Nepal Set to Host Two Major International Kabaddi Tournaments in 2026-27

Nepal is preparing for a significant period on the international kabaddi calendar, with two international tournaments set to take place in the country within just a few months. The first event will be a Four-Nation International Kabaddi Tournament for U-21 men, scheduled from November 14 to 18, 2026. The second and potentially bigger international attraction will be the Asian Kabaddi Championship for women, scheduled from February 18 to 25, 2027. For Nepal, these tournaments could represent an important opportunity to strengthen its position in Asian kabaddi while giving its players the chance to compete against international opposition on home soil.

Two International Tournaments, One Big Opportunity

The two tournaments will serve very different purposes. The November event will focus on U-21 men's kabaddi, putting the spotlight on young players who are looking to establish themselves internationally. For these athletes, international competition at an early stage can be crucial. Facing players from different countries allows them to experience different defensive systems, raiding styles and match situations experience that can prove valuable when they eventually move into senior international competition. Then, in February, the focus will shift to women's kabaddi, with Nepal scheduled to host the Asian Kabaddi Championship. That gives the country the opportunity to welcome some of the strongest women's kabaddi teams in Asia and creates a much bigger international stage for the sport in Nepal.

Nepal's Growing Role in Asian Kabaddi

The decision to host two international events also highlights the growing importance of Nepal within the regional kabaddi landscape. Kabaddi has a strong following in Nepal, and the country's national teams have increasingly been involved in international competition. Hosting major tournaments provides another way to develop that ecosystem not only for players, but also for coaches, officials and the wider kabaddi community. For the younger generation of Nepalese players, having international teams compete in their own country could also provide a unique opportunity to watch high-level kabaddi up close.

U-21 Tournament Could Unearth Future Stars

The November 14-18 tournament could be particularly interesting for talent watchers. Youth international competitions often provide the first major platform for players who could eventually become senior national-team regulars. With Asian kabaddi becoming increasingly competitive, consistent international exposure at the junior level can play an important role in developing technically and tactically stronger players. For Nepal, the home advantage could make the tournament even more meaningful. Its young players will not have to travel abroad to gain international experience. Instead, they will have the opportunity to test themselves against visiting teams in familiar surroundings.

Asian Women's Championship Adds Bigger International Spotlight

The second tournament could bring an even greater level of attention. The Asian Kabaddi Championship, scheduled for February 18-25, 2027, is expected to bring together women's teams from across the continent. That makes it a major opportunity for Nepal's women's team to measure itself against some of Asia's established kabaddi powers. Women's kabaddi has continued to expand internationally, with countries across Asia investing more heavily in their women's programmes. A continental championship in Nepal could therefore become an important event not just for the hosts, but for the wider development of women's kabaddi in the region.

A Busy Six Months for Nepalese Kabaddi

Two international tournaments within a few months could give Nepal's kabaddi community a significant boost. November will belong to the next generation. February will put women's international kabaddi in the spotlight. For the players, it means international competition. For Nepal, it means the opportunity to establish itself as a reliable host for international kabaddi. And for Asian kabaddi, it means another country taking an active role in developing and expanding the sport. If both events go ahead as scheduled, Nepal's 2026-27 kabaddi calendar could become one of the most interesting periods the country's kabaddi community has seen in recent years.