Adventure in Rajasthan

Sir Edmund Hillary, the great Everester, whose thirst for adventure has proved enduring and never-ending, found Rajasthan ideal for undertaking a journey on a camel caravan. It was an unusual way to choose to cross the arid Thar Desert. And, following in his footsteps, one can re-live the adventure in Rajasthan. 

Rajasthan is like a jewel in the midst of the golden sand. However it is the less explored side of our planet. Adventure in Rajasthan consists of the thrill of leisure, places, people, traditions and the seductive charm of the unspoilt nature along with the quaint ethnic lifestyles.

The sporting events in this state may be very different but are nonetheless invigorating. The spirit of adventure and bravery has always been a prominent part of life. In the days of yore, hunting was the major source of excitement for the people. Pitting their wits against the most ferocious of animals was considered a challenge. Wrestling was yet another outlet for those seeking a show of strength. Today times have changed but the search for adventure still remains. 

Among the adventures in Rajasthan, choose from gamut of activities like camel safari, elephant, horse safaris, trekking and rock climbing. The possibilities are limitless for indulging in water sports like boating, water sailing, rafting and fishing in lakes. The more adventurous can opt for parasailing and hang gliding in the Aravalli hills.

Trekking

Whether you are interested in short and easy trips to enjoy the diverse flora, or in long and challenging excursions, Rajasthan trekking has it all. The lofty Aravalli hills offer several areas ideal for trekking. Wondering through dense forests and lush meadows to clear lakes and rejuvenating waterfalls, the experience is enthralling.

Horse and Camel Polo

Considered the most prominent and elite sports, polo has always been popular in Rajasthan. Horse polo is taken very seriously and is played by professional teams with thoroughbred horses.

Ballooning / Parasailing / Gliding

A trip in a hot-air balloon over the sandy terrain of Rajasthan, from an historic fort to a magnificent palace, can be very exhilarating. Defying the laws of gravity and parasailing through the wind is thrilling. The large strips of barren land have proved to be ideal for gliding.

Golf

The desert is an unusual place for a golf course but as the aristocracy was enamoured with this sport, golf courses were laid and maintained. Jaipur has an 18-hole golf course, where you can have a round of golf, in the picturesque surroundings including a palace.

Kite Flying

The Rajputs have always been passionate about flying kites and there are clubs in various cities where this sport is ardently practiced. An international kite flying competition is held in Jaipur, which adds to the fervour.

Bicycling

Bicycling can be relaxing or exhausting, as you choose it to be. In either case, cycling to experience the crowded streets or to explore the countryside is extremely enjoyable and refreshing.

Water Sports

Angling can be very exciting, especially in Rajasthan's lakes that teem with game fish. Even the most rudimentary angling equipment can result in rich rewards. There are some picturesque and tranquil lakes in Rajasthan that are perfect for swimming and boating.

Desert Safari

Rajasthan's topography is such that it allows for various safaris – jeep safari, camel safari, horse safari and elephant safari. Each safari has its own charm and caters to the varying preferences of tourists. Sitting on a jeep, elephant or camel, tourists explore every nook and corner of Rajasthan while enjoying the journey itself.

The terrain in Rajasthan is tailor-made for most adventure sports, what with the open desert tracts, the vast lakes and rivers, the wildlife parks, and little villages abandoned by the march of civilization as is known, but no less hospitable for it. And threading these together, a landscape where the paths and trails weave through a history rich with forts and palaces, mansions and cenotaphs. And a culture that binds these together into a fascinating journey. Just spot and sport it out.