GUWAHATI: The “world’s first” half marathon will be held in a carbon neutral tea estate in southern Assam, come November 18.
Jalinga Tea Estate, the country’s largest organic tea garden, located about 35km from Silchar town in Cachar district, is set to host over 100 participants from the country and overseas in a run through the winding trails and greenery of the estate.
The event, christened the Jalinga Tea Run (JTR) held in association with Incredible India and Assam Tourism, is part of a three-day “weekend carnival” starting Friday that promises to offer adventure lovers a chance to also savour live music, experience tea tasting sessions and enjoy food as well.
Proceeds from the event collected through registration fee from participants would be utilised towards the welfare of tea workers and their children.
“So far, we have had around 100 participants who have confirmed their presence in the charity run. There will be at least 25 participants from overseas featuring as well,” sources told The Shillong Times on Tuesday.
The run will have three categories, 5km, 10km and 21km (half marathon), inside the tea estate. There will be a run (1km and 3km) for children as well.
“We at Jalinga Assam want to send out a positive message to the world at large which enjoys our organic cuppa that we do care for our workers and their children and that JTR is our commitment towards that. This is our first edition and will be an annual feature. All proceeds go to charity and also towards making a home for special autistic kids at Jalinga,” Ketan Patel, director at Jalinga Tea Estate, said in a post on the official page of JTR on Facebook.
Spread over 6,500 hectares, the garden produces 8.5 lakh kg tea annually. Six brands of Jalinga tea are available in countries such as the UK, US, Canada, Finland, Italy and Belgium.
Visitors to the unique weekend getaway will also get a chance to stay in tents on a tea hill inside the garden or avail homestay options.
A pop-up exhibition to showcase local handicrafts and organic produce is also another attraction lined up in the JTR itinerary.