Kozhikode is gearing up to host the 12th edition of the Malabar River Festival, Asia’s largest white-water kayaking competition, on the Chalipuzha and Iruvanjippuzha rivers, tributaries of the Chaliyar. The four-day event, scheduled from July 30 to August 2, is expected to attract kayakers and adventure enthusiasts from across the world.

The event, also one of India’s largest adventure sports festivals, is being organised under the aegis of the Kerala Tourism department in collaboration with the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society (KATPS), District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), and Local Self-Government institutions. Organisers said technical support would be provided by the Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association (IKCA).

Set against the rugged backdrop of the Malabar highlands, the festival will transform the river stretches in Kodenchery and Thiruvambady grama panchayats into a venue for competitive white-water kayaking, attracting elite paddlers and adventure sports enthusiasts to the region.

Surrounded by dense forests and dotted with rock formations, the challenging course offers demanding river conditions. With the southwest monsoon at its peak, participants will navigate fast-flowing currents, turbulent rapids, steep drops and complex water features, making the competition a true test of skill, precision and endurance.

The main competition events include Kayak Slalom, Boater Cross, Down River Race and Super Final Extreme Race. The male champion will be awarded the title of ‘Rapid Raja’ while the female champion will receive the title of ‘Rapid Rani’.

According to organisers, the festival is expected to feature white-water kayakers from around 20 countries, as well as more than 100 participants from across India. The 2025 edition witnessed the participation of 18 international athletes and around 85 Indian kayakers.

Thiruvambady MLA C.K. Kasim said a series of pre-event programmes would be organised to ensure wider public participation and build momentum for the festival.

Mr. Kasim said the venues and competition events had been finalised. “Efforts will now focus on ensuring the participation of national and international athletes, undertaking extensive promotional campaigns, mobilising funds, coordinating with various government departments and local bodies, and strengthening security, disaster management and rescue arrangements,” the MLA added.