Meghalaya 4X4 team gears up for Rainforest Challenge Goa 2025

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 19, 2025

Meghalaya is set to mark its debut at the Rainforest Challenge (RFC) Goa 2025, one of the world’s most demanding off-road motorsport events. A 10-member team from the Meghalaya 4X4 community, operating under the banner Kmstshillong, will travel over 3,000 km by road from Shillong to Goa with the rallying cry: “From the Hills to Goa.”

This historic participation is being promoted by Meghalaya Tourism and supported by the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs and Hello Meghalaya, underscoring the state’s push to promote adventure tourism and foster a culture of motorsports.

The team, led by director Vicky V Kharkongor and featuring driver Vianney B Nongrum, is poised to tackle RFC’s grueling stages, which are known for mud pits, river crossings, and steep jungle ascents. The full crew includes Arlan M Kharumnuid, Patsha Kharkongor, Overcome Shadap, Albinus HL Laskor, Ambet N Khonglah, Babitdor J Kharkamni, Baniaidshaphrang L Nongbri, and Gabriel Marwein.

Off-roading has long been more than a pastime in Meghalaya. The state’s rugged landscapes and passionate community have cultivated a thriving 4X4 culture. Participation in RFC Goa elevates this passion to the national stage, positioning Meghalaya alongside India’s top off-road competitors and offering new opportunities to showcase the state’s adventurous spirit.

The Rainforest Challenge Goa 2025 will be held from July 28 to August 3, bringing together India’s best off-roaders to tackle extreme monsoon terrain in one of motorsport’s toughest tests of endurance and skill.

“This is not just a race; it’s a mission to put Meghalaya on India’s motorsport map. We want to inspire the next generation of off-roaders and prove the hills have what it takes to compete at the highest level,” said team leader Vicky V Kharkongor.

The team departs from Shillong on July 21 for the cross-country journey.