In a strategic move to position Kerala as a prominent destination on the global adventure tourism map, the state government, led by Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas, has unveiled plans to host four international adventure sporting events throughout the year. The chosen venues for these thrilling events are some of Kerala’s most picturesque tourist hotspots, including Vagamon, Varkala, Mananthavady, and Kozhikode. The diverse array of adventure sports featured will encompass paragliding, surfing, mountain biking, and whitewater kayaking, providing a spectrum of experiences for both participants and spectators.
The inaugural event in this series of adventure sporting extravaganzas is the ‘International Paragliding Competition 2024,’ scheduled to take place from March 14 to 17 at Vagamon in Idukki. Minister Riyas enthusiastically described this as India’s largest aero sports adventure festival, with over 100 nationally and internationally renowned paragliders set to participate. The festival has garnered interest from more than 15 countries, with participation confirmed from paragliding champions and riders of global acclaim. The event is expected to draw contestants from France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Australia, the US, the UK, Nepal, as well as various Indian states, creating a diverse and competitive atmosphere.
Emphasizing the global collaboration aspect, Minister Riyas revealed that the festival has received expressions of interest from more than 15 countries, showcasing the international appeal of the aero-sports festival. This collaboration highlights Kerala’s commitment to fostering global connections and making a mark on the adventure tourism landscape.
Moving forward, the International Surfing Festival is slated to unfold at Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram district from March 29 to 31. Significantly, this festival will host the first national surfing championship of the year, featuring skilled surfing athletes from India’s coastal cities. Minister Riyas expressed the festival’s broader goal of establishing Varkala as Kerala’s premier surfing destination and positioning it as an internationally recognized surfing hotspot.
The adventure-filled calendar continues with the 7th edition of the International Mountain Cycling Championship, MTB Kerala-2024, scheduled for April 26 to 28 at Priyadarshini Tea Plantation in Mananthavady, Wayanad district. The championship’s 5-km track, situated at an altitude of 3,000 feet, promises challenging terrain, including mud, rock, and water. With participation expected from cyclists representing 25 countries, the main attraction remains the cross-country competition. In addition to the international competition, the event will also host competitions for amateur Indian cyclists, offering them a chance to compete with foreign star cyclists at the MTB Kerala International Competition.
Minister Riyas proudly announced that the MTB Kerala has earned a place in the MTB Championship calendar of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the sport’s governing body based in Switzerland. This recognition is a testament to the championship’s growing prominence on the global cycling stage.
Closing the adventurous year, the 10th edition of the Malabar River Festival is set to captivate audiences from July 25 to 28. This event promises a thrilling showcase of whitewater kayaking amidst the stunning landscapes of Kozhikode. The festival has become a staple in Kerala’s adventure tourism calendar, attracting participants and spectators alike with its exhilarating competitions and scenic settings.
In conclusion, Kerala’s concerted efforts to host these international adventure sporting events underscore its commitment to positioning the state as a global hub for adventure tourism. Minister Riyas, through these initiatives, aims to showcase Kerala’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes while providing thrilling experiences for adventure enthusiasts worldwide. As these events unfold, Kerala is poised to leave an indelible mark on the adventure tourism map, drawing attention to its unique blend of culture, nature, and sporting excitement.