km Run – starts at 6:45 AM around Albert Hall and MNIT sections.
- 5 km Run – scheduled at 7:10 AM from Albert Hall through Gandhi Circle and back.
- Dream Run & World Record Run – flagged at 7:15 AM, offering a non-competitive and participatory experience for runners of all ages.
The city administration has informed residents that portions of JLN Marg will be closed between 3:00 AM and 9:30 AM on race day to ensure safety, with only emergency vehicles permitted during the closure window.
Special Events and World Record Attempts
This year’s marathon season promises ambitious highlights, including two historic world record attempts. Runners and spectators will witness a mass singing of “Vande Mataram” by 200 students from Vivekananda Global University, the first time such an attempt has been made at an Indian sports event, alongside a large-scale scientific experiment on the theme “Mother – The Centre of Balance.”
Celebrity and Special Guests
Fitness icon Milind Soman will participate in the marathon alongside runners, inspiring participants with his athletic legacy, while actress Ishita Raj is also expected to attend. The race will be formally flagged off by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, with Industry Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore present as a special guest.
Race Day Essentials and Facilities
The marathon route has been equipped with extensive support for runners, including 34 water, energy and orange stations, 12 medical aid points, 15 cheering zones and mobile toilets at multiple locations to ensure a comfortable and well-supported experience for all participants. Organisers have urged participants to enter the race venue through Ramniwas Bagh Gate (in front of New Gate) to help streamline access.
With thousands of runners expected to take part across all categories, from elite athletes to first-timers and families, the AU Jaipur Marathon 2026 is shaping up as a celebration of fitness, community spirit and Jaipur’s vibrant cultural identity.