12 Thrilling Adventure Sports in Uttarakhand: Must Try in 2023

The geographical location of Uttarakhand makes it an ideal location for adventure sports. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced adventurer, the state’s rivers, such as the Ganges, Yamuna, and other rivers, will provide you with an unforgettable experience. 

Whether you are a trekker or a hiker, the rugged terrains will provide you with trails that take you to breathtaking views and alpine pastures.

If you are a daredevil, you will find thrilling options such as bungee jumping and zip-lining in the state. In the dense forests and national parks, you can also go on a wildlife safari.

With a pleasant climate all year round, and a rich cultural heritage, as well as warm hospitality, there is no shortage of adventure activities in Uttarakhand to enjoy. With professional guidance and safety in mind, you will be able to enjoy your adventures with confidence. All in all, if you are looking for an adventure in Uttarakhand, you have come to the right place!

12 Best Adventure Sports in Uttarakhand

1. Rafting – Crash the Rapids in the Ganges
2. Bungee Jumping – Take the Leap of Adventure
3. Trekking/ Hiking – Connect with the Himalayas
4. Kayaking – Paddle your way in the Glacial Rivers
5. Camping – Connect with the Nature
6. Skiing – Glide on the snow-covered slopes of the Himalayas
7. Jungle Safari – Encounter the Diverse Wildlife
8. Paragliding – Dance with the winds above the Snow Peaks
9. Ziplining – Soar Over the Majestic Landscapes
10. Giant Swing – Swing over the Himalayan Valleys
11. Cable Car Ride – Unfold the Panoramic Views
12. Waterfall Exploration – Discover the Hidden Gems

1. Rafting

• Best Places: Some of the best places for rafting are Rishikesh and Shivpuri. Rishikesh offers a variety of different types of rapids, ranging from calm stretches on the Ganges to intense ones on the Shivpuri Golf Course. 

• Approximate Cost: The cost of a rafting trip in Rishikesh varies depending on the length and duration, but on average it will cost between INR 500-1500 per person per few hours.
• Best Time: The best time to raft in the state is between September and June, after the monsoon and before the summer, when water levels are at their peak and the weather conditions are ideal.

2. Bungee Jumping

• Best Places: Mohanchatti village, located near the city of Rishikesh, is home to India’s highest fixed platform, the 83-meter bungee jump at Mohanchatti, which makes it one of the best adventure activities in Uttarakhand.

• Approximate Cost: The cost of bungee jumping in Rishikesh ranges from Rs 3500 to Rs 4000 per person, including the jump, certificates, and sometimes a video of the experience.
• Best Time: The best time to bungee jump is from September to June, when the climate is mild and the sky is clear and pleasant. This means that you can jump safely and enjoy the breathtaking views without worrying about the monsoon

3. Trekking and Hiking

Trekking in Uttarakhand doesn’t just mean summiting summits. It means connecting with the natural surroundings, learning about the culture of the mountain communities, and pushing your limits amidst breathtaking landscapes. The memories you create and the personal growth you gain from these treks will stay with you forever.

• Best Places: Some of the famous treks in Uttarakhand are Valley of Flowers, Roopkund, Har ki Dun, Kedarnath, Dayara Bugyal, etc. Mostly, the treks in Uttarakhand are a combination of finding spiritual meaning and natural beauty.

• Approximate Cost: The cost of a trek in Uttarakhand depends on the length of the trek, difficulty level, and services offered. Generally, a moderate trek costs around INR 8000-12000 per person, including guides, accommodation and meals. While hiking in Uttarakhand may cost between 1000-3000 per person.
• Best Time: The best time to hike in Uttarakhand can be during the warmer months from May to June and from September to November when the skies are clear, temperatures are mild, and trails are well-marked.

4. Kayaking

• Best Places: Kayaking in Rishikesh, Ganges, Yamunotri, and Tons are some of the best places to go kayaking in the state of Uttarakhand. These rivers offer some of the most challenging stretches for experienced kayakers to experience an adrenaline-filled adventure.

• Approximate Cost: The best time to kayak in the state is between September and June when the water levels are at their peak and the weather conditions are ideal. 
• Best Time: The cost of a Kayaking session varies depending on the type of river, the duration of the session, and the services provided. Generally, a Kayaking session in the state will cost between INR 1000-2,500 per person.

5. Camping

• Best Places: The best places for camping are Binsar and Chopta. Binsar is located in the heart of Kumaon and is the best place to camp if you want to get a panoramic view of the peaks of the Himalayas. Chopta is known as India’s “Mini Switzerland” and offers peaceful meadows perfect for camping with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

• Approximate Cost: The approximate cost of camping varies depending on the location, amenities, and duration of the camping experience. Generally, the camping experience will cost between INR 1000-3000 per person, including lodging and meals.
• Best Time: The best time to camp is during the warm months of April to June, followed by the warm months of September to November when the weather is pleasant, the sky is clear, and the conditions are comfortable.

6. Skiing

• Best Places: The best places to ski in Uttarakhand are Auli and Dayara Bugyal. Skiing in Auli is one of the most popular winter adventure activities in Uttarakhand. Auli is known as India’s ‘Skiing Capital’ due to its powdery slopes with panoramic views of the Nanda Devi. Dayara is a picturesque meadow that turns into a skiing paradise in winter.

• Approximate Cost: Most skiers in Uttarakhand spend around INR 1500-3000 on a day of skiing, depending on the ski resort, gear rental, and training.
• Best Time: The best time to ski in the state is from December to February when the snow is at its peak.

7. Jungle Safari

Understanding the delicate ecosystems and admiring the untamed beauty of the forests is the essence of a Jungle Safari in Uttarakhand. The thrill of wildlife encounters and the tranquility of the forests are sure to leave a lasting impression on the traveler’s heart and soul.

• Best Places: If you’re looking for a jungle safari, Jim Corbett and Rajaji National Parks are the best places to go. Jim Corbett is the oldest national park in India and is home to a ton of tigers, as well as lots of other wildlife. Rajaji National Park is a great place to go if you want to see elephants, tigers and leopards. 

• Approximate Cost: The cost of a jungle safari will depend on the park you’re visiting, how long it’s going to be, and what kind of services you’re getting. Generally, you can expect to pay between 1500-3000 rupees per person.
• Best Time: The best time to go is between November and June, as the weather is usually nice.

8. Paragliding

• Best Places: If you’re looking for the perfect place to paraglide, Ranikhet is the place to go! With its picturesque hill station, you’ll be able to take in the rolling hills and lush meadows of Kumaon. Mukteshwar is also a great spot, with its snow-covered peaks and the stunning valley below. 

• Approximate Cost: Prices can vary depending on where you are, how long you’re flying, and any extras you want to add. Generally, you can expect to pay between INR 1500 and 3000 per person for a great experience.
• Best Time: The best time to go is between March and June, and then between September and November, when the sky is clear, temperatures are mild, and the wind is calm.

9. Ziplining

• Best Places: The best places to zipline in Uttarakhand are Mussoorie and Rishikesh. Mussoorie is a hill station where you can get a panoramic view of Doon Valley. Rishikesh is a great place to zipline as you can get a unique perspective of the Ganges River and its surroundings.

• Approximate Cost: The cost of a ziplining activity in Uttarakhand depends on the location and the length of the zip line. On average, you can expect to pay around INR 1000-2000 per person. 
• Best Time: The best time to go on a ziplining adventure in Uttarakhand in the milder months is from September to June.

10. Giant Swing

• Best Places: The best places to go on a giant swing in the state of Uttarakhand are Jumpin Heights, Rishikesh, which is home to India’s highest giant swing.

• Approximate Cost: A giant swing usually costs between INR 2500-3500 per person, depending on the location.
• Best Time: If you are looking for the best time to go on a giant swing, the best time is between September and June. This is due to the warm weather that is common during this time of year.

11. Cable Car Ride

A cable car ride in Uttarakhand submerges you in the magnificence of the Himalayas and makes you feel as if you are floating above the landscapes. The feeling of floating above the landscapes and seeing nature’s wonders from above is indelible. It gives you a unique connection to the natural wonders of the region.

• Best Places: The best places for cable car rides are Auli and Nainital. Auli is famous for its skiing and the cable car ride takes you to the snow-capped peaks and the lush meadows of Auli. Nainital’s cable car ride gives you an aerial view of the sparkling lake of Naini and the picturesque surroundings of the town.

• Approximate Cost: The approximate cost of riding a cable car in the state of Uttarakhand is determined by the location and the distance covered. The average cost of a ride in the state is between INR 500-1000 per person.
• Best Time: The best time to ride a cable car is between September and June. The skies are clear and the temperatures are pleasant, making the ride even more enjoyable.

12. Waterfall Exploration

You’ll hike through beautiful trails, listen to the sound of rushing water, and be rewarded with the peaceful atmosphere of these hidden places. Not only do you get to see amazing waterfalls, but you’ll also get to listen to the sounds of nature! Waterfall Explorers in Uttarakhand often involve a hike, so you’ll get to experience the beauty of the untouched Himalayas.

• Best Places: Tiger Falls near Chakrata is a rewarding trek that offers a stunning view and a refreshing plunge pool. Near Mussoorie Jharipani is an offbeat gem with a trek that takes you to this tranquil waterfall. Neer Garh waterfall is located near Laxman jhula in Rawalpindi and offers a peaceful escape. 

• Approximate Cost: The approximate cost of exploring these falls varies depending on the location, guided tour, and any necessary permits. The average cost ranges between INR 500-1500 per person.
• Best Time: The best time to explore these falls is during the warm weather months of April-June and September-November.