Kayak Orienteering - Mugabala

A proud movement as India's First Kayak Orienteering Event was held and it was organised by NthAdventure Orienteering Club – NOC.

Imagine exploring a lake with only a map to guide you. Instead of following a fixed route, you paddle your kayak while navigating to different checkpoints in the correct order by using a MAP and A COMPASS. Every decision matter because choosing the wrong direction can cost valuable time.

Orienteering has a history of more than 100 years, beginning in Sweden in 1897. While Foot Orienteering remains the most popular discipline, new formats such as Mountain Bike Orienteering, Trail Orienteering, and Kayak Orienteering continue to grow around the world.

Kayak Orienteering adds a completely different challenge because athletes must read the map while moving on water, judge distances correctly, and adapt to changing conditions.

Would you like to learn more about Orienteering?

Write to us: orienteering@nthadventure.com

For more information about the sport visit: www.orienteering.co.in

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What is Kayak Orienteering?

Kayak Orienteering is a navigation sport where athletes use a map while paddling a kayak to locate checkpoints placed around a lake or water body. Participants receive a map showing the checkpoint locations and must decide the best route to visit every control point in sequence. The fastest athlete to complete the course correctly is the winner.

The sport combines kayaking skills, navigation, decision making, and endurance, making every race different and exciting.

A Growing Orienteering Discipline

A Historic Day for Orienteering in India

Winner: Vikrant

1st Runner Up: Ponarul A P

2nd Runner Up: Bharath S

On 19 July 2026, NOC successfully organized India's first Kayak Orienteering event at Bengaluru Kayak Club, Hoskote, creating a new milestone for adventure sports in the country.

The 2 km race featured both Solo and Team of 2 categories, attracting 47 participants. Athletes paddled across the water using only their map and compass to locate checkpoints. Every participant had a different strategy, with some choosing direct routes while others selected safer options around the lake.

Learning Together After the Finish

The excitement did not end at the finish line. Participants shared their experiences, discussed the routes they chose, talked about the checkpoints that were difficult to find, and exchanged navigation techniques. Beginners learned from experienced athletes, and everyone enjoyed discovering different ways to solve the same course. This sharing of knowledge and friendship is one of the special things about Orienteering.

Kayak Orienteering Solo & Team of 2 Category Winners:

Winner: Double Fisherman

1st Runner Up: River Raiders

2nd Runner Up: Team Arsh

The Future of Kayak Orienteering in India

By organizing India's first Kayak Orienteering event, NthAdventure Orienteering Club has taken another step towards growing the sport in the country. As more athletes discover this unique combination of kayaking and navigation, Kayak Orienteering has the potential to become one of India's most exciting outdoor adventure sports.

Whether you love kayaking, maps, or exploring new challenges, Kayak Orienteering offers an unforgettable experience that tests both your mind and your endurance.