Sports which involve high level of risk or danger are commonly termed as adventure sports, these are also called extreme sports, action sports etc. These sports have inherent danger involved, mostly related to high speed, facing challenges of nature, physical excursion or some highly specialized gear. Although the term “Adventure Sports” is highly debatable and is very vast, but here we are talking about common sports which involve risk of life and are commonly termed as the same.
Love for sports is increasing day by day and not only common sports like football, cricket and tennis etc. but the sports like trekking, skydiving, rafting etc are gaining popularity. People want to touch the extreme of the limitations of a human body. Accepting risk and challenges of nature has become the new high for the youth.
Chandigarh is the sure destination for people who are adventurous in nature or for those who just want to fight the fear. In Chandigarh there are several options for adventurous sports like trekking, river rafting, mountain biking, yachting, paragliding etc. Depending on what kind of a sport you want to get indulge in options are plenty.
Trekking in the unknown woods, mountain biking along the strange path, risking on climbing hills, challenging the streams of river in rafting or taking up the option of long distance swimming, Chandigarh has a lot to offer.
There are also many private companies and sports firms which organizes outdoor adventures. Going out in wild teaches us to fight with our unfounded fears and discover new side of our being. Being in the lap of nature helps us making a bond with nature, we love and appreciate the beauty of nature all the more.
To sum up the activities or adventure sports available in Chandigarh are:
Mountaineering in Chandigarh
One can enjoy the thrill of Mountaineering in the Himalayan ranges. Majestic mountain peaks always holds a mystery to it, mountain adventure are fascinating, the most common mountain adventures are trekking, mountain biking and rock climbing.
Popular regions of Mountain adventure sports are:
- Himachal
- Ladakh
- Jammu & Kashmir
- Sikkim
Popular Mountain adventures available are:
- Mountain Biking
- Mountaineering
- Trekking
- Camping
Best time to go:
To plan a trip for mountain adventure it is very necessary to keep a track of climate conditions of the place chosen. In Jammu & Kashmir, from July till September is a good time. In Himachal region from June till October is a suitable time and if you are opting for Ladakh time between July and September is best suitable, likewise in Sikkim from March till May is the good time.
Packing:
Packing light is advisable when going for mountain adventure tour. The important checklist is as follows:
- First aid box
- Warm gear
- Dry smack bars
- Sports shoes (according to the sport taken up)
- Water bottle
- Torch
- Camera
- Personal medical supplies
- Sunblock
Any kind of mountain adventure requires a lot of stamina. Build up a good stamina before going for mountain adventure.
Aero Sports in Chandigarh
The common dream of a human is flying. Although we fly in airoplanes and helicopters etc, but flying alone like a bird is some experience. Aero sports in India are gaining popularity very fast. The thrill of soaring through the open sky is worth a risk. This breath taking experience can be enjoyed in many places of Himalayan region.
Hang Gliding: This sport is the closest experience of flying like a bird. This adventure sport can be done by any healthy person after a little training
Sky Diving: Adventure sports are all about fighting your fears. Jumping off the plane and experiencing a free fall towards ground is one of them. But it can not be done by anyone and everyone it is an extreme sport and a weak hearted person cannot do it, however little training is required by everyone. So you need to gather all your courage before taking up this sport.
Paragliding: This sport also requires a little training before trying it solo. Running off the cliff and sailing in the sky is an experience of its own.
Hot Air Ballooning: This sport although comes under adventure sport but is gaining popularity very fast, reason being it does not require you to be true daredevil to pick up this sport. All you need to do is jump into a wicker basket attached with the balloon filled with helium gas, and sail through.
Bungee Jumping: Jumping of the cliff or high bridge needs a lot of courage. But for adventurous people it is a must sport.
Para sailing: No prior training is required for this as all you have to do is strap a parachute which is towed by a motor boat, parachute takes you high up in the sky.
Best time to go:
If going to Himalayas, summer is the best time. Aero sports are not undertaken during monsoon.
A person needs to be physically fit for taking up any aero sport. Your weight should be appropriate and you must not be overweight.
Packing:
- Warm Clothes
- Windcheater
- Ankle support shoes
- Trousers
- Gloves
- Pair of sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- First aid box
- Water bottle
If you are trying these sports in city of Manali or any other bigger cities, you may get anything you require easily but don’t forget to get all you need if heading for a smaller place.
Water Sports in Chandigarh:
Rafting: River rafting is a thrilling water sport. Rivers flowing southwards from Himalayas and gushing through steep gorges and dense forests are all offering white water rafting. Rafting is done in Km that is you can decide for how many Km you want to so the same or for how much duration. The sport gets you exhausted as rowing fast each time a rapid comes makes you tired.
Many government agencies also offer river rafting. The cost is not much and mostly the cost of life jackets, helmet and food etc is included in it.
Most agencies allow people over 14 years of age but children and expected mothers or a disabled person will not be allowed.
Best time to go:
Rafting should be avoided in winters as the water might become too cold and fetting too much soaked in water might be dangerous.
Packing
- Dark sunglasses
- Sun block cream
- Shorts & T shirts
- Shoes or sneakers
- Windproof Jacket
- Towels
- Flash light
- First aid box
Many agencies offer packages of rafting routes with accommodation by the side of the river in tents. It is an experience to take. As you can enjoy bonfire at night play volley ball etc with your friends.
Snow Sports in Chandigarh:
Skiing
The unbeatable experience of skiing down the slopes of mighty Himalayas is truly adventurous. If you are an expert you may also participate in various ski tournaments held in Manali and Gulmarg.
Snow Boarding
It is a little difficult then skiing, but what the point of an adventure without a difficulty? You need a little training of balancing yourself on the board before starting. Training sessions are given every where the sport is undertaken.
Best Time to go:
Snow covered mountains are the basic requirement hence winter season that is from December till February is the best time for this sport.
Packing:
- Warm Clothes
- Water proof Jackets
- Woolen socks
- Sunglasses
- Gloves
- Caps
- First aid box
- Camera
- Water bottle
Precautions:
- Participating alone is not recommended
- Cold muscles and ligaments are vulnerable to injury, warm up before starting
- Helmets, gloves and padding etc. should be worn
- Follow the instructions carefully
- Check all the equipments
- Drink plenty of water before starting
- Keep youself updated with weather reports
- Seek for a shelter and medical help if experiencing hypothermia
Other Adventure Sports in Chandigarh:
- Cross country swimming
- Rescue operations
- Expedition on mountain peaks
- Cycling
- Adventure camps
- Coastal trek
- Nature study
- Cave exploration
- Desert trek
- Survival course
- Exposure to wilderness
- Obstacle course
Organizers, Offers and Adventure Packages:
Visiting nature in its most wild and raw form is a new means of relaxing and rejuvenating, nowadays. Increasing love for flora and fauna is one of the factors of people taking up these adventure sports.
In the city full of excitement and life there are plenty of companies offering packages for adventure sports. Administration of Chandigarh also actively encourages activities like trekking, which is getting popular amongst all group of society.
There are six routes maintained by the administration for the purpose of trekking. Vary in terrain these routes can easily be used and are free for the citizens except for the trekking route in Sukhna wildlife sanctuary, which need prior permission for access.
Many firms which organize camps in Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal and in Laddakh have also ties with some famous schools of Chandigarh. These sports firms uses reliable equipments made up of titanium, sleeping bags and portable tents to take care of all basic needs and to prevent any mishap in such excursions. Also these firms take some trained doctors and nursing staff with groups, so that any mishap can be taken care of as soon as possible.
