The Kila Raipur Rural Olympics is a rural sports festival that’s grown over six decades, to become a sports bonanza that attracts competitors from around the globe. Over 4,000 sportsmen and woman participate in the festival, and they’re watched by around 1 million spectators.
Bullocks, camels, dogs, mules, and other animals competing in highly professional events must be seen to be believed! The adrenaline-pumping bullock cart race is the main attraction. Other events that are big on entertainment include a dog race, horse dance, camel race, tractor race, and a tug-of-war.
But the chance to see some really off-beat activities is the hugest draw card — such as people lifting bicycles with their teeth, pulling cars with their teeth or ears, or riding a bicycle ringed with a burning tire, and other daredevil stunts. The Rural Olympics really is a test of endurance, skill, and strength!
The fun doesn’t end at the end of the day. Each evening there’s a cultural feast featuring top-notch folk singers, Bhangra, and Gidha players. The program continues well past midnight on all three days of the festival.
When: Three days during early February each year.
How to get there: The Kila Raipur Rural Olympics is held about 30 minutes south of Ludhiana, in Punjab. Kila Raipur is well connected by rail, road, and even air. Ludhiana is a 3-hour train journey, or 40 minutes flight, from Delhi. Delhi by Foot usually runs tours there.
Where to stay: There’s a good range of hotels in Ludhiana. The classy Nirvana Hotel receives excellent reviews, as does the cheaper Keys Hotel. If budget is a concern, Hotel Samrat is clean and offers good value for money.
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