Feb 17: The 6th National Rafting Championship — titled The Ultimate River Battle — will be held at Shibnote in Doda district of Jammu & Kashmir from February 19 to 22, 2026.
The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department is organising the event in collaboration with the District Administration of Doda. The championship aims to showcase top rafting talent from across the country while promoting adventure tourism in the region.
Boost to Adventure Tourism in J&K
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Chenab River, the four-day event is expected to attract professional rafting teams, adventure enthusiasts, and tourists. The Chenab River, known for its challenging rapids and breathtaking landscape, offers ideal conditions for competitive rafting.
Officials said the championship will not only provide a platform for athletes to demonstrate their skills but also highlight Doda as an emerging destination for water sports and eco-tourism.
Showcasing Talent and Natural Beauty
Participants from different states are expected to compete in various categories during the championship. The event will test endurance, teamwork and river navigation skills, making it one of the most thrilling water sports competitions in the country.
The hosting of a national-level championship in Shibnote is seen as a significant step toward positioning Jammu & Kashmir as a premier adventure tourism hub. Authorities believe that such sporting events will generate economic activity in the region, benefiting local businesses, hospitality services, and transport operators.
Promoting Sustainable Tourism
The championship is also aligned with broader efforts to promote sustainable and responsible tourism in Jammu & Kashmir. By leveraging natural assets such as rivers, mountains, and valleys, the administration aims to diversify tourism offerings beyond traditional sightseeing.
Adventure tourism, including rafting, trekking, and mountaineering, has been gaining popularity in the Union Territory. Events like the National Rafting Championship are expected to boost visibility further and attract national and international attention to the region’s adventure potential.
With preparations underway, Shibnote in Doda is gearing up to host what promises to be an exciting and competitive showcase of India’s best rafting talent along the mighty Chenab River.
