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JAIPUR, 4 November: The AU Jaipur Marathon will hold its 18th edition on Sunday, 14 February 2027. Organisers expect participation to approach one lakh runners across the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and Dream Run.
The race returns to a city with a new distinction. In July, Jaipur was ranked sixth in Time Out's World's Happiest Cities 2026 survey. It was the only Indian city in the top 10, a list based on responses from more than 24,000 people worldwide (Business Today).
Registrations opened on 1 August 2026. Organisers report entries from Jaipur, across Rajasthan and several other states. Running clubs, fitness groups and first-time runners are all among those signing up.
Here are ten reasons the race is drawing runners to the Pink City.
1. A heritage city as the course
Jaipur is a UNESCO World Heritage city, and the marathon takes runners through its historic streets and landmarks. Few Indian races can match the backdrop. For visiting runners, it is a chance to see the Pink City on foot.
2. February weather made for running
Mid-February mornings in Jaipur are typically cool and dry. Those conditions suit distance running, whether the goal is a first 5K, a faster half marathon or a marathon personal best.
3. A category for every runner
The race has five categories: Full Marathon (42.195 km), Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and the Dream Run. That opens the start line to beginners, school students, families and recreational runners as well as experienced marathoners.
4. A city that turns out
Residents, running clubs, volunteers and music groups line the route on race morning. Past participants often name the crowd support as a highlight, especially through the hardest kilometres.
5. An AIMS-certified course
The course is certified by AIMS, the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races, which measures courses to an international standard. Runners can be confident that the distance is accurate and that their finishing times will be recognised.
6. A Boston Marathon qualifier
The AU Jaipur Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifying race. That means Indian runners can chase a qualifying time for one of the world's most famous marathons without leaving the country. Jaipur's running community also sends a strong contingent to South Africa's Comrades Marathon, one of the world's best-known ultramarathons.
7. A route to the Age Group World Championships
The race is also a qualifier for the World Marathon Majors Age Group World Championships. Age-group and masters runners can earn a place to race against the best in their age category from around the world.
8. A city-wide event
With close to one lakh participants expected, the 2027 edition aims to be among Rajasthan's largest mass-participation sporting events. It brings together families, running clubs, corporate teams, schools, colleges and visitors from across the country.
9. Valentine's Day, done differently
Race day falls on 14 February. Organisers expect couples, friends and families to sign up and run together.
10. A reason to explore Rajasthan
For runners travelling from outside Jaipur, the race makes a natural weekend trip. Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, the old bazaars and Rajasthani food are all close at hand. The event also brings business to the city's hotels, transport and retail.
What the organiser says
"Jaipur has earned global recognition as one of the happiest cities in the world, and that happiness is best experienced when people come together," said Mukesh Mishra, Founder and Organiser of the AU Jaipur Marathon. "The marathon is not just about running a distance. It brings families, communities, young people and experienced athletes together through fitness."
"Our goal for 2027 is to welcome close to one lakh participants," he added. "Whether someone is running a first 5K, a first full marathon or chasing a Boston or Age Group World Championships qualification, we want every runner to feel the same pride in being part of Jaipur's biggest running event."
Registrations are open, and the countdown to 14 February 2027 has begun.