Chaliyar River Paddle 2025 Delivers Strong Message for Conservation and Adventure Tourism
The 11th edition of the Chaliyar River Paddle, one of Asia’s longest kayaking expeditions, successfully concluded on October 5, 2025 at Cheruvannur near Feroke. The event marked the end of an inspiring three-day, 68-kilometer journey started from Nilambur on October 3rd along the majestic Chaliyar River. Once again, the annual paddle skillfully blended adventure, environmental awareness, and community participation, setting a high standard for sustainable sport.
A Decade of Adventure and Conservation
Organized by the Jellyfish Water Sports Club, Kozhikode, in partnership with the Kerala Tourism Department, the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society (KATPS), and the Nilambur Tourism Organisation, the event has a dual core mission: to promote adventure water tourism and to raise vital awareness about river conservation.
The expedition was ceremonially inaugurated by Mr. Aryadan Shoukath, MLA, at Nilambur, and officially flagged off on October 3 by P.V. Abdul Wahab, MP. The inaugural ceremony featured Mr. Ravisankar K.V., Managing Editor of Tourism India, as the guest of honour. Mr. Mujeeb Devassery, Organizing Secretary of the Nilambur Tourism Organisation, welcomed the gathering, and Mr. Kaushik Kodithodika proposed the vote of thanks. Both Mr. Wahab and Mr. Shoukath extended their support, stating that the Nilambur Tourism Organisation (NTO) would increase its backing to help establish the Chaliyar River Paddle as one of the most sought-after kayaking events in the country.
Diversity on the Water
The 2025 paddle attracted over 75 participants from across India, who navigated the waters using kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and sailboats. The event celebrated inclusivity, with the age of paddlers ranging from 7-year-old Swara Iyer from Bengaluru, the youngest, to 67-year-old Asha Lal from Kozhikode, the eldest. The diverse group included seven women and four children, highlighting the event’s growing appeal to families and different age groups. Expedition leader, 21-year-old Rayan Kodithodika, guided the team through the Chaliyar’s meandering course, which was met with enthusiastic welcomes from local communities at Areekode, Oorkkadavu, Moorkanadu, and the final stop at Cheruvannur.
Environmental Mission: 2,000 kg of Waste Collected
Beyond the thrill of the sport, the Chaliyar River Paddle upheld its deep environmental commitment. Participants actively engaged in a river cleanup, collected an estimated 2,000 kilograms of waste during their journey. This collected material will be systematically segregated and recycled in partnership with the Green Worms NGO, underscoring the event’s dedication to responsible tourism and a cleaner waterway.
Speaking at the valedictory function, Coast Guard Assistant Commandant K.T. Varun and Jellyfish Water Sports Founder & Managing Director, Kaushik Kodithodika, emphasised the critical role of adventure initiatives in fostering a personal connection between people, rivers, and nature. Mr. Kodithodika further remarked:
“We firmly believe that adventure and conservation are two sides of the same coin. Every single paddle stroke reminds us of our shared responsibility to keep our waterways clean, healthy, and alive for future generations.”
Malabar: A Destination for Eco-Tourism
The Chaliyar River Paddle has evolved into a nationally celebrated annual fixture, successfully combining ecological consciousness, adventure, and local engagement. By drawing eco-enthusiasts, families, and adventure seekers from across the country, the event has played a significant role in establishing the Malabar region as a promising destination for adventure and eco-tourism. With its measurable social impact and increasing popularity, the Chaliyar River Paddle continues its mission to inspire a new generation to embrace sustainability -one paddle stroke at a time.
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