On October 11, the Basum Tso International Rafting Open and the first China Whitewater SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) Race, as a part of the 2026 Xizang Nyingchi Namcha Barwa Highland Sports Festival, concluded at Basum Tso.

The two-day event attracted 192 athletes of 48 teams from 15 countries, including China, Russia, Ukraine, New Zealand, Germany, Italy, Turkey, the Czech Republic, the United Kingdom, Latvia, Kazakhstan, Iran, Mongolia, the United States and Canada. 

Featuring professional competition, public participation and local cultural characteristics, the event included nine categories, such as rafting boat sprint, rafting boat slalom, four-person inflatable SUP sprint and traditional yak-leather boat flatwater racing. 

The area’s unique pristine natural environment, vibrant plateau autumn scenery, and magnificent snow mountains and lakes left both Chinese and international athletes deeply impressed. Athletes from around the world said that Basum Tso combines the gentle beauty of clear waters with the wild power of rushing rapids. Its breathtaking landscapes, high-quality whitewater courses and comfortable highland competition environment make it a rare high-altitude water sports destination in the world. 

Editor：Bella Wu