Bangalore has, over the past decade, developed into a great place for adventure sports. While you do have to do a bit of travelling to get to its mountains and beautiful rivers, they are the perfect settings for trekking and river rafting, among other adventure sports. We’ve put together a list of some challenging and thrilling adventure activities in Bangalore that you will have access to.
Quick Facts about Adventure Activities in Bangalore
- Do you need formal training in adventure sports before indulging in them?
Generally, no prior training in adventure sports activity is necessary. However, you are given instructions and have to follow them clearly. Trained health and safety professionals are always available. Check the credentials of the company before signing up.
- What is the average cost of adventure sports activities in and around Bangalore?
Adventure sports are always expensive. In Bangalore, expect to pay Rs. 2000 to about Rs. 5000 per person for any of these activities.
- Is there an age limit for participating in adventure sports in Bangalore?
No, there is no such rule, but ideally, someone who is healthy and above the age of 15 up to the age of 60 can indulge in adventure sports.
- Does one need to show a fitness certificate before going for adventure sports?
No, but you will be required to sign a form stating that you are physically fit enough to indulge in adventure sports.
Best Adventure Activities Near Bangalore
1. Trekking
There are several excellent trekking spots around Bangalore. The Savandurga Hill is a great trekking spot, located about 50 kilometres away from Bangalore. One of the trekking trails here goes through an old fort that belonged to Kempe Gowda. This trek, though, is better suited to experienced climbers.
If you love trekking in the company of crowds, try the Nandi Hills trek. The climb is less challenging, and the view from the top is worth the effort (in fact, you could even spend a few days here). Some other awesome treks to check out are at Ramanagara, Skandagiri, and Makalidurga.
- Cost of a trek in Bangalore: The average cost for a 1-day trek in Bangalore is about Rs. 2000 per person. It can be free if you go on your own, but it isn’t a good idea unless you’re experienced.
2. Dirt Biking in Bangalore
Dirt Biking in Bangalore has gained popularity as an outdoor activity. In the city, you can find a couple of dirt bike tracks that have all the modern biking facilities. The tracks at these biking facilities are custom designed to bring thrill and fun to your biking experience.
The Big Rock Motopark in Shapur has a good dirt bike track. The track is only open on the weekends and you need to pre-book a session. Dirt Mania Outdoor Adventure is yet another awesome place for dirt biking. Here you can hire quad bikes, which are a bit bigger than the normal dirt bikes.
You can either choose to ride on the custom designed dirt bike track or be bold and opt for the nature ride trail, where you can ride on a hill. It is advisable to hire a guide for the nature ride trail as the route is confusing.
- Cost of dirt biking in Bangalore: The average cost for a dirt bike riding session in Bangalore is about Rs. 3500 per person.
3. River Rafting
The rivers near Bangalore are the perfect setting for adventure enthusiasts to enjoy rafting. Bangalore is also famous for its white-water rafting. There are many adventure sports companies that organize river rafting sessions in and around Bangalore. Dandeli in the north of Karnataka is one of the best places for river rafting.
The water released from the neighbouring dam and the beautiful surrounding of the Kali river make this place a popular spot for white-water rafting. The rafting stretch begins at Ganeshgudi and ends up at Maulangi Dandeli. With challenging rapids, white-water rafting here is sure to give rafters a thrilling and chilling adventurous experience.
- Cost of river rafting in Bangalore: River rafting in Bangalore will cost you around Rs. 1500 for a single person, depending on the level of the water.
4. Explore the Caves
Head to Anthargange to experience a unique kind of trek. This mountain is well known for its rocky hills and beautifully carved caves. Although short in length, the caves here are worth exploring for its unique carvings and its challenging pathways that are just perfect for anyone looking for a quick workout.
Although trekking inside here is easy, you do have to pay attention to the curves and bends inside the cave. Along the pathway that leads to the caves, you’ll come across and panoramic views of the night sky. It is always advisable to book a guided tour or hire a local guide before heading out to explore the caves. Carry your own torch or a headlamp, as it is dark inside.
- Cost of cave exploration in Bangalore: A guided tour and trek of the Anthargange caves will cost you around Rs. 3000 per person.
5. Dudhsagar Trek
We’ve listed this trek separately as it is a must do for any adventure sports lover. The Dudhsagar Falls is located on the Mandovi River at the border of Goa and Karnataka and is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region. Its wavy pathway and challenging route makes this the ultimate trek for anyone who loves accepting challenges.
What makes this trek a great one to embark on is the reward at the end (stunning views of the Goa-Karnataka border and the milky white waterfall that is a thing of splendour). There are plenty of group treks held at the Dudhsagar Falls. Listed as one of the most challenging treks in Western India, the trek covers a distance of 14 kilometres and it usually takes around eight hours.
It’s nine hours away from Bangalore by road, but you’ve absolutely got to head here if you’re interested in trekking. The best time to visit the falls is during the monsoons (May to September).
- What is the average cost: With transport from Bangalore and a guide, you would need to shell out around Rs. 4000 if you’re part of a group.
You may also like: 30 Popular waterfalls near Bangalore
6. Parasailing
Parasailing has become a popular adventure sport in India and Bangalore is no exception. In Bangalore, there are three types of parasailing activities available: tow vehicle parasailing, winch boat parasailing, and platform parasailing.
Those who love parasailing can do so on the weekends at Jakkur in Karnataka. A parasailing ride lasts for around 20 minutes. You can go parasailing with a trained professional or by yourself.
- Cost of parasailing in Bangalore: The average cost of parasailing in Jakkur is around Rs. 600 per person.
7. Rock Climbing
Bangalore provides adventure seekers with the chance to go rock climbing, too. The best place to do so is at Ramanagara, located about an hours’ away from Bangalore. Other places where rock climbing can be done are Badami, near Hampi, and a few indoor wall-climbing facilities in Bangalore, like Mars Adventures in Kalkere.
- Cost of rock climbing in Bangalore: The average cost of rock climbing around Bangalore is Rs. 1000 per person, going up to Rs. 4500 per person.
These are some of the adventure activities near Bangalore we think are a must do. Are you interested in adventure sports? Have you tried any of these in and around Bangalore? It would be great if you shared your experiences with our readers in the comments section below.
Check out some great hotels in Bangalore for a perfect trip here.