Sometimes, one feels stymied and a bit gridlocked when brainstorming travel ideas. While beaches and coastlines seem done to death, forts and temples come across as not quite the thing at the moment. For such moments, we recommend slightly expanding the zone of interest and a whole new plethora of options may offer itself up to you instantly. Towards this end, we have curated a list of top 5 places that are perfect for travellers craving ‘something different’; these involve trekking, surfing, desert landscapes or marine wildlife without flying halfway across the world. With current seasons, permits, and practical tips included, here’s your guide to five unforgettable adventures.
A successful trek from the Everest Base Camp has long remained one of the most quintessential bucket-list content within South Asia, and so been the drive to tick it off. Once you resolve to take it up, you arrive at Lukla, from where you'll ascend through Sherpa villages, dense forests of rhododendron and rugged terrain up to roughly 5,364 metres at Base Camp. However, there are many things that a traveller to these parts must keep in mind. For instance, Nepal has been considering a few new rules to restrict Everest permits to climbers who have previously scaled a 7,000 metre peak in hopes to improve safety and reduce overcrowding.
Acclimatisation is essential here and trekkers use the Namche Bazaar route for rest days. The best bet in terms of season would be pre-monsoon (March-May) and post-monsoon (late September-November) when the skies are clearer and the weather less full of surprises. Permits are needed for Sagarmatha National Park and for the rural municipality around Khumbu. The lodges along the route supply ample food and shelter. While the trip is physically demanding, the payout — views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse — is incomparable.
Getting There:
Fly from major Indian cities to Kathmandu (approx. 2 hours). From Kathmandu, take a domestic flight to Lukla (Tenzing-Hillary Airport), followed by a trek to Everest Base Camp.
Things To Keep In Mind:
Acclimatisation: Spend extra days in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to adjust to the altitude.
Permits: Obtain the Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit (NPR 3,000) and Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit (NPR 1,500).
Weather: Best trekking seasons are pre-monsoon (March-May) and post-monsoon (late September-November). Avoid monsoon months due to heavy rainfall and potential trail hazards.
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging. The trek involves high altitudes, steep ascents, and variable weather conditions.
Cost:
Independent Trek: Approx. NPR 40,000–52,000 (including permits, accommodation, and meals).
Guided Trek: Approx. NPR 70,000–85,000 (including guide, porter, permits, accommodation, and meals).
Additional Tips:
Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers high-altitude trekking.
Packing: Bring layered clothing, a good-quality sleeping bag, and trekking poles.
Health: Carry a first-aid kit and necessary medications.
At a pebble's throw from India, Sri Lanka teems with surf adventures of all levels. While Arugam Bay thrives on the east coast between May and September with consistent swells, Weligama, Mirissa and Hikkaduwa shine through in the south and southwest coast, hitting their prime between November and April when the dry season brings offshore winds and reliable beach-break waves.
For the uninitiated, surf schools abound, especially in Weligama, which is ideal for learners. You'll also find boutique lodging, local hospitality and excellent food along the way. However, to err on the side of caution, avoid monsoon months on whichever coast you choose — swells become erratic, and safety can suffer.
Getting There:
Fly to Colombo (approx. 3.5 hours from India), then take a domestic flight or drive (approx. 7-8 hours) to Arugam Bay.
Surf Season:
East Coast (Arugam Bay): Best between May and September.
Surf Conditions:
Main Point: Suitable for all levels.
Peanut Farm: Ideal for beginners.
Elephant Rock: Best for advanced surfers.
Crowd Levels:
Expect crowded conditions, especially during peak season (June-August). Surf etiquette can be challenging due to the influx of surfers.
Cost:
Surfboard Rental: Approx. USD 5 – USD10 per day.
Surf Lessons: Approx. USD 20 – USD 40 per session.
Additional Tips:
Accommodation: Book in advance during peak season.
Safety: Be cautious of rip currents and always surf with a buddy.
Local Culture: Respect local customs and traditions.
The terrain of Oman is the perfect intro to desert adventure without the extremities of it. The Sharqiya Sands (Wahiba Sands) make for stunning dune trekking and overnight stays under star-studded skies. Trekking or grand 4x4 drives take you across the shifting sands, camel tracks and Bedouin camps. Combine this with hikes through the most tranquil of wadis: Wadi Bani Khalid, for instance, is famous for its palm-lined pool and shallow, refreshing water crossings; great for those looking for both a bit of challenge and comfort.
In Oman, however, seasons are a great factor: the interior desert heat is unforgiving in summer (May to August) and naturally, the cooler months (October-March) are far more amenable for a trip. Government-approved guide-led tours ensure safety and local insights. Oman also emphasises sustainable desert tourism — camps increasingly offer glamping options, but even basic stays are charming and culturally insightful.
Getting There:
Fly to Muscat (approx. 3.5 hours from India), then drive (approx. 2-3 hours) to Wahiba Sands.
Activities:
Dune Bashing: Experience thrilling rides over the sand dunes.
Camel Trekking: Explore the desert on camelback.
Stargazing: Enjoy clear night skies for stargazing.
Permits:
No formal permits are required for desert entry. However, it's advisable to travel with a local guide or tour operator.
Cost:
Desert Safari: Approx. USD 100 – USD 120 per person for a full-day tour.
Overnight Stay in Desert Camp: Approx. USD 5 – USD 100 per person.
Additional Tips:
Best Time to Visit: October to March for cooler temperatures.
Packing: Bring light clothing for the day and warm layers for the night.
Respect: Be mindful of local customs and the environment.
For rock climbers and thrill seekers, Thailand’s Railay and Tonsai in Krabi deliver some of the most photogenic climbing routes in Southeast Asia. Towering limestone cliffs sit beside clear waters; you can climb bolted sport-routes or attempt multi-pitch overhangs, then descend to swim or relax on the beach. The dry season from November to April is the ideal window — rock is drier, days more predictable.
Beginners to advanced climbers will find suitable routes; there are climbing schools with gear rental and guides. Arriving via Ao Nang and transferring by long-tail boat are common. Expect early morning climbs to beat both heat and crowds, and always check weather forecasts: sudden tropical storms in monsoon months can make cliffs dangerously slippery.
Getting There:
Fly to Krabi (approx. 4 hours from India), then take a boat (approx. 15-20 minutes) to Railay Beach.
Climbing Season:
Best Time: December to April, with peak conditions in December and January.
Climbing Areas:
Railay East: Suitable for beginners.
Tonsai: Ideal for intermediate to advanced climbers.
Cost:
Climbing Courses: Approx. USD 40 – USD 60 per session.
Equipment Rental: Approx. USD 10 – USD 15 per day.
Additional Tips:
Booking: Reserve climbing courses in advance during peak season.
Safety: Always check weather conditions before climbing.
Local Etiquette: Respect the climbing community and local traditions.
If you prefer your adventure under water, the Maldives remains a world leader. South Ari Atoll, especially near Dhigurah and Maamigili islands, is the most reliable spot for encountering whale sharks year-round, with visibility and calm seas peaking in the dry season December to April.
During the southwest monsoon (May-October), plankton blooms draw in more marine life, but water clarity may drop. Regardless of season, choosing a marine protected area operator is essential, both for your safety and for the wellbeing of the wildlife. Many resorts and guesthouses arrange multiple snorkel or dive trips to increase your chances of sightings. When not in the water, enjoy island life, local culture, and quiet moments in lesser-touristed islands.
Getting There:
Fly to Malé (approx. 4 hours from India), then take a domestic flight or speedboat to South Ari Atoll.
Whale Shark Season:
Best Time: August to November, with peak sightings in October.
Activities:
Snorkelling/Diving: Encounter whale sharks and manta rays.
Island Hopping: Explore nearby uninhabited islands.
Cost:
Snorkelling/Diving Trips: Approx. USD 50 – USD 150 per trip.
Liveaboard Packages: Approx. USD 200 – USD 500 per night.
Additional Tips:
Booking: Reserve trips in advance, especially during peak season.
Equipment: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a waterproof camera.
Conservation: Follow guidelines to protect marine life.
1. What are the best short-haul adventure destinations from India?
Nepal, Sri Lanka, Oman, Thailand, and the Maldives are top picks for adventure seekers. Each offers unique thrills — from trekking and desert safaris to surfing, climbing, and diving.
2. How far is Everest Base Camp from India, and how long does the trek take?
Everest Base Camp is reachable via a two-hour flight to Kathmandu from Delhi, followed by a domestic flight to Lukla. The trek takes about 12–14 days depending on acclimatisation stops.
3. When is the best time to go surfing in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka’s surf season depends on the coast — Arugam Bay (east) is best from May to September, while Weligama and Mirissa (southwest) peak from November to April.
4. Are Oman desert safaris safe for solo travellers?
Yes. Wahiba Sands tours are safe if done with licensed operators. Choose reputable companies offering guided treks, 4×4 drives, or camel safaris with overnight desert camps.
5. Can beginners try rock climbing in Thailand’s Krabi region?
Absolutely. Railay and Tonsai have climbing schools offering beginner-friendly courses, certified instructors, and equipment rental. The best season is from December to April.
6. Where can I see whale sharks in the Maldives?
South Ari Atoll is the most reliable region for spotting whale sharks year-round, especially from August to November. Choose eco-certified dive operators to ensure safe encounters.
7. How expensive are these adventure holidays compared to long-haul trips?
They’re significantly cheaper. Expect INR 70,000 – INR1.2 lakh for a guided Everest trek, INR 60,000 for Sri Lankan surf trips, and INR 80,000 – INR 1 lakh for Thailand or Maldives adventures.
8. Do I need travel insurance for these trips?
Yes, travel insurance covering adventure sports, high-altitude trekking, and medical evacuation is essential, especially for Nepal, Oman, and diving in the Maldives.
9. What’s the best time of year for adventure travel near India?
October to April is ideal for most destinations — cooler temperatures in the Himalayas and Oman, and dry, surf-friendly seasons across Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the Maldives.
10. How can I make these trips more sustainable?
Opt for eco-certified operators, avoid single-use plastics, use reef-safe sunscreen, support local businesses, and respect local ecosystems and cultures throughout your travels.
