Supriya Sehgal
Though still in its nascent stage, adventure tourism in India is certainly at the cusp of exploding into something big
The genre of adventure travel is relatively new to us. And one that is filled with pacts, promises and prayers once we take the plunge, dive or bumble down a river.
The last decade has seen an inordinate amount of interest in adventure where the Indian traveller is concerned. With this leaning, has come a breed of adventure providers, who are bringing safe, clean and well-instructed activities to us. Long gone are the days when camping in the forest coupled with a trek was the crowning activity that involved a reasonable amount of adrenalin. The Indian adventure scene has graduated from rafting, bouldering, bungee jumping, sky diving, paragliding to underwater diving, zip lining, hot-air ballooning and even surfing. To infuse something even more delicious to the platter is micro-light flying, which a handful of outfits are engaging in.
Designated dates for festivals and events are a brilliant way to build a longstanding association and camaraderie with travellers. Started two years ago, the Malabar River festival in Kerala is an annual meet-up for kayaking enthusiasts from India and the subcontinent.
Riding on the outdoor adventure storm as well, are gear-and-equipment companies. Economical pricing, experiential warehouse format stores and a brush with international brands have families and young travellers lining up at the stores. So much so, it has cleared the path for graduating travellers to other brands. Many home-grown brands have also sprung up cashing in on the mood of the Indian travel scenario.
Though still nascent as compared to countries like Australia and New Zealand, which run on a large appetite of outdoor adventures, India is certainly at the cusp of exploding into a larger space of adventure travel. While the Indian traveller straps on jackets and clasps helmets, the wind in the hair seems be louder than the prayers.
Safety checks
It is self serving for the reputation of adventure outfits to have all checks in place before introducing an activity. You will find elaborate indemnity forms to be signed before you begin. While that covers up for any accidents for the outfit, here are some checks that the user should keep in mind:
Recommended outfits
Camping, rafting and river activities
Surfing
Scuba diving
You don’t have to pack off to a western country or even Andamans to get into your scuba suit. Temple Adventures in Pondicherry offers you training and then splendid views of underwater world just off the coast from Pondicherry. Be prepared for some serious orientation and skill training before you venture out to the sea. (+91 9003122231; www.templeadventures.com).
Hot-air ballooning
Explore the skies with Sky Waltz in hot air balloon safaris in Maharashtra and Rajasthan. The thrill of softy ascending in the skies and watching the patchwork of fields below is an otherwordly experience. (+919560387222; www.skywaltz.com).
Zip lining
One of the most veritable outfits that helps you zip above treetops and forts across four different cities in India is Flying Fox. You can experience this with well-trained instructors in the Neemrana Fort, off Delhi, Kikar Lodge in Punjab, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur and across the Ganga in Rishikesh. (+919810999390; www.flyingfox.asia)
Paragliding
Micro-light flying
The green fields, coffee estates and forests of Coorg make a great view from 3,500 feet above the ground. With the wind hitting your face, the only way to communicate with the pilot is with your head set as you ride pillion in an all-open micro-light aircraft. This is organised by Muthanna of Coorg Sky Adventures in the calm months of November to May. (+91 9448954384)
Bouldering
The boulder-strewn topography of Hampi is more than just a destination for history enthusiasts. It’s also the perfect setting to bring crash mats and gear to balance on the crags of massive brown rocks all around. The undisputed bouldering capital of India, head to Hampi to explore new ‘problems’ and manoeuvre through a large rockscape. Next, head to Badami for some new terrain. (For self-trained adeventurers).
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