On February 14-15, 2026, the third Simalu Festival took place in the picturesque setting of the Brahmaputra floodplain, organized by Laokhowa and Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuaries under the esteemed Kaziranga Tiger Reserve. This vibrant event coincided with the striking bloom of simalu flowers (Bombax ceiba), transforming the landscape into a stunning display of crimson hues. Initially a local celebration of nature, the festival has evolved into a national symbol of responsible tourism, attracting adventure enthusiasts nationwide to engage with the natural world in a whisper-soft manner.
A notable feature of this year’s festival was Assam’s inaugural “Wild Trails” 32-kilometer trail run, designed with a strict “No Traffic, No Noise” ethos, allowing participants to traverse serene floodplain passages, marsh borders, and forested peripheries. The event also included a signature cycle rally that welcomed over 40 cyclists from Assam and more than 100 runners from various regions, including Karnataka, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
The competitive spirit was high during the Wild Trails Run, featuring a substantial ₹1 lakh prize pool. In the men’s competition, Tikheswar Kurmi from Golaghat emerged victorious with a time of 1:59:35, followed by Samim Ahmed and Subhas Fauzdar. In the women’s category, Karishma Dolley from Nagaon secured first place with a time of 2:49:00, with runners from Uttar Pradesh, Meghalaya, and Guwahati close behind.
Dr. Sonali Ghosh, the pioneering first female Director of Kaziranga National Park, addressed participants and attendees, articulating a progressive vision for Assam’s natural treasures. She emphasized that the state offers rich experiences beyond traditional jeep safaris and elephant rides, advocating for trail runs, cycling, guided explorations, birdwatching, and impactful community interactions. Her vision situates the festival as a model for eco-tourism that fosters ecological sustainability, supports local economies, and reduces pressure on core wildlife areas.
The success of the Simalu Festival can be attributed to meticulous organizational efforts led by the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, with significant branding support from NEEPCO India and NTPC, enhancing the festival’s national visibility. Collaborations with Adian in coordinating the events, the Assam Tourism Department’s contributions, and the engagement of local organizations like Nagaon Girls’ College and WWF facilitated the festival’s operational success. Looking ahead, the Wildlife Trust of India (WTRP) aims to expand its focus to cycle tourism, proposing year-round trekking, running, and cycling trails that celebrate and empower local communities while building on the momentum generated by the Simalu Festival.