Indian ultra-marathoner Sufiya Sufi has once again etched her name in sporting history, becoming the fastest woman to complete the grueling 480-kilometre ultra-run from Manali to Leh, one of the most challenging endurance routes in the world.
Demonstrating extraordinary physical and mental resilience, the Ajmer-born athlete conquered the high-altitude Himalayan terrain in an astonishing 98 hours and 27 minutes, comfortably breaking the ambitious 100-hour target she had set for herself. The route, known for its extreme conditions, includes five treacherous high-altitude mountain passes, thin oxygen levels, freezing temperatures, and unpredictable weather—conditions that test even the toughest endurance athletes.
Sufiya completed the historic run in late 2023, but after months of verification and documentation, the official Guinness World Records certificate was finally issued in early 2026, marking a moment of long-awaited triumph and recognition for the ultra-runner.
The Manali-to-Leh route is considered among the toughest ultra-distance challenges globally, with elevations exceeding 5,000 metres at certain points. Sufiya’s achievement stands not only as a personal milestone but also as a landmark moment for Indian endurance sports, especially for women athletes pushing the boundaries of human capability.
Speaking after receiving the record confirmation, Sufiya expressed gratitude to her support team and family, stating that the journey was as much about mental strength as physical endurance. Her accomplishment continues to inspire aspiring runners across the country and reinforces India’s growing presence on the global ultra-marathon stage.
With this record, Sufiya Sufi cements her legacy as one of India’s finest ultra-endurance athletes, proving once again that determination, discipline, and belief can conquer even the harshest terrains.
