NthAdventure in association with the Department of Tourism, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, is hosting the 3rd National Adventure Racing Championship in Arunachal Pradesh in a picturesque destination called “Mechukha”

Adventure Racing is a fast-growing sport in India and is a platform for novice to elite teams to experience this world’s toughest team sport.

India is a perfect destination for adventure racing as it is a unique sport which blends with tradition, local culture and eco-tourism, while showcasing the uniqueness and natural variety that each state holds. It connects people and incorporates the local culture into a world class endurance competition.

After two successful editions, NthAdventure in association with the Department of Tourism, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, is hosting the 3rd National Adventure Racing Championship in Arunachal Pradesh in a picturesque destination called “Mechukha”. Race dates are April 16-22nd.

 The race is a qualifying event for the ARWS Asia Championship, and the winners there will represent Asia at the Adventure Racing World Championship.

As part of the Adventure Racing World Series each race receives exposure around the world, and provides an opportunity to international teams to travel to neighboring countries, earn ARWS ranking points and maybe advance to the Asian Championships and World Championships.

The race promotional video was officially launched by Minister of Culture Smt. Dasanglu Pul in the presence of Minister for Tourism – Arunachal Pradesh, Secretary Tourism- Arunachal Pradesh and key stakeholders from the Industry in December 2024.

Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona, the Honorable Minister for Tourism of Arunachal Pradesh, expressed his enthusiasm at the launch, stating, “Adventure@Mechukha is a vision to establish Mechukha as a premier adventure tourism destination in the country, attracting visitors both domestically and internationally.

“The race aims to provide adventure enthusiasts a glimpse into the unique beauties and cultures that coexist in and around Mechukha. Enclosed by the snow-capped peaks of the Eastern Himalayas, the expansive valleys of Mechukha exemplify nature's artistry. We embrace Adventure Racing in Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting Mechukha as a leading destination for adventure tourism. The inaugural adventure race in Arunachal seeks to enhance border tourism and draw participants from around the world.”

This race is special in many ways, and every team will get to experience the hospitality of Arunachal Pradesh like never before. Some of the key highlights for this race are:

• This race is the first Adventure Race in Arunachal and also the FIRST Border Adventure Race in India. (The valley is about 29 km from Indo-Tibet border.)
• This 3rd National AR Championship is also a QUALIFIER for the ARWS Asia Championship 2025
• All National & International Teams will be provided with an exclusive airport/railway station pick-up and transport to race HQ and back.
• All national & international teams will be provided with ONE night transit accommodation en-route to the race HQ.
• The FIRST 15 teams to register get sponsored accommodation at Mechukha for 4 nights & 5 days
• The winners will not just win the ULTIMATE title and the trophy, there is also a cash prize pool of USD 20,000 for the top 3 teams.
• Every team will experience and explore Mechukha culture, tradition, hospitality and food.

Ms. Ajita Madan, Race Director says, “We are excited to collaborate with Arunachal Pradesh Tourism and work with them to highlight Adventure Tourism in Arunachal Pradesh, especially in Mechukha, a beautiful valley nestled between the mountains.

“With their support we can show the adventurous side of India, which not many people are aware of. Adventure Racing is a unique sport where endurance meets, culture and tradition, sustainably leaving behind economic growth, positive impacts, eco-trails and memories. We are working closely with Arunachal Tourism to make sure every team arriving here has the best racing experience.”

Talking about the difficulty level, Sayeesha Kirani, Race Director said, “Every course is unique, and every destination makes it even more special. The course will take our teams traversing through villages, rivers, mountains and valleys.

“While the full-course teams fight for the ticket to the Asian Championship, short course teams will experience the thrill of this sport. Adventure @ Mechukha will be approximately 150-180km, and will take teams through grasslands and mountains, experiencing scenic views of Mechukha, connecting with local tribes and traditional activities. Disciplines include trail running, hiking, kayaking, river crossing, MTB, hiking, rope works, navigation and more!”

Only 30 full-course team places are available and they are filling fast. Teams from Philippines and Malaysia have already confirmed their participation along with Team Shershah who qualified by winning at Namma Adventure Race 3.0.

Before the main event, Arunachal Pradesh Tourism is also hosting an Adventure Racing, Navigation, Technical Workshop and Promo Race of 50KM for the locals on 10-12 February 2025 for a small number of teams.

There will be lots of updates on social media pages: Instagram page @nthadventure @arunachaltsm @visit_mechukha and @arwsasia

Know more about the host State: https://arunachaltourism.com/
Know more about the race Location: https://mechukhatourism.com/
For more information & registration visit https://www.nthadventure.com/

Host: Department of Tourism, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh

Partners:
• Adventure Racing World Series
• India Adventure Racing Federation
• Squirt Cycling Products