The Tawangchu Tides International Kayaking Championship 2026 is India’s biggest white-water kayaking event, held in the breathtaking Tawang District of Arunachal Pradesh. It attracts top kayakers, adventure lovers, and river sports enthusiasts from across India and abroad.

💥 With a total prize pool of USD 16,500 (cash prizes and goodies), this event offers the highest prize money for any white-water kayaking competition in India. It’s a true celebration of adventure, endurance, and the spirit of the river.

📅 Dates: 10th February to 15th February 2026

📍 Venue: Tawangchu Kayaking Village, Tawang District, Arunachal Pradesh (https://maps.app.goo.gl/xFTGaRfrJJpptq3X8)

The event will be held along the pristine waters of the Tawangchu River — one of the most scenic and challenging white-water rivers in the region.

The championship is open to two main categories:

• Pro Category – For experienced and professional kayakers with experience to paddle on Class III-IV rapids

• Amateur Category – For trained beginners and intermediate paddlers with experience to paddle on Class II rapids

The Pro Category will have a Sprint, Slalom and Kayak Cross races with cash prizes for the winners. The Amateur Category will have only a Sprint with no cash prize.

Both categories will compete in specially designed race formats suited to their skill levels.

February in Tawang offers crisp and cool mountain weather: 🌤️ Daytime temperatures: Around 20–25°C 🌙 Nighttime temperatures: Drop to 5–10°C

Participants should be prepared for chilly evenings and early mornings — warm clothing and sleeping bags are essential.

Accommodation will be provided within the Tawangchu Tides Camp, designed to balance adventure with essential comfort. Participants will stay in rooms or tents, arranged on a five/six person sharing basis.

The rooms are equipped with basic floor mats, mattresses, sheets for sleeping. Kayakers are requested to get their own sleeping bags for additional comfort.

There will be electricity in the camp and shared points in the rooms for charging your phones.

❌ No. Kayaking equipment will NOT be provided by the organisers. All participants must bring their own kayaking gear, including:

• Kayak

• Paddle

• Helmet

• Personal flotation device (PFD)

• Spray skirt

• Dry suit or appropriate kayaking clothing

• Safety whistle and other personal accessories

All gear must meet competition and safety standards.

Here’s a suggested checklist of essential items: 🧳 Personal Essentials:

• Valid photo ID and a few photocopies

• Personal toiletries (soap, toothbrush etc.)

• Personal medicines and a basic first-aid kit

• Sunscreen, lip balm, and moisturizer

🥶 Cold Weather Gear:

• Warm jackets and thermals

• Gloves, woolen cap, and socks

• Sleeping bag (mandatory)

• Extra blanket (optional for added warmth)

💡 Camping/Utility Items:

• Torch or headlamp with extra batteries

• Power bank and chargers

• Reusable water bottle or hydration pack

• Quick-dry towel

• Small daypack or waterproof bag

🚣 Kayaking Gear:

• Kayak, paddle, helmet, PFD, spray skirt, and any safety equipment

Yes. The event has separate Pro and Amateur categories. Beginners with basic kayaking experience are welcome to participate in the Amateur division, which will include safety briefings and skill-level-appropriate river runs.