Ask anybody who's been to Nepal if they have heard of "The Monkey Temple". This is the start point of this ultra. Yes, you start surrounded by monkeys, and of course the splendour of a UNESCO world heritage site. The race also gives you 3 UTMB points.

After 2 km of road and jeep track, you end the Shivapuri National park, and about 18 km of tree lined trails hiding a big climb. After the peak, a most gorgeous descent through old, undisturbed forest. 

For the rest and mix of steady climb and descent around the edge of the Kathmandu Valley. The finish is a great descent from the Nagi nun's monastery. There is a challenging 2 km through the streets of Kathmandu - a little dusty and with traffic - before finally falling into the oasis of Boudhnath Stupa. An amazing finish location. 

It is around 53km but at a steady 5km pace it can be completed in 11 hours before dark.

Provisional route:

• Start 6am at Swayambu Stupa.
• Then the toughest and only serious climb of the day to the Jamacho Stupa
• Then there is the long downhill through the Nagarjun Jungle.
• Follow the ridge from Mudkhu to Tinpiple.
• Then climb Tarkeshwor Mandir saying hello to the Sadhu living there.
• Continue here to pass the army camp and to Gurje Bhanjyang. There is a water tap here.
• Continue on jeep road to Dandagaon
• Continue to Nagi Gumba, first on a small foot trail, then jeep road.
• From Nagi, all downhill on the ridge to Kopan Gumba.
• The last 2km are going to be stinky running with traffic on small roads. Hold your breath.
• Arrive at Bouddha Stupa. It is about to be packed so do your best and be careful of others. Complete three koras.

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