If you believe the body and soul are connected, you will love running the Great Tibetan Marathon. It's one of the rare times that both the spirit and body are purposely mixed together in a marathon.

When you think about Tibet, images of monks probably pop into your head, and rightfully so. Tibetan monks are legendary sources of spirituality sought after by Westerners studying Buddhism. They are also figures incorporated in a lot of action movies and comedies. For this reason, the majority of people are familiar with their existence. However, what you probably didn't know about Tibet and Tibetan monks is that they host one of the best marathons in all of Asia.

The Great Tibetan Marathon is an excellent trek for locals and foreigners seeking to run a 10k in a tranquil area that reminds them of a higher power. It's unique because it's held at an altitude of 3,500 meters in countryside near the Himalayan mountains, fit for a Tibetan god. The lack of oxygen does present a challenge, but it is one that can be met by a physically-fit runner. Also, monks actually help facilitate the marathon, so if you hurt yourself, kind hands will care for you.

Other things that make the Great Tibetan Marathon a wonderful run are its special events. In 2007, an exclusive group of runners from all over the world gathered in Tibet to run a full marathon (10k) and a half marathon (5k). This run brought global attention for a variety of reasons, including the excellence and unity of humanity regardless of race, sex and creed. It was a feat that only a spiritual mind could put on public display.

So, as you can see, the Great Tibetan Marathon is not your usual marathon full of loud spectators, weird costumes and fanatical runners. It's one that feeds the body and the soul. If you are ready to run up high and chant a few positive words along the way, the Great Tibetan Marathon is for you. Get more details about it from www.greattibetanmarathon.blogspot.com. It includes photos and one blogger's account of this great marathon.