Uttarakhand, India

Uttarakhand

For adventurers in India and around the world, Uttarakhand (or Uttaranchal) is one of the most exciting options for an adventure getaway. Located just at the foot of the Himalayas, most of the upper portion of the state is crowned by famous peaks and glaciers. Many of the top treks in India start in Uttarakhand, and it is replete with natural beauty. Two of the major rivers of India – the Ganga and the Yamuna start from Uttarakhand, fed by glaciers and melting snow from peaks, and provide some of the best rafting stretches in the country. Thanks to the numerous safari parks and wildlife sanctuaries, there is plenty to see for nature- and animal-lovers, bird-watchers, photographers, and adventure-seekers. And lastly, the gorgeous rocky landscape and hills offer plenty of paragliding in Uttarakhand and rock-climbing in Uttarakhand.

Trekking in Uttarakhand

As far as landscape goes, trekking in Uttarakhand offers a wide range of dramatic and gorgeous vistas. From fragrant pine forests to the dry shrubbery of the upper reaches, from boulder-strewn trails and wooden bridges over gushing rivers to the grassy high-altitude meadows, and from windy mountain passes to idyllic campsites sheltered by amphitheatres of mountains, trekking in Uttaranchal is always a spectacular experience.

Here, if you’re in the upper reaches of trekking in Uttarakhand, there are glaciers that rumble as they move, snowy peaks swathed in mist, and icy high-altitude lakes to be discovered. Trekkers from around the world come here to trek in these spectacular settings.

Even if you’re trekking in the Uttarakhand in the foothills, there’s plenty to see and do. There are campsites with stunning views, spread out over meadows of sweet grass. Trekking trails take you through alpine forests scented with pine. While trekking in Uttarakhand, you’ll stop at ancient temples, pass villages with traditional architecture, meet friendly shepherds tending their flocks of woolly sheep, and maybe even have a philosophical discussion with a monk or a sage.

Rafting in Uttarakhand

Nestled at the foot of the Himalayas, along the banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh in Uttarakhand has been on the bucket list of many an Indian and non-Indian traveler. While it is one of the most important pilgrimage spots for Hindus, Rishikesh is also known as the Gateway to the Himalayas, because trekkers arrive in Rishikesh to begin their treks in Uttarakhand.

But one of the biggest draws of the city is the chance to go rafting in Uttarakhand. The Ganges leaves the Himalayas behind and begins its journey into the plains at Rishikesh, and the river is wide, green, and cold here. Rafting in Uttarakhand is most popular here because of the different grades of rapids on offer. Apart from the Ganges, you can also raft or kayak in tributaries or in other rivers like the Alaknanda or Yamuna. While rafting in Uttarakhand, depending on the section of the river you choose, you could experience everything from the milder Grade I and II, to the epic boiling stretch of the Grade IV rapids.

Camping in Uttarakhand

Camping in Uttarakhand is one of the best parts of trekking. But it’s not just in the mountains. From your Rishikesh rafting camp, you can do a number of other fun activities. There are treks to waterfalls and local landmarks, or nature trails that go into the pine forests nearby. If you’re a real adrenaline junkie, combine your Rishikesh water rafting activity with a bungee jumping session. India’s highest bungee platform is close to the city centre, and offers giant swing jumps and a flying fox ride. You should also try to make some time to catch the evening Ganga Aarti, which is an unforgettable event, whether you’re religious or not.

Paragliding in Uttarakhand

Paragliding in Uttarakhand is one of the fast-growing adventure sports in Uttarakhand. There are multiple spots becoming popular for paragliding in Uttarakhand. While one can go paragliding in Rishikesh, there are higher points like Mussoorie or Naukuchiatal (Nainital) where one can get better views and longer flights.