Shillong, Mar 26: The state is gearing up to host the inaugural Indian Sailing League (ISL) at the Orchid Water Sports Complex, Umiam Lake, from March 27 to 31, 2026.
The event, organized by the Umiam Sailing Club in association with the Department of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, and the United De Novo Association of Yachting (UDAY), will bring together 182 sailors from eight countries.
“The selection of the Orchid Water Sports Complex at Umiam reflects Meghalaya’s strategic focus on developing adventure tourism and water sports infrastructure aligned with international standards,” said officials.
The league features 14 teams representing different regions of India, including the home team, Shillong Umiam Navigators.
Other participating franchises include Deccan Skippers, Secunderabad Daredevils, Goa Mariners, and Chennai Sailing Knights, among others.
The event has a total prize pool exceeding Rs 1.5 crore, with participating teams competing for rewards of up to Rs 21 lakh and individual athletes standing to earn prizes of up to Rs 1.5 lakh.
“The Indian Sailing League adds to the State’s growing portfolio of high-impact sporting engagements,” said officials, highlighting Meghalaya’s emergence as a hub for water sports and adventure tourism in India and the South Asian region.
The event will offer an immersive experience, celebrating adventure, nature, and Meghalaya’s rich cultural landscape, with performances by artists from the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Grassroots Music Program (CM-MGMP).
“We are excited to host the inaugural Indian Sailing League, which marks a significant milestone for Meghalaya,” said officials.
The five-day event will feature dynamic race formats, testing crews on wind conditions, strategy, manoeuvring, and speed.
