In 2019, I took a trek to Maharashtra’s Sandhan Valley (also known as the ‘Valley of Shadows’). ‘In awe’ would describe the first reaction I had when I saw this giant canyon hidden in the Sahyadri range. The trek was tagged ‘difficult’ — the journey to and back, as well as the rappelling (descent down a mountain slope on a rope).

But for me, there was one moment that stuck out. Dawn was breaking and the group had just descended into the ravine. The path was bordered by two gigantic columns of rock formations; towering tributes that seemed to cradle the valley. The view was deadly and beautiful at the same time.

Most of us have experienced it at least once — the rush of adrenaline at the top of a mountain, the bottom of a valley, or suspended in the sky. Adventure has a way of making us feel alive.

But even if you haven’t had such an experience yet, the question is, are you ready for it? Because we’ve curated a thrilling bucket list of adventure activities tailored to different states in India, just for you.

1. Kashmir – Skiing, Zanskar Trek

The Swiss Alps are heavenly, but Gulmarg in Kashmir is, too. Said to be one of the highest lift-served ski resorts in the world, this destination attracts millions of tourists each year. The paradisical slopes, the 12,000 ft landscape, and the frozen lake ‘Al-Pathar’ are the main draws. The best time to ski here is January and February.

Another adventure awaits in the North — the Chadar Trek, also known as the Zanskar Gorge Trek. Tracing across the frozen Zanskar river — a tributary of the Indus river — in Ladakh, the route plays host to a number of glaciers. Be warned that the mountainside is treacherous, but this adds to the thrill of the trek. The best time to go for it is January........

© The Better India