10 Things You Must Do In India Before You Turn 30

College – Entrance tests – Job Interviews – Career – Promotions – Deadlines. Has this vicious circle in the 20s made you lose out on some important trips that you always dreamt of? No, we aren’t talking about the work trips that you take every now and then. But the ones that take you to an uncharted path, the ones that thrill you and give you an experience of a lifetime. So if you are nearing 30, we give you a list of things to do in India before you hit the mid-life milestone. And if you are still in your early 20s, then your bucket list will only grow longer. The earlier you start, more fun!

# Walk on the Frozen river in Chadar

This one can never be an impromptu trip so you might just start prepping up for it now before you near 30! The most thrilling trek, Chadar trail requires rigorous training. The Chadar trek route connects villages in the Zanskar valley deep in the mountains with the Zanskar River. The river is frozen in the winter and forms a layer (chadar). Natives used this route to get their basic supplies and also to sell local wares. When you head for the trek, you gotta be ready to walk 16 km every day to cover the 105 km trek in extremely harsh conditions.

# Volunteer in the scenic backdrop of Ladakh

Knowledge when shared increases manifold. And if it supports your travel plans along with giving you an experience like never before, you have to do it before you turn 30. Join volunteering groups in the snow-clad desert of Leh-Ladakh and you can teach subjects, special skills, English, and coach for sports. From English language teaching to young Buddhist monks and nuns to building school libraries and technology training, you can choose any and be a part of a noble cause while you travel.

# Road Trip to Rajasthan

Enough about road trips to Goa! Get on the road to Rajasthan – a trip that will be full of culture, heritage and roadside dhabas serving lip-smacking food. Take a 180km road trip from the busy city streets of Jaipur to the wilderness of Ranthambore and discover the best of what Rajasthan has to offer. From the royal palaces and food havens in Jaipur to exploring the wildlife in Ranthambore, this trip will give you the best of both worlds! With its picturesque roads, the journey is perfect for a fun road trip with friends and family.

# Laze on a hammock in Lakshadweep

On some days, leave the adventure at bay and just chill sipping fresh coconut water and a book in tow. Chase the blues in Lakshadweep islands and laze on a hammock as you forget time in this beautiful place. There’s endless sea, tons of private islands and beaches and not a soul to disturb your inner peace. Choose your resort and enjoy the spectacular views of the ocean as you laze and stroll around the beach.

# Ski Trekking in Gulmarg

If you think skiing is done only on an uber-expensive and long trip to the Swiss or the French Alps, let us introduce you to Kashmir. December to Mid-April being the perfect time, Gulmarg is the perfect ski destination with powdery snow awaiting you for an all-new adventure. The slopes at Gulmarg are fit for both experienced as well as beginners. Gulmarg is home to one of the world’s highest gondolas in the world that will take you to the height of 3980 meters.

# Gorge on Street Food in Amritsar

Nobody can savour fatty delicacies in all its glory like a Punjabi does! And to them, food is everything, which is why Amritsar is a place of gourmet adventures on the streets. Home to the divine Golden Temple and a culinary capital, the city’s streets revolve around kulchas with dollops of butter, ghee laden jalebis and lassi. Start with the Golden temple to get your Langar Prasad, savour tandoori kulchas, dip your fingers into tandoori chicken and end your gastronomical journey with a huge glass of lassi.

# Cafe Hopping in Pondicherry

Pedal through the narrow lanes adorned with colourful houses and pass by cafes that smell of fresh bread and coffee. Pondicherry is a fairytale and the best way to explore is laze around in its cute and aesthetic cafes. Tucked away in corners, the best things to try in these Instagram-worthy cafes are delicious crepes and sinful bakery products.

# Trek the Living Root Bridges

In the depths of northeastern India, in one of the wettest places on earth, bridges are literally grown. There are bridges around the world that are known to be human’s finest creations! But the natural marvel of Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya will leave you speechless. These wonderful structures have meticulously grown over a period of time and are among the biggest attractions in Meghalaya. Made up of tangled thick roots, grown by the Khasi tribe centuries ago, these bridges can hold 50 people in one go. The streams running below the bridges are perfect to take a dip.

# Paragliding in Bir

Did you know that Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh hosted the first Paragliding World Cup? A favored destination for paragliders around the world, this sport is more of a fantasy than an adventure. The heights, along with the climate of Bir Billing are the most suitable for any airborne gliding sport. With best takeoff and landing sites, Bir Billing should be on your list before you turn 30. Don’t forget to eat Maggi on the chilling mountain top with stunning views of the valley.

# Scuba diving in Andaman

Discover life under the sea with activities like snorkeling and scuba diving in the Andaman islands. Free from the hustle and bustle of city life, the experience of the underwater world is worth a million dollar. The best year for diving in Andaman & Nicobar Isles is from Nov to April. Scuba diving in Andamans is all about diverse and colourful marine life that gives you a surreal experience. Also, take a ride in a glass bottom boat to view the underwater life in all its glory.