Parasailing

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Parasailing consists of a parachute-like parasail, attached to a 300m long tow rope which is pulled along by a speeding form of transport. When the speed rises to beyond stalling speed, the parachute rises, taking the pilot up in the air.

Parasailing has two variations: a terrestrial and an aquatic one, with a jeep (usually) being used on ground and a motor boat being used in the water. As compared to gliding, parasailing is easier to learn and is also safer.

The height of a parasailor is restricted by the length of the towrope. The rule of thumb is that you achieve a height two-thirds the length of the rope.

The length of the rope depends on many factors like wind, location etc. The time in the air depends on the amount of space available and the strength of the breeze. The stronger the breeze and the longer the run for the towing vehicle, the longer the flight.

Goa, Trivandrum and certain parts of Orissa and Manipur are used as destinations for parasailing. In Goa and Trivandrum, it's almost totally an aquatic sport, whereas in Manipur it's land-based. In Orissa, parasailing is done on both land and sea.

Attention, mountain goats

Rock climbing in India, as in the other parts the world, started off as training for mountaineering. As a sport it took off only about 15 years ago.

As the climbing standards reached greater heights in the rest of the world, India too was introduced to sticky rubber, chalk, lycra, modern protection and higher climbing standards and development of many superb climbing areas by local climbers.

Some of the areas are excellent and can easily be compared to some world class climbing areas.

The Aravali hills have some admirable climbing faces at Dumdama, Dhauj and Nuh, all situated near Delhi.

Mount Abu, Adhar Devi slab and Sariska in Rajasthan also provide exhilarating bouldering experiences, while great climbing opportunities are provided in Himachal Pradesh in the Manali valley, Mani-karan and Rohtang Pass.

In Maharashtra, Igatpuri, Malshejghat, Kanheri caves, Dudha and Manori beach all have great bouldering possibilities, while in Karnataka, the Chamundi Hills have a variety of rock faces. Hampi and Bangalore are also locations worth climbing.

The Himalayan peaks are the climbers dream. The high-altitude climber will enjoy the rocks at Sonamarg in Kashmir and Gangotri in Garhwal, Uttaranchal.