9 Water Sports Destinations To Visit in India
There are various types of travelers, each with their own unique preferences for exploration. Fortunately, Mother Nature has something to offer everyone, no matter their interests. Whether you're a solo traveler or someone who enjoys exploring with friends and family, water sports are a popular choice for many. And for those who aren’t keen on participating, there’s always the role of being the family photographer during these trips. If you're planning to visit India soon or have been residing here for some time and are ready to step beyond the usual nature trips for some water sports adventures, you're in luck—India boasts numerous places perfect for this.
When water sports come to mind, Goa is often the first destination that pops up. It’s no surprise, as places like Goa and Rishikesh are known for offering excellent water sports experiences, guided by expert professionals. However, due to its popularity, prices can vary, so it’s essential to carefully choose the right activity and package, whether it's river rafting or kayaking. Here are some top destinations that you might want to consider:
With everything laid out for you, it’s time to start exploring these incredible spots. Pack your swimwear, don’t forget your sunscreen, and remember, these activities are best enjoyed during the daytime. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to pack your bags and dive into some of India’s most exciting water destinations!
# Goa
When you think of water sports, Goa’s beaches immediately come to mind. Goa has earned its reputation for being a water sports hub, especially in places like Colva beach in South Goa. This region offers a wide variety of activities like water skiing, jet skiing, parasailing, and kite surfing. While the rush peaks from November to February, visiting in late September or October can offer a more relaxed experience, right after the monsoon season.
# Karnataka
Karnataka is home to Gokarna beach, a favorite among beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Om beach is another popular spot, especially known for surfing. With the help of expert instructors, you can learn to surf and even master the sport. The beaches here are clean, and there are several surfing schools offering courses for all skill levels.
# Andaman Islands
While the Andaman Islands may stretch your budget a bit more than Goa or Karnataka, the experience is worth it. Offering activities like jet skiing, parasailing, surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving, the Andamans are one of the best places to enjoy water sports. Havelock Island, in particular, is a hotspot for these activities. Be sure to bargain, as prices can be high due to its popularity among tourists. Explore packages for diving, walking undersea, and snorkeling for an unforgettable experience. Port Blair's Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex and North Bay Beach are also great places to enjoy water sports.
# Rishikesh
Known for its riverside adventures, Rishikesh is the place to go for river rafting and kayaking. The best time to visit is between September and June, as these months offer optimal conditions for rafting. Kayaking is also a popular activity in Rishikesh, where you can explore calmer river stretches. October to April is the ideal time for kayaking here.
# Ladakh
Ladakh offers an unexpected mix of stunning landscapes and water sports, particularly river rafting on the Indus River. This thrilling activity is available from June to August, allowing you to enjoy the serene beauty of Ladakh while experiencing the rush of rafting.
# Sikkim and Darjeeling
In Sikkim and Darjeeling, the Teesta River offers an exciting opportunity for "river rafting." This experience, which combines the thrill of rapids with the beauty of the river, is best enjoyed from October to April.
# Arunachal Pradesh
The Brahmaputra River in Arunachal Pradesh is famous for kayaking, offering bold and exhilarating experiences. To make the most of this adventure, plan your trip between November and March.
# Chennai and Mumbai
Sailing is a popular activity in cities like Chennai and Mumbai, where you can enjoy a peaceful sail across the waters. Depending on the season, sailing trips are ideal during the summer months in these cities.
# Pondicherry
Pondicherry, along with Goa, is a well-known destination for scuba diving. You can plan your diving trip here from October through May. Pondicherry offers some of the best diving experiences, particularly from January to June, and there’s also the Lighthouse Point in Andaman that provides an excellent scuba diving experience.