Upcoming 5K Runs in Bengaluru: How to Pick Your Race in 2026

Bengaluru has one of India's busiest running calendars. Between the big city races, corporate runs, charity 5Ks and weekend club runs, there is something most months of the year. The cool mornings from November to February are the most popular season, which is why so many runs land in December and January.

If you are looking for your next race, or your first, here is how to choose one and what to expect.

Featured: One Earth One Heart 5K, 13 December 2026

The One Earth One Heart 5K Bengaluru is a community run for peace, unity and health, organised by Ticgetz in RR Nagar. It follows our first edition in Mysuru in April 2026, where more than 1,200 runners took part (see the photos).

• Date: Sunday 13 December 2026, 6:00 AM start
• Distance: 5 km, open to first-timers and experienced runners
• Entry: ₹399, or ₹299 for students
• Included: race BIB, timing, finisher's medal, certificate, event T-shirt and breakfast

See the venue, reporting time and book your place

How to pick your first race

• Distance: start with a 5K. It's achievable in four to six weeks of training (here is our beginner 5K plan).
• Location: choose a start line you can reach easily before 6 AM. Early starts are the norm in Bengaluru to beat the heat and traffic.
• Atmosphere: community and charity runs are friendlier for beginners than elite races with strict cut-off times.
• Timing: check that the date leaves you enough weeks to train.

Bengaluru's big annual races

The city also hosts large annual events, such as its international 10K in the spring and its full and half marathon later in the year. They draw tens of thousands of runners and registrations often close weeks ahead, so check each organiser's official website for this year's dates and categories. A smaller 5K is a great way to build up to one of them.

What a race kit usually includes

Most paid runs include a race BIB with your number, and many add timing, a finisher's medal, a certificate, a T-shirt and refreshments. Always read the event page for what your ticket covers, the reporting time and the refund policy before you book.

Registration tips

• Book early. Popular runs sell out, and early registrants are more likely to get their preferred T-shirt size.
• Use the name you want printed on your certificate.
• Keep your booking confirmation handy. Ticgetz sends tickets to WhatsApp and email.

Where to train before race day

Cubbon Park, Lalbagh and the city's lake paths are favourites. We cover them in the best running routes in Bengaluru.

Frequently asked questions

Can I walk a 5K run?

Yes. Most 5K community runs welcome walkers and run-walkers.

What time do Bengaluru runs start?

Usually between 5:30 and 6:30 AM. The One Earth One Heart 5K starts at 6:00 AM.

Is a 5K the same as a marathon?

No. A marathon is 42.195 km. See 5K vs 10K vs half and full marathon.