India as an adventure destination
Compilation of natural offerings explored across the country
During 2012–2016, I extensively travelled across India in the search of most exotic natural spots to experience extreme sports and was always surprised by how less they were discovered or had visibility for average audience.
As a general observation, India is blessed with natural wonders across the board (Massive Mountain ranges, Vast coastlines, Forests, Desserts), but infrastructure to fully access them is not quite developed compared to counterparts in developed countries. So takes a bit of push to experience them. And people / orgs promoting these activities are really putting their soul and curating experiences, which is always more gratifying.
Among the ones spotted in the map above - follows a compilation of the select 1st hand experiences to offer a glimpse of what’s out there.
Mountaineering
Given mountain regions spread across the entire country, it’s likely that one can attempt day hikes to mountains few hours away from their city in most regions. But, of course the crown jewel of mountains, Himalayas, is in north-east region of India along the borders with Nepal.
Big mountain, Multi day hikes that I thoroughly enjoyed to recommend:
- Roopkund, Uttrakhand (16k feet)
- Stok Kangri, Ladakh (21k feet)
Motorcycling
Motorcycling along the mountain regions is definitely a must do across the northern mountain regions is an experience.
My favorite circuit attempted:
Manali (Himachal Pradesh) → Leh (Ladakh)→ Pangong Tso (Ladakh).
Skiing
Possibility of Skiing in India is definitely a surprise discovery for most people I have come across, Despite limited access options (Gondola, Ski lifts, Slope maintenance) - massive mountains are worth exploring and training at government subsidized org IISM is available at affordable rates.
My favorite spot is region around Gulmarg (Jammu & Kashmir), covered in deep snow, surrounded by mountains and great local cuisines to explore.
Paragliding
Located around Kamshet, a nicely located hilly town between Mumbai and Pune in Maharashtra, for Paragliding lessons, practicing and more under different conditions, heights and lengths with expert instructors recognized by APPI as well.
Scuba Diving
Best place in India for Diving is Havelock (Andamans), farthest located island of India in Bay of Bengal, with white sands, tropical weather, clear visibility, rich marine life, diverse styles of sites and going in shorts without(!) wetsuits and PADI recognized dive-centers and professional guides.
Kiteboarding
There are few spots that have popped up over years on the Eastern coast of India in the oceans between India and Sri Lanka, lagoons as well as open oceans. Good for starters and advanced kite-boarders in the season.
Couple of IKO recognized instruction schools have popped up as well.
Bungee Jumping
Best view and setup for Bungee is located in Rishikesh (Uttrakhand) and overseen by Kiwi head instructors and running through the year along with recent extension in Goa as well it seems.
Gliding
Located in Hadapsar, near Pune (Maharashtra), is a small air strip where Gliding can be experienced as well as pilot curriculum can be completed.
Rappelling
Few hours distance from Mumbai, around Maharashtra there are several hills & waterfalls which are perfect for day hike locations and some rappelling down through them, organized by local groups and locals often attempt them during the weekends.
Hope this highlights some gems across the country for you to explore and get that adrenaline going! There are tons more hidden locations and organizations for further exotic activities popping around all the time.
Discovered a cool one? Let me know too!
