7 Most Adventurous Cities In India To Visit For A Thrilling Vacation

If you’re a person who loves all sorts of adventures under the sun and are looking for Indian cities where you can indulge, then you’ve come to the right place. India has a plethora of cities that allow you to let your hair down and have an adrenaline-rushing good time. From kayaking to trekking, India’s diverse terrain permits you to try all kinds of adventure activities. Want to know more? Continue reading our article on the 7 most adventurous cities in India to visit for a thrilling vacation.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh is regarded as one of India’s holiest cities. After all, it has the river Ganges flowing through it. This lively city is located on the Shivalik Range and is popularly known as a place for yoga and meditation. Being on the banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh opens up a whole lot of opportunities for adventure sports. From kayaking to bungee jumping, this holy city has much to explore, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some popular activities that you should try out.

• River Rafting: Many tourists from far and near come to indulge in this adrenaline-pumping water sport and it is the more popular one in Rishikesh. River rafting is mainly done on the river Ganges and the average rafting price is around INR 600.

• Jungle Camping: If you’re looking for something adventurous, but still want something away from crowds, then you should try jungle camping. These camps are just a few meters away from the Ganges and they are a great place to connect with nature. The average cost of jungle camping starts at around INR 800.

• Bungee Jumping: If you want to get a bit closer to Rishikesh’s breathtaking valleys, then you can try this adventure sport. It’s enthralling and trying this out will indeed be a memorable experience. In terms of where to go, Mohanchatti by Jumpin Heights is a good option. This adventure zone has a plethora of activities suited for everyone and has conducted over 100,000 jumps in Rishikesh. Prices start at INR 3,500 per person.

• Kayaking: Kayaking on the Ganges is one of the most surreal experiences. There’s an annual kayaking festival held in this city that kayaking enthusiasts from all over the country come to participate in. The main five events that take place are Sprint, Giant Slalom, Boater Cross, Mass Boater Cross, and the Rafting Championship. Searching for something competitive? Then you should register for this event. If not, kayaking opportunities are available even after the festival is done.

Also read:8 Fun Treks In Northeast India

Gangtok

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is one of India’s most beautiful places to vacay in the northeastern belt. Its scenic beauty and stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga are enough to make you fall in love with this city. This beautiful city is located in the higher levels of the Himalayan range and it comes with mild year-round winter weather, making sightseeing and other outdoor activities favorable.

Being one of India’s most prominent Indian cities for tourism, Gangtok has tons of hair-raising adventure activities. And if you are looking for a vacation that’s filled with amazing views and adventure, then you should definitely head here.

• River Rafting: River rafting is a celebrated activity in Gangtok and it’s because of the Teesta River that flows through. Rafting in the Teesta requires a certain amount of skill due to the many twists and turns it has. Although, there are calmer and easier stretches of the river you can try if you are just a beginner at rafting. Many river rafting professional organizations are available, so you can just book with them and get started. River rafting fares are between INR 3,500 to INR 5,000 per head.

• Paragliding: Paragliding is an exciting activity that you should try out if you haven't yet. Feeling the gush of wind in your hair while gazing at Gangtok’s enchanting landscapes below is a surreal experience that you need to experience at least once! Fortunately enough, Gangtok has ample places to paraglide. Baliman Dara and Bulbuley Dara are some famous spots from where you can start your paragliding escapades in Gangtok; fees start at INR 1,000 per person.

• Mountain Biking: Gangtok’s mountains are blessed with a vast range of biking trails. You will experience the true spirit of Gangtok by biking through its sleepy villages, lavish green slopes, and rocky terrain.

Shimla

When you think about Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, you think about how wonderful of a hill station it is for family vacations and honeymoons. Added to that, Shimla’s opulent architecture and historic appeal might pop into your mind as well. But, if you are looking for a sense of adventure, Shimla offers its best. So if you ever feel the need to take a break from visiting temples, museums, and other churches, try getting in touch with Shimla’s adventurous side.

• River Rafting: For all our extreme sports enthusiasts, river rafting in Shimla should be done at least once. The most advanced and treacherous route is on the Sutlej River as the pace of its flow adds that extra challenge to balancing the raft. September to June would be a good time to do some river rafting in Shimla since the climate is favorable and there’s enough speed to the river to enjoy the sport. Prices start at INR 700 per head for a raft in Shimla.

• Trekking: Vacationing in Shimla without going on a trek is just a pure abomination. Shimla is located in the beautiful ranges of the Himalayas and many trekking trails exist, varying in difficulty. If you want something easy, the Tara Devi Trail will be good for you. It's narrow and mostly steep, but once you make it on top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Shimla. For something more challenging, you can choose the Jakhoo Hill trail as it has to be passed through dense pine forests and steeper slopes.

Also read: 7 Best Camping Sites In India.

Srinagar

Srinagar, the capital of Jammu & Kashmir, is known for its beautiful gardens, pristine lakes, and lovely houseboats. It’s located on the banks of the Jhelum River, and on either side, the city is spread out with a lot of panoramic landscapes, shopping areas, and fabric stalls. But apart from being filled with these good pleasures, Srinagar does have adventure avenues as well. If you are thinking about vacationing in Srinagar but haven't explored the outdoors a lot, then you can take part in Srinagar’s adventure activities to know the city better.

• Boat Rides: If you just want to unwind and relax, but still have that thrill of adventure, then boat rides along Dal Lake and Nagin Lake will do you well. Special wooden boats called Shikaras move back and forth in these lakes and they are a good way to experience the beauty of Srinagar. But, note that you won’t get these boats during the winter months since the lakes are frozen.

• Mountain Biking: If you want to explore the hilly landscapes of Srinagar deeply, then mountain biking is an activity that you should try. The Himalayas have some pretty interesting biking trails and they indeed take adventure to the next level. The biking trail from Srinagar to Gulmarg is scenic as you will pass sleepy villages and expansive views of the landscape, so if you are into intense mountain biking, then you should do it in Srinagar.

Ooty

This beautiful hill station in Tamil Nadu offers a lot to visitors. It’s nestled in the Nilgiri Hills and is one of India’s top tourist destinations. With breathtaking landscapes, Ooty is a much-preferred place to unwind and take your mind off things. When you walk around this serene hill station/city, you will notice the place dotted with gushing waterfalls, lush tea gardens, and historic architecture. From honeymooners to single travelers, this beautiful hill station caters to any type of visitor and its ambiance just transports you to another level altogether. To add to the beauty, Ooty has several outdoor activities to do as well.

• Trekking: Ooty has many areas to trek with varying difficulties. It can be considered a trekker’s paradise just because of the volume of trekking trails this city has. The Kotagiri Trek is the most prominent one that many tourists choose to experience.

• Camping: Camping in Ooty is one of the calmest and easiest outdoor activities to do. You can even camp by the tea gardens if you’d like to wake up to the sight of nature at her best. Jungle camps organized by certain organizations are always there in Ooty, so if you want to rest in a forest setting, then you can book a tent with them.

Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, also known as the Golden City of India, is one of Rajasthan’s most prized gems. The city is dotted with many yellow sandstone structures and that defines its character and vibe. The star attraction of this city is the Jaisalmer Fort, a symbol of fortitude that dominates the city skyline, and just taking one glance at it gives you a sense of royalty. Apart from being a historical city, Jaisalmer does have many adventure activities to do to keep your hands full.

• Parasailing: Parasailing is done in the desert and will take you high up in the sky where you’ll get pretty views of the city skyline. It will be a memorable experience and should be tried out by everyone at least once. Don’t forget to ask your friend to click a couple of pictures of you floating in the air.

• Quad Biking: If you have the need for speed, then try quad biking. It’ll help you experience this desert city differently and enjoy its torrid landscape a bit better. This is a must-try activity for those who’d want to experience a unique sense of adventure in Jaisalmer. But, always remember to strap your helmet on first!

Also Read: Adventure Sports In Sikkim

Darjeeling

Darjeeling, a beautiful city lying in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, is one of India’s most revered tourist destinations. Its location is in West Bengal and the entire vibe of the place screams ‘romantic’.

This scenic hill station is nestled between vast areas of tea plantations and its high elevation grants the area a cool year-round climate. And we are pretty sure that you must have heard of the famous “Darjeeling Tea.” If you haven't, then you must try this delicious warm drink out.

Although Darjeeling is known for its family feels and romantic ambiance, it’s known for its adventure activities as well. Here are some of them you should know.

• Paragliding: If you want to take a look at Darjeeling’s green tea plantations from above, then paragliding is the thing for you. It’s fun, enthralling, adventurous, and a great way to look at the city from another angle.

• Zorbing: This is a pretty unique adventure sport that we’re sure that you will enjoy. You’re basically put in a giant plastic ball and then rolled down across Darjeeling’s green hills. That is what the sport is all about! If you’re looking to do some zorbing, you’ll have to pay anything not more than INR 600.

Also Read: 11 Enthralling Adventure Activities In India

Summing Up

These are some of the most adventurous cities in India to visit for a thrilling vacation. Select any destination that appeals to you the most and start planning. Whichever destination you choose, always remember to enjoy its outdoor activities safely and responsibly.

FAQs

What Are Some Of The Most Adventurous Cities In India To Visit For A Thrilling Vacation?

Some of the most adventurous cities in India to visit for a thrilling vacation are Rishikesh, Gangtok, Shimla, Srinagar, Ooty, Jaisalmer, and Darjeeling.

How Many Types Of Adventure Are There?

Many types of adventure activities are out there. Some of these are mountaineering, trekking, bungee jumping, mountain biking, cycling, canoeing, scuba diving, rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining.

What Adventurous Activities Are Available In Rishikesh?

Some prominent adventure activities available in Rishikesh are river rafting, jungle camping, bungee jumping, and kayaking.

Is There Trekking In Shimla?

Shimla has a lot of trekking trails and they are of varying difficulty. The Tara Devi Trail and the Jakhoo Hill trail are some trekking spots you should check out.

In Which Age Adventure Tourism Is Very Popular?

Adventure tourism is popular between the age group of 20 to 30 but even people in their mid 50s have started developing a liking for Adventure tourism.

When Did Adventure Tourism Start?

The Adventure tourism start around mid 1950s.

What Attracts Adventure Tourists?

The Adventure tourists look out for newer challenges, pushing themeselves to explore more thrilling and risky experiences.

How Long Is An Adventure Tour?

The Adventure Tour can be as short as a week and can extend upto 6 months to a year, depending from person to person.