India may be the perfect destination for a pampering spa trip, a luxurious train tour, or a laid back beach vacation. But don’t forget that the Subcontinent is also a destination for adrenaline junkies. From white water rafting along choppy Himalayan waters to rock climbing in the Aravalli Range, there’s no shortage of thrilling adventure sports in India. Here’s where to get your blood pumping.
White Water Rafting in Rishikesh
In Rishikesh, the churning rapids of the Ganges are perfect for white water rafting © alexsl/iStock
In the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, the Ganges flows down from the mountains to the plains below. No wonder its waters are choppy and fast moving along this stretch – and for visitors to the sacred city of Rishikesh, white water rafting is the perfect way to harness those currents. A number of tour operators offer rafting experiences, which range from the placid to the intense.
Zip Lining in Jodhpur
A zip line adventure is one of the best ways to take advantage of Jodhpur’s incredible scenery © KittyKaht/Flickr
When it comes to adventure sports in India, it’s hard to have a more memorable experience than the Flying Fox zip line in Jodhpur – it helps, after all, that the zip tour comprises more than 1,150 meters of flight, all with breathtaking views of the iconic Mehrangarh Fort.
Rock Climbing in the Aravalli Range
One of the world’s oldest mountain ranges, the Aravalli Range is also ideal for climbers © Daniel Bhim-Rao/iStock
When it comes to memorable rock climbing locations, it’s hard to do better than the Aravalli Range. Stretching from Delhi through Rajasthan and into Gujarat, it’s one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges, and offers incredible views (and opportunities to scale the granite heights). Follow adrenaline seekers to popular climbing sites at Dhauj, Damdama, and Nuh in Haryana.
Hot Air Ballooning in Pushkar
The best way to drink in Rajasthani views? By hot air balloon, of course © Bijoliane/Flickr
The desert city of Pushkar in Rajasthan isn’t only famous for its annual Camel Fair (though that earns it plenty of international acclaim) – it’s also a destination for hot air ballooning. During the multi-hour journeys, visitors will be able to drink in the views, including the shining Pushkar Lake.
Mountain Biking and Motorcycling in Ladakh
Hilly Ladakh draws adventurous travelers with its rugged scenery © kiramogilenskikh/iStock
There’s nothing like biking through the Himalayas to feel the burn – or enjoy the scenery. It’s no surprise, then, that Ladakh in Kashmir is a magnet for mountain bikers and motorcyclists. Whether they take to the Khardungla Pass – the world’s highest motorable road – or simply thread through the region’s many stunning trails, it’s bound to be the ride of a lifetime.
Scuba Diving in the Andaman Islands
The Andaman Islands rival the Caribbean for their pristine scuba diving conditions © Louise Ireland/Flickr
Glance quickly at the Andaman Islands and you could easily think you were in the Caribbean – those brilliant white beaches, those turquoise waters, those tropical palm trees waving in the breeze! This chain of islands also happens to be home to some of the best scuba diving in the region. Strap on those flippers and discover rainbow-colored fish, coral reefs, and other submarine scenes.
Surfing in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is a popular pilgrimmage point for daring surfers © Wings and Petals/Flickr
Looking to hang ten on your next trip to India? Make your way to Tamil Nadu in the South, which is home to some of the Subcontinent’s best-known surfing spots. Follow the pros to areas like Mahabalipuram and Covelong – and if you’re in more of a spectatorial frame of mind, look out for the Covelong Point Classic Surf, Music, and Yoga Festival for some jaw-dropping surf performances, on the water and off.
