If you're an adrenaline junkie, Darjeeling is an ideal place for you, what with all the adventure sports it offers you in a natural setting! From paragliding to river rafting and more, here's all that you should indulge in when in this quaint little town.

1. Paragliding At Kalimpong

Unfurl your wings and get ready to fly in Kalimpong, a town two hours away from Darjeeling. You can choose from a 15 minutes or 30 minutes flight! If you wish to master this sport, spend 3 to 5 days here and you’ll be all trained to fly the chute all by yourself - how cool is that?! The best time for paragliding is between October and April, leaving January and February. Happy flying!

2. River Rafting At Teesta

Famous for river rafting, the Teesta river receives a lot of travel junkies throughout the year and that’s why the sport has been divided into 6 grades based on the difficulty level. Also, there are different river rafting programs depending on the duration of rafting and whether you know how to swim or not. Book away!

3. High Altitude Camping At Tonglu

A small settlement inside the Singalila National Park, Tonglu is the place to go if you want to camp in a secluded region and surround yourself with the stunning Himalayas. The panoramic view of the snow covered peaks and a picturesque trekkers’ hut will be worth the sweat because Tonglu won’t disappoint you at all. Happy trekking and camping!

4. Kayaking At Singla

Just an hour and a half drive away from Darjeeling, Singla is a small town where you can have an amazing kayaking experience, irrespective of whether you’re an amateur kayaker or a pro. Two types of kayaking trips are offered here - one is a day trip which has kayaking combined with a picnic and a tour. The other is an overnight trip which includes camping on the river banks!

5. Mountain Biking To Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary

A cycle ride to the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary will surely be a treat as the flawless views of the sanctuary are sure to keep you mesmerised by its beauty. Grab your helmets, tie your laces and get ready to cycle your way through the 20 kms trail. Call up an operator and book your rental well in advance. Enjoy!

6. Zorbing In Darjeeling

See the world spin around as you get inside a big plastic ball and become a child. You will be secured inside the ball which would then be rolled on the ground. Although you might have done this before somewhere else, but with the scenic beauty of Darjeeling, it's a whole new experience!

7. Rock Climbing In Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Feel the thrill by discovering the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in light of what Darjeeling is literally known for! HMI offers various courses all of which are conducted in the Kanchenjunga region. There are many courses available here so choose the one best suited for you and climb away!

8. Hot Air Balloon

Afraid of paragliding but still want to fly like a bird? If yes, take a ride in a hot air balloon and experience Darjeeling from a bird's eye view! They pump hot air through a gas burner and all you have to do is to just sit in the basket. There will also be a guide accompanying you who will control the burner and the balloon at all times. The best time to fly is between October and May.

Incase you wish to book these activities in advance, you can check out:

Denzong Leisure | http://www.denzongleisure.com/
Offroad Adventure | http://www.offroadadventure.in/product/kayaking/

So let the thrill take over!

Editors