With its unique geographical features, Karnataka provides adventure lovers with every kind of terrain except snow-clad mountains. Thrill seekers and environmentalists can indulge in a host of outdoor activities on land, water and in the sky. Karnataka’s jagged coastline, the Western Ghats with their beckoning peaks, incredible craggy formations, expansive water bodies and the many rivers that crisscross the state make it a haven for adventure sports and other outdoor activities.
To make Karnataka the preferred state for adventure sports, Karnataka Tourism has tied up with the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports (DYES) and other private players to promote adventure sports in the state. A total of 11 events are been scheduled from June till February 2018, starting with the Kali River Festival on June 17. Various activities ranging from bouldering, sailing, kayaking, climbing, etc are planned.
White Water Rafting
Experience the thrills of white water rafting on some unpredictable stretches of the Kali River at Dandeli ��\” the best place south of the Himalayas. Kemphole is another popular destination for white water enthusiasts. Sitanadi (near Agumbe) and Netravati are also favourite white water rafting spots. The azure waters of the Cauvery at Barpole also provide for some great river rafting.
Other Water Sports
Honnemaradu, a haven for water sports, is tucked away amidst the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, along the expansive Sharavati Backwaters near Sagara. Match your wits against the water with activities like coracling, canoeing, kayaking and windsurfing.
The stretches of surf between Gokarna and Karwar are perfect for water sports. Surf the waves at Malpe or visit Nethrani Island near Murudeshwara which is the best place for scuba diving. Devbagh is the ultimate destination for water lovers and the perfect place for those who enjoy island vacations. Devbagh is also a popular haunt for power sailing, water skiing, sailing, and water sledging (banana boat ride).
Rock Climbing/ Bouldering
The craggy wilderness around Ramnagara, 50km from Bengaluru on the Bengaluru-Mysuru Highway, is a climber’s delight. Called the Mecca of Rock Climbers, this amazing place has plenty of opportunities for budding as well as professional rock climbers. The classic Hindi movie, Sholay was shot on these picturesque rocks.
If you can supplement your love of adventure with some time, there are other rock climbing options around Bengaluru which are fortified by interesting rock formations in places like Savanadurga, Kabbaldurga, Tumkur, Turahalli and Kanakpura.
Yana near Kumta, Uttara Kannada District, Karnataka, famous for its unique rock formation, is also a favourite rock-climbing haunt.
Bouldering provides yet another adventure option. Some of the best climbing areas in Karnataka are at Badami and Hampi, where you canalso take a cultural tour to the ruins and cave temples.
Trekking
With its lush tropical forests, hills and dales, caves and cascades, roaring rivers and gurgling streams and flora and fauna, Karnataka is a trekker’s paradise.
Trekking trails are mostly located in the Ghat districts of Uttara and Dakshina Kannada, Shivamogga, Chikmagalur, Hassan and Kodagu. Try railway-track trekking through the spectacular Western Ghats between the towns of Donigal and Kukke Subramanya. This unique activity lets you savour natural beauty while watching trains thunder by. Die-hard trekkers can explore the coastline on foot via the enchanting Golden Trek from Karwar to Gokarna. Tadiyendamol, the tallest peak in Kodagu, from where you can view the distant Arabian Sea on a clear day, is a trekker’s delight. Agumbe is also a favourite with trekkers. The ideal time for trekking is immediately after the monsoon from September to December.
Aero Sports
Microlight Flying is a truly Zen experiencewhich is available near MysuruAirport and Jakkur Aerodrome. There is also tandem skydiving conducted in Mysuru.
