The adventure seeker inside of you might be thinking of doing some water sports in India. If so, you will be happy to know that there are many places where you can enjoy various water sports all around the country. Whether you are thinking of kayaking, rafting, sailing, surfing or scuba diving, India has a lot of options to satisfy adrenaline junkies and water lovers.
1. Rishikesh Best River rafting in India
Located in the state of Uttarakhand, Rishikesh is well known for being home of many yoga classes and ashrams, but it is also one of the best spots to enjoy white river rafting in India. Enjoy the rafting rapids on the holiest river in the world, the Gange, not so far from the Himalayas.
What could be better than that? Rishikesh will give you the adrenaline rush you are looking for. If you are thinking about doing some kayaking, this will also be one of your favourite destinations. No matter if you are a beginner or an expert, you will be pleased.
2. Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Best Scuba Diving in India
This archipelago of islands, located in the Bay of Bengal, is an amazing place to surf, best snorkelling in India, Best scuba diving in India and water skiing. You can also enjoy some of the most beautiful boat rides. This paradisiac destination will make you forget you are in India and all you will be thinking of is to practise the numerous water sports.
Reach the islands by air from Delhi, Chennai or Calcutta, or come by boat. You can also find some really good package deals including diving classes. Be careful, you might fall in love with the place and end up staying longer than you thought!
3. Goa Best Snorkelling in India and the Best scuba diving
It is no surprise, the state of Goa is one of the best destinations in India. This is a backpackers’ favourite. Travellers go there to enjoy the hippie vibe, party at night, relax on the beach and… to enjoy some water sports! Adventure enthusiasts will be pleased as there are many activities.
You can enjoy some scuba diving, snorkelling, sailing, water skiing, parasailing, kayaking… the possibilities are endless! Of course, you can decide to simply enjoy the sandy beaches and swim since the currents are not too strong.
You might also want to try something completely different such as wind surfing or a water scooter. Boat tours and different kind of courses are available at many beaches, but the best places to visit include Palolem, Anjuna, Agonda and Mandrem.
4. Pondicherry: Best Surfing in India
You might have heard about Pondicherry before as it is a very unique place to visit in India. Because of its French roots, Pondicherry is completely different from everything you have seen so far in the country.
You can feel the European heritage through the people, the culture, the food and the language. Since it is located near the water, it is also a great spot for water sports lovers. Stay at a guesthouse or treat yourself to one of the beach resorts.
You can scuba dive, but one of the best experiences is to take surf classes at Kallialay Surf School. Indeed, if you have always wanted to learn surfing, Pondicherry is among the best places to go.
5. Chennai: Best sailing destination in India
Since you might be going to Pondicherry for surfing, you may also want to stop to Chennai, not too far from there, to enjoy some sailing through the seashore. During the summer, Chennai is among the best sailing destinations in India.
The beautiful view over the Bay of Bengal will amaze you. You will certainly enjoy the many Yatch options. From there, you can also take a flight or a ferry to another of the best destinations for water sports, the Andaman Islands.
6. Lakshadweep: Best Place for Scuba Diving in India
Have you heard of Lakshadweep, one of the hidden jewels of India? Off the coast of Kerala, this tropical archipelago will be the best place to see marine life. The snorkelling and scuba diving options are numerous!
Be prepared to be amazed by the beauty of nature, the beaches, the coral islands and the blue water. Your trip in India will not be the same after exploring this paradise in the middle of the Arabian Sea.
7. Zanskar: Best Place for River rafting in India
You are thinking of something more adventurous? Do you want to conquer the roughest waters in India? River rafting in Zanskar might be the best option for you. Situated in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, Zanskar offers a lot of trek and raft expeditions.
The picturesque landscapes, the deep gorges, the high mountains of the well known Himalayas and the impressive glaciers will make you live a unique experience. This might become the highlight of you trip in India. Since the river is frozen during winter, the best time to go is between July and august. Adrenaline rush guaranteed!
8. Arunachal Pradesh: Best Place for river rafting in India
If you were planning on visiting the northeast of India, you will be happy to know that you will find many options of kayaking and rafting to satisfy the water sports lover inside of you.
Indeed, the state of Arunachal Pradesh is home of many stunning rivers to enjoy those two sports. Among the best ones, you will find Brahmaputra river and Sunbansiri river. Many expeditions are possible, but be aware that visiting Arunachal Pradesh requires a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
You can get one through the Indian government, but it is easier to do so if you are traveling as a group. Thus, you may want to join a tour through a tour company.
9. Alleppey: Best kayaking in India
Located in the state of Kerala, also called God’s Own Country, Alleppey is an amazing destination for people who are looking for a relaxing place to go kayaking. The backwaters and the canals offer many different options.
This a tropical area so you can expect to see different kind of tropical flowers and to kayak under many coco trees. The warm weather and the peaceful energy are going to charm you.
Kerala is a state you absolutely have to visit so not only will you be able to enjoy your favourite sport, but you will also be able to check it off your bucket list. The best part? It is also a cheap vacation destination in India.
10. Kovalam: Best Place for Surfing in India
Also located in Kerala, but offering a completely different kind of experience, Kovalam is a must if you want to surf in India. The sandy beaches, the blue waves and the tropical weather will make you want to stay days and weeks.
This is a while known place for surfers and a good place to relax. Thus, you will probably meet a lot of travellers to share your passion of surfing with. You are new at this sport but you have always wanted to learn? Don’t worry, Kovalam also have options for beginners. Indeed, you can take some surf lessons.
