Life is nothing without a little bit of adventure and thrill. It is imperative for humans to take a break from the monotony and stress of a regular lifestyle and indulge in some action every once in a while! If you are a thrill seeker who likes to add some adventure and excitement to your life here and there, India has a vast plethora of activities that will satisfy your adrenaline chase.
Be it the thrill of playing a breakout escape room game or taking a bike ride in the mountains; there are several ways to add spice to your day-to-day life. With every state harboring its unique richness, there is so much to be explored across the country! Such an overwhelming number of choices might certainly make it all the harder for you to pick one for yourself.
To make it easier for you, we have narrowed down the top 10 thrilling and adventurous ideas that you can take part in India:
101. Chadar Trek in Ladakh
Chadar Trek
You cannot possibly imagine a bucket list for thrill seekers in India without the name of Ladakh in it! If trekking in Ladakh has always been your dream trip, this is your sign to visit the place!
The Chadar Trek, which only takes place during the winter months (January and February), can be a great activity during your visit. Down in the Zanskar River, as the temperature drops down treacherously, are you ready to face the freezing conditions? The blissful beauty of the snow-laden capes is sure to make up for the cold temperatures!
Northeast India is the easternmost region of India representing both a geographic and political administrative division of the country. It comprises 8 States namely, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. It boasts of places of beauty where nature flourishes in all its glory. Situated amidst the many hilltops and scenic valleys, the beautiful places to visit in North East India paint a picture that you need to see to believe. Moreover, the North East is a land like no other. With ample views to take home from the visit, it provides for a mesmerizing view at every nook and corner that you take. It is a land of the holy, the mighty, the believers and those who believe in raw adventure.
AMAZING FACTS ABOUT NORTHEAST INDIA, DID YOU KNOW THIS?
World’s wettest place is in Meghalaya
Mizoram’s Pukzing Cave is believed to be carved by a hairpin
At the Longwa village in Nagaland one can be at two places at once
Nagaland has the last surviving headhunter tribe
Nagaland holds the record of the world’s largest electric guitar ensemble
In Nagaland alone, there are 17 tribes and 36 languages
Sikkim wasn’t a part of India leave alone Northeast Region until 1975
In Sikkim, a ghost of a soldier guards the border
Tripura is home to the only floating Palace in Northeast
The population of all the Northeastern states is close to the population of Odisha
The corridor joining the rest of the mainland India with Northeast is called the Chicken’s Neck
Almost 70% of Northeast India’s terrains are covered by hills
Northeastern states of India are musically woke
Each tribe in Northeast India makes some of the best liquors in the country
Arunachal Pradesh is where the sun can be seen first in India
Assam has the largest and smallest river islands in the world
Centuries-old barter system can still be seen in practice at Jonbeel Mela, Assam
Golden/Muga silk is not produced anywhere else in the world other than Assam
The world’s largest weaving village is in Assam
Assam is the safe haven for One-horned Rhinos
Manipur is world’s only mothers-run market.
Meghalaya has the only matriarchal society of India
Do add these amazing places, to visit when travelling to North East, on a Northeast India package, to your list:
KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK
Wildlife Views
One of the best places to visit in North East India is the Kaziranga National Park. Declared an UNESCO Heritage Site, the National Park is home to the one horned rhinos which attract tourists from all over the world. Spotting a one-horned rhinoceros in its stomping yard, during your Northeast holiday tour package, is an experience that you can live to tell your grandchildren. It will be unlike any lore ever told. While you’re out and about in this scenic land, don’t forget to spot the various, other (approx35) species of mammals and hundreds of migratory birds, that fly down every season, for a unique wildlife experience!
Location: Kanchanjuri, Assam
How to reach: You can take a flight to Guwahati International Airport or Jorhat Airport, or just take a train to Furkating station. From here, the park is just a bus ride or taxi ride away.
The Ziro Valley is one of the best places to see in North East as it presents you with some memorable views that are going to be etched in your memory forever. The valley is most famous for its three day and night rock concert, which is held annually towards the end of September. Being a part of the event is a lifetime experience. A visit to this valley surely tops the list of best Northeast tourist places!
Location: Lower Subansiri, Arunachal Pradesh
Best time to visit: During the music festival in September.
How to reach: You can reach the valley by air, train, and even by road. While the nearest airport from Ziro is in Jorhat, Assam, which is 98 km from the valley, the railway station is in Naharlagun, which is 100 kms away.
NATHU LA PASS
Vivacious Nathu La
The name of the pass translates to “listening ears”. The trek to and on the Nathu La pass would be one of the major highlights of your travel to the North East, on your Northeast India holiday tour package, as it gives an invigorating feeling to every traveler who experiences it. During the trek, you are treated to views that remain ingrained in your memory for a lifetime, spotting some beautiful lakes on the way. This is one of the most popular tourist places in north east India that you ought to include to your itinerary.
Location: The border area of India (Sikkim) – China (Tibet Autonomous Region)
How to reach: Rent a sturdy vehicle like Innova, Bolero, and Scorpio in Gangtok with an experienced driver and drive all the way to Nathu La Pass. You’ll need to first acquire a permit from the authorities for the same.
Best time to visit: You should plan your visit during the summers, when the temperatures are at a bearable 15 degrees. In the winters, it falls down to -25 degrees.
Important Note: Do not rush into anything. The cold temperature and low oxygen levels make for a hostile environment. Move gradually and take baby steps if required.
SIANG RIVER – RIVER RAFTING
Rigorous Rafting Scenes
A tributary of the Brahmaputra River, it has inherited its ferocity from its mother as well. It serves as a home to the Adi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh and is the best place to visit in North East. River rafting in the Siang River is a major attraction for the adventure buffs, who like to travel on a budget tour and are likely to do so when on their budget Northeast adventure tour package. It is certainly one adventure that you should undertake with your friends.
Location: Arunachal Pradesh
How to reach: Dibrugarh is the starting point of the rafting session. Take a flight to Mohanbari Airport or the train to Dibrugarh railway station. From there, Dibrugarh is just a taxi ride away.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit is during late October and early November when the tides are not too violent.
NURANANG FALLS
Sparkling Waterfalls
Also known as the Bong Bong falls, these are 100 meters in height. The serenity of this place is best enjoyed with someone by your side. So, if you’re planning a romantic trip to the North East, on your Northeast India honeymoon tour package, make sure you add this place to your itinerary. The falls are renowned for giving a feeling of serendipity to any couple that heads there. So, don’t miss out on one of the most charming places to visit in the north east for a honeymoon!
Location: Cona, Shannan, Arunachal Pradesh
How to reach: Take a flight to Guwahati Airport or a train to Tezpur Railway Station. From here, you will find many state-run (APSRTC) buses, private buses, and taxis going towards Nuranang Falls.
Best time to visit: February to November
DAWKI
Clear-Clean River Scenes
If you do not know about the transparent Dawki river in Meghalaya, chances are you have been living under a rock. Dawki is a town in the West Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya popularly known for the beauteous lake. Umngot River in Dawki is one of the cleanest rivers in the world so much so that you can clearly see the river bottom. Taking a boat ride one the Umngot River is one of the must do things in Dawki. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in north east India. Ensure that you obtain an inner line permit in Meghalaya, if you intend to visit this place.
Location: West Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya, India
How to reach: Take a flight to Guwahati Airport and hire a cab to Dawki.
Best time to visit: November
LOKTAK LAKE
Bliss-Blessed Lake
Loktak Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in North East India and is famous for its small floating islands. It is also home to the world’s only floating National Park called Keibul Lamjao National Park. A nature lover’s haven, the place is great for birdwatching, clicking photographs and spotting the endangered Manipuri brow-antlered deer.
Location: Moirang, Manipur
How to reach: Imphal airport is 48 km away and one can hire a cab to the lake.
Best time to visit: October to March
GANGTOK
Greeny Gangtok
Gangtok is one of the most popular tourist places in Northeast India that is visited by honeymooners and adventure lovers alike, on their Northeast tour package. Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a base to number of Himalayan treks. There are a number of must visit attractions in Gangtok that should be included in your itinerary like Baba Mandir, Nathu La, Gurudongmar Lake, etc. You can find many Gangtok tour packages from different companies for your hassle-free tours in Gangtok.
Location: Sikkim
How to reach: The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport that has frequent flights from Delhi and other cities.
Best time to visit: March-May and October-December are the two best periods to visit Gangtok given the weather situation.
PELLING
Appealing Pelling
Pelling is a beautiful hill station located in the foothills of Khangchendzonga. Not only it offers exhilarating views of the valley but also poses an important place in terms of spirituality. Visit the 17th-century Sanga Choling Monastery and indulge in activities like rock climbing, walking tours, and mountain terrain biking. It is a perfect place for both adventurous souls and peace seekers. It is also one of the best honeymoon destinations in north east India.
Location: West Sikkim
How to reach: Pelling is 120 km away from Gangtok. You can hire a taxi from the city to reach Pelling.
Best time to visit: September to May is the peak season to visit Pelling.
SINGALILA NATIONAL PARK
Wildlife Exploration
Located in the district of Darjeeling(Queen of Hill), Singalila National Park is home to a variety of flora and fauna and breathtaking mountainscapes. The park is located at a height of 7,000 m on the Singalila Ridge. This national park in India is famous for red pandas, wild boar, barking deer, and other wild animals. It is also famous for Wildlife jeep safari and trekking. The route of Sandakphu trek passes through the national park.
Location: Darjeeling, West Bengal
How to reach: Singalila national Park is just 13 km from Bagdogra Airport.
Best time to visit: March-May. The park is closed from June-September
NONGRIAT VILLAGE
Live Root Bridges
Nongriat Village is famous for the Double Decker living Roots Bridge, it is one of the most amazing places to visit in north east India. You will be amazed to see the natural entanglement of the roots with man-made enhancements, while on your Northeast India tour package. There is no other place like Double Decker living Roots Bridge.
Location: Nongriat Village, Cherrapunjee, India
How to reach: The village is 68 km from Shillong and can be reached either by car or local transport bus.
Best time to visit: Except monsoon, you can visit the bridge any time of the year Famous for: Double Decker living roots bridge
The best time to visit Northeast India, on your Northeast India packages. Regardless of the type or the category of the tour package, please note that there is nothing as a best month or time to visit this part of the country. North East India is wonderful the year-round. However, depending on the type of experience that you are looking for a trip to the Northeast could be planned accordingly as in if you’re looking for a respite from the heat, you visit during summers, and if you wish to witness nature at its best, you can plan your visit during the monsoon. Though, in general, November to May is the best period to visit North East India as the weather, during this period, is quite pleasant.
The charm of River Ganga never fades away in any part of India, especially in Rishikesh. The best thing about this city is that it is a breathtaking blend of thrill and serenity, which is why it has got two names in its glory- the Adventure Capital of India and the Land of Gods. All thanks to the countless opportunities in Rishikesh to do whatever you like, folks of all age groups set their feet in the city, only to gather unforgettable memories.
Panoramic View of Rishikesh
Best Time To Visit:
Rishikesh is one of those destinations in India that offers picturesque views around the year, although May, June, and July are the hottest months when the temperature crosses 35-40 degrees Celsius. During July, the monsoon festival called Saavan takes place in Rishikesh, which attracts a footfall of millions of people from North India. During this time the major highways and roads are either closed or highly congested, and the hotels are packed with guests. If you are willing to go for white water rafting, you must come from September to mid-November, and from March to May. The water of the Ganges is freezing cold during December and January, though a few adventurous souls still go for water sports at this time. The youthful populace of India has made Rishikesh a hit among all tourist destinations of North India.
Top Activities To Do In Rishikesh:
The ancient city of Rishikesh is not just another religious site of India. Even though the list of things to do in Rishikesh may sound similar to what you have done in other cities, you will definitely find a different aura of things, people, and places.
For a Soothing Experience
The Ganga Aarti
Ganga Aarti
The Ganga Aarti at the Triveni Ghat is a magnificent sight that attracts its beholders. It is an awestruck feeling when the pandits or religious priests blow the conch shells or ‘shankh‘ to begin the prayer. After sunset, the entire ghat or the bank of the Ganga river lights up with earthen lamps and electric lights.
The Beatles Ashram
Graffiti Depicting Beatles
There was a phase when no one in India knew about Rishikesh. Continuous visit of the great music band, the Beatles, at Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram to learn transcendental meditation brought it into a highlight. Although the Beatles Ashram is abandoned now, the place has a lot of graffiti that shed some light on the time that the band had spent in Rishikesh.
Meditation and Yoga
Yoga Practice
If you ever thought of learning yoga and meditation, Rishikesh is the best place to do so. Even though many people associate only adventure sports with the city, yoga is an integral element of Rishikesh. You can learn yoga from practitioners residing in the tranquil ashrams.
Get an Ayurvedic Massage
Massage
An extended stay in Rishikesh can be demanding on your mind and body, but you can relax and rejuvenate your energy at an Ayurvedic massage center. The scented herbal oils used in the massage are known to have long term effects on the human body if you use them for a decent time.
Café Hopping
Just like many hill stations in North India, Rishikesh is also dotted with a lot of cafés that serve lip-smacking food. Café Delmar, also called Beatles Café, is usually overcrowded with people. You can also go to Café De Goa or Café Karma to have some of the exquisite dishes from different nationalities of the world.
For an Exhilarating Experience
River Rafting
Rafting
White water rafting in the Ganga River is the most popular adventure sport in Rishikesh. You don’t have to struggle much to find the best providers of this sport as there are plenty in the region. You can easily find out the best rates on the spot, though you must make prior bookings during peak season.
Bungee Jumping
Bunjee Jumping
Unless you are scared of heights, you will love to jump off the platform created at an altitude of a whopping 84 meters. Give yourself a chance to jump from a grand height, and you will cherish the moment forever. You can also get yourself clicked or get a video recording of your jump.
The Giant Swing
Giant Swing
The giant swing, as the name suggests, takes you to a bravura journey of an enormous back and forth movement like that of a pendulum. You can stop at the termination point of the swing after a few seconds with the help of an assistant.
The Flying Fox/ Zipline Tour
Imagine flying over the River Ganga from one side to the other like a flying fox. Get a bird eye view of the city. Although the entire experience gets over in a few seconds or barely a minute, you will still feel the ecstasy for many days afterward.
Camping by the Riverside
Staying in the camp facing the magnificent mountains is delightful. With all the facilities that you get in most of the camps, you will actually get the feeling of being attached to the roots while enjoying the modern luxuries.
Cliff Jumping
Cliff jumping is similar to bungee jumping, but the difference is that of the height, and you have to jump into the water of the Ganga River. You have to leap directly into the river, which is not an easy task for many people.
How To Reach Rishikesh??
If you plan to come to Rishikesh from a great distance, you can take a flight to Dehradun, which will land at Jolly Grant Airport. The airport is located at a distance of 35-40 kilometers from Rishikesh. You can take a cab from Dehradun that can take you to Rishikesh.
The city is well connected with buses from New Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar. All kinds of luxurious and regular buses are available to reach Rishikesh. You can also take a train to Rishikesh, though you will have to alight at Haridwar, which is 25 km away. Haridwar Railway Station is well connected to almost all parts of India through Indian Railways.
For those who love road trips, it is a smooth ride to Rishikesh through National Highway 58. A few stretches on this road may be somewhat bumpy, but it is still an exciting ride. You will need to drive for 6-7 hours from New Delhi to reach your destination via Haridwar. It is a great idea to hire a Self-Drive Car in Delhi, perhaps an SUV, which you can drive to Rishikesh for the grand experience of a road trip.
Where To Stay??
Since the city is a popular tourist destination among Indians and foreigners, you have plenty of options to stay. You can book a hotel, guest house, villa, luxurious resorts and homestays in and around the central city. If you love to live the rugged life for a day or two, a stay in the riverside camp can be a joyous experience. Yoga ashrams are also very popular among people who want to learn yoga and meditation. The ashrams are not only cheap options to reside for a long time, but they are also a life-changing experience.
Places To Visit Near Rishikesh:
Haridwar
Har Ki Paudi in Haridwar
Haridwar is the most common and nearest city close to Rishikesh where you can go for a two-day visit. The overall environment of Haridwar is religious as you will find temples and religious activities going on throughout the city. The banks of the River Ganga or ghats are magnificent places to take a dip in the river and witness the glorious Ganga Aarti. The Har ki Paudi attracts thousands of pilgrims every day during the peak season who wish to bathe in the holy river and then sit by the river to blend in the religious environment during the aarti. Take a visit to the markets and experience the sound of the bells, the fragrance of camphor burning at several places, and plenty of devotees everywhere.
Dehradun
Evening Views in Dehradun
The capital city of Uttrakhand offers a lot of exciting getaways for the tourists. The Ganga and Yamuna border the city and make it a glorious place to have a weekend getaway. Robber’s cave, Tapovan, Rajaji National Park and Tiger Falls are some of the famous sites in Dehradun where you can spend a great time with friends or family. Dehradun is located at a distance of 35-40 kilometers from Rishikesh. You can easily drive a car or take a cab to reach there.
Dhanaulti
Winter Camping in Dhanaulti
If you are willing to drive for nearly 100 kilometers, you can reach the beautiful town of Dhanaulti. Indulge in activities like trekking to places like Surkanda Devi and Chandrabadni, mountain biking, paragliding, river rafting, and camping.
Rishikesh is a place where religion and modern-day beliefs create a beautiful blend. After indulging in challenging activities, it is soothing to relax in the ashrams of the city.
Sikkim, a beautiful hill station in the lap of Mother Nature. Situated at high altitude, famous among travellers seeking an escape from their daily mundane city life to the tranquillity and serenity of nature. It not only attracts family travellers, photographers and honeymoon couples because of its scenic beauty but also a lot of adventure seekers due to the thrill it holds in its wilderness.
While on your adventure trip to Sikkim, there are few must do adventures that you can’t think of missing. Especially the trekking in Sikkim has its own charisma. While admiring the enchanting sites in Sikkim if you are an adventure enthusiast you can also go for different adventures in the valley.
List of Treks to take in Sikkim
Few of the best treks belong to Sikkim. People from all over the world come to enjoy the thrill of trekking in Sikkim with lots of short and long route treks for both the amateur and experienced. Some of the most famous trek routes are:
1- Kanchenjunga Trek
Situated at an altitude of 8,586 m, the third highest peak in the world. This trek with a mind-boggling view of Mt Kanchenjunga is especially for the people who want to enjoy the trekking along with the camping. Kanchenjunga massifs outline a big cross that spans the boundaries of three countries Nepal, Tibet and India (Sikkim). The thrilling trek starts from Yuksom and then it continues towards Bakhim, Dzongri, Laxmi Pokhari, Bikhbari Chaurikhang and Rathong Glacier, Bikhbari and ends at Bakkhim.
Trek Route of Kanchenjunga
2- Green Lake Trek
One of the most popular treks of Sikkim with an amazing view of Himalayan peaks. The winding roads that lead to this captivating lake are surrounded by a large variety of rhododendrons a soothing & mesmerising view for the eyes. The trek is not that easy as you have to travel through rocky terrain and dense forests but the view that awaits is worth taking the risk.
Green Lake Trek
3- Sandakphu Trek
Go for Sandakphu Trek, situated at a height of 3,636 meters and get a panoramic view of the world’s highest snowline. You will travel through the wilderness of Himalaya and get a chance to view the wildlife of Himalaya as you pass through the Singalila National Park.
View from Sandakphu Trek
Many other treks such as Dzongri Trek, Goecha La Trek etc are also famous. You can check our list of 55 treks in India.
Experience River Rafting in Teesta
If you love playing with the waves, this is the best adventure for you. The river Teesta which is one of the major rivers in Sikkim, also known as the lifeline of Sikkim. It provides you with the best rafting experience which carves out of flourishing Himalayas. Expert rafters are present, and they are always around. Also, two rafting options are available one is for swimmers and another one is for people who don’t know swimming, the plus point is the river is not very dangerous. Also check other water sports destinations in India.
River Rafting at Teesta
Cycling and Mountain Biking in Sikkim
Cycling in the wood and hills has its own mesmerising charm. One of the most gripping adventures in Sikkim that provides you with the best sightseeing experience. It gives you the chance to dive deep in the lap of nature. The most eco-friendly adventure that keeps you close to nature and takes you to the unmatched trails. It takes you through the craziest turns, curves, twists and firm run on the edges. Enjoy the twist and turns, roam around the towns, meet friendly locals and leave yourself lost in the amazing scenic beauty and enchanting views of snow-clad mountains. You can take the cycle from town or if you prefer you can go for the tour package that includes cycling excursion. Also, you can join the group cycling in Sikkim.
Cycling Group
Enjoy Paragliding in Sikkim
Explore the nature and alluring scenic beauty of Sikkim from the top. It’s once in a lifetime of experience. Sikkim is beautiful, rich in flora with the river flowing along the lovely meadows. If you are an adventure seeker and want to take your trip to the next level then don’t miss this experience, the cold breeze touching your face and you are on the top witnessing the greenery all around. As far as you can see it is all green, surrounded by snow capped mountains, so don’t forget to testify the enchanting beauty of the town from the top. For an ultimate paragliding experience, be a part of the Annual Paragliding Festival, which falls in the months of October and November.
Gliding amidst mountains
Rock Climbing & Mountaineering in Sikkim
Rock climbing or mountaineering is not everyone’s cup of tea. It’s tough but for an adventure seeker who enjoys the thrill of mountain climbing and wants to climb the Himalaya, it’s a dream come true. With every step, you will enjoy the thrill of climbing. There are two types of climbing one in which ropes are available and you can hold them if you fall which is known as free climbing. Another one is, in which gears and ropes are provided for an easier route up with the help of equipment, known as aid climbing.
Still of Rock Climbing
Bungee Jumping at Singshore Bridge
If you are seeking the most thrilling adventure and not afraid of height then don’t miss the Bungee Jumping at Singshore Bridge. The highest bridge in Sikkim at a height of 198 m, it creates the perfect surroundings for Bungee jumping. The bridge connects two mountains and offers a perfect view of greenery. The experts are there to guide you if you are new to Bungee Jumping. This is one of the most hunted adventure sport in Sikkim.
Bungee Jumping
If you are planning a trip to Sikkim in order to experience some adventure, then you won’t be disappointed. Trekking in Sikkim will give you a refreshing experience. The destination is known for its natural beauty and friendly hosting. It will always be one of your most memorable trip with lots of exciting and challenging sports. The adventure lovers can have the most exciting time here.
