Being in India is itself is adventurous, in the sense that you never really know what to expect. What with the numerous cultures, peoples, languages, belief systems and practices, India throbs with an edge of excitement, ready to catch you unaware all the time. But if you want to up the excitement a few notches, the diverse terrains are also fertile ground for a classic adventure travel in India. Combine the opportunity to test your mental stamina and physical strength with lush, scenic and diverse landscapes, and you have the recipe for an incredible adventure, India style. Take a look at the best and most amazing 10 best places for adventure travel in India.
Rafting in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
With a well-organized local environment for rafting and other water sports, Rishikesh is a great place for an adventure travel in India. The Ganga is turbulent here, and the challenges of taking on the rapids is an attraction for seasoned rafters. The rapids are graded at different levels of difficulties, and companies also organize tours for people with varying competencies in rafting.
Trekking to Singalila National Park, Darjeeling
Situated on the Singalila Ridge in the Darjeeling district, this park preserves the unique flora and fauna of the Himalayan region, including endangered species like the Himalayan Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear, pangolin, and rare birds like the Satyr Trangopan and Blood Pheasant. Small but intensively populated with different species of wildlife and birds, this park is popular among trekkers and nature lovers.
Desert Safari in Rajasthan
With a large part of it occupied by the Thar Desert, Rajasthan is one of the prime tourist places in India. Many companies organize safaris on camel-back, letting you get a feel of the sandy terrain and colorful local culture of music and dance. Most itineraries are comfortable between two to seven days long.
Trekking in Coorg
Coorg lies in the Western Ghats which was recently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The mix of forested areas and ranges like Brahmagiri, Pushpagiri and Kote Betta makes Coorg a wonderful destination for trekking. This destination is especially lush and green during the monsoon months.
Rock-climbing in Purulia and Bankura
Both these destinations in West Bengal have dense and culturally complex tribal settlements and hard, rocky terrain which make them ideal for ecotourism and adventure sports like rock-climbing.
Mountain climbing and trekking in Sikkim
The Himalayan terrain makes the small state of Sikkim a top adventurous destination. Treks to Tsomgo Lake and Guru-Dongmar Lake are common. Organized treks to Pelling are also popular. For mountaineers, Yuksom is a well-known base from which to begin the climb up Mt. Kanchendzonga, the third tallest peak in the world.
Ecotourism activities in Thenmala, Kerala
Photo via – smartkeralaholidays.com
Thenmala has a unique ecosystem with swamp forests and hilly terrain. The entire region has been developed with distinct zones for adventure. From mountain biking to rappelling to gentle treks and walks in Niptica, Thenmala has something for both everyone.
Elephant safari in Jim Corbett National Park
India’s oldest national park, this place in Uttarachanchal is well-known for its opportunities for big cat watchers. Elephant safaris are organized here, besides the popular jeep safaris. Besides the tiger, other animals to watch out for are the sloth bear and leopard.
Rappeling Dudhsagar WaterFalls, Goa
The monsoons are a peak time to go to Dudhsagar WaterFalls, a prime adventure travel place in India. The rocky terrain and waterfall are ideal for various activities like rappelling, rock climbing and trekking, and the green surroundings are an added treat.
Hiking in Arunachal Pradesh
This small north-eastern state has an abundance of natural beauty and rich tribal cultures. It is gradually emerging as an off-beat destination for hikers and trekkers.
Here are a few suggestions to make the most of your adventure travel in India:
- Many companies have begun to organize adventure travel packages in India. Check the credentials to make sure of the safety practices and standards.
- Read reviews and find out about safety arrangements, itineraries etc. before signing up.
- Check local weather conditions at whichever place you are traveling to. Most national parks in India are closed during the monsoons.
- Carry water and stay hydrated with fluids – many parts of India can get quite humid.
