If any place can be called the ultimate holiday destination in India, it is Goa. With about 131 km of coastline hugging the azure waters of the Arabian Sea, it has splendid shores, where you can sit, relax and spend quality time with your loved ones. This small state in the western part of the country is divided into two parts, namely North Goa and South Goa. While the beaches of the former begin near Fort Aguada, stretching to Maharashtra, the South Goa beach scene starts near Margao, uninterruptedly running to Cabo De Rama.

Apart from sun-kissed beaches, there are plenty of other attractions that lure holidaymakers. Places like Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fort Aguada, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, and the Goa State Museum are perfect for a visit after exploring the shoreline. The wildlife sanctuaries here are perfect to learn about the diverse flora and fauna it is blessed with. A safari in Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, or Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, which also incorporates Mollem National Park, takes the thrill quotient of a Goan trip to another level. Read more about Goa here.

Sun basking, happening nightlife, and sightseeing is just one aspect of this state; the other being adventure. A nerve centre for adrenaline-pumping activities, it is one of the most preferred destinations for adventure seekers. Owing to its dramatic landscape, a number of people come here to try diverse thrilling sports like waterfall trekking, parasailing, snorkelling, jet skiing, windsurfing, sailing, angling, scuba diving, and hot air ballooning.

Kayaking - Kayaking is the sport of traversing sea or river waters with the use of a kayak. In it, you sit in a small narrow boat and propel yourself with a double-bladed paddle. This activity originated in Greenland as a means for fishing, for Eskimos. In the 20^th century, Eskimos left kayaks for motor boats but the activity quickly gained fame among thrill seekers and has become a prominent adventure sport all over the world. Most of the kayaks have closed decks, though inflatable and sit-on-top kayaks are also becoming popular. These small boats usually have one cockpit, the place where the paddler sits, but some are also designed with two or even three cockpits. Tandem kayaking is apt for those who are new to the sport. Trying it with an expert instructor eliminates any risks.

Like every sport, there are some requirements for kayaking as well, and the first thing is the equipment. A kayak, paddle, life jacket and a helmet are a must. It is also convenient if you have a wetsuit or a drysuit. Regular clothes can be an obstacle and if you have the option of having such protective suit, it is better to get it. A spray skirt creates a seal around the waist of the paddler and resists water from coming inside the kayak. These few items are important and you must use these every time you try the sport.

With hundreds of rivers gushing through it, India presents infinite destinations to try kayaking. While the Brahmaputra River, Kali River, Tons River and Teesta River are known for their strong rapids, the Zanskar, Kali and Ganga Rivers have plenty of sections that are just perfect for first-timers. No matter where you reside in the country, you can easily find a convenient kayaking destination, not too far from your location. In the northern part of the country, you can try this sport in Ladakh, or Rishikesh, which is only a 6-hour drive from New Delhi. Sikkim is also emerging as a prominent hub for the sport in the north-eastern region of India. Another place in the country where you can try this sport is the cheerful state of Goa.

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Kayaking in Goa is gaining immense popularity among young and adventuresome. The vast Arabian Sea and numerous rivers that cross the state are perfect to try this sport. You can paddle your way here, admiring the serenity and magnificence of the state.

You must utilise your time in Goa admiring the morning sun shine. Therefore, your Goa kayaking experience begins at 7:30 in the morning at the picturesque Bambolim Beach. Take your sit-on-top kayak, backrest and paddle, and jump into the sparkling waters of the Arabian Sea. Your group leader or guide will give you all the help you need with the sport and you can clear all your doubts. Remember to put on your life jacket before taking a dip in the ocean. Starting from the calm beach, cruise through the waves and enter the stillness of the Arabian Sea. Then, you paddle your way to a nearby village, and witness fishermen hunt fish with traditional nets. Later, move to another remote beach and gain peace, away from the hustle and bustle of life. This thrilling 90-minute adventure ends after you retreat to Bambolim.  

Your evening kayaking adventures in Goa take you to two another secluded beaches that are still protected from human influence. The tranquillity of these shores will refresh your body, mind and soul. The magnificent sun setting behind the gleaming waters of the ocean will become an unforgettable memory for you. Capture this sight in your camera so that you can recall this time again. The pleasant Goan evening wind will give you immense pleasure. Going up and down on the choppy waters of the sea, experience a thrill you have never had before.    

You can even rent a kayak for an hour and explore the waters. There is always something left to explore even if you have been to the place. Take the boat and go along with your loved one to some unknown place to spend intimate moments; away from the crowd and pollution of the world. While kayaking in Goa, you explore the splendour of this state, which is usually missed with regular trips.