‘Devbhoomi’, Uttarakhand is known for its religious significance all across the globe. However, over the recent years, it has also gained momentum and popularity for being one of the prime destinations for indulging in some quality adventure sports activities. People looking for some thrill, fun and an adrenaline pump throng Uttarakhand for this purpose since there is a plethora of options available to choose from.
If you are planning on a tour of Uttarakhand then don’t miss out on the following adventurous sports activities which will quench your thirst for a thrill:
1. Trekking
Uttarakhand is known for its spectacular peaks, mesmerizing mountain trails with breathtaking views on every turn making it one of the most loved trekking destinations in India. From the UNESCO world heritage site treks of “valley of flowers” and “Rupin pass” to the enchantingly scenic Panch Kedar trek and Gaumukh with Tapovan trek, Uttarakhand is home to innumerable breathtaking and memorable trekking routes. The cascading bubbling streams, lush green forests complete with the fresh air makes trekking in Uttarakhand an experience to remember.
Popular Trekking Trails – Roop Kund, Dodital, Chandrashila, Har ki Dun, Bedni Bugyal, Kauri pass.
2. Paragliding
Experiencing the thrill of soaring in the clear blue skies is not a dream anymore for human beings. You can head on to the mesmerizing hilly towns of Uttarakhand if you want to have a bird’s eye view. Gliding among the lush green surroundings and amidst the mighty mountains is a great way to develop some perspective. Relatively a new adventure sport paragliding is among one of the most availed options in Uttarakhand. You don’t have to be a professional paragliding expert to do this, the flights will be offered by experts who will accompany you on the journey.
Popular Paragliding Locations – Mukteshwar, Ranikhet, Nainital
3. Skiing
No feeling can even come close to the extreme rush of adrenaline you get when sliding down the clear expansive, snow-clad mountain peak. During the peak winter seasons, Uttarakhand witnesses a throng of adventure lovers who want to feel that extreme rush of blood. The glittering, white fresh snow is a wonderful option for thrill seekers. It is highly recommended that you take some skiing classes first before heading out to take on the snow-capped mountains.
Popular Skiing Location – Auli, Munsiyari, Mundoli, Dayara
4. White Water Rafting
This is one of the most popular adventure sports in India with Uttarakhand its focal point. From the youth to families, river rafting is one of the most loved adventure sports in India for people of all the generations. The gushing waters of River Ganga and Tons offer impeccable opportunities to ride the rapids and get your heartbeat thumping. Rafting has also become one of the most popular weekend getaway options for people living around the area like Delhi and Chandigarh.
Popular White Water Rafting Locations – Shivpuri, Mori, Byasi, Devprayag
5. Camping
If you are looking for an experience which will rejuvenate your senses and give your mind some rest then camping amidst the untouched nature can truly be the rescue you need. Take some time away from the digital age and embrace Mother Nature in all its forms by setting up a tent among the rolling Bugyals, alpine lakes and dense jungles. Waking up in the open skies surrounded by the enchanting views to the sound of the babbling river can be one of the most soul purifying experiences anyone can take up.
Popular Camping Locations – Kanatal, Bhimtal, Binsar, Chaukori, Chopta, Deoria Tal, Pangot
6. Jungle Safari
Uttarakhand is blessed with an enigmatic collection of flora and fauna which makes it one of the prime destinations for jungle safari in India. With the onset of the advent of adventure tourism in Uttarakhand, jungle safari is becoming a popular choice for adventure tourism in India. One can witness vibrantly coloured migratory birds, reptiles and other woodland animals like deer and leopards, during your jungle safari through the thick forested areas.
Popular Jungle Safari Locations – Nanda Devi National Park, Corbett National Park
7. Bungee Jumping
Who doesn’t like to feel the blood pumping in their veins? If you are looking to push your limits or get rid of your fear of heights then free falling from a height can be the exact solution you need. Feel the gravitational pull of the earth in all its might in this adventure sport which has also been famed for being the ‘mother of all adventure sports activities’. Uttarakhand is also home to the highest bungee jumping activity in India which will definitely get your adrenaline pumping when you free fall from a whopping height of 83 feet.
Popular Bungee Jumping Locations – Mohan Chatti, Rishikesh
8. Flying Fox
This is one of the prime and exhilarating adventure sports in Uttarakhand where you have the option of enjoying a thrilling ride while being positioned like a superman. Attain a bird’s eye view and witness the world go by beneath you at some speed while being hung only on a cable. Feel the cool wind in your hair and freshen up your mood while travelling through the wilderness for a length of up to 2 km.
Popular Flying Fox Locations – Rishikesh, Mussoorie, Nainital, Mukteshwar
9. Canoeing and Kayaking
This is one of the most sought-after adventure activities in Uttarakhand. People come here to paddle calmly on the tranquil water body and seek some peace of mind among the untouched nature. The rivers flowing through this state offers numerous opportunities for adventure lovers and thrill seekers to paddle their canoe or kayak and feel a one of its kind experience. However, these activities should never be undertaken by beginners and amateurs.
Popular Canoeing and Kayaking Locations – Rishikesh
10. Cable Car Ride
Although a mild adventure sport, cable car rides are extremely memorable and offers spectacular views of the valley below. You will be able to witness some of the most spectacular, breathtaking and panoramic views of the thick lush forests. A cable car ride assures that you feast on some of the most mesmerizing bird’s eyes view and feel like you are standing on top of the world.
Popular Cable Car Ride Locations – Nainital, Mussoorie, Auli
