10 Best Adventure Sports In Nainital, Uttarakhand

1. Ridge camping

The enchanting hills of Nainital invite people to camp in its various sites and experience it first-hand. There are a number of options for camping in and around the main town. You can camp on the bank of Gaula River or in the middle of peach orchards. Mukteshwar, which is just 50 km (31 miles) away from the main town of Nainital, offers campsites that are surrounded by apple and peach trees or snowy mountains. Each season makes ridge camping more exciting. In the summer, you will find apricots, peaches, and plums here. In the springtime, expect the orchards to be filled with apples.

2. Water zorbing

Imagine sitting inside a giant transparent ball that is floating in the water. This particular watersport is known as water zorbing. In Nainital, you have to visit the beautiful Bhimtal Lake to try this activity. Inside the ball, you can try rolling or just sitting quietly so you can fully enjoy the slow rhythm of the water. However, you can only try this sport under the supervision of the experts. The ride lasts around 15 minutes in which you can roll, dance, jump on the water without getting wet.

3. Paragliding

Take a paragliding flight to enjoy the authentic beauty of the hills from the sky. The best place to try paragliding is in Naukuchiatal, just an hour from the main town of Nainital. Naukuchiatal is famous for its lake known as “Lake of Nine Corners.” You also have another site for paragliding, and that is in the main town of Nainital near Bhimtal Lake. Newbies who want to try this out should know that paragliding flights vary according to the timing and duration.

4. Rappelling

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Climbing uneven rocky hills with the help of a rope can be a thrilling experience. This type of adventure needs strength and a very strong will. If you are passionate enough to try this adrenaline-rushing activity, then visit Bara Patthar. This place is located very close to the main bus stop of Nainital. If you are a novice in this sport, there are experts available on the site to guide you throughout your climb. The activity normally lasts for two hours depending on the size of the boulders you are climbing.

5. Trekking

If you want to try trekking, Nainital is famous for a number of popular trekking trails here. The most difficult trek is Nanda Devi that offers excellent views of the snow-covered peak of Bandarpunch. Trek to China Peak while being surrounded by beautiful cypress, deodar, and pine trees. If you are looking for a slightly easy trek, you can choose to climb Tiffin Top. The bird watchers can trek Pangot Village and meet more than 300 bird species there.

6. River crossing

Hanging on a rope over a wild river needs more than just courage. If you are willing to opt for an adventure like that, you need to head towards Sattal Lake. It is a freshwater lake surrounded by oak and pine woods. Here, you can try the activity with the guidance of the experts. If you decide to engage in this activity, need not worry as rope and bridle are already provided by the organizers.

7. Rock climbing

One of the most famous adventure sports in Nainital is rock climbing. The adventure seekers sometimes travel to Nainital for the sole purpose of trying this out. If you are interested, you can contact the local Nainital Mountaineering Club. They arrange rock climbing sessions of various durations through the beautiful hills of Himalaya.

8. Bike riding

Bike riding in Nainital is not just a sport but also an adventure that gives you plenty of freedom to explore the beautiful town at your own pace. For this adventure, you can rent either motorbikes or quad bikes. There are even various kinds of assistance facilities available depending on the skill level of riders. If you want to try quad biking, then you must plan a visit to Naukuchiatal.

9. Angling

After engaging in intense sports, why not try a slow-paced activity like angling? Angling is a special kind of fishing where fish are caught by using an angle or fish hook. In Nainital, you have to obtain permission from the local authorities to try angling. Here, you can catch various kinds of fish such as trout, salmon, cod, catfish, and more. The best places to try angling near Nainital is Sattal and Khurpa Taal. Wake up early in the morning and start as soon as possible to get a good location for your angling expedition.

10. Boating

The beautiful lakes in Nainital are surrounded by lush mountains, oak, and pine trees. Imagine getting into a boat while marveling at the breathtaking views of the site. For boating, Naini Lake is the most famous one of all the lakes, and the paddleboats only add to its irresistible charm. While here, you are provided with an option to try the rowboats that offer a full or half-round of the lake.

Choose your adventure in Nainital

This Himalayan resort town is a paradise for adventure lovers. Whether you’re into trekking or rock climbing, it won’t be boring due to the excellent views in each tourist spot. While you’re engaging in any activity, soak in the panoramic views of the mountains or let yourself be surrounded by the beauty of glistening lakes. If you are traveling to this part of India for the very first time, then you should check out our list of the best adventure sports in Nainital.