20 Water Sports Destinations In India

After two years of COVID-19, we all have that wanderlust raving in us to explore new places, indulge in water sports and get that adrenaline rushing. Isn’t it? Well, we understand! You don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket and travel abroad because India has got the best kind of water sports ranging from kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, sky boarding, parasailing, windsurfing, river rafting, and so much more. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a group of friends or a family getaway, these destinations have something for every age group. Even though places like Goa and Rishikesh are popular for water sports in India, there are some mesmerising places with expert-backed activities you need to try for sure.

So, fasten your seatbelts, get on some sunscreen, and pack your swimsuits as we are taking you for a fun-filled adventure ride to the most fascinating water sports destinations in India.

Top 20 Destinations for Water Sports in India

1. Goa

Undoubtedly, Goa is a marvellous choice and the biggest hub of water sports in India. The best season to visit Goa for water sports is from September to November. Some of the best beaches to visit for water sports are Sinquerim, Calangute and Baga beach.

Activities: Parasailing, windsurfing, skyboarding, jet skiing, banana boating, scuba diving etc

Best time to visit: October to May

Do check out Budget Flight Tickets to Goa here!

2. Om Beach, Karnataka

A favourite destination of beach lovers and adventure lovers paradise, Karnataka is abundant in scenic beaches with lots of water sports. Om beach and Gokarna are some of the most popular destinations for water sports in Karnataka.

Activities: Surfing, kayaking, jet-skiing, Scuba diving

Best time to visit: March to June

3. Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The pristine waters of Andaman call out to all the water babies all through the year. Even though Havelock is famous for its Scuba diving activity, there’s a lot to explore here and get that adrenaline pumping. Even if you’re not a fan of getting wet, you can enjoy other activities like submarine rides and glass-bottom boats.

Activities: Jet skiing, Parasailing, Scuba diving, snorkelling, underwater bath, kite surfing, underwater walking, seaplane ride etc.

Best time to visit: October to May

4. Rishikesh

It is the best place in India to play with the rapids and take a thrilling river rafting experience. Add this to your bucket list now! You can also try cliff jumping into the cold water from 30-40 feet high cliffs. For not-so-adventurous people, body surfing is a great sport to try.

Best time to visit: October to April

Activities: River rafting, kayaking, boating

5. Ladakh

There’s more to Ladakh than just taking a bike ride amidst the scenic views. This heavenly destination is abundant in water sports options with serene and breathtaking views that soothe your adrenaline with an intense feeling.

Best time to visit: June to August

Activities: River rafting, paragliding, kayak, snorkelling

Do check out Cheap Flight Tickets to Leh on Cleartrip with extra discounts.

6. Sikkim & Darjeeling

Roar rafting in the Teesta river is famous in India and is one of the most incredible experiences you’re ever going to undertake!

Activities: River rafting

Best time to visit: October to April

7. Subansiri, Arunachal Pradesh

The Brahmaputra river in Arunachal calls you for a bold river rafting and kayaking experience. Perfect for a family weekend getaway, this adventure-filled experience is all you need!

Activities: Kayaking, River rafting

Best time to visit: November to March

8. Pondicherry

After Goa, Pondicherry is another great option for scuba diving on a budget. There are a plethora of beautiful and peaceful beaches to laze around and indulge in water sports. One must try Rvaines, The Hole, Cool Shark Reef and four corners for an ultimate scuba diving experience.

Activities: Scuba diving, snorkelling

Best time to visit: January to June

9. Manali

The movie Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani must have got Manali on your bucket list for a friend’s trip by now, but there’s more to it than just trekking! Visit Manali for a unique river rafting experience like no other.

Activities: River rafting, water zorbing, kayaking

Best time to visit: April to June

10. Kovalam, Kerala

An idyllic village surrounded by tall coconut trees along the coastlines of the Arabian Sea, Kovalam is renowned for its clear and pristine beaches with low tidal waves, perfect for surfing, jet skiing and motorboat riding.

Best time to visit: September to March

Activities: Windsurfing, catamaran cruising, fishing, diving, swimming

11. Alibag, Maharashtra

A popular weekend getaway destination, this holiday retreat is also known as “mini-Goa”. It has beautiful sandy beaches, clean air, temples, forts and lots of options for fun activities.

Best time to visit: November to March

Activities: Banana boat ride, bumper ride, kayaking, dolphin sightseeing, jet skiing, parasailing

12. Gokarna

Breathtaking landscapes and untouched beaches are what describe the beauty of Gokarna in the best way. It is an adventure hub for beach lovers and hippies and has a plethora of options for water sports activities.

Best time to visit: All year

Activities: Scuba diving, surfing, jet skiing, banana boating, parasailing

13. Varkala, Kerala

Popular for its freshwater springs and backwaters with medicinal properties, Varkala is a coastal town with beautiful hills, lakes, lighthouses and beaches.

Best time to visit: All year

Activities: Jet skiing, parasailing, banana boating

14. Murudeshwar, Karnataka

A popular scuba diving destination in South India, Murudeshwar is a religious destination known for its beautiful Shiva temple.

Best time to visit: October to May

Activities: Jet skiing, snorkelling, kayaking and boating

15. Dandeli, Karnataka

Known as Goa’s adventurous Extension, Dandeli is bestowed with lush green forests, a plethora of flora and fauna, adventure sports and scenic beauty.

Best time to visit: October to May

Activities: River rafting, waterfall trekking

16. Kavaratti, Lakshadweep

Every water sports enthusiast’s delight, Lakshadweep is a perfect destination for water sports. The colourful coral reefs, calm lagoons and exotic marine world are a major attraction for those who love water sports.

Best time to visit: November to March

Activities: Glass bottom boating, swimming, kayaking, scuba diving, yachting, coral gazing, canoeing, snorkelling, etc.

17. Zanskar Valley, Jammu & Kashmir

If you dare to seek a thrilling experience and challenge the rapids, pack your bags and head to Zanskar valley! Tackle the rapids of every grade from 1 to 4 while you’re greeted by the sublime sights of the Grand Canyon of India.

Best time to visit: April to June

Activities: River rafting, kayaking

18. Uttaranchal

A feast of scenic beauty, exotic locals and white water of the Ganges enjoying water sports in the waters of Uttaranchal is an experience next to none.

Best time to visit: April to August

Activities: River rafting, rock climbing, trekking

19. Kolad, Maharashtra

Imagine soothing waterfalls, lush meadows, and a scenic backdrop of Sahyadris- all of this sums up the beauty of Kolad. It is a must-visit destination for water-sport junkies.

Best time to visit: June to October

Activities: Rappelling, River rafting, kayaking

20. Lilabari, Assam

Famous for its scenic waterfront, this town is situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra river and the beauty of Dirang valley, along Sela pass. It is a beautiful spot to try unique water sports.

Best time to visit: October to March

Activities: Boating, kayaking

Conclusion

India is becoming the next hub for adventure sports and is an absolute paradise for adventure junkies. Cleartrip recommends these destinations for watersports because these places have the most mesmerising views, activities for all age groups, clear waters and activities that are backed by expert supervision. All these destinations are well-connected by airports and railways with accommodation options for every budget- from luxury to budget travel. If you’re looking to book flights to your next adventure sports destination, explore Cleartrip’s wide range of deals on flights and get amazing discounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best water sports in India?

Some of the best water sports in India are boating, scuba diving, snorkelling, jet-skiing, parasailing, river rafting, kayaking, kneeboarding, canoeing, water skiing and windsurfing.

Which are the best destinations for water sports in India?

If you’re seeking to try water sports in India, the best places to visit are Rishikesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Goa, Pondicherry, Zanskar (Jammu & Kashmir), Kavaratti (Lakshadweep Islands) and Kovalam Beach (Kerala).

Which are the best beaches in Goa for water sports?

Goa is abundant in options for water sports. The best beaches in Goa for water sports are Calangute beach, Sinquerim beach, Baga beach, Anjuna beach, and Dona Paula.

How much does parasailing cost in India?

Even though the price differs from state to state, the average price for parasailing in India is about Rs 800 to Rs 1200 for 5 to 10 minutes.

Which are the best places in India for scuba diving?

India has some beautiful spots for scuba diving. The best option is Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is bestowed with beautiful shores, colourful corals and clear blue water. The average price for scuba diving in Havelock, Andaman, is between Rs 6000 to Rs 10,000. The second best option is Lakshadweep Islands.

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