Debapriya Deb
Active Member
Are you bored of the daily grind at your workplace and the monotonous nature of family-life? Do you think that you have had enough of it? Are you desperately looking for an opportunity to ditch the monotony? If yes, then you have a pretty valid reason to go for a much-deserved holiday and indulge in some fun-filled adventurous activities with your partners in crime.
If adventure is what you are looking for, then there is hardly any better alternative than an action-packed beach holiday. Right from scuba diving and snorkeling to parasailing and kayaking, beaches offer you some of the fascinating options when it comes to adventure sports. Not too far behind are those frosty Himalayan retreats that offer various activities on their carpets of snows. Ranging from skiing to trekking and camping - you have a host of mindblowing adventures in store over there. Besides the beaches and snow-capped terrains, India is blessed with quite a few impressive destinations that can be the ideal fit for an adventure-packed vacation with options like wildlife safari, river rafting, overnight trekking, bungee jumping and loads more.
Now the vital question comes - where should you be heading to? India is dotted with hundreds of wonderful destinations - each with its own trademark charm. While some of the places make for excellent honeymoon destinations, there are others that are admired for their scenic beauty. Few places are well suited for a family vacation while a few others are preferred by lone travelers due to their secluded nature. With options aplenty, it is important that you choose your destination carefully and do not end up at the wrong place that fails to do justice to your own 'taste'.
Here's a list of 30 very best Indian Tourist Destinations for Adventure Sports Activities -
30. Candolim
Region: South-West India
State: Goa
District: North Goa
Nearest Major Town: Panjim - 15 KM
Candolim Beach in North Goa is one of the best beach destinations in India for water sports activities. Beginning at Fort Aguada and merging with Calangute beach towards the end, it is one of the longest beaches in the state. With a multitude of thrilling water adventure options available across its vast golden coastline, the Candolim beach has something to offer to every tourist irrespective of their experience level. Right from the primitive Banana Boat rides to beginner-level activities like Kneeboarding to the much tougher Jet Skiing, you can be assured of finding an appropriate ride as per your requirements.
If you would like to indulge in soft water adventures, then try out kneeboarding, which is regarded as a primary stage of learning the balancing act in water. Paddleboarding is an excellent choice for mid-level adventure seekers while hardcore adventurists can opt for the thrilling Jet Skiing.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Banana Boat Ride,
2. Kneeboarding,
3. Wakeboarding,
4. Paddleboarding,
5. Jet Skiing.
Best Season to Travel:
Candolim beach can be visited throughout the year, but avoid the hot summer days to enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
Accommodation Options:
As far as the staying option is concerned, Candolim has a number of beach-side cottages at reasonable prices with good facilities to accommodate the tourists.
29. Churna
Region: Central India
State: Madhya Pradesh
District: Hoshangabad
Nearest Major Town: Sohagpur - 29 KM
Churna is a forested hamlet in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh. Wildlife enthusiasts are attracted to the place for the Satpura National Park - spread across an area of over 520 square KM covered with dense woodlands. Home to a wide variety of wildlife including tiger, leopard, sambar, chital, chinkara, Asiatic bear, black buck, flying squirrel and numerous species of birds, this is a region of rich and diverse biodiversity.
An elephant safari through the core forest area can be a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Jeep Safari is also available to the tourists. You can enjoy river rafting on the gushing waters through the narrow gorges and meandering streams. Churna also has an extensive network of backwaters surrounded by lush green jungles, which offers you the opportunity of canoeing. Jungle camping is another prospect that can pump up your adrenaline high.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Forest Safari
2. Backwater Cruise
3. Canoeing
4. River Rafting
5. Jungle Camping
Best Season to Travel:
The national park remains closed for visitors from the beginning of July till the middle of October - so plan your travel accordingly. From November to March, the weather remains pleasant and that's the ideal time to visit this place.
Accommodation Options:
Churna is not a tourism hub yet, so the staying option is pretty limited. You have a couple of resorts near the backwaters and a few hotels near Raisalpur and Bijakhori village. Madhya Pradesh tourism department conducts jungle camping which allows you to stay in the forest area in tented accommodations.
28. Kufri
Region: North India
State: Himachal Pradesh
District: Shimla
Nearest Major Town: Shimla - 21 KM
Kufri, situated at an altitude of 2743 meters above the sea level in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, is a hill station very popular with adventurists. An ideal summer getaway for the casual tourists, Kufri attracts the adventure buffs mainly during the winter season. Being the oldest skiing slope in the entire Himachal Pradesh, it gets a major chunk of tourists as the snowfall begins in the second half of November.
The annual winter sports festival, held in the month of February every year, draws large number of tourists from all over the world. Skiing is undoubtedly the major crowd puller at Kufri, but it also offers a range of other adventure activities to satisfy the adventure loving souls. Hiking, Camping and Mountain Biking are some of the options that you would have at your disposal at Kufri. Adventure enthusiasts can also try their hands at Horse Riding, Tobogganing and Go-Karting during their stay over here.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Skiing
2. Tobogganing
3. Hiking and Trekking
4. Mountain Biking
5. Go-Karting
6. Horse Riding
Best Season to Travel:
Winter is the ideal season to visit Kufri. Snowfall starts in late November and the place retains its snow cover till March. So if you are to experience a snowy adventure, then book your trip between December and March.
Accommodation Options:
Kufri has no dearth of staying options. Right from luxury resorts to traditional cottages, mid-budget hotels and low-budget dormitories, you can be assured to find an accommodation that suits your pocket well.
27. Singalila Ridge
Region: East India
State: West Bengal
District: Darjeeling
Nearest Major Town: Darjeeling - 49 KM
Want to catch the Mount Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and Lhotse in a single panoramic photo-frame? Then head straight to Singalila, situated in Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Besides offering marvelous views of the Himalayas, the place is considered as one of the most difficult terrains in India for mountain biking. Biking through the uphill and narrow rocky ridge is a real challenge, even for the experienced souls.
Singalila attracts lots of bikers and cyclists with the challenge of completing the treacherous trail that runs from Sandakphu to Singalila for a stretch of 32 KM. While the challenges are immense, the rewards are greatly satisfying. Ask someone who has completed the task successfully and he would tell you what a fascinating ride it was! Apart from mountain biking, Singalila is also a paradise for the trekkers, hikers and rock climbers. Forest camping at night inside the core areas of Singalila National Park is another experience to cherish for a long time. If you are an avid adventurist, then stay assured that Singalila would satisfy your quest for adventure to the best possible extent.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Mountain Biking & Cycling
2. Hiking and Trekking
4. Rock Climbing
5. Forest Safari
6. Jungle Camping
Best Season to Travel:
The place receives high rainfall in the monsoon season. As a result, there can be occasional landslides and road blockages. So except for the monsoon months of July-August, you can plan your Singalila trip during the remainder of the year.
Accommodation Options:
There is a forest guest house within the Singalila National Park and a few budget lodges in close proximity. Home-Stay options are also available. Sandakphu has a number of staying options including posh resorts and luxury cottages. Rimbick village too has decent accommodation facilities.
26. Bir
Region: North India
State: Himachal Pradesh
District: Kangra
Nearest Major Town: Palampur - 29 KM
Set on the backdrop of the Dhauladhar Range of the Himalayas, Bir is a picturesque hill station situated in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Known as the ‘Paragliding Capital of India’, the place is thronged by adventure seekers to experience a thrilling para-gliding ride. The International Paragliding Association rates Bir as the second best site in the world for paragliding, after Lake Como in Italy.
The 'Paragliding Pre World-Cup' festival held every year in the month of October draws adventure loving tourists from India and beyond the borders in huge numbers. Organized by the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Government of Himachal Pradesh, tourists can try their hand at hang gliding and parasailing during the festival.
The lush green surroundings of Bir offer great views of the distant plains and mountain ranges during the flight. While experienced pilots may decide to fly solo, beginners can be accommodated with a skilled instructor in a two-seated glider. This allows the beginner to enjoy the thrill with minimal risk factor - thanks to the presence of an experienced pilot. Moreover, there are ample opportunities for day hikes, river walks and longer treks around the Bir-Billing region. Mountain biking to the remote parts of Tribal Himachal is another exciting prospect to enrich yourself. Go and explore the exciting Bir - the adventure buff in you would not be disappointed, for sure.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Paragliding
2. Hangliding and Parasailing
4. Hiking and Trekking
5. Mountain Biking
Best Season to Travel:
Bright and sunny weather is an essential prerequisite to enjoy paragliding. So plan your travel during March - May and again from October - December when the weather generally remains clear.
Accommodation Options:
Accommodation options are aplenty here. You can be sure about finding a suitable staying option according to your preferences.
25. Dona Paula
Region: South-West India
State: Goa
District: North Goa
Nearest Major Town: Panjim - 7 KM
Calm sea with crystal clear blue waters, Dona Paula beach is a lovely spot where you can see rivers Mandovi and Zuari merging with the Arabian Sea. In terms of scenic beauty, there aren't too many beaches in Goa that can give Dona Paula a run for its money. Not surprisingly, many Bollywood movies have been shot here, with the most recent one being the Ajay Devgan starred Singham. Not to forget the superb views of the sunset from the Dona Paula Bay - which is fully worth all your money spent.
The silver sandy beach at Dona Paula offers a host of water sports activities for the adventure loving tourists. It is considered as one of the very best in the country when it comes to windsurfing. It is an extremely pulsating and adrenaline pumping experience that you can't afford to miss. Apart from that, you can also indulge in Water Scootering, Jet Skiing, Parasailing, Yachting and Speed Boat Rides. You can even try your hands at Harpoon Fishing. Kayaking on the estuary of Mandovi and Zuari rivers can be yet another refreshing experience. If you are not a teetotaler, then don't miss out on tasting feni (Feni is made from cashews) and port wine - two homogeneous Goan liquor specialities available at the beach-side shacks over here.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Windsurfing
2. Parasailing
4. Water Scooter and Speedboat Ride
5. Jet Skiing
6. Kayaking
7. Harpoon Fishing
Best Season to Travel:
Avoid the hot summer and unpredictable monsoon days. September to April can be the perfect time to enjoy the water sports activities.
Accommodation Options:
Situated just 7 KM away from the Panjim city, you won't have an issue in finding an accommodation of your choice. From beach-side cottages to luxury resorts and everything in between, you have a wide range of staying options near the Dona Paula beach.
24. Kamshet
Region: West India
State: Maharashtra
District: North Goa
Nearest Major Town: Lonavala - 12 KM
Perched at an elevation of 2200 feet above the sea level, Kamshet is a hill station in the Konkan region of Western Ghats mountain ranges. This Maharashtrian hill station offers a seamless blend of adventure and serenity. The natural aroma of Kamshet decorated with lush green forest cover, tantalizing viewpoints and gorgeous waterfalls is second to none. At the same time, it also provides lots of adventure opportunities for the adrenaline junkies.
Paragliding is undoubtedly the most popular adventure aspect at Kamshet. It has one of the best paragliding facilities in India with world-class safety measures. It's an unforgettable experience to soar over the lush green valleys on the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. If you are an ardent paraglider looking for some challenging flying experience, then Kamshet is the place to do so.
Kamshet is not far behind in popularity when it comes to trekking. Trekking to the Tower Hills and the Kondeshwar Cliff can be a rewarding experience. Overnight camping can be another great adventure prospect at Kamshet. Kondeshwar Cliff and Pawna Lake can serve as an excellent camping site. Pawna Lake also offers you the opportunity to indulge in angling and fishing activities.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Paragliding
2. Trekking and Hiking
3. Camping
4. Angling and Fishing
Best Season to Travel:
Although Kamshet can be visited throughout the year, avid paragliders should not plan for the trip during the monsoon days. The place receives heavy downpour in the months of July and August, during which paragliding activities are suspended due to safety concerns.
Accommodation Options:
Decent amount of staying options are available at Kamshet. However, considering the popularity of the place among the Mumbaikars and Puneites, it is advisable to book your accommodation in advance.
23. Rishikesh
Region: North India
State: Uttarakhand
District: Dehradun
Nearest Major Town: Rishikesh - 0 KM
Set on the foothills of the Shivalik range of Greater Himalayas, Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is a great choice as an adventure destination, besides its immense spiritual significance. It's a place where peace can be felt, spiritualism can be experienced, serenity can be relished, thrills can be enjoyed and memories can be cherished at the same time.
For adventure enthusiasts, a plethora of exciting activities awaits you at Rishikesh. An ideal spot for white water rafting and camping on the riverside, Rishikesh is steadily becoming a preferred destination for adventure buffs from the Northern parts of India. It can be a tour of thrills and enjoyment amid the tranquility and gushing sounds of crystal clear waters. Rafting down the Grade 3 and Grade 4 rapids of Ganga can be tricky at times, but it would surely get your adrenaline pumping and make your rafting experience a memorable one.
Kayaking in the rough waters of River Ganga can be a real test of your physical stamina. It has attained wide-spread admiration among the adventure freaks from all over the globe. Cliff Jumping from a height of 20 to 35 feets into the river waters is another exciting prospect that can give you spine-chilling goose bumps. Rappelling is another fantastic action-packed adventure you can experience during your trip to Rishikesh.
The mother of all adventure activities, however, is Bungee Jumping. This is not for the faint-hearted souls as you need to dive from an altitude of over 120 to 150 feet. For those who want to fly high in the sky, there is Flying Fox to try your hands at. You can also savor the experience of Mountain Biking through the scenic and charming terrains around Rishikesh. In short, Rishikesh will provide you with a wholesome adventure experience to treasure for the rest of your life.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. River Rafting
2. Kayaking
3. Cliff Jumping
4. Bungee Jumping
5. Rappelling
6. Flying Fox
7. Mountain Biking
Best Season to Travel:
Monsoon brings the chances of blocked roads due to landslides. Other than that, Rishikesh can be visited throughout the year.
Accommodation Options:
Rishikesh is dotted with lots of economic lodges, mid-budget hotels and luxury resorts. Finding a suitable accommodation would not be an issue here.
22. Devbagh
Region: South India
State: Karnataka
District: Uttara Kannada
Nearest Major Town: Karwar - 6 KM
Situated off Karwar in the coastal Karnataka, Devbagh is a destination for the quintessential adventure freaks. It's a place where the 4 S' - Sea, Sun, Sand and Surf - make for a wonderful fun-filled vacation. Devbagh opens a world of serenity where the sea washes all your worries away and takes your spirits to an unprecedented high. There’s snorkeling, speed boat cruises, banana boat rides and para-sailing to pump up your adrenaline level.
The crystal clear waters at Devbagh beach is a boon for diving and snorkeling. You can explore beautiful coral reefs, jelly fish, zebra fish, eel, turtles, and other exotic marine species underwater. Another thrilling activity that you can indulge in is parasailing. That's not all though, Surfing along the calm coast-line can be an enthralling experience. Banana boat ride can bring you lots of funny moments. Cruise up the River Kali on a Kayak or speedboat from its point of confluence with the Arabian sea and you will be rewarded by the sight of frolicking dolphins. Backwater cruising on a rowing boat or a country boat can be equally charming. The mangrove thickets along the Kali backwaters are a good opportunity for bird sightings. Last but not the least, avid trekkers would love to explore the forest trails in the adjacent islets of Oyster Rock and Kurumgad. If you love camping out in the open, then these islets would serve as excellent camping sites.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
2. Surfing
3. Parasailing
4. Speed Boat Ride
5. Banana Boat Ride
6. Backwater Cruise and Kayaking
7. Trekking and Camping
Best Season to Travel:
This is a round the year tourism hub which can be visited at any time. Do pack your rain gears if you are planning for a monsoon trip.
Accommodation Options:
Devbagh has a few beach resorts and cottages. You can even stay at Karwar and explore the place by taking a ferry ride from the Sadashivgad Jetty. Karwar has lots of hotels to choose from.
21. Cherrapunji
Region: North East India
State: Meghalaya
District: East Khasi Hills
Nearest Major Town: Cherrapunji - 0 KM
Cherrapunji in Meghalaya is a stunning hill station perched at an altitude of over 4500 above the sea level. Nestled between the breath-taking landscapes of Khasi and Jayantia Hills, the place not only offers enchanting scenic vistas but also has the elements to serve the adventurists well. Trekking, river canoeing, angling and outdoor camping are the primary activities that lure the daredevil souls to this remote North Eastern corner of India.
The most popular trekking route is the one that leads you to the Living Root bridge in Nongriat village. You will be greeted with stunning natural scenery during this 8 KM long trekking route. The 14 KM long downstream stretch from Nongthymmai to Mynteng on Mongpong river is famous for river rafting and canoeing. The route offers a number of tricky rapids and steep drops, so you can be assured of some adrenaline pumping experience.
Adventure Caving at the Mawmluh Cave is a unique experience at Cherrapunji. Covered in complete darkness, it can be a thrilling experience to explore the natural rock formations inside this 4.5 KM long cave shelter. Apart from all these adventure prospects, you can also experience rock climbing, angling and forest camping during your tour to Cherrapunji.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. River Canoeing
2. Adventure Caving
3. Angling
4. Trekking
5. Rock Climbing
6. Outdoor Camping and Campfire
Best Season to Travel:
The best time to visit Cherrapunji is the winter season. Summer days can also be a good option, but avoid the monsoon season at any cost. Continuous downpour for 7-10 days are pretty common during the rainy season and it can pretty much spoil your outdoor activities.
Accommodation Options:
There are quite a few staying options, but do not expect lavish luxury at Cherrapunji. The town has only a couple of luxury resorts - which has to be booked well in advance. Apart from that, the Government operated Tourist Guest House is your best bet for a comfortable stay. Most of the private lodges are pretty economic in nature and offer basic accommodation only.
(To Be Continued)
If adventure is what you are looking for, then there is hardly any better alternative than an action-packed beach holiday. Right from scuba diving and snorkeling to parasailing and kayaking, beaches offer you some of the fascinating options when it comes to adventure sports. Not too far behind are those frosty Himalayan retreats that offer various activities on their carpets of snows. Ranging from skiing to trekking and camping - you have a host of mindblowing adventures in store over there. Besides the beaches and snow-capped terrains, India is blessed with quite a few impressive destinations that can be the ideal fit for an adventure-packed vacation with options like wildlife safari, river rafting, overnight trekking, bungee jumping and loads more.
Now the vital question comes - where should you be heading to? India is dotted with hundreds of wonderful destinations - each with its own trademark charm. While some of the places make for excellent honeymoon destinations, there are others that are admired for their scenic beauty. Few places are well suited for a family vacation while a few others are preferred by lone travelers due to their secluded nature. With options aplenty, it is important that you choose your destination carefully and do not end up at the wrong place that fails to do justice to your own 'taste'.
Here's a list of 30 very best Indian Tourist Destinations for Adventure Sports Activities -
30. Candolim
Region: South-West India
State: Goa
District: North Goa
Nearest Major Town: Panjim - 15 KM
Candolim Beach in North Goa is one of the best beach destinations in India for water sports activities. Beginning at Fort Aguada and merging with Calangute beach towards the end, it is one of the longest beaches in the state. With a multitude of thrilling water adventure options available across its vast golden coastline, the Candolim beach has something to offer to every tourist irrespective of their experience level. Right from the primitive Banana Boat rides to beginner-level activities like Kneeboarding to the much tougher Jet Skiing, you can be assured of finding an appropriate ride as per your requirements.
If you would like to indulge in soft water adventures, then try out kneeboarding, which is regarded as a primary stage of learning the balancing act in water. Paddleboarding is an excellent choice for mid-level adventure seekers while hardcore adventurists can opt for the thrilling Jet Skiing.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Banana Boat Ride,
2. Kneeboarding,
3. Wakeboarding,
4. Paddleboarding,
5. Jet Skiing.
Best Season to Travel:
Candolim beach can be visited throughout the year, but avoid the hot summer days to enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
Accommodation Options:
As far as the staying option is concerned, Candolim has a number of beach-side cottages at reasonable prices with good facilities to accommodate the tourists.
29. Churna
Region: Central India
State: Madhya Pradesh
District: Hoshangabad
Nearest Major Town: Sohagpur - 29 KM
Churna is a forested hamlet in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh. Wildlife enthusiasts are attracted to the place for the Satpura National Park - spread across an area of over 520 square KM covered with dense woodlands. Home to a wide variety of wildlife including tiger, leopard, sambar, chital, chinkara, Asiatic bear, black buck, flying squirrel and numerous species of birds, this is a region of rich and diverse biodiversity.
An elephant safari through the core forest area can be a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Jeep Safari is also available to the tourists. You can enjoy river rafting on the gushing waters through the narrow gorges and meandering streams. Churna also has an extensive network of backwaters surrounded by lush green jungles, which offers you the opportunity of canoeing. Jungle camping is another prospect that can pump up your adrenaline high.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Forest Safari
2. Backwater Cruise
3. Canoeing
4. River Rafting
5. Jungle Camping
Best Season to Travel:
The national park remains closed for visitors from the beginning of July till the middle of October - so plan your travel accordingly. From November to March, the weather remains pleasant and that's the ideal time to visit this place.
Accommodation Options:
Churna is not a tourism hub yet, so the staying option is pretty limited. You have a couple of resorts near the backwaters and a few hotels near Raisalpur and Bijakhori village. Madhya Pradesh tourism department conducts jungle camping which allows you to stay in the forest area in tented accommodations.
28. Kufri
Region: North India
State: Himachal Pradesh
District: Shimla
Nearest Major Town: Shimla - 21 KM
Kufri, situated at an altitude of 2743 meters above the sea level in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, is a hill station very popular with adventurists. An ideal summer getaway for the casual tourists, Kufri attracts the adventure buffs mainly during the winter season. Being the oldest skiing slope in the entire Himachal Pradesh, it gets a major chunk of tourists as the snowfall begins in the second half of November.
The annual winter sports festival, held in the month of February every year, draws large number of tourists from all over the world. Skiing is undoubtedly the major crowd puller at Kufri, but it also offers a range of other adventure activities to satisfy the adventure loving souls. Hiking, Camping and Mountain Biking are some of the options that you would have at your disposal at Kufri. Adventure enthusiasts can also try their hands at Horse Riding, Tobogganing and Go-Karting during their stay over here.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Skiing
2. Tobogganing
3. Hiking and Trekking
4. Mountain Biking
5. Go-Karting
6. Horse Riding
Best Season to Travel:
Winter is the ideal season to visit Kufri. Snowfall starts in late November and the place retains its snow cover till March. So if you are to experience a snowy adventure, then book your trip between December and March.
Accommodation Options:
Kufri has no dearth of staying options. Right from luxury resorts to traditional cottages, mid-budget hotels and low-budget dormitories, you can be assured to find an accommodation that suits your pocket well.
27. Singalila Ridge
Region: East India
State: West Bengal
District: Darjeeling
Nearest Major Town: Darjeeling - 49 KM
Want to catch the Mount Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and Lhotse in a single panoramic photo-frame? Then head straight to Singalila, situated in Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Besides offering marvelous views of the Himalayas, the place is considered as one of the most difficult terrains in India for mountain biking. Biking through the uphill and narrow rocky ridge is a real challenge, even for the experienced souls.
Singalila attracts lots of bikers and cyclists with the challenge of completing the treacherous trail that runs from Sandakphu to Singalila for a stretch of 32 KM. While the challenges are immense, the rewards are greatly satisfying. Ask someone who has completed the task successfully and he would tell you what a fascinating ride it was! Apart from mountain biking, Singalila is also a paradise for the trekkers, hikers and rock climbers. Forest camping at night inside the core areas of Singalila National Park is another experience to cherish for a long time. If you are an avid adventurist, then stay assured that Singalila would satisfy your quest for adventure to the best possible extent.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Mountain Biking & Cycling
2. Hiking and Trekking
4. Rock Climbing
5. Forest Safari
6. Jungle Camping
Best Season to Travel:
The place receives high rainfall in the monsoon season. As a result, there can be occasional landslides and road blockages. So except for the monsoon months of July-August, you can plan your Singalila trip during the remainder of the year.
Accommodation Options:
There is a forest guest house within the Singalila National Park and a few budget lodges in close proximity. Home-Stay options are also available. Sandakphu has a number of staying options including posh resorts and luxury cottages. Rimbick village too has decent accommodation facilities.
26. Bir
Region: North India
State: Himachal Pradesh
District: Kangra
Nearest Major Town: Palampur - 29 KM
Set on the backdrop of the Dhauladhar Range of the Himalayas, Bir is a picturesque hill station situated in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Known as the ‘Paragliding Capital of India’, the place is thronged by adventure seekers to experience a thrilling para-gliding ride. The International Paragliding Association rates Bir as the second best site in the world for paragliding, after Lake Como in Italy.
The 'Paragliding Pre World-Cup' festival held every year in the month of October draws adventure loving tourists from India and beyond the borders in huge numbers. Organized by the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Government of Himachal Pradesh, tourists can try their hand at hang gliding and parasailing during the festival.
The lush green surroundings of Bir offer great views of the distant plains and mountain ranges during the flight. While experienced pilots may decide to fly solo, beginners can be accommodated with a skilled instructor in a two-seated glider. This allows the beginner to enjoy the thrill with minimal risk factor - thanks to the presence of an experienced pilot. Moreover, there are ample opportunities for day hikes, river walks and longer treks around the Bir-Billing region. Mountain biking to the remote parts of Tribal Himachal is another exciting prospect to enrich yourself. Go and explore the exciting Bir - the adventure buff in you would not be disappointed, for sure.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Paragliding
2. Hangliding and Parasailing
4. Hiking and Trekking
5. Mountain Biking
Best Season to Travel:
Bright and sunny weather is an essential prerequisite to enjoy paragliding. So plan your travel during March - May and again from October - December when the weather generally remains clear.
Accommodation Options:
Accommodation options are aplenty here. You can be sure about finding a suitable staying option according to your preferences.
25. Dona Paula
Region: South-West India
State: Goa
District: North Goa
Nearest Major Town: Panjim - 7 KM
Calm sea with crystal clear blue waters, Dona Paula beach is a lovely spot where you can see rivers Mandovi and Zuari merging with the Arabian Sea. In terms of scenic beauty, there aren't too many beaches in Goa that can give Dona Paula a run for its money. Not surprisingly, many Bollywood movies have been shot here, with the most recent one being the Ajay Devgan starred Singham. Not to forget the superb views of the sunset from the Dona Paula Bay - which is fully worth all your money spent.
The silver sandy beach at Dona Paula offers a host of water sports activities for the adventure loving tourists. It is considered as one of the very best in the country when it comes to windsurfing. It is an extremely pulsating and adrenaline pumping experience that you can't afford to miss. Apart from that, you can also indulge in Water Scootering, Jet Skiing, Parasailing, Yachting and Speed Boat Rides. You can even try your hands at Harpoon Fishing. Kayaking on the estuary of Mandovi and Zuari rivers can be yet another refreshing experience. If you are not a teetotaler, then don't miss out on tasting feni (Feni is made from cashews) and port wine - two homogeneous Goan liquor specialities available at the beach-side shacks over here.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Windsurfing
2. Parasailing
4. Water Scooter and Speedboat Ride
5. Jet Skiing
6. Kayaking
7. Harpoon Fishing
Best Season to Travel:
Avoid the hot summer and unpredictable monsoon days. September to April can be the perfect time to enjoy the water sports activities.
Accommodation Options:
Situated just 7 KM away from the Panjim city, you won't have an issue in finding an accommodation of your choice. From beach-side cottages to luxury resorts and everything in between, you have a wide range of staying options near the Dona Paula beach.
24. Kamshet
Region: West India
State: Maharashtra
District: North Goa
Nearest Major Town: Lonavala - 12 KM
Perched at an elevation of 2200 feet above the sea level, Kamshet is a hill station in the Konkan region of Western Ghats mountain ranges. This Maharashtrian hill station offers a seamless blend of adventure and serenity. The natural aroma of Kamshet decorated with lush green forest cover, tantalizing viewpoints and gorgeous waterfalls is second to none. At the same time, it also provides lots of adventure opportunities for the adrenaline junkies.
Paragliding is undoubtedly the most popular adventure aspect at Kamshet. It has one of the best paragliding facilities in India with world-class safety measures. It's an unforgettable experience to soar over the lush green valleys on the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. If you are an ardent paraglider looking for some challenging flying experience, then Kamshet is the place to do so.
Kamshet is not far behind in popularity when it comes to trekking. Trekking to the Tower Hills and the Kondeshwar Cliff can be a rewarding experience. Overnight camping can be another great adventure prospect at Kamshet. Kondeshwar Cliff and Pawna Lake can serve as an excellent camping site. Pawna Lake also offers you the opportunity to indulge in angling and fishing activities.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Paragliding
2. Trekking and Hiking
3. Camping
4. Angling and Fishing
Best Season to Travel:
Although Kamshet can be visited throughout the year, avid paragliders should not plan for the trip during the monsoon days. The place receives heavy downpour in the months of July and August, during which paragliding activities are suspended due to safety concerns.
Accommodation Options:
Decent amount of staying options are available at Kamshet. However, considering the popularity of the place among the Mumbaikars and Puneites, it is advisable to book your accommodation in advance.
23. Rishikesh
Region: North India
State: Uttarakhand
District: Dehradun
Nearest Major Town: Rishikesh - 0 KM
Set on the foothills of the Shivalik range of Greater Himalayas, Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is a great choice as an adventure destination, besides its immense spiritual significance. It's a place where peace can be felt, spiritualism can be experienced, serenity can be relished, thrills can be enjoyed and memories can be cherished at the same time.
For adventure enthusiasts, a plethora of exciting activities awaits you at Rishikesh. An ideal spot for white water rafting and camping on the riverside, Rishikesh is steadily becoming a preferred destination for adventure buffs from the Northern parts of India. It can be a tour of thrills and enjoyment amid the tranquility and gushing sounds of crystal clear waters. Rafting down the Grade 3 and Grade 4 rapids of Ganga can be tricky at times, but it would surely get your adrenaline pumping and make your rafting experience a memorable one.
Kayaking in the rough waters of River Ganga can be a real test of your physical stamina. It has attained wide-spread admiration among the adventure freaks from all over the globe. Cliff Jumping from a height of 20 to 35 feets into the river waters is another exciting prospect that can give you spine-chilling goose bumps. Rappelling is another fantastic action-packed adventure you can experience during your trip to Rishikesh.
The mother of all adventure activities, however, is Bungee Jumping. This is not for the faint-hearted souls as you need to dive from an altitude of over 120 to 150 feet. For those who want to fly high in the sky, there is Flying Fox to try your hands at. You can also savor the experience of Mountain Biking through the scenic and charming terrains around Rishikesh. In short, Rishikesh will provide you with a wholesome adventure experience to treasure for the rest of your life.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. River Rafting
2. Kayaking
3. Cliff Jumping
4. Bungee Jumping
5. Rappelling
6. Flying Fox
7. Mountain Biking
Best Season to Travel:
Monsoon brings the chances of blocked roads due to landslides. Other than that, Rishikesh can be visited throughout the year.
Accommodation Options:
Rishikesh is dotted with lots of economic lodges, mid-budget hotels and luxury resorts. Finding a suitable accommodation would not be an issue here.
22. Devbagh
Region: South India
State: Karnataka
District: Uttara Kannada
Nearest Major Town: Karwar - 6 KM
Situated off Karwar in the coastal Karnataka, Devbagh is a destination for the quintessential adventure freaks. It's a place where the 4 S' - Sea, Sun, Sand and Surf - make for a wonderful fun-filled vacation. Devbagh opens a world of serenity where the sea washes all your worries away and takes your spirits to an unprecedented high. There’s snorkeling, speed boat cruises, banana boat rides and para-sailing to pump up your adrenaline level.
The crystal clear waters at Devbagh beach is a boon for diving and snorkeling. You can explore beautiful coral reefs, jelly fish, zebra fish, eel, turtles, and other exotic marine species underwater. Another thrilling activity that you can indulge in is parasailing. That's not all though, Surfing along the calm coast-line can be an enthralling experience. Banana boat ride can bring you lots of funny moments. Cruise up the River Kali on a Kayak or speedboat from its point of confluence with the Arabian sea and you will be rewarded by the sight of frolicking dolphins. Backwater cruising on a rowing boat or a country boat can be equally charming. The mangrove thickets along the Kali backwaters are a good opportunity for bird sightings. Last but not the least, avid trekkers would love to explore the forest trails in the adjacent islets of Oyster Rock and Kurumgad. If you love camping out in the open, then these islets would serve as excellent camping sites.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
2. Surfing
3. Parasailing
4. Speed Boat Ride
5. Banana Boat Ride
6. Backwater Cruise and Kayaking
7. Trekking and Camping
Best Season to Travel:
This is a round the year tourism hub which can be visited at any time. Do pack your rain gears if you are planning for a monsoon trip.
Accommodation Options:
Devbagh has a few beach resorts and cottages. You can even stay at Karwar and explore the place by taking a ferry ride from the Sadashivgad Jetty. Karwar has lots of hotels to choose from.
21. Cherrapunji
Region: North East India
State: Meghalaya
District: East Khasi Hills
Nearest Major Town: Cherrapunji - 0 KM
Cherrapunji in Meghalaya is a stunning hill station perched at an altitude of over 4500 above the sea level. Nestled between the breath-taking landscapes of Khasi and Jayantia Hills, the place not only offers enchanting scenic vistas but also has the elements to serve the adventurists well. Trekking, river canoeing, angling and outdoor camping are the primary activities that lure the daredevil souls to this remote North Eastern corner of India.
The most popular trekking route is the one that leads you to the Living Root bridge in Nongriat village. You will be greeted with stunning natural scenery during this 8 KM long trekking route. The 14 KM long downstream stretch from Nongthymmai to Mynteng on Mongpong river is famous for river rafting and canoeing. The route offers a number of tricky rapids and steep drops, so you can be assured of some adrenaline pumping experience.
Adventure Caving at the Mawmluh Cave is a unique experience at Cherrapunji. Covered in complete darkness, it can be a thrilling experience to explore the natural rock formations inside this 4.5 KM long cave shelter. Apart from all these adventure prospects, you can also experience rock climbing, angling and forest camping during your tour to Cherrapunji.
Available Adventure Activities:
1. River Canoeing
2. Adventure Caving
3. Angling
4. Trekking
5. Rock Climbing
6. Outdoor Camping and Campfire
Best Season to Travel:
The best time to visit Cherrapunji is the winter season. Summer days can also be a good option, but avoid the monsoon season at any cost. Continuous downpour for 7-10 days are pretty common during the rainy season and it can pretty much spoil your outdoor activities.
Accommodation Options:
There are quite a few staying options, but do not expect lavish luxury at Cherrapunji. The town has only a couple of luxury resorts - which has to be booked well in advance. Apart from that, the Government operated Tourist Guest House is your best bet for a comfortable stay. Most of the private lodges are pretty economic in nature and offer basic accommodation only.
(To Be Continued)