Overview
The SKF Goa River Marathon draws approximately 1,500 finishers each December on a scenic riverside road in Goa, India. It is one of India's most scenic river marathons and has grown from a local club race into a major festival. The route passes Zuari River overlooks, village roads, and bridge approaches through lush Goan scenery. Zuari River overlooks, village roads, and bridge approaches climb through lush Goan scenery on one of India's most scenic river marathons.
SKF Goa River Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
SKF Goa River Marathon 2026 race day
The next SKF Goa River Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 6 December 2026 with a 6:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with moderate climbs layout.
SKF Goa River Marathon course route
Starts and finishes in Chicalim on the Zuari River side of Goa. The route passes Zuari River overlooks, village roads, and bridge approaches through lush Goan scenery. River-bank rollers and bridge approaches add work in humid air, with Goan village spectators at Zuari overlook aid stations.
SKF Goa River Marathon elevation profile
The SKF Goa River Marathon course is rolling with moderate climbs over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The SKF Goa River Marathon uses open online registration at skfgoarivermarathon.com with no lottery or qualifying standard for the full marathon. Sign-up typically opens mid-year for the December race and remains available until capacity is reached. Entry fees are modest by international standards and overseas runners apply through the same portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the SKF Goa River Marathon elevation profile?
- The SKF Goa River Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with moderate climbs, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the SKF Goa River Marathon?
- The SKF Goa River Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Scenic riverside road starting and finishing in Chicalim on the Zuari River side of Goa.
- What time does the SKF Goa River Marathon start?
- The 2026 SKF Goa River Marathon starts at 6:00 am local time on Sunday, 6 December 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on skfgoarivermarathon.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the SKF Goa River Marathon start and finish?
- Starts and finishes in Chicalim on the Zuari River side of Goa. Updated course maps are published at https://skfgoarivermarathon.com/ each year.
- When is the SKF Goa River Marathon and how do I register?
- SKF Goa River Marathon is typically held in December. Registration opens through https://skfgoarivermarathon.com/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
- Is the SKF Goa River Marathon course flat?
- The course includes rolling with moderate climbs. Study the official course profile at https://skfgoarivermarathon.com/ before setting pace targets.
- What landmarks does the SKF Goa River Marathon pass?
- Runners see the Zuari River, tree-lined village roads, and bridge sections through south Goa.
- What weather should runners expect at SKF Goa River Marathon?
- Usually warm and humid with mild winter-season conditions and coastal moisture.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
