Wednesday, December 27, 2017
Thinking of adventures, what comes to your mind first? Bungee jumping off the side of a cliff, Heli-skiing in sub-zero temperatures or a breathtaking hot-air balloon safari or white water rafting down some wild rapids?
Today, routine getaways and run-of-the-mill vacations have been replaced by experiences that are more authentic, as travellers are seeking adventures, thrills and a closer relationship with different cultures. The millennial traveller aims to be a part of unique experiences and adventure tourism has therefore been catering to tourists who prefer venturing out into the unknown rather than joining the crowd. Having said that, many of today’s travellers are also not aware that what they aim to find in other countries can be found within India, at a level that they may not find elsewhere.
So check out the top 5 adrenaline-pumping activities you can enjoy in India, with maximum thrill and minimum planning.
If rushing down a mountain, navigating treacherous twists and turns is what you enjoy, then take it a step higher with heli-skiing down one of the numerous mountains of Manali or Gulmarg. With secluded mountaintops and landings at over 10,000 feet, you are guaranteed an adrenaline rush that will get you forever hooked. The option of being flown by helicopter to the top of the mountain will give you a chance to experience spectacular heights and amazing slopes that otherwise wouldn’t be accessible. Definitely one of the most unique experiences you’ll ever have!
Get up close to a magnificent sunrise or sunset with the most romantic adventure possible, as you explore the spectacular forts, hidden palaces, breathtaking terrain and unique sights of Udaipur on a hot-air balloon.
When just a normal vacation isn’t enough, it’s time to go off the beaten track with a whitewater rafting adventure in Rishikesh, one of the most sought-after destinations for the sport. While here, you can have your fill of heart-stopping rapids and an exciting boating experience. Rishikesh also has the highest bungee jumping spot in India, and is the only destination with a fixed platform to dive from.
For a daredevil spirit, there’s nothing more exciting than diving from a height of 10,000 feet in the sky, and when it comes to skydiving, India has it all from tandem to parachuting! So with plenty of excellent ridge soaring and some fantastic scenic skydiving options, take your pick from Deesa in Gujarat, Dhana, Madhya Pradesh, Pondicherry or Mysore for the experience of a lifetime!
A five-day adventure and a 55 km trek, Spiti Valley is definitely not for the faint-hearted. With treacherous mountain paths, sub-zero temperatures and lack of basic necessities, like hot water (or sometimes even water) and adequate lodgings, this adventure will test your spirit like nothing else. On the flip side however, the breathtaking views, gorgeous landscapes and the ability to truly enjoy nature will make this entire journey truly worth it.
For an enthusiastic caver, there can be nothing more satisfying than exploring the insides of the most exciting caves in Meghalaya. With the deepest and longest caves in South Asia, Meghalaya is amongst the world’s top 10 destinations and promises an experience par excellence.
“While many may not be aware, India is a fantastic place for adventure sports and activities, so much so that it also attracts travellers and adventure junkies from outside India,” says Viren Batra, co-founder of Nirvana Travel. “Wherever you may go, there’s something for everyone in every state, making India one of the best places to enjoy vacations with a focus on adventure!”
Tags: Adventure, adventure tourism, gujarat, Gulmarg in J&K, India
