Surfer Ramesh Budihal’s achievement inspires budding surfers, says Kerala Tourism Minister

The achievement of Ramesh Budihal, who created history as the first Indian surfer to qualify for the Open Men’s final at the ASF Asian Surfing Championships 2025, gives a fillip to the attempts by Kerala Tourism to make the State as a popular adventure tourism destination.

Lauding Mr. Budihal, who hails from the State, Kerala Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas has said his remarkable achievement at the ongoing championships in the picturesque coastal town of Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, underscores the rapid advancement of Kerala on the global surfing map, along with inspiring budding surfers to pursue their dreams in the exhilarating world of surfing.

The surfing sensation from Kovalam in Kerala secured his spot in the finals after an impressive performance in the semifinal heat, finishing with a score of 11.43 points, which earned him second place. His accomplishment not only celebrates individual talent but also validates Kerala’s dedicated efforts to position itself as a prominent hub for adventure sports, Mr. Riyas said.

He dominated his heat with a remarkable score of 14.84 points, surpassing top competitors from across Asia, including the Philippines’ Neil Sanchez, who finished with 12.80 points. The journey of the young man, who started surfing the waves of Kovalam and established himself among the top surfers in Asia, is a hope for the adventure sport buffs from the State.

The State has recently hosted events like the International Surfing Championship, in Varkala, significantly attracting energetic youth to explore this exhilarating discipline and drawing surfing enthusiasts to Kerala coasts from across the globe.

“Kerala is at the forefront of major events in adventure sports,” Mr. Riyas said, highlighting major events listed on the God’s Own Country’s tourism calendar.

All of these events attract global champions, helping Kerala to emerge as a model for adventure sports in India. They include the Malabar River Festival, which is one of Asia’s largest white-water kayaking tournaments; the National Surfing Championship in Varkala; the Paragliding Festival in Vagamon; and the Mountain Terrain Bike Tournament in Mananthavady.