Introduction
India is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers. Off the beaten path in rural areas lie dozens of spectacular valley forts overlooking picturesque landscapes and charming little towns populated by welcoming locals. This stretch of rural India has come to be known as the “Bagpacking Trail” due to its popularity with backpackers exploring the country on a budget. From trekking and hiking to rock climbing and paragliding, there are endless outdoor adventure activities available across the forts and towns along the Bagpacking Trail.
Hiking
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
As one of the most popular national parks in India, Ranthambore offers excellent opportunities for hiking through varied forest terrain that is home to a thriving wildlife population. Trails range from easy 2-3 hour walks to all-day treks requiring intermediate fitness levels. The best times to hike are October to February, when temperatures are mild. Wear sturdy shoes, carry plenty of water, and stick to established trails. Hiking is a great way to spot animals like deer, monkeys, and even tigers in their natural habitat if you’re lucky! Explore remnants of the old Ranthambore Fort on scenic hilltop trails for breathtaking views.
Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Nicknamed the “Queen of Hill Stations,” Mahabaleshwar is crisscrossed by well-marked hiking trails perfect for all skill levels. Favorite routes include the 7.5 km round trip to Lingmala Waterfalls and the challenging 10 km trek up to Pratapgad Fort. Both climbs reward hikers with gorgeous vistas of rolling green hills and distant mountain ranges. Early morning or late afternoon are best to avoid peak sun during the summer months. Pack a day-pack with essentials like snacks, rain gear, and a first aid kit. Mahabaleshwar’s bracing air and verdant trails make for an uplifting hiking experience.
Trekking
Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
With its stark, high-altitude desert landscape carved by mighty mountain ranges, Ladakh offers unparalleled trekking adventures. Multi-day trips along the Frozen River Trek, Chadar Trek and Markha Valley Trek pass through isolated nomadic villages and camp in raw natural settings under dazzling starry skies. Trekking here requires adequate acclimatization, physical fitness and handling extremes of sun, snow and thin air. Use a licensed tour operator who can guide on sustainable trekking practices and ensure safety as Medical facilities are limited in this region. Treks typically run from May to September.
Hampi, Karnataka
Nestled between boulder-strewn hills etched with ruins of the ancient Vijayanagar Empire, Hampi is a trekker’s wonderland. Popular multi-day routes weave through rice fields, tropical forests, and streams around the sacred village of Hemakuta. Easier one-day treks include visiting secluded middens like Kalavadi Hill or exploring the Archaeological Museum site. October to February have moderate temperatures that are perfect for trekking. Carry the essential first aid, water bottles, rain gear, and snacks. End treks exploring Hampi’s monuments before winding down with homemade dosas in the village.
Rock Climbing
Joshimath, Uttarakhand
With its towering granite cliffs, Joshimath is a rock climber’s paradise. Beginner and intermediate climbers can try bouldering on routes like Latu Ka Taal or scaling the limestone spires around Vasuki Tal Lake. For advanced climbers, nearby Valley of Flowers hosts multi-pitch classic routes graded 7-10, like The Lost World. Rope-ups with certified instructors are available year-round, but spring/autumn offers moderate weather. Bring safety gear like a harness and helmet and ensure protection placements are bomber. Post-climb, unwind in nearby hot springs.
Hampi, Karnataka
In addition to scenic treks, Hampi also caters to climbers of all skill levels, with plentiful rock faces all around. There are hundreds of bolted sport climbing routes on granitic domes like Hemakuta Hill, which are perfect for bouldering or short lead climbs. For Traditional climbing, areas like Anthropic have multi-pitch challenges ranging from 5.9 to 5.12. Climbing season runs from October to March. Use a qualified guide and safety systems, as loose rocks are an issue. Top rope systems are common for beginners to build confidence and technique. Reward hard days with sun-downers by the Tungabhadra River.
Whitewater Rafting
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
As the gateway to India’s best whitewater, Rishikesh offers everything from half-day river runs perfect for beginners on Grade 1-3 rapids to expert multi-day expeditions tackling Grade 4-5 rapids further upstream. Popular stretches include Shivpuri (ideal for first-timers), Kaudiyala, and Rishikesh-Shivpuri. Rafting operators run safe, certified trips with helmets, lifejackets, and trained river guides. March to October has ample water levels, but monsoon sees the highest rapids. Enjoy the post-rafting bonfire parties in Rishikesh town.
Beas River, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
River Beas around Manali offers rafting adventures through plunging Grade 2 and 3 rapids amid scenic mountain scenery. Half/full-day trips run from April to September, with July-August being the peak water flow period. Experienced paddlers can try multi-day routes combining rafting and camping in the Kinnaur Kailash area. Reputable operators like Solang Valley Rafting ensure safety gear, Throw bags, and first aid kits are always at hand. End the perfect rafting day, indulging in wood-fired pizzas and bonfires at Old Manali.
Mountain Biking
Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
With its rugged alpine terrain connected by scenic tracks and trails yet untouched by mass tourism, Kashmir Valley provides paradise mountain biking. Favorite routes include full-day rides around Dal Lake, which showcase verdant fields, villages, and views of the mighty Himalayas. For advanced bikers, multi-day routes like Awantipora-Pahalgam pass through picturesque countryside and camp in alpine meadows. The riding season is from April to November, with June to August being the best. Use a certified local outfit and gear up with proper safety equipment suited for the challenging terrain.
Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
This high-altitude valley tucked between lofty Himalayan peaks provides adventurous multi-day biking routes through scenic lunar landscapes. Popular trails weave from Kaza to Tabo, Dhankar to Kibber, or Pin Valley. Rides traverse remote villages and offer views of snow-capped mountains and camping amid starry night skies. Expert mountain biking skills, adequate acclimatization, and physical fitness are key given high altitudes over 4000m. The best season is July-September, or guided trips available. An unforgettable way to soak in Spiti’s beauty!
Paragliding
Bir-Billing, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled in the lower Himalayas, Bir Billing is a world renowned paragliding hotspot offering thermal lifting all year round and pilot training schools certified by the HGFA. Both first-timers and experienced pilots can take solo or tandem flights year round with varying difficulty levels. Half/full day intro flights provide scenic views of the Dhauladhar mountain range. For seasoned pilots, longer flights follow migratory bird routes over towering peaks. Use certified instructors with secured equipment for safety. A once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Sairaj Valley, Barot, Himachal Pradesh
Nearer to Manali airport, Sairaj Valley is emerging as a new paragliding mecca offering some of India’s best flying conditions. Gentle thermals andridge soaring combined with stunning vistas of glacial valleys make this a paraglider’s paradise. Tandem flights give complete newcomers a peak into the thrill. Instructors offer certification courses for those wanting to learn this skill. In the summer months, April to June, we see reliable conditions, with local villagers always around to help. Unwind post flights over campfires under dark, starry skies.
Canyoning
Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
India’s first organized canyoning center based in Chamba offers beginner-to-expert routes amidst verdant surroundings year-round. Half/full-day introductory routes involve waterfall jumping, rappelling, and hiking through deep gorges. Certified instructors equip participants with all necessary gear, like helmets and harnesses, before leading down routes. Advanced multi-pitch routes for experienced canyoneers involve free-climbing walls, abseiling down waterfalls, and swimming. The best season is from April to October, with June-August having the highest water flows. Guaranteed to test limits in a safe environment!
Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
Nicknamed India’s “only hill station”, Pachmarhi, located in Satpura Tiger Reserve, offers canyoning opportunities of a gentler variety through scenic valleys and streams. Half/full-day trips guided by trained NAT GEO instructors involve basic rappelling, zip lining, and hiking through lush green gorges. No prior experience is needed. The best season is post-monsoon from September-February to avoid peak water flows. A more laidback canyoning experience amid pleasant natural surroundings.
Base Jumping
While India currently has no dedicated base jumping sites, expert thrill-seekers are still attempting this high-adrenaline activity at their own risk in remote areas with sufficient cliffs and ledges available. Key locations include:
- Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan: At heights reaching 600m, experienced jumpers attempt cliff dives from its towering ramparts but require permits.
- Hampi, Karnataka: Granitic domes like Monkey Head present technical climbing followed by perilous jumps for experts only. Loose rocks add risk.
- Ladakh: Remote natural locations along Zanskar and Markha valleys provide backdrop for underground jumpers. Thin air at high altitude adds challenges.
- Spiti Valley, Himachal: Steep natural cliffs scattered in the moonscape terrain offer a backdrop for daredevil jumps but remote access adds risks.
Safety standards and certification are lacking. Jumps should only be attempted solo under one’s own responsibility and after thorough training from certified BASE organizations abroad, given the risks involved with no rescue infrastructures in place.
Key FAQs about the Bagpacking Trail
How to plan an itinerary?
First decide interests and time frame then research locations offering those activities. March-June and Sept-Nov generally see nice weather. Book accommodation, permits in advance. Public transport links key spots but renting a bike expands options. Connect with local tour operators for activities and guides if needed. Allow flexibility for changes or extra days if exploring remoter areas.
Which locations need permits?
Most parks/trekking routes require permits booked in advance through agencies. e.g. Ranthambore, Valley of Flowers, Ladakh Treks. Some forts/sites charge entry or hire guides like Kumbhalgarh, Hampi. Certain base jumping locations also require prior permission from authorities.
Are places pet-friendly?
Many homestays and budget hotels across the trail are pet-friendly. However, adventure activities may pose safety issues for pets. Forts/park areas generally don’t allow pets due to conservation rules. Discuss options sensitively with hosts if traveling with pets.
How’s the safety scenario?
Majority of places on the Bagpacking Trail are extremely safe, especially when sticking to guide recommendations. However, basic precautions apply – stay in touch with locals, avoid deserted areas after dark and carry medical kit especially for remote expeditions. Women travelers should take normal city precautions especially in smaller towns.
Budget and expenses
Budget anywhere from Rs.1000-2000/day per person depending on activities, locations. Accommodation is cheapest – room sharing from Rs.500. Rental bikes Rs.300-500/day. Food is very affordable especially home-cooked meals. Activities range Rs.1000-5000. Book in advance for permits and tours to save. Factor in cost of flights/taxis for remote areas.
