Top Adventure Sports in Kerala That Will Set Your Pulse Racing
Did you know that beneath Kerala’s cultural exterior lies a thrilling side that many people are unaware of? Yes, adventure sports in Kerala are highly underrated. The lush greenery is so mesmerising that most travellers and vloggers hardly look beyond it. But the other side of the state is even more fun. The variety of soft and hard adventure sports is what makes Kerala such a thrilling state to explore.
Whether you’re travelling with your friends or solo, there is an adventure sport for everyone. In fact, travellers with families and honeymooners also have so much to look forward to.
What’s So Special About Adventure Sports In Kerala?
Kerala offers a gigantic topography. The lush greenery is hypnotising. The surreal hill stations like Munnar offer spectacular viewpoints. Together with the rivers and coastlines included, they make great locations for the wildest sports. Beginners, in particular, love kayaking in the calm backwaters of this state, as opposed to seasoned adventurers who prefer more challenging experiences.
For all the adventure sports in Kerala, you can hire certified instructors and trainers. With guided safety, they leave no chance of inconvenience.
From panchakarma to kayalpa, Kerala is brimming with a myriad of wellness treatments. There are meditation and numerous other relaxing experiences to explore.
Best Adventure Sports in Kerala
1. Paragliding
A form of aerial sport, paragliding involves a foot-launched, super lightweight glider. It allows for flight like birds in the sky.
Best Locations in Kerala: Vagamon and Varkala are highly recommended. They provide paragliding at the cheapest rates.
Best Time To Try It: Between September to March
Difficulty Level: Paragliding is an advanced-level sport.
Safety Tips or Operator Information: Ensure you take tandem flights with certified pilots to guide you through your adventure.
Cost Range: ₹2,500 to ₹4,500
Who it’s Ideal For: Aerial sport lovers and solo travellers
2. White Water Rafting
White river rafting is done using an inflatable raft on which people wearing life jackets adventure across the waters, admiring the scenic beauty around them.
Best Locations in Kerala: Kadalundi River, Periyar and Cherupuzha River.
Best Time To Try It: Monsoon and post-monsoon (June–October)
Difficulty Level: Rapids ranging from grade II to IV
Safety Tips or Operator Information: Please maintain safety by wearing the proper safety gear. Before starting the activity, ensure you have addressed all your questions with the guide about the activity.
Cost Range: ₹1,000 to ₹1,600, one person
Who it’s Ideal For: Water adventure sports seekers will love this.
3. Mountain Biking
This is an off-road cycling sport where mountain bikers travel across rough terrain.
Best Locations in Kerala: Munnar, Wayanad and Ponmudi
Best Time To Try It: October to February
Difficulty Level: Ranges from beginner-level to advanced.
Safety Tips or Operator Info
Focus on appropriate clothing with solid safety gear. Keep a check on the bike’s speed too, so you can handle the tough terrain.
Cost Range: Starts at Rs. 3,000
Who it’s Ideal For
People who love travelling across rough terrains like mountain slopes and more.
4. Trekking & Hiking
While hiking is a physically demanding walk that involves both solo and group travel, trekking is a multi-day activity.
Best locations in Kerala: Meesapulimala, Chembra Peak, Agasthyakoodam, Dhoni Hills
Best time to try it: October to April
Difficulty level: Intermediate-level
Safety tips or operator info: Agasthyakoodam (apply through Kerala Forest Department)
Cost Range: ₹100- ₹500
Who it’s ideal for: Travellers in groups and even solo travellers
5. Ziplining & Rope Activities
Ziplining and rope activities are adventure sports in Kerala that are stretched from one end to another. Travellers must travel through the stretch, taking in the views.
Best locations in Kerala: Wayanad Adventure Camp, Thenmala Eco-tourism Park
Best time to try it: Year-round
Difficulty level: Beginner-level sport
Safety tips or operator info: The instructors are quite stringent. Please adhere to their safety guidance.
Cost Range: Depends from ₹400 to ₹₹4,000
Who it’s ideal for: Families and beginners alike
6. Scuba Diving & Snorkelling
These are underwater adventure sports in Kerala where people can experience the surreal coral reefs and a myriad of colourful fish.
Best locations in Kerala: Kovalam (Trivandrum), Varkala
Best time to try it: October to March
Difficulty level: Advanced-level
Safety tips or operator info: No prior swimming experience required (for discovery dives). However, it is imperative that you follow the instructions carefully.
Cost Range: ₹4,000 to ₹6,500
Who it’s ideal for: Solo travellers and high-adventure seekers
7. Kayaking & Canoeing
These are water sports where individuals paddle their own boats for a unique experience.
Best locations in Kerala: Alleppey, Munroe Island, Ashtamudi Lake
Best time to try it: September to March
Difficulty level: Beginner-friendly
Safety tips or operator info: Safety gear is a must.
Cost Range: ₹499 to ₹1,800
Who it’s ideal for: Eco-travellers and birdwatchers who will really enjoy exploring this sport
8. Jungle Safari & Nature Trails
This involves jeep safaris, bamboo rafting, and guided walks
Best locations in Kerala: Periyar, Wayanad, Parambikulam, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuaries
Best time to try it: November to April
Difficulty level: Beginner-level
Safety tips or operator info: Apply sunscreen to prevent excessive sun exposure when sighting your favourite animals. Don’t forget to carry binoculars to spot each animal closely.
Cost Range: Depends on the activity chosen, ₹1,770 to ₹1,900
Who it’s ideal for: Families travelling with children, friends and honeymooners alike
Adventure Sports by Region (For Itinerary Planning)
| Region | Adventure Sports |
| North Kerala | Trekking (Chembra Peak, Banasura), Camping, Ziplining, Wildlife Safari, Beach water sports (Bekal) |
| Central Kerala | Bamboo Rafting (Periyar), Jungle Trekking, Night Camping, River Rafting (Chalipuzha, Iruvanjhipuzha), Waterfall Rappelling (Athirappilly |
| South Kerala | Paragliding (Vagamon), Scuba Diving & Snorkelling (Kovalam, Varkala), Surfing (Varkala, Kovalam), Kayaking & Canoeing (Ashtamudi Lake), Rock Climbing (Thenmala) |
| Backwaters & Coastal | Kayaking & Canoeing (Alappuzha, Kumarakom), Stand-Up Paddleboarding (Alappuzha), Houseboat Adventure Stays, Fishing Tours (Kumarakom) |
Adventures in Kerala That Cannot Get More Offbeat
1. Tree Climbing & Zipline in Thekkady
Rope and ladder Adventure Park is one of the most popular parks for tree climbing in Thekkady. It also offers safe ziplining activities. Canopy line zips, nestled on the Kumily–Sathram adventure circuit, is also a remarkable spot to enjoy this activity. October to February is the best time to visit these parks.
2. Caving at Edakkal (Wayanad)
For those seeking challenging adventures, Edakkal can be a rewarding experience. The caves here aren’t built using real rocks, but the experience is nothing short of spectacular. Travellers have to trek up to 1 to 1.5 kilometres to Ambukuthi Hill, which is an adventure in itself.
3. Rock Climbing in Munnar and Vagamon
Amongst Munnar and Vagamon, the latter is more well-known for rock climbing. They offer guided sessions and complete safety assurance for all rock climbers. The outcrops (rock formations) and cliffs offer rugged terrains that make this adventure worthwhile.
4. Night Camping in the Silent Valley buffer zone
Night camping is a unique experience for most adventure fanatics. Farm tours, sunrise hikes, and both indoor and outdoor games make this a must-try experience. Make sure you book in advance.
Best Places For Adventure Sports in Kerala (At a Glance Table)
| Region | Activities | Price Per Person | Best Time To Visit |
| Periyar, Thekkady (Central Kerala) | Bamboo Rafting, Jungle Trekking, Night Camping, Wildlife Safari | INR600–INR2,000 | October – June |
| Vagamon (South Kerala) | Paragliding, Trekking | INR3,000–INR4,500 | October – March |
| Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam (Backwaters) | Kayaking, Canoeing, Houseboat Adventure Stays | INR600-INR2,000 | September – March |
| Thenmala (South Kerala) | Rock Climbing, Eco-Adventures, Ziplining | INR500–INR2,000 | October – March |
| Bekal (North Kerala) | Beach water sports, Parasailing, Kayaking | INR800–INR2,500 | October – February |
| Alappuzha / Kumarakom (Backwaters) | Kayaking, Canoeing, Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Fishing Tours | INR400–INR1,500 | August – April |
| Wayanad (North Kerala) | Trekking (Chembra Peak, Banasura Hills), Camping, Ziplining | INR500–INR2,000 | October – March |
Safety And Booking Tips
- Hire only licensed operators and certified guides
- Before stepping out for adventures in Kerala, ensure the weather is appropriate for the activity you seek to indulge in.
- High-risk activity seekers must have travel insurance handy.
- For forest treks, make sure you always inform forest authorities or go through authorised eco-tourism groups.
- Hydration is vital during daytime activities. You must also ensure that you dress appropriately for your adventure sports in Kerala.
- Make sure you book in advance for the peak season so that you can grab the most nominal tickets.
What to Pack For Adventure Travel in Kerala
- Trekking shoes or sports sandals, depending on the type of adventure sport you select.
- Quick-dry clothing for water sports to avoid falling sick.
- Raincoat or poncho in case it starts to rain.
- First-aid kit, because sometimes adventures call for unwanted injuries.
- Sunscreen and a bug repellent to avoid sun and insect exposure during the day.
- Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated all day long.
- A waterproof phone pouch to store your phone in a dry area. You can also carry a dry bag for the same.
Combine Adventure With Culture & Wellness
- The right Ayurvedic massage after a long day of trekking can release tension from your muscles. It can also help relax your mind, calm your body and recharge you for your next set of adventures.
- Local eco-lodges aren’t just for promoting green tourism. They are also thronged with Ayurvedic and wellness treatments, offering numerous options. Make sure you book yours before time to get your hands on the most nominal rates.
- Cooking classes with fellow travellers can be a lifetime experience. Learn from the local chefs there. For those who aren’t keen on cooking, Kathakali performances and other cultural festivals could be a great consideration. These options may also be available at budget-friendly prices when booked in advance.
Conclusion
Kerala’s endless adventure activities are every adventure seeker’s safe haven. It doesn’t just bestow families, friends, and honeymooners with enough bonding time, but also solo travellers with an unforgettable solo trip. If you’re ready to test your limits in Kerala next, book your next adventure right away. The best adventure sports in Kerala await you with TravelTriangle, so get your Adventure tour package now.
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FAQs Of Adventure Sports In Kerala
What are the best locations for the wildest adventure sports in Kerala?
Depending on the adventure you choose, there are Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Wayanad, to name a few.
Are Kerala’s adventure sports beginner-friendly?
Yes. Many adventure sports, such as kayaking and Bamboo rafting, are beginner-friendly.
Is prior experience vital for paragliding or scuba diving?
Not necessarily. You will be provided certified instructors for each activity. They will ensure that you participate in these activities safely and without any inconvenience.
What’s the best time to enjoy outdoor adventure sports in Kerala?
October to February are the most pleasant months for adventure seekers.
Can children participate in these activities?
Yes. There are many child-friendly activities, such as kayaking and a jungle safari.
Do I need to carry my own gear?
No. You will be provided with safety gear, depending on the activity you select.
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