Soaring high in the sky with wings open and taking the winds face on – the experience would be magical. Right! Well, if you’re in manalibackpackers.com bring to you paragliding experience in Manali. Ours is the first government approved private paragliding site – first of its kind situated near Dohbi near Tibetan Colony.

There have been incidents in the past where many visitors have lost their lives or have got badly hurt while trying paragliding. We are well different, we bring on board years of experience and trained and licensed pilots who would be there with you through your flight assisting you take off and land smoothly and safely.

Paragliding is safe, provided you’re in safe hands and take care of these tips. This airborne sport can be fun and memorable if you follow these safety tips collated from professional gliders and safety experts and also from our very own experiences.

Check the Company Profile

You might be tempted with companies offering paragliding adventures at throw away prices. But do you think the cost of your life is so cheap? Do check the company profile. Talk to them, do a thorough background check (online and offline). Find about their track record in paragliding and also if there have been any accidents in the past. There are plenty of service providers offering paragliding adventure packages but not all follow all the safety norms. It’s your life, take it seriously.

Pilot Experience

Your research should not end with the company profile. The next is to research about the pilots. What kind of experience they have, has there been any case of accidents reported in their name, have they been screened thoroughly, have there been any criminal records or cases of drug abuse or alcohol reported.

Check for their licenses. Do not hesitate to ask any sort of questions that come to your mind. After all, it’s your life. The intent is to be careful and take all the necessary precautions. Remember you are handing out your life to a unknown person, so better be prepared rather than sorry later.

Take a note of the Safety measures

Talk to the company you are thinking of paragliding in Manali with. Take a look at the safety measures they take prior to take off and after landing. Do they carry safety kits? Do they have on ground medical teams ready in case of any mishaps?

Cross check the equipments

The equipments like canopies, reserve parachute, canopy lines, carabiners – check their condition. Any small technical mishap in air can cost your life. Check about the best safety equipments online or you can even talk to the experts.

These days there is one more problem – the advanced paragliding gears. They add to the thrill and fun by accelerating the speed but you really need to have experienced pilots handling them. Check their experience in flying advance gear as well.

Respect the Weather

When the Mother Nature is giving you warning signals through bad weather conditions, it’s better not to meddle or else you’ll have to pay a heavy price. The prerequisite for paragliding in Manali is a clear sunny day with smooth wind blowing. The ideal wind speed is between 5 to 20 km/hr.

Do not insist on flying for you’ve paid money and want to experience it. Wait until the sky clears and suitable weather conditions surface. Even if your pilot insists on taking the flight, say no. A good pilot will never recommend taking off in the first place.

The safety tips we just shared with you will make your paragliding experience in Manali memorable.

If you love the way the birds fly high in the sky to unknown destinations and want to experience the same, come here in Manali for an awesome paragliding experience. Yes, Manali in Himachal Pradesh is considered to be the safest abode for paragliding sport.

Manali Backpackers brings to you the very first, privately owned and government approved paragliding site in Himachal Pradesh – the first of its kind at Dhobi near Tibetan Colony – 23 Km from Manali. Summers are the best time for weather conditions are favourable for paragliding and under right supervision you can have a lifetime experience.  When we say right supervision, it means that the company and the pilot with whom you’re flying should be responsible and experienced ones to handle every aspect of paragliding right from taking off to landing smoothly.

Paragliding is fun but you need to make your choices consciously. A thorough background check of the company and the pilot will ensure that you are in safe hands. Check the online forums for any reviews about the company or pilot employed by the company. Check their work experience and do check with the local media or in newspapers about any paragliding accidents involving the company.

Read or talk to experts about how to prepare for paragliding:

Pay attention to your instructor. They are experienced professionals and whatever they say one must follow. Some people want to capture the view; you can ask for installing the cameras over the helmet but just do not focus on it.

Check that all your harness is well secured and tight before taking the plunge. Do not wear loose fitting clothes to avoid any entangled or snag issues later on in the sky. There are plenty of paragliding packages available. We advise that if you are trying paragliding in Manali for the first time, go for the basic one with minimum height. And if you have mastered paragliding, there are options galore.

Check for the equipment that you must carry; your instructor will guide you. Your instructor will check the equipments thoroughly for any fault before the flight. Do not look down for some people complain of giddiness, try to remain cool and just enjoy the view. 

Do not get lured by cheap paragliding in Manali packages for there are many companies who do not follow the safety norms laid down by the govt. and this might cost you your life too. Look for certification from the govt both for the company and the pilot.

Paragliding is a safe air sport provided you are in safe hands and follow all the instructions as told by the instructor. Manali is a paradise and there can be no better way to admire the beauty of Manali than paragliding.

Manali, the majestic hill station of Himachal Pradesh is a picturesque paradise for people of all ages since long. The beautiful landscape, the gushing waters of Beas river, the rocky snow clad mountains covered with thick layer of pine cone trees – there is a magical feel everywhere. And if we say, Paragliding, yes you hear us right. Manali and its nearby areas are the most famous spots for paragliding in the country.

Let us know more and plan your next paragliding tour.

Best time for Paragliding – April to June

Solang Valley – located about 15kms from Manali, Solang Valley is a famous place for paragliding for its blessed with lush greenery and picturesque view all throughout the valley. Paragliding instructors approved by the Himachal Pradesh govt. would guide you through the knick knacks and then you are up in the sky for a good 20 minute.

Backpackers landing area, Dhobi – The first private paragliding site situated in Dhobi is approved by the Himachal Pradesh Govt. Owned by Manali Backpackers (www.manalibackpackers.com), trained and licensed pilots take you to the take off site with a 25 min jeep safari to a height of 8000 ft and from there you are in air for 15 to 20 min and land safely at a height of 3000ft. It is about 23km from Manali and 15 Km from Kullu.

Fatru – All those who have tried paragliding before and have taken short flights can consider Fatru for it offers long flights for duration of about 30 minutes. The breathtaking view of the valley is amazing and when you end up your flight, you would be really excited.

Bijli Mahadev – Not only for trekking, this place is also great to try paragliding. Located in the Kullu valley and surrounded by Parvati mountain range, the view from the above is scenic and you can even catch a glimpse of the holy Bijli Mahadev Temple, from where the town got its name.

Bir Billing – Bir is from where you will take off and after a flight of 20 to 30 minutes (depending on your comfort and ease), you will land in Billing. It’s from August to November that adventure tourist flock it to participate in the yearly conducted Himalayan Paragliding Pre event. Far in the sky and feeling like a bird, when you look down, the world seems so small and beautiful; nobody would like to come down forever.

Marhi – Marhi, another paragliding location in Manali offers a majestic view of the Dhauladar range and the entire Kullu Valley filling you with an intoxicating adrenaline rush.

With so many locations for adventure activities, Manali is undoubtedly the must-to visit place for the adventure junkies. When are you taking the road to Manali for some soul stirring adventure activities?

Nestled in the Beas river valley, Manali is North India’s popular tourist destination. It’s a paradise for honeymooners’, adventure enthusiasts and trekkers. Frequented by tourists all throughout the year, Manali is haven for all those who want to take a break from their monotonous life and seek a breather. Manalibackpackers.com crafts amazing tour packages tailored to suit your needs and the staff is amicable and the drivers are well trained and hold legal licenses.

For us, the honeymooners, visiting Manali was like a dream come true. Both me and my husband like doing adventures, and so it was a perfect destination. As told before, our dream itinerary was laid out by Manalibackpackers and all we did was packing our bags and hopping upon the taxi. So, here we share everything about our mesmerising trip to Manali.

1. Chandratal Lake

Our parents who had earlier visited Manali wanted us to start our trip from taking bath in the holy waters of the Chandratal Lake or Beas Kund. It is believed that the great Sage Vyasa used to take daily bath in this kund. Well, apart from the religious significance, this place also presents some very beautiful scenic views.

2. Chandrakhani Pass

Well, as said we are adventure junkies, we undertook the trek. The pass connects Kullu Valley and Malana valley. One passes through small village of Malana and on the way enjoy some very beautiful views.

3. Pandoh Dam

Built on river Beas, the Pandoh Dam is a hydro electric dam that rises to 76Km above sea level. This dam is enroute Kullu to Manali and one can just stop over for some serene moments with beautiful backdrop and musical notes by gushing water.

4. Rohtang Pass

Well, if you come to Manali and did not visit Rohtang Pass, you saw nothing. A meeting point for Kullu with other valleys, Rohtang Pass is buzzing with visitors all throughout the summer months. If you are lucky enough, you can get to see snow even in summer months! It’s not just the lofty snow clad mountain peaks and picturesque views but a host of adventure activities here await the visitors. Paragliding in Manali is one such activity that should not be given a miss.

5. Solang Valley

Again, if you feel Rohtang Pass is too crowded, you can head to Solang Valley which lies between Solang Village and the Beas Kund. This valley is famous for its Lord Shiva Temple and a host of adventure activities it offers. Paragliding in Manali, Parachuting, Skating, snorkelling, zorbing are some of the fun activities one can try.

6. The Great Himalayan National Park

Some rare species of wildlife can be found here in this park which is also famous as Jawaharlal Nehru Park. Apart from rich flora and fauna, this park’s location surrounded by the mountains is one more attraction. Then there are waterfalls, streams that run through this park all offering a great habitat for plants and animals to live properly.

7. Bijli Mahadev Temple

Situated on the top of a hill, the Bijli Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The natural scenic beauty of this place allures every visitor who comes to seek lord’s blessings. Some of you might feel dizzy due to the terrain but it’s all worth one you reach here!

8. Vashisht Bath

River Ravi flows through Himachal and on its banks is situated Vashisht Hot Spring Baths. It is believed that Sage Vashisht used to bath in this kund and it has some medicinal properties that can cure various skin allergies. Moreover, soaking in the water leaves you rejuvenated and you feel refreshed from the tiring journey so far.

9. Hadimba Temple

Built in the memory of Hadimba, wife of Bhima, one of the five Pandav brothers in 1553, the tourists flock the temple for not only seeking the blessings but also to appreciate the architecture of the temple. Carved wooden rods, square roofs, covered with timber tiles and the fourth roof is made of brass in cone shape. A few kilometres ahead of the temple is Ghatotkatch temple, son of Hidimba and Bhima which is also frequented by visitors

10. Jogini Waterfalls

In Vashisht village, there is one more place worth visiting, i.e. Jogini Waterfalls. The water stream falls down in the Beas River. I and my husband, we both loved the place as it was away from the hustle and the bustle and also a place where we could enjoy the real beauty of the Mother Nature. You can even undertake a small trek, this is a must visit place for the nature lovers.

11. Nehru Kund

Located at 5 KM from Manali on the National Highway to Leh, Nehru kind is a popular tourist place. Named after Jawaharlal Nehru – the first prime minister of India, this place is a blessing for those who love nature photography. It is believed that this Kund is a natural spring that originated from Lake Bhrigu. It is said that the prime minister used to drink water from here whenever he used to visit this place.

12. Sultanpur Palace

If you love historical monuments and have interest in history, well, Sultanpur Palace would be a great stop. Here you will find the architecture to be an eclectic blend of Pahari and Colonial style. This palace was earlier known as the Rupi Palace, but when it was destroyed in an earthquake, it was reconstructed and got its new name, Sultanpur Palace.

13. Manikaran Gurudwara

Situated in Parvati Valley over the River Parvati, Manikaran Gurudwara is a very sacred pilgrimage for the Sikh devotees. Even Hindus go there in large numbers and seek the blessings of the almighty. Everything there seems so divine, the hot spring, the Prasad, the food; the place in whole is always full of positivity. An awesome place that must be visited while on a trip to Manali!

14. Gulaba

The magical aura and the serenity of this place behold every visitor coming here. The snow laden mountains, small prairies and the Beas River- all make up for a perfect scenic spot. The place got its name from Raja Gulab Singh of Kashmir, who loved this place so much and often used to camp over here during his stay.

15. Dobhi

Paradise for the paragliders, this place is the first private paragliding sire approved by the Himachal govt. the landing area is 23 Km from Manali on NH21 and 15Km from Kullu. The highest paragliding site in Manali, this is owned and operated by manalibackpackers. We had an amazing time paragliding the mountains and yes, it was completely safe and thrilling experience.

Manali- the valley of Gods is a honeymooners’ paradise, adventure junkies’ heaven, trekkers’ adda, Manali has something for everyone who comes here. It is a year round magnet – a destination that never sees a dry spell of visitors flocking from not only India but around the world. Manali Backpackers is a one stop destination for all your travelling needs to Manali- be it a honeymoon package, Adventure tour or trekking and paragliding. The ease of booking online and then affordable pricing is what makes Manali Backpackers a go to tour operator.

The stunning Dhauladhar mountain ranges forming the backdrop and the gushing river flowing through the green valley, all this make Manali a perfect getaway destination. Slowly but steadily, Manali is gaining popularity as a promising hub for the adventure activities like paragliding, skiing, zorbing, snorkelling, river rafting etc.

River rafting in manali particular is a one such adventure sport that is thrilling and full action. You have to be on your toes when you are amidst water. Learn the basics, how to manoeuvre the raft, know your teammates, for river rafting is all about great team work. While you embark upon a river rafting expedition, enroute you can catch a glimpse of the lofty snow capped mountains and soak yourself in the cascading Beas River.

Beas river is a haven for the water sports like river rafting, kayaking, canoeing. The rafting starts from Manali and goes until Bhuntar in the Kullu district. They are two options to choose from: Short and long rafting. Short rafting goes for 7 Km and while long rafting goes until 14 Km. You can choose them as per time availability, budget and the thrill level you want to experience.

The packages offered by Manali Backpackers for rafting and camping start from as low as Rs 2500 per person and are inclusive of Map plan, bon fire and fishing. We booked online and were delighted to see that the team is highly experienced and gives you training on every small and big aspect of the adventure sport you wish to take in.

The white water rafting at Kullu is the most loved and the most sought after. It is simply thrilling when the water comes rapidly after striking from the trees at the banks of the river. Bijli Mahadev is another famous spot among the rafting enthusiasts. While you enjoy rafting in Beas, you pass by some beautiful sights making the rafting experience a memorable one. In the evening, you can camp along the riverside and indulge in Bonfire activities like dancing and singing. The next morning you can offer prayers at the Bijli Mahadev Temple and admire the stunning views of the Kullu and Parvati valleys.

Rafting at Pirdi near Kullu is another once in a lifetime experience perfect for the beginners and for the experts too. The raging water waves when they come splashing at your face, your adrenaline junkie just comes to the core to give a strong fight.

The rafts and the other equipments all are tested and meet the international safety standards and experts are always around the corner thus keeping the safety of the people intact.

Manali is truly an adventure spot loved and admired by adventure junkies all around the world. So, if you are the one who loves adventure sports, do come and fall in love with what Manali has to offer you!

Manali Backpackers will make your adventure trip more comfortable and memorable.

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Manali – a honeymoon destination, trekkers’ paradise and heaven for adventure enthusiasts; Manali has something to offer to all. Top of it, the weather, the quaint villages, the misty snow capped Himalayan mountain all add further spice to the entire settings. Manali Backpackers take you through the best trekking trails in and around Manali.

Manali is a perfect launch for trekking enthusiasts and treading the rocky terrain you can admire the beautiful alpine meadows and gaze at the majestic Himalayan ranges. So, let us start exploring the 10 best treks that Manali and its nearby areas offer.

1. Malana Village Trek
Best time to visit- May to November

Apart from the trek, Malana has its fair share of historical stories that dates back to Alexander the Great and Akbar. this moderate trek at an altitude of 2652 meters takes you through Naggar and picturesque Rumsu. Oak and pine forests welcome you all through your trek. You can also stopover the Roerich Art Gallery and Nicholas Roerich Art Museum to peep into Himachal Pradesh’s rich history.

2. Bara Banghal and Bir Trek
Best time to visit – June to September

Nature’s bare beauty and its wilderness all await you when you tread on the journey from Kullu Valley to Dharamshala. This trekking trail is all amidst lush green paths and offers majestic views of Pir Panjal, Bara Banghal and Dhaula Dhar ranges. This trek ends in the Kullu valley. However, if after 11 day long trek, still your heart yearns for more, you can try out paragliding at Bir Valley.

3. Hamya Herbal Trek
Best time to visit – June to September

A moderate trek, it takes you around 8 days to conquer the Hamya Herbal Trek. Anyone who apart from admiring the scenic beauty is looking for more, well this trek is just perfect. All through your trek starting from Pandu Ropa to Chikka and Balugera is flooded with exotic herbs variety.

4. Hampta Pass Trek
Best time to visit – June to September

This campers’ paradise trek is just full of amazing experiences at every step. A peep into the Himachal’s village culture at Banhara, scenic meadows of Lama Dugh, scintillating shadows of the Deo Tibba Mountain – what else can you ask for? When the Hampta valley is covered with snow, trekkers get a feel as if they are in the Arctic region and are enjoying the close up views of the Himalayan foothills. Then you would also be welcomed by plain sand grounds at Balu ka Ghera when you take on this 8 day long trek. Manalibackpackers has both standard and customized trekking packages that come in affordable prices with no compromise on trekkers’ security and comfort.

5. Jogini Waterfalls Trek
Best time to visit – April to November

Jogini Waterfall offer a day’s hike, which begins form Hadimba Temple and goes up until the quaint Vashisht village. This trek is an uphill walk towards the Vashisht village and the waterfall marks the village boundary. The hot water springs at Vashisht village are known to possess medicinal properties and one can definitely rejuvenate their body by taking a dip here.

6. Deo Tibba Base Trek
Best time to visit – June to October

A 5 day moderate level trek, the trek begins from picturesque Jagatsukh and takes you through scenic villages, vast mountain ranges from Bara Banghal to Dhauladhar to Deo Tibba Mountain and Hanuman Tibba peak. Tall pine trees are a welcoming treat to eyes all throughout the trek.

7. Beas Kund Trek
Best time to visit – April to October

Suited to all age groups, the Beas Kund Trek offers you camping by the river, and trek through mountains and forests and enjoy panoramic views of Pir Pangal, Dhauldhar range. The trek begins from the Solang valley and teakes youthrough the alpine trail of the picturesque Dhundi and birch trees and Bhoji Patra.

8. Brighu Lake Trek
Best time to visit- June to October

This trek start from Gulaba near Manali and takes you to the beautiful and mesmerizing Bhrigu Lake which is nothing less than a paradise. Admire the scenic trails of the Kullu valley and take a dip in the hot water springs at Vashisht lake. At Manali Backpackers, you can well choose from the standard packages or drop us a mail of your itinerary and we would help you with the best quote for sure.

9. Lama Dugh Trek
Best time to visit – April to November

The scenic views of Indrasan, Deo Tibba, Hanuman Tibba entice you throughout when you take upon this 5 hour pleasant trek which begins from Hadimba Temple and concludes Lama Dugh where the cherry trees are a welcoming treat.

10. Chandrakhani Pass Trek
Best time to visit – April to October

Beginning at Naggar, the trek is comparatively an easy one and less challenging. It takes you through the pine, chestnut and deodar trees of Rumsu to Nayu Tapru. Treat for any nature lover, Chnadrakhani Pass offers scenic views of mountain ranges – Pir Panjal, Parbati Mountains.

Manali Backpackers has been arranging such spectacular treks since inception and have helped trekkers create beautiful memories to be cherished forever.

If you are true adventure junkie, Manali must be on your list for sure for it offers some of the best treks to be conquered for. We are going to discuss about some of the fascinating treks Manali offers for all the adventure enthusiasts and how they can reach and what is the best time to visit and how must it costs for the trek- all this information summed up in simple, short and sweet way.

Manali Backpackers is a one stop destination for all such adventure enthusiasts who are waiting to explore the unexplored – a host of adventure activities. We offer both standard and customised packages for adventure activities and trek. Since inception, we have been offering our customers a taste of all the adventure activities in Manali like paragliding, river rafting, camping, skiing, zorbing etc. not many know that the tribal areas of Lahaul, Spiti, Kinnaur are abound with rich culture and yes we at Manali Backpackers, offer you jeep safari to explore the unexplored tribal areas.

1. Hampta Pass Trek

If it is your first time of trekking, Hampta Pass is the perfect choice. Though you can take on the trek anytime of the year, but months of June to September are considered to be best. The trek offers astonishing views of the chilly valleys sitting adjacent to the snow and pine wood covered deodar trees. While trekking, you would come across two wonderful valleys – Kullu and Lahaul both offering a different but breath taking view of the Mother Nature.

2. Vashisht Jogni Waterfall Trek

It starts from village vashisht and then take you along the forest with Rohtang pass to your right and river Beas to your left. The best time to cover this trek is all throughout the year and you can cover it up in just one day. So any fine sunny morning just pack your bags and set for Jogni trek.

3. Brighu Lake Trek

Sitting cosily on high elevation edges, the Brighu lake is one of the most beautiful cold lakes in Kullu valley. The best part of taking this trek is that you can take an elevation of 14,000 feet and get to see snow covered grounds at Rola Kholi and Pandu Ropa. If it is a sunny day, well you can enjoy the beautiful view of sun casting its image on the lake. While trekking you come across many old towns, apple plantations, Greenfield lands.

4. Malana Village Trek

The maximum elevation offered in this trek is around 8500 feet and the best time to set for trek is during the months of May to August. The difficulty level is moderately high but the experts at Manali Backpackers make it easier for you through their experiences and impeccable training. The packages for Malana trek start from as low as Rs.3700/- and it includes camping, food, guide and transport.

5. Lama Dugh Trek

Though not at a high altitude (3635 meters), but when you take this trek, you are welcomed by the thick forest of Deodar, Pine, Oak, chestnut trees. When you reach the beautiful meadow of Lama Dugh, you can just enjoy the views of Manalsu Glaciew, Dauladhar, Pir Pranjal ranges. The best time to take on this trek is April to December and the packages start from as low as Rs 5800 which include camping, food, guide and transport.

A wonderful vacation destination and honeymooners’ paradise, Manali has also earned his name for one of the best adventure sports destination in North India. Manali Backpackers has been at the forefront when it comes to explore the adventurist is you and offers you some of the most amazing packages that are not only affordable but also make sure that your trip to this heaven in Northern India is full of cherished memories. What you are looking for? Is it paragliding, bungee jumping, paragliding, river rafting, camping; well you name them and manali backpackers are ready with their amazing offers.

Let us try to explore more about adventure sports in Manali

River Rafting

For all those who wish to move past the hard water currents and emerge winning, trying hands on river rafting is a must to go for experience. The wicked twist and turns are going to test your presence of mind, patience and yes they will definitely quench your thirst for adventure. Try out going from Pirdi to Jhidi, which offers amazing river rafting opportunities.

Paragliding

Surf amidst the best of teh nature, the lush green mountains, the deep blue sky and pristine waters; paragliding is so much fun and refreshing in Manali. Well, if you are of a weak heart, you must not try your hands but the ones with hearts of steel will surely find it a challenging and at the sametime quite adventurous too.

Skiing

Solang Valley, famous among the skiing enthusiasts is another sought after adventure sports in Manali to try out. You get assistance and required prior training so that you are fully ready. You can even try skiing in Marhi, Rohtang and Dhundi.

Hiking

Soak in the beauty of serene landscapes of Manali when you opt for Hiking. With hiking, you can even opt for camping to double up the adventure and fun.

The hiking trails that you can try for-
• Manali – Deo Tibba – Manali
• Manali – Naggar – Malana – Manikaran – Manali
• Manali – Beas Kund – Solang Nallah, Manali
• Pin Parvati Pass
• Great Himalayan National Park.

Mountain Biking

If you are skilled at bicycling, why not try our Mountain Biking that will make adrenaline rush through your veins and will give your muscles a good exercise. Well, the rough mountain tracks will throw a tough challenge for sure. Are you ready to take on?

Mountaineering

If scaling heights excite you, why not just pack your bags, get good lessons in mountaineering from a school of good repute and get all the equipments ready. Well, if you are first timer, you should first try your hands on rock climbing, altitude climbing etc. everything is offered here at manalipackers.

Zorbing

If you want tio see your world upside down, why not Zorbing. If that excites you, get ready to be wrapped inside a giant rolling ball and wait to be zorbed. It is surely going to be a once in a lifetime experience.

Jeep Safari

Jeep Safari is lets you experience another kind of adventure wherein you can soak in the magnificence of the snow peaked mountains and even get a close look at how the local people live in such extreme conditions with smile and yes, you get your hands on the local cuisine too.

River Crossing

Well, if you want to just check on the fear factor in you, there isn’t anything better than river crossing. You can try this out at Van Vihar, Solang Valleyor even Old Manali.

Snow Scooter

The thought of gushing through the snow peaked mountains on a scooter gives an adrenaline rush and when it is on offer in Manali, why to leave it out. You can enjoy on your snow scooters on the slopes stretching 2-3 kms.

So, even now Manali is a Honeymoon destination. Well, we have now given you enough reasons to believe that Why Manali has now become a much sought after adventure sports destination?