Adventure

Due to India's vast geographical diversity, the country offers a vast array of adventure activities. With the increasing popularity of adventure sports among the Indian population, many old, as well as newly discovered adventure sports, are making an appearance. Covering almost all aspects of nature, India has a list of crazy possibilities when it comes to thrilling activities.

Paragliding in India has been one of the most loved adventure activities as it unleashes the adventurer in you and lets you relish upon numerous views of the surrounding nature ranging from snowcapped hills to vast seaside. The paragliding sessions at places like Nandi Hills and Kamshet will give you a chance to catch the glimpses of the lofty hills of the Western Ghats and the beautiful terrains and topographies. Other than the serenity, the thrill, the rush of adrenaline and the racing heart which one feels here has no comparison. With the combination of high altitude and artificial wings, there is a lot to take in as you soar above. Paragliding is all about elevation and the views which one catches from above, therefore paragliding places in India like Baliman Dara let you enjoy the picturesque views of Sikkim, and Kerala promises you the enchanting viewpoints of shoreline, foliage, valleys and hills.

Some popular paragliding sites in India are –

• Bangalore – Relish the adventure of paragliding in one of the most happening cities in India. Have an authentic experience which prominently takes place in Nandi Hills. For those who have always dreamt of flying and wanted to do something thrilling, then this adventurous sport is the one for you. Jump off the peak and fly freely in the sky and indulge in a sight of heavenly beauty, with a trainer if you opt for tandem paragliding. You can take off from a height of about 4800 ft to cherish the experience of paragliding in this humble abode. This is an experience that is meant to last with you for a lifetime. There are personal trainers as well who will be available to provide their expertise.
• Mahabaleshwar – If you are in Mahabaleshwar and are an adventure fanatic, then paragliding will definitely give you the desired adrenaline boost. When in Mahabaleshwar, then it’s a must that you visit Panchgani, as most of the paragliding activity takes place there. Panchgani has gained a special place in the heart of paragliders. The reason extends from a pleasant climate, clear skies, and mesmerizing views of nature around. When you opt for paragliding near Panchgani, you will find that there are several types of activity available. You can choose as per your comfort level and budget. The best aspect is that you do not need any formal training to take part in this thrill-inducing activity. All you need is the courage to get over your fears. It also offers you the chance to have a 360-degree aerial view of the place.
• Munnar – Explore the lush green tea estates of Munnar via foot. It always is a good idea to lose yourself in the lap of mother nature. But it is less addictive than beholding the beauty of Munnar tea while brazing up in the sky. So, switch your mind to explore Munnar in a new way and cruise over the rainbow clouds above the converted tea bungalows, green meadows, and waterfalls. Grip yourself by the remarkable feeling of paragliding in Munnar at an average elevation of 1,600 m (approx.) from sea level. Hook the beauty of Munnar in an all-new way, let the lush greenery below your feet, and return home with a memory of competing with gravity for a few minutes.
• Gangtok – Indulge in the thrilling experience of paragliding in the Himalayan skies as you oversee the mesmerizing birds eye view of Sikkim Valley. Gliding in the midst of snow-capped peaks with the open blue sky above you and the mystical views of the valleys around is an experience that will not be forgotten easily. Paragliding in Sikkim can be attempted by anyone who is of 14 years of age and above. The entire activity is monitored and is under the supervision of experienced instructors.
• Jammu & Kashmir – One of the newest entries in the list of adventure sports in the state of JJammu and Kashmir is Paragliding. The natural factors like excellent wind condition and landscape of the Kashmir are remarkably suitable for this type of aero sport. Jammu, Sanasar, Kud, Batote and Nathatop are the places in Jammu region best suitable for this adventure sport. Tourists can choose to glide over valleys, mountains or lakes. However, listen to the operators on what would be best on that particular day. Also wear the proper gear and attach the strings tightly to avoid any mishap.
• Manali – The hillside town of Manali is specially known for paragliding activities with its stunning green valleys, stark blue skies, and snowclad peaks. The picture-perfect valley gets a huge influx of visitor every year from across the globe who want to experience paragliding. The valley boasts of idyllic wind conditions for paragliding and has several trainers and operators providing basic training and equipment. Medium flights involve a 15-minutes flight, while long flights can last between 40 minutes to 1 hour. Most visitors opt for Tandem flights where a trained pilot go along with the individual and directs the glider. If you are experienced and have a paragliding license, then you can go for a solo flight as well.
• Mussoorie – Mussoorie is a potential place for the trekkers and adventurous expedition enthusiasts. Lal Tibba is the highest point in Mussoorie up to where you can scale the heights enjoying thrilling views of the underlying valleys. The place is like a base camp for some of the most famous treks in Uttarakhand including the likes of Valley of Flowers and Nag Tibba. Once you are done with your travel up till, the local jeeps are very frequent between the lesser-known villages that are the base camps for your chosen treks. If you wish to reach up to the place directly from the railway station or the bus stand, you can book an auto-rickshaws or a private taxi. The drivers and guides are well versed with the location and whereabouts of even the least explored trek you may choose.
• Yelagiri – Yelagiri is often considered only as a quaint little hill station but what most travelogues fail to observe is that adventurous sports like paragliding in Yelagiri is turning out to be quite the rage. You will find that it is a different experience altogether. Paragliding is easier and less scary than skydiving. Usually, the base for all travelers to Yelagiri is Athanavur. Innumerable people flock down to this quaint hill station for the thrill of adventure. From here they have to travel to the base point of the paragliding tours. Some paragliding packages even include the day and night stay at Athanavur! Your adventure starts the minute you reach the hilltop for the flight.

India has many mountain regions where activities like trekking, hiking and even rock climbing are usually done. The options for treks or hikes can be found in all shapes and sizes, so there’s something for every level, based on how easy or hard the route(climb) is, and also the climate of the location in which the activity is based. For example, when temperatures are too cold – (like in places such as Ladakh or Hampta pass) - the intensity is high and is recommended only for experienced trekkers.

Some popular trekking and hiking routes in India are –

• Chadar Trek, Ladakh – This magnificent 105km long trek lies on the Leh region of Ladakh and is one of the most famous and longest winter treks in the Indian Himalayan region. The Zanskar River in the region freezes during peak winters and makes a pathway for people to walk, known as ‘chadar’ which means ‘sheet’ in English and locals call it ‘Khado Sanglam’. The journey takes off from Leh to the snowbound villages of Zanskar valley and is a hard trek as walking on the frozen river isn’t as easy as it seems. Apart from the frozen Zanskar River and the jaw-dropping frozen Nerak Waterfall that seems frozen in time while suspended in air, the Chadar trek offers several out-of-this-world sights such as majestic glacial meadows, Gurudwara Pathar, Nerak Village, Tilat Sumdo, Tibb Cave, Lingshed, and much more, while you traverse down the trail. The white landscape and the slow life in Zanskar valley will leave their imprints in your mind and heart forever and will leave you boasting about your experience till eternity.
• Goecha La Trek, Sikkim – For those who love a grand and majestic view on their trek, then Goecha La is the perfect trek spot for you. With a panoramic view of the world’s most beautiful and largest mountain, Mt Kanchenjunga. Goecha La earned the popularity among trekkers rapidly and overnight. It was because of the Nepalese Civil War (1996-2006) that the place was shut for trekkers and people were desperately seeking other alternatives for the one. Goecha La is a high mountain pass in Gyalshing district, Sikkim, India in the Himalaya range. The southeast face of Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest mountain, can be viewed from the pass, which is also a base camp for those aspiring to scale the mountain.
• Kuari Pass, Uttarakhand – When the mountains call you must go! No matter if you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, Kuari Pass is the perfect trek spot for you to explore. With its availability around the year, it makes for an easy as well as appropriate climb. One of the distinct features of the Kuari Pass is that it appears different in every season you plan to visit. Every time you are bound to see something much more beautiful. Moreover, the scenery of the Kuari Pass will surely make you go weak on your knees.
• Pin Parvati Pass Trek, Himachal Pradesh – Pin Valley, also known as the Snow Leopard and Ibex country, is an exhilarating challenge for all the experienced and seasoned trek enthusiasts. Wrapped in the lush green forests in the mighty valley, Pin Parvati is a spellbinding trail. Luscious green valleys, stunning waterfalls and exquisite scenery are some of the key factors to convince yourself to undertake a trekking trip to the Pin Parvati Pass. The Pin Parvati Pass was discovered by Sir Louis Dane in August, 1884. It is a mountain pass in Himachal Pradesh, India. Relish the adventure by indulging yourself in one of the most high-altitude treks. Satiate the thrill seeker in you by facing difficult trails on your way the entire trek.
• Rupin Pass, Uttarakhand – The Rupin Pass Trek is a beautiful climb for all those who love to trek. During summers the place offers a comparatively different view as it does during Autumn. Experience the serenity of the beautiful waterfalls along your trek with lush grassland. Unravel the beauty of the mountains with a picturesque view of the trail while you climb. Witness the uniqueness of the Jhaka village which gives an illusion of being hung from the cliff.

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping adventure as we dive into the thrilling world of river rafting in India. With its diverse landscapes and mighty rivers, India offers a plethora of opportunities for white-water enthusiasts. From gentle rapids perfect for beginners to raging torrents that challenge even the most experienced rafters, there's something for everyone. Let's explore some of the top destinations in India for unforgettable river rafting experiences:

• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: Known as the "Rafting Capital of India," Rishikesh is nestled in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas. The holy Ganges River cuts through the picturesque landscape, offering exhilarating rapids suitable for all levels of rafters. Brace yourself for the iconic stretch from Shivpuri to Rishikesh, where you'll navigate rapids like "Roller Coaster," "Golf Course," and "Double Trouble."
• Zanskar River, Ladakh: For an awe-inspiring and remote rafting adventure, head to the Zanskar River in Ladakh. The river flows through towering canyons and stunning landscapes, presenting a challenging and breathtaking experience. The multi-day expedition from Padum to Nimo is renowned for its pristine beauty and thrilling Class III to Class V rapids.
• Tons River, Uttarakhand: If you're seeking an adrenaline rush, Tons River in Uttarakhand is the place to be. It offers some of the most challenging rapids in India, including the infamous "Confluence" and "Tuni Bazaar." Brace yourself for an exhilarating rafting expedition through remote wilderness, steep gorges, and breathtaking landscapes.
• Barapole River, Coorg, Karnataka: Head to the scenic Coorg region in Karnataka to conquer the white-water rapids of the Barapole River. As you navigate through the dense forests and coffee plantations, prepare for heart-pounding rapids like "Morning Coffee," "Wicked Witch," and "Big Bang." The thrilling experience here is enhanced by the stunning natural beauty surrounding the river.
• Kullu-Manali, Himachal Pradesh: The Beas River in Kullu-Manali region of Himachal Pradesh offers an exciting rafting experience amidst the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys. With rapids ranging from easy to moderate, this destination caters to both beginners and seasoned rafters. Don't miss the thrilling stretch from Pirdi to Jhiri, featuring rapids like "Bajogi," "Kathi," and "Pipeline."
• Brahmaputra River, Arunachal Pradesh: Embark on an epic journey along the mighty Brahmaputra River in Arunachal Pradesh. This expedition is not for the faint-hearted, as it takes you through remote regions and challenging rapids such as "Toothfairy" and "Pulsating Pulsi." Along the way, you'll witness breathtaking landscapes, pristine forests, and the unique cultural heritage of the Northeast.

Prepare to take a leap of faith and experience an adrenaline rush like never before as we explore the thrilling world of bungee jumping in India. With its diverse landscapes and adventurous spirit, India offers a few exceptional locations for this heart-pounding activity. Get ready to conquer your fears and experience the exhilarating sensation of free-falling with these top bungee jumping destinations:

• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: Known for its adventure sports, Rishikesh offers a spectacular bungee jumping experience. Jump from a height of 83 meters from a specially designed platform, overlooking the stunning Shivalik Hills and the holy Ganges River. This bungee jumping spot near Rishikesh is a favorite among thrill-seekers.
• Lonavala, Maharashtra: Nestled in the Sahyadri Mountains near Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala offers a thrilling bungee jumping experience. Jump from a height of 45 meters and feel the rush as you plummet towards the lush green surroundings. The picturesque landscape adds to the excitement of this adventure.
• Anjuna, Goa: Known for its vibrant beaches and vibrant nightlife, Goa also offers a thrilling bungee jumping experience. Located at Anjuna Beach, you can take the plunge from a height of 25 meters, surrounded by palm trees and the azure waters of the Arabian Sea. Combine your love for adventure with the laid-back beach vibes of Goa.
• Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh: Experience bungee jumping amidst the scenic beauty of Jagdalpur in Chhattisgarh. The Chitrakote Falls, one of India's widest waterfalls, sets the backdrop for this thrilling activity. Jump from a height of 30 meters and witness the breathtaking cascade of water as you take the plunge.
• Bangalore, Karnataka: The Garden City of India, Bangalore, is home to a fantastic bungee jumping facility. Head to Ozone Adventures, located on the outskirts of the city, and experience the thrill of jumping from a height of 40 meters. The lush greenery and the buzzing energy of Bangalore make it an exciting destination for adventure enthusiasts.

India, a land of diverse landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry, offers a plethora of thrilling adventure experiences that cater to every adventurer's spirit. From the white-water rapids of Rishikesh and Zanskar River to the heart-pounding bungee jumps in Rishikesh and Lonavala, India is a playground for adrenaline junkies. With its vibrant blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, India beckons you to discover a world of unforgettable and exhilarating adventures.