The northern part of India is home to Uttarakhand – a land blessed with spectacular landscapes, towering peaks, and stunning natural beauty. This state boasts an abundance of adventure activities, making it the perfect destination for adrenaline junkies. Here are some of the top adventure activities to try in Uttarakhand:
Trekking is a paradise in Uttarakhand, with numerous trails that offer breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. The Roopkund Trek, Valley of Flowers Trek, Kedarkantha Trek, and Har Ki Dun Trek are some of the most famous treks in Uttarakhand. These treks range from easy to difficult, and offer an experience of a lifetime.
River rafting in Uttarakhand is one of the best activities in the country. Rafting routes vary depending on where you want to go and what type of experience you want to have. Rishikesh, Joshimath, Nainital, and Pithoragarh are the most popular places for rafting in Uttarakhand.
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, try bungee jumping at Jumpin Heights, India’s first fixed-platform bungee jumping destination, located in Mohan Chatti near Rishikesh. It offers a thrilling experience of jumping from a height of 83 meters with a stunning view of the river Ganges.
Uttarakhand is one of the best places in India for paragliding, with many sites that offer spectacular views of the Himalayas. Naukuchiatal, Pithoragarh, and Mussoorie are the most popular paragliding sites in Uttarakhand.
Skiing is also a popular adventure activity in Uttarakhand, with many skiing destinations that offer snow-covered slopes and stunning views of the Himalayas. Auli, Mundali, and Dayara Bugyal are the most popular skiing destinations in Uttarakhand.
Camping in Uttarakhand offers a unique experience, with campsites located in some of the most beautiful locations in the state. The campsites offer an opportunity to connect with nature and indulge in adventure activities like hiking, rock climbing, and rappelling.
Uttarakhand is known for its beautiful national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the state’s diverse wildlife. Uttarakhand is home to 13 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries , which cover around 14% of the total area of the state. The famous national parks in Uttarakhand are designated areas marked for conservation of wildlife, especially endangered species of flora and fauna. The most popular national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Uttarakhand include Jim Corbett National Park, Rajaji National Park, and Nanda Devi National Park. Jim Corbett National Park is India’s first and oldest national park, located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. It is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and elephants. Rajaji National Park is also located in Uttarakhand and is home to over 400 bird species, including the Great Hornbill and the Himalayan pied kingfisher. Nanda Devi National Park, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a variety of wildlife, including the snow leopard, blue sheep, and Himalayan musk deer.
Rock climbing is also popular in Uttarakhand, with many sites that offer challenging climbs for both beginners and experts. Rishikesh, Mukteshwar, and Bhagirathi Valley are the most popular rock climbing sites in Uttarakhand.
Flying Fox in Mussoorie is India’s first zip line adventure tour, offering a thrilling experience of flying over the lush green valleys of Mussoorie with a stunning view of the Himalayas.
Uttarakhand is a prime spot for mountain biking, offering trails with challenging terrain and stunning views of the Himalayas. Popular routes include Dehradun-Mussoorie Road, Rishikesh-Tapovan-Muni Ki Reti, and Chakrata-Kalsi. The 700km Himalayan Trail crosses five districts, passing through popular tourist destinations like Jim Corbett National Park and Nainital Lake.
In conclusion, Uttarakhand is a paradise for adventure seekers, with an abundance of adventure activities that offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, Uttarakhand has something for everyone. So pack your bags and head out to Uttarakhand for the adventure of a lifetime!
Sources:
https://www.euttaranchal.com/tourism-theme/national-parks-and-wildlife-sanctuaries-62.php
https://www.indianholiday.com/tourist-attraction/uttaranchal/wildlife-in-uttaranchal/
https://www.holidify.com/collections/national-parks-in-uttarakhand
https://discoveruttarakhandmagazine.com/wildlife-sanctuaries-national-parks-of-uttarakhand/