The state of Rajasthan is distinguished by its fabulous monuments, all of which reflect the glory of the bygone age. Traditions, heritage and culture, all combine to lend this state a characteristic flavor of its own. No wonder, it witnesses a steady stream of visitors the year round.
However, its unique landscape and topography also lends itself to a variety of adventure sports. From jeep safari to paragliding, the opportunities for adventure abound here. Some of these activities also show you a completely different side of the state.
Rajputs have been keen equestrian and they take to the horses like a fish to water. Their taking to polo in big way was only natural. Their association with polo dates back to the Mughal period and miniature paintings at the Mehrangarh Fort bear testimony to this early introduction to the game. However, Polo did not become a passion until the British period when it became a natural and a marvelous peacetime pursuit. It was in 1889, when the colourful Prime Minister of Jodhpur Sir Partap Singh invited the Bengal Lancers to raise the Jodhpur Lancers; Polo was introduced to Jodhpur in its current modern form. Three years later Jodhpur raised its Polo Team, which won many accolades home and abroad. In 1897, when Sir Pratap travelled to London for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, he took his polo team along, amongst the very first Indian teams to travel abroad, and, for that matter, foreign teams to invade England and create history.
Treking :-
Lying in the west of India, the topography of Rajasthan varies from sand-dunes of the desert to the lofty hill ranges of the Aravallis which makes Rajasthan a trekker’s paradise. There are many beautiful meadows, dense forests, crystal lakes, waterfalls and rivulets meandering through the countryside. One of the old eat mountain ranges of the world, the Aravallis, extending from northeast to south-west have some beautiful forest areas. Mount Abu, about 1300 mts. above sea level is an ideal locale. Kumbhalgarh is another area in the Aravallis which is also good for trekking. Kumbhalgarh is just 90 kms from Udaipur off the Udaipur-Pali- Jodhpur Road. Trek upto the historic Kumbhatgarh fort. There is also a wildlife sanctuary. The famous Jain temples of Ranakpur are close-by. Trekking routes in Mount Abu, Kumbhalgarh and Rawali Tatgarh are not restricted to any particular area. The entire mountain system offers exciting trails which originate at starting points spread over the entire length and breadth of the Aravallis. OneCan trek from Abu Road to Guru Shikhar (highest peak of Aravali),Thandi Beri to Kumbhalgarh fort or Ranakpur to Rawali Tatgarh .
Hot air ballooning is one of the most popular sports in Rajasthan. A ride on a hot air balloon in the cities of Rajasthan provides an unforgettable experience. Gliding past the lakes, desert lands, forts and palaces provides a unique perspective of the state. The rides are arranged at dawn or dusk, depending largely on the weather conditions. However, do not forget to bring your camera along with you during the ride, as the views from above are truly captivating.
Paragliding :-
Paragliding is still in its nascent stage in Rajasthan, but is gaining a rapid popularity with each passing day. The thrill and excitement associated with this sport make it one of the most exciting things to do in Rajasthan for adventure lovers. Soaring above the golden blanketed countryside of Rajasthan equips you with unforgettable memories. However, one can engage in this activity only through the operators who are armed with the necessary equipment.
Jeep Safari :-
Of course, there is an undescribed thrill in sitting comfortably and watching the landscape fly by you as your jeep takes you to exotic locations in Rajasthan. A jeep safari is highly sought after because it takes you to unexplored destinations. One of the greatest advantages of a jeep safari is the option it provides in terms of altering one’s sightseeing requirements. Other than the rural areas, jeep safaris also let you visit historical forts & Palaces which are popular for architectural design and history importance.
Rajasthan is home to a number of wildlife sanctuaries which are home to various mammals, exotic birds and endangered species. One of these is Ranthambore National Park in Sawai Madhopur, which is renowned for its tiger population. Then there is Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary in Bharatpur, which is home to about 379 floral species, 366 bird species and several animals. In the Desert National Sanctuary, Jaisalmer, common sightings include Great Indian Bustard, sand grouse, kestrels, laggar falcons, spotted eagles. Apart from these, there are plenty of other sanctuaries which are famous for holding an exciting variety of wildlife. In all these sanctuaries, one can view the exotic wildlife through a jeep safari.
Adventure in Rajasthan has ample amount of activities to offer to adventure buffs. The state has always been active in various types of traditional sports and games. And with some fantastic wildlife sanctuaries and parks adventure holidays in Rajasthan have got a remarkable growth
