A hidden gem for travellers to experience some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in China, Yunnan is located in a mountainous region, with snow-capped Tibetan peaks to its northwest and tropical rainforests in the southeast. What better way to experience the beauty of nature than to run through it on an adventure marathon?

Cue the 2^nd Yunaan • Puzhehei International Marathon: Set to take place on Saturday, 24 October 2015, it will bring any passionate runner—be it seasoned marathoner or greenhorn 5K runner—through the enchanting Puzhehei region. Hitting the ground running at 7:00 a.m. are the full marathon (42.2 km), half marathon (21.1 km) and 10km categories, while the 5km Fun Run will start at 7:30 a.m. just as the sun rises.

Developed by the same experienced organisers of the Great Wall of China Marathon, the course will navigate runners between the Puzhehei-famous karst peaks, up and over karst mountain hills, and along the crystal clear lakes. Runners will be running through a series of connected land areas encountering a mix of paved and dirt farm roads, stone pathways, bridges, and stairs while climbing the Green Dragon Mountain. Lungs pumping with fresh, pure air, you will be awestruck by the breath-taking panoramic views of undeveloped lands, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

As if the scenic Puzhehei views aren’t enough, runners will be warmly motivated by the spirited local cheer squads lining the course. They will also be well taken care of on the course as all aid stations will have water, gel packs and salt tablets. There will also be a few stations providing fruit and food along the course route and there will be refuelling foods at the finish line including bagels, fruit, juice and water.

Register for a Trip of a Lifetime

Going at summer rate prices from now till 30 September 2015, runner race entries are US$250 and spectator passes are US$150. You are encouraged to plan a 3 to 5 day travel itinerary inclusive of the race day, and you have the flexibility to add-on various travel and tour options.

From now until 1 October 2015, you can opt for the Special Race Packages. For US$525, you will get guaranteed race entry, 3N hotel accommodation in Qiubei, airport pick-up and drop-off, carbo-load dinner, bonfire celebration, as well as a course preview on a cave and boat tour. Similar Special Spectator Packages cost US$425.

Race entry fees include several perks such as a free round-trip transportation from Kunming to the Race HQ, welcome bonfire celebration, official technical running shirt, collectible finisher medal, official finisher certificate, goodie bag, course support, and a runner's breakfast before race.

For more information and to register online, visit the Yunnan • Puzhehei International Marathon website.