With longer days and warmer temperatures, you can enjoy more time on the water and soak up some vitamin D. And the state of Meghalaya decided to make sailing in the summer all the more beautiful by hosting its first-ever Northeast Regatta. This new festival was launched by the tourism department in collaboration with Umiam Sailors Club, the first club of its kind in Meghalaya.
What Is Northeast Regatta 2023?
The purpose of a boat regatta was to promote water sports in the state, enhance tourism, put the location on the world sailing map and empower youth. Sailors from across the country came to take part in the Northeast Regatta 2023, with 80 participants from 10 states. Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad Sangma graced the event as the chief guest on the second day.
How Was It Celebrated?
Check out what happened on the first day of the Northeast Regatta 2023! Water sport athletes of various age categories practiced sailing, followed by an @mgmp_2022 performance featuring a variety of local artists.
(1/2) pic.twitter.com/osPVqXgJYM
— Meghalaya Tourism (@meghtourism) April 28, 2023
The Northeast Regatta 2023 started on April 29 and went until May 02.
- The event included boat race, as well as music and cultural events, nature excursions, food and flea markets, camping spots, and the introduction of river cruise boats in Umiam.
- There were also electrifying public concerts on April 29 and 30, featuring a diverse lineup of local, national, and international artists. While water sports athletes of various age categories practiced sailing on the Umiam Lake on the first day of the event.
- An electrifying public concert was also held on April 29 and 30 which featured K-Pop artiste Kim Woojin, Delhi-based band Twin Strings and several other talents from the Northeast.
- The sailing races officially began on the 01st of May.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Bah Paul Lyngdoh, Minister of Tourism, Meghalaya expressed the state’s desire to host more such massive national-level water sports events in the years to come. Events of this stature will even motivate the young generation to excel in water sports.
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Tomorrow we will be officially starting the sailing races and we will have the international sensation @woooojinn performing as well! You cannot miss this!
NORTHEAST REGATTA 2023
📍Umiam Sports Water Complex (Shillong)
📆 April 28 – May 2, 2023 pic.twitter.com/u399mOAIRx— Meghalaya Tourism (@meghtourism) April 28, 2023
What Makes River & Lake Cruises Popular?
River and lake cruises have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering travellers a unique and relaxing way to explore some scenic waterways. Additionally, the slower pace of river and lake cruises like this allows travellers to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and customs.
And boat regattas like this let explorers often travel through smaller ports and can take passengers to quaint towns and villages that might otherwise be missed. The popularity of river and lake cruises is likely to continue to grow in the coming years, as more and more travelers seek out unique and immersive travel experiences.
Where: Umiam Watersports Complex
When: April 29 to May 02
Cover image credits: Twitter/Meghalaya Tourism