Tehri: Uttarakhand’s identity is no longer confined to tourism alone. The serene waves of the lakes nestled amid the mountains are now propelling the state toward becoming an international hub for water sports. THDC India Limited (THDCIL) has accelerated preparations to develop a world-class water sports center from Tehri Lake to Koteshwar. This initiative is set to transform the region into the country’s premier destination for water sports in the coming years.
The vast Tehri Lake, formed by the Tehri Dam (covering approximately 52 square kilometers), features stable water levels, an extensive water expanse, and a naturally safe environment, making it highly suitable for kayaking, canoeing, rowing, jet skiing, and other aquatic activities. Over the past few years, THDCIL has successfully hosted national and international competitions here, firmly placing Tehri on the global water sports map.
Following directives from the Central Government, the project now aims to create a comprehensive international water sports corridor by integrating Tehri Lake with the Koteshwar area. This development will promote training, competitions, and sports tourism, boosting adventure activities and regional economy. Experts believe that if India secures the bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, Uttarakhand—particularly Tehri—could serve as a major center for water sports events and preparations.
In collaboration with the Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association (IKCA) and the Uttaranchal Olympic Association (UOA), phased development is underway across Tehri Lake and surrounding areas. The plan includes facilities for canoe sprint, canoe slalom, dragon boat, canoe marathon, canoe polo, para-canoe, and more. The goal is to establish Uttarakhand as a permanent high-performance training hub capable of Olympic-level preparations.
The cornerstone of this vision is the THDCIL High-Performance Academy for Kayaking and Canoeing at Koteshwar. Inaugurated on December 18, 2023, this academy—India’s first dedicated facility of its kind—is strategically located downstream of Tehri Lake, ideal for elite training. Athletes here receive state-of-the-art equipment, scientific coaching, advanced infrastructure, and expert guidance to excel at the Olympics, Asian Games, World Championships, and other international platforms.
Recent milestones include the successful hosting of the Tehri Water Sports Cup (multiple editions) and the International President Cup. In December 2024, the 3rd edition of the Tehri Water Sports Cup served as a qualifier for the National Games 2024. In November 2025, the 4th Tehri Water Sports Cup and International President Cup concluded with participation from over 300 athletes representing 22 countries, drawing praise from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. He described Tehri Lake as emerging as a global hub for water adventure sports, creating new tourism-based employment opportunities for youth and accelerating infrastructure growth.
In December 2024, THDCIL signed an MoU with REC Limited, under which REC provided ₹3.97 crore in CSR funding for constructing an Olympic-size swimming pool at the Koteshwar academy. Additionally, India’s first dedicated 504 square meter jetty was installed at the academy, enhancing training capabilities. Activities already available at Tehri Lake include jet skiing, speed boating, parasailing, flyboarding, kite surfing, and hot air ballooning. The expanded corridor will further diversify offerings, driving local employment, tourism revenue, and economic upliftment. Uttarakhand’s natural beauty is evolving beyond scenic views into a powerhouse for sports and adventure. THDCIL’s ambitious project, backed by state and central support, positions the state on the international stage, offering young athletes world-class opportunities to shine globally while turning the Devbhoomi into a thriving center for water sports excellence.