India is home to a number of adventurous and scenic holiday destinations, which are ideal to visit with family. Here are three such wonderful places of interest that you might want to consider for your next family getaway.
You’ve probably set aside a sum of money to buy your dream car or you’ve taken out a fancy loan for a beautiful home. Perhaps you’ve invested in mutual funds and planned your retirement well in advance? You might even have an efficient succession plan in place for your career. But, have you planned for time with your family?
A fast-paced life doesn’t allow for quality time with your spouse and kids, siblings, or parents. That is when a family vacation comes into play. A trip will not only enhance family bonding, but will also give you an opportunity to explore the world.
If you and your family love the occasional adrenaline rush, opt for action-packed activities and plan for an adventurous destination.
India, of late, has become a handsome tourist attraction for the daredevils of the world. This beautiful country holds some of the most vivid and adventurous spots in its bosom. Gear up and get ready to find adventure at these seemingly serene vacation getaways.
1. To God’s Abode and Beyond
The valleys of Uttarakhand are considered to be the homes of Gods. And rightly so. If you’re travelling to this hilly state, you won’t be able to tear yourself away from the scenic mountain treks.
Chopta-Deoriatal-Chandrashila is one such trekking arena in the Garhwal mountains, which is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Other trekking trails to explore include the ‘Lake of Mysteries’ (Roopkund Lake), Dodital Lake, the Valley of Flowers, Gangotri Tapovan, Har Ki Dun, Rupin Pass, and Milam Glacier.
When traveling through Uttarakhand, don’t forget to drop into Rishikesh, one of the most sought-after pilgrimage destinations in India. The hill-town hosts a whole bunch of temples and ashrams, where you’ll find plenty of yoga classes and spiritual health routines.
With the Ganges cascading through the nearby hills, Rishikesh has also developed something of a reputation among thrill-seekers and outdoor adventure enthusiasts. The white water rapids provide the ultimate flow for rafting and kayaking, something you definitely should not miss out on. So after a morning spent in contemplative meditation, strap on a life-jacket and paddle your way through some of the best river-rafting zones in the country. If water-play isn’t your cup of tea, you can also rent a bike and indulge yourself in a trans-Himalayan road trip.
But if you get your kicks, zipping through the air, across cliffs and valleys, don’t forget to check out the zip-lining tours offered around the state.
Finally, if you’re captivated by the wild, take a safari at the exotic Jim Corbett National Park—fun for the whole family.
2. The Desert Experience
Apart from humble forts, historic museums, and royal escapades to heritage hotels, Rajasthan offers a number of activities and destinations for adventure-seekers.
The Sun City, Jodhpur, welcomes adventure junkies looking to camp in the arid desert. Enjoy surreal family time the aristocratic way, amidst bonfires and barbecue dinners.
The beauty of the capital city of Jaipur can be explored from the perch of a bicycle seat. Race through the city’s roads to visit landmarks like the Jal Mahal and the Nahargarh Fort.
If mysteries give you a high, the haunted fort at Bhangarh is worth a visit. But remember to get back before dusk, since the Archeological Survey of India prohibits visitors from staying the night in this spooky 17th-century stronghold.
If you are looking for something more exotic, you can opt to take in the charismatic charms of the Thar desert while on a camel. A camel safari and a camping session in the middle of nowhere, will give you just the adrenaline rush you’ve been looking for. You can even take a hot-air balloon ride over the endless desert dunes. And if all else doesn’t impress, a trip to Ranthambore National park to spot the majestic local tigers might do the trick.
3. One of India’s Best Kept Secrets
The emerald islands of Andaman and Nicobar call to eco-friendly adventure-seeking tourists across the globe. The easiest way to reach the islands is to fly to the capital, Port Blair. But if you are looking for a better way to get in some amazing family time, you could get there on a cruise-ship instead. Sailing the sea is an adventure in itself!
The verdant tropical islands with their white sandy beaches offer both seclusion and a wealth of natural eye-candy to city slickers. Home to an array of water-sports facilities, you don’t have to be a pro-swimmer to take an adrenaline-fueled trip through the ocean.
Another fun activity that requires little to no swimming skills is parasailing. While anchored to a speeding motor-boat, you’ll be able to take to the skies like a kite! A few seconds in the sky and then you’re dipped halfway into the sea, only to be flown back into the sky again. What better way to experience a serious adrenaline fix?
You can also choose to explore the prismatic beauty of the Bay of Bengal by scuba diving or snorkeling, an enthralling way to discover life under water.
If you don’t want to get in the water, you can go fishing and angling with your kids. You can also enjoy the thrills of jet skiing and speed boating during your visit here.
Our country is full of different landscapes to explore and trails to enjoy. If you lack the finances to adventure tripping, a personal loan can be of assistance. Many financial institutions provide vacation loans at minimal interest rates—the quickest way to a long overdue family vacation.
Editor’s Note: If you may feel the need, use vacation loan service link at your own risk – no association with CSV.
References
cashkumar.com/travel-loan
http://www.thrillophilia.com/blog/101-best-adventure-activities-to-do-in-india/
http://goindia.about.com/od/adventure/tp/top-india-adventure-travel.htm
http://traveltriangle.com/blog/water-sports-in-andaman/
Editor’s Video:
Family travels in Rajasthan, India from Everywhere you go on Vimeo.
Nice blog Anamika! India is always known for its cultural beauty but you have shown the other side of India. I have visited Andaman and Nicobar Island and enjoyed scuba diving out there. Don’t you think you should mention the forts too?
Hi Akshay,
Thank you for visiting our site, as well as for your comment. The author has been alerted of your comment. 🙂