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Sigh. I took a deep breath again. I was standing on the edge of a Canti-lever platform built over a rocky cliff overlooking a tributary of Ganges. About 15kms away from Rishikesh surrounded by nature in the middle of nowhere. I was nervous, and visibly so. I was contemplating diving into the unknown, but the simple idea of jumping was seemingly lost on me. Here I was, bungee jumping in Rishikesh from a height of 83m – the highest in India. With India’s First Extreme Adventure Zone – Jumpin Heights. With all the harnesses in place and rubber chords tied to the ankles, I could only take short duck steps. And it was weighing me down.
Standing there on the edge of the platform, flooded my mind with doubts and uncertainties. I couldn’t figure out for the life of me, why did I ever sign up for bungee jumping in the first place. After all, I was afraid of heights. I had a very solid excuse. All the time of registering for bungee jumping, watching videos and talking about it didn’t ignite the fear. But being there on the edge of the platform DID.
So, what was the alternative? It would have been easier to walk out and drop out of bungee jumping. But, no matter my fear, I knew heading back without this experience is going to rattle me more. That’s when all of my thoughts were put to rest and I finally decided to take the plunge.
Additional Read: Here are some quotes about Adventure that you might love!
1..2..3..Bungee!
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Bungee jumping in Rishikesh
I screamed from the top of my lungs, took a total leap of faith. I catapulted a few times up and down before swinging and settling overlooking the river HALL, the tributary of Ganges.
The initial moments of the jump were just a flash, and only when it stopped catapulting, I started enjoying the nature around me.
In the sweltering heat of Rishikesh, I was shaking with goosebumps with a rush of adrenaline!
It was unlike anything I experienced before. And moreover, it had me going throughout the day. That’s when it hit me! That no amount of alcohol or drugs can substitute for this nerve-wracking and electrifying experience. I can do it again, just so to feel the rush!
Though I had some exciting travel adventures before, this was a new beginning. A beginning of my very long tryst with adventure. I had gifted myself the opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and I knew I’m going to remember it for years to come.
This was in May 2015, three years ago. Even when the memories surrounding the incident have faded, I still vividly remember bungee jumping in Rishikesh.
Jumpin Heights
Jumpin Heights is India’s first Extreme Adventure Zone is run by ex-Army Officers with Jump Masters from New Zealand. They undertake all the safety precautions and have a limit on the number of jumps per day.
On reaching the venue, there will be a brief session in the reception area with the crew who will detail the sport and safety procedures. You get weighed in and fill the waiver form. Reach the jump zone, and wait in line for your turn. Once you have taken the plunge, and the movement stops, the crew will lower you down from the rope. It’s an uphill walk to the reception area from here and takes about 10 minutes. So, wear walking shoes.
Apart from Bungee jumping in Rishikesh, they offer Flying Fox and Giant Swing experiences too. I tried a combo of Bungy jumping and Giant Swing, but I have to say Giant Swing is not as thrilling as Bungee jumping in Rishikesh.
Make sure you register with them prior to starting the trip. Head to Jumpin Heights site, and register for bungee jumping and other activities and bear additional costs for transport (if needed, and make the payment.
Due to the extreme nature of this sport, some medical conditions are exempted from it. Head to their site, and find out if you are eligible for bungee jumping.
So, how safe is Bungee jumping at Rishikesh?
Bungee jumping, no doubt is a dangerous sport. There’s no denying it. There’s always a risk factor involved while trying out adventurous activities. And bungee jumping is no different.
Having said that, modern manufacturing and safety standards, have made it as safe as it can be. Due to the stringent safety standards in Rishikesh, they claim that there have never been any Bungee jumping accidents in Rishikesh. They have jump masters in New Zealand, who have trained for decades at the best facilities to practice this sport.
As per the past numbers of Bungee jumping in Rishikesh, it has been stellar. But it would be foolish to say that’s there’s no risk involved. Because there always IS! So, to answer your question, it’s as safe as anywhere else in the world!
Price of activities at Jumpin Heights
Rs. 3350/- for Bungee jumping and Giant Swing Each.
Rs. 1800/- for Tandem Flying Fox and Rs. 3000/- for Single Flying Fox.
There are also activity combo packages as well.
The above prices are exclusive of photos and videos. Shell out another Rs. 1000-2000 for photos and videos. But, opt for it, as it’s one of a kind experience. I regret not having bought the photos.
Reaching there
The adventure zone is at Mohan Chatti village – 15kms from Rishikesh. I reached the Jumpin Heights booking office in Rishikesh and arrived at the jump zone on their bungee coach. You can arrive at the venue on your own too.
Rishikesh
The main agenda for the trip was to go on my first Himalayan trek to Kuari Pass and Pangarchulla Peak. Since the pickup and drop were from Haridwar, we thought of settling in Rishikesh for a few days. Reserving a day for Bungee jumping, and another for river rafting in Rishikesh. Rambling across the streets, I noticed that there more shops for adventure sports than food joints. And later, when I found out that Rishikesh is the adventure capital of India, I wasn’t surprised!
I had arrived in Rishikesh when I was in school over 10 years ago, with my parents. I only had flashes of my time from back then and most vividly remember how chilly it was on a particular morning near Lakshman Jhula. Little did I realize before that it was a hippie and a vibrant crowd. It was mostly a temple run then, this time I was going to explore the adventurous side of Rishikesh.
Next time I’m in Rishikesh, it will have to do with practicing Yoga. I have been practicing yoga regularly for the last year, and I LOVE it! How can I not practice yoga at the Yoga Capital in the World!
Find out more things to do in Rishikesh, if you have time to spare.
On the other hand, you can try bungee jumping in Nepal as well.
Accommodations in Rishikesh
Here are some of the recommendations by The Roving Heart:
Divine Ganga Cottage Rishikesh– At a stone throw away from Lakshman Jhula, Divine Ganga Cottage and is in the city center. It’s conveniently located and the rooftop cafe offers good food as well. I stayed here for a couple of days, and the staff was kind enough to accommodate us at 3 AM in the morning. Book Your Stay at Divine Ganga Cottage here.
RAAHI the Travellers Nest – A Hostel at 200m from Patanjali International Yoga Foundation. Good location, and value for money. If you’d like to stay in a hostel, then go for it. It is one of the highest rated ones in Rishikesh. Book your Stay at RAAHI travelers Nest here.
Holy River Hotel – If you’d like to stay at a 4-star hotel on the other hand, then you are at the right place. Holy River Hotel, is again conveniently located. Makes for a perfect stay in Rishikesh. Book your Stay at Holy River Hotel here.
Ananda In The Himalayas – There are no ultra-luxury hotels in Rishikesh. You can opt out to stay at Narendra Nagar, 20kms from Rishikesh at Ananda In the Himalayas. It offers sweeping views of the mountains and wellness programs. You also have access to swimming pools. A perfect staycation in the lap of nature! Book your stay at Ananda In the Himalayas here.
So have you ever done Bungee jumping in Rishikesh? How was your experience like? Let me know in the comments below.
