In adventure sports there is no substitute for the
Himalayas. Places like Manali, Dharamshala, Narkanda, Rishikesh, Nepal
and Mussoorie and other adjoining areas, beckon professional climbers
from all over the world to take up the challenge of some of the most
exciting and toughest, rock climbing options in the world. Rock climbing
as a sport is not very old it started around 1960's in the United
Kingdom. But over the years it has grew as one of the most popular
adventure sport. And what can be the best place for it than the
Himalayas. The mountains have such varied topography that it has become
the hottest destination for the rock climbers. In India this new sport
is catching up very fast as different clubs and institute is providing
rock-climbing courses. Rapid expansion is going on in creating basic
infrastructure and facilities for the sport. The sport of rock climbing
is not very different from mountaineering. The only difference between
the two is that instead of snow there are rocks involved in this
adventure sport. The basic features of this sport are climbing a rock
face, using only hands, feet and a safety rope.
Some of the major rock climbing regions in the Himalayas is
Himachal Pradesh
Uttaranchal
Nepal
Before you go for the rock climbing expedition you need to be trained
and now there are various institute and mountaineering clubs who impart
training and courses on rock climbing. Thorough practice is required
before you go for any expedition.
In Himachal region rock climbing has great option. The state
offers everything from rock climbing to mountaineering. It is called the
Mecca of adventure sports in India. Similarly Manali and Dharamshala and
their neighboring areas attract both amateur and professional climbers
all over the world. There are various mountaineering institute at
Dharamshala, Narkanda, Jispa and Bharmour, where training on the rocks
is conducted.
In Uttaranchal rock climbing is mainly seen in Gangotri in the
Garhwal Himalayas. The best time to visit these places is during the
summer and autumn months.
In Nepal rock climbing is not so popular and it is the least
promoted sport. But the Himalayas in the Nepal lures the mountaineers
and climbers all over the world. There is association, which provides
training on rock climbing to generate interest among people in this
field.
