Sports Tourism Destination - Jammu & Kashmir

Sports Tourism Destination - Jammu & Kashmir Welcome to the paradise on the earth - Kashmir which throughout the ages has remained another name for Paradise. Cradled in the lap of majestic snow-clad mountains of the Himalayas, Kashmir is the most beautiful place on earth. On visiting the Valley of Kashmir, Jehangir, one of the Mughal emperors, is said to have exclaimed: "If there is paradise anywhere on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here."   As we are looking out for sports adventures for the people in India, this time we will have a look at what Kashmir has to offer to us as a sporting destination. One thing that Kashmir has in unique is that it has been nutured with natural floura and fauna along with picturesque scene which is something beckons tourist to natural beauty of Jammu and Kashmir, it is definitely the adventure possibility that prevails in these mystical lands by the foot of Himalayas. The presence of Himalayas is the greatest asset that made J&K, arguably the best destination for adventure sport in India. The one thing one might feel is the absence of long coastlines and sea, which had been overshadowed by the natural, pristine Dal Lake giving more adventure sports options besides adding the glow to the panoramic vista of this sceneric splendor.  The fast flowing rivers gives an amazing opportunity for water sports like white water rafting, fishing, cruising, and staying in houseboats. Being situated at high altitudes, amidst the snow capped mountains, the state has got the privilege of both land adventure like trekking, mountaineering, skiing and facilities of aero-sports like Para gliding and hot air ballooning. The place is perfect for tyro as well as veteran adventurers as there are spots of minimal difficulties for learners and areas that are hard nut to crack even for the professionals. Adventure in J&K is an experience that nothing else can compare up to. So don't let this opportunity go by and grab it with both hands. Land Adventure Sports - Mountaineering & Trekking Land adventures are probably the most indulged sports in the state. The possibilities here are immense starting from trekking in the high mountains to skiing down the snowy slopes. Gulmarg has become world famous for the skiing facilities all over the world for its thick snow covers during the month of December, Januarray, ranging from 2600 m to 3200 m hosting the skiing lovers at all levels. Mountaineering and trekking in the steep hills of Himalaya and Karakoram range is quite challenging and gives an edge to climbing enthusiast. Zanskar and Ladakh are the best place where you can take up monutaineering sports.    The area most frequented by foreign climbers is the Nun-Kun Massif in the Great Himalayan Range. Its easy accessibility from the Kargil-Pudum road and the shortest possible approach march to the base camps makes this massif the most attractive climbing destination in the Great Himalayas. Trekking possibilities include short, daylong walks up and down mountain slopes to visit isolated villages or monastic settlements, or across a ridge to enjoy the sheer beauty of the lunar mountainscape. Or long, trans-mountain treks involving weeks of walking and camping in the wilderness. For example, the trek from Lamayuru in the Indus valley to Darcha in Lahaul across Zanskar takes nearly three weeks. Most of the established routes traverse the Zanskar range, which separates the Indus valley from Zanskar.    Trekking forms an integral part of the adventure sports flourishing in the hilly tracts of Jammu and Kashmir. However, Ladakh takes away the prize of being a trekker's paradise despite of its harsh weather conditions and snowfall. It is only recently that adventure tourism has got its long-due attention from the tourism industry but now, a considerable part of the tourists who visit Kashmir like to trek, if just to glimpse at its matchless natural beauty. Aero Sports India is fast emerging as a major aero-sports destination because of its long Himalayan range that offers opportunities for activities like Para Sailing, Para Gliding, Hot Air Ballooning, and Para Jumping. Though, it will still take some time for the state of Jammu and Kashmir to gain popularity as a hand-gliding landmark, yet the location of a flat valley surrounded by high mountains is an ideal terrain for hang-gliding.    Jammu is the best place in the state where you can look for aero-sports like hot air ballooning, Para gliding, famous activities that attracts many adventure lovers here. There are many training camps that are set up here for Para gliding. These camps also provide tourists with all the equipment's required. You can experience hot air ballooning in Sanasar valley and Zanskar, which have become really popular.  Water Sports Jammu and Kashmir is home to some of the most fast paced rivers in the world. Crushing the high rises, these water giants make their way through the moonscape lands of Zanskar and Ladakh making the perfect setting for white water rafting. The main rivers in the region that are used for adventure activities are River Indus and River Zanskar.  These rivers are fed by melting glaciers making the water permanently ice cold. So it is better that you wear wet jackets before you indulge in white water rafting. Although not very famous, but angling is fast catching up as a popular sport in Jammu and Kashmir. There are many lakes that provide the facility of angling especially in Pahalgam. A permit is required to participate in the activity but the efforts are really worth it. A range of rafting options is available on the Indus and its major tributaries. The best stretch for professionally guided runs in white water is on the Indus between Spituk and Saspol. Beyond Saspol, the river becomes difficult and funning it requires technically skilled participants and careful organisation. Upward of Spituk, the Indus has the easiest stretch up to Karu, ideal for basic training and for day-return "scenic floating" for amateurs. Water Skiing Water sports are the 'fun' aspect of Kashmir. The Dal and Nagin lakes in Srinagar and the Manasbal Lake, 32-km from Srinagar are the best places for water-skiing. The largest expanse of the Dal, the Boddal, has privately owned 'bathing boats' which hire out motor launches, water-skies and trained instructors. There are more bathing boats at the Nagin Lake and also a government run Institute of Water Sports. The Nagin lake too has trained instructors and is more popular because of its clean water. Ice Skiing Skiing in Jammu and Kashmir is a thrilling and exciting experience for any adventure enthusiast. The Ski Club of India was in Gulmarg in 1927, which is now considered as the ski paradise of India. Just 50 km from Srinagar, situated at an altitude of 2,730 m, Gulmarg changes its scenery from a flowery meadow to that pf a small ski resort in winters. All seasons are permissible to take up any adventurer activity in Jammu and Kashmir. Be it winters or summers, there is always something that will keep you engage. Summers are quite pleasant and provide with perfect conditions for trekking and mountaineering through the steep mountains. Come winters, and all is set for you to take up your skiing gear and hit the snowy ramps. Come to Jammu and Kashmir to explore the many marvels that you can see and many adventure wonders that you can do.

Sports Tourism Destination - Kerala

The relationship between two huge industries of tourism and sports has led to a new type of tourism that has been very much favored and used by the people of the world, in a way that some countries, considering their capacities, potentials and suitable climatic conditions, have managed to bloom as a major sports tourism destination in the world. Some necessary resources for sports industry are Natural resources: national parks, outdoor facilities, deserts, geographical aspects (mountains, cliffs, spas, seas), Sports organizations:sports clubs,social and voluntary groups, management, development of facilities, budget, sponsorship, information services, marketing, commerce. So Lets checkout whether Kerala has in store the above necessary resources to be the Sports Tourism Destination in India.

Boat Race at BackWaters of Kerala

Kerala has been one of the major contributors to sporting arena in India, whish has produced some of the best athletes and stars in cricket and football.The Kerala Sports Council at Trivandrum holds a number of sports events including acquatic sports. The fantastic boat races are pure adrenalin,with 30 metre-long snake-shaped boats, and hundreds of oarsmen singing loudly as they tug at the oars, competing for the most coveted prize in these parts. Another form of entertainment which has been recognized in the state is Kalarippayattu. This gives considerable importance to both brain and brawn. Development of physique and great concentration are essential to excel in this sport which has become part of Keralas history. 

Serene Backwaters of Kerala

Kerala is a hot and happening destination amongst nature lovers and adventure seekers. Kerala is gifted with nature at its beautiful best. As an adventure destination, Kerala offers its visitors umpteen opportunities to unleash their enthusiastic selves.  The adventure seekers in Kerala can opt for backwater biking, bird tours,camping,jungle safaris, canoeing, hiking and biking, trekking,water sports,wildlife tours and much more. Kerala is a paradise for the bird watcher with hundreds of species of birds. Kerala, being the land of rivers, lagoons and lakes in the interiors and the sea on the west, also makes it an ideal destination for those inclined to indulge in water sports for relaxation and adventure. For the wildlife enthusiasts, Kerala offers its diversity in the wildlife parks.

Kerala has great potential for water sports activities in India. Kerala water sports are adventurous activities fostered by the diverse network of rivers, lakes, canals, lagoons and estuaries, not to mention the expanse of backwaters and the mighty Arabian Sea itself.

Tourists from all over the globe make a beeline for this veritable adventure hub. Some of the most commonly indulged water sports of Kerala are: 

Canoeing: Canoeing is a favorite sport among the tourists of Kerala and among the local inhabitants of the state. A canoe is a small 2-3 seater boat which is rowed by the sailors. Canoeing expeditions are undertaken in Kerala by groups of tourists and such sashays are often arranged by tourist operators on request.  

Catamaran Sailing: A catamaran is small often wooden vessel with twin hulls joined together. Catamarans are usually set sail across the backwaters of Kerala nowadays motorized catamarans are in vogue along with traditional oar propelled ones giving the tourists of the state more variety to indulge in.  

Kayaking: Kayaking requires high levels of physical fitness. A Kayak is a small one or two man boat which the rowers actuate with twin paddled oars. Kayaking can be undertaken on rocky rapids (similar to white water rafting) or on calm sea waters. The backwaters of Kerala are extremely conducive to such sea kayaking.  

Para Sailing: Parasailing is a water sport commonly indulged in beaches and sea side resorts. The sailor is strapped to a parachute which in turn is attached by a harness to a motor boat or some such small vessel. As the boat speeds, the sailor takes off into the air. This highly recreational sport is one of the primary adventure sports in Kerala's many beaches.  

Scuba Diving: Scuba diving is deep sea diving with an oxygen pack fitted to the diving suit so that the diver does not need to depend on any surface supplied equipment. The deep Arabian Sea off Kerala shores makes scuba diving a veritable pleasure sport. The rich underwater flora and fauna attracts the diver over the risks involved in the sport.  

Snorkeling: Snorkeling is a major tourist recreation at the beaches of Alappuzha, Kovalam and Varkala. It involved swimming at the surface of the deep sea equipped with a snorkel or a breathing tube and mask. It allows the diver to view the natural underwater bounties and the diversity of marine life.

Wind Surfing: Windsurfing is skimming the water face on a surfboard with a revolving sail. The skill of the surfer is tested in maneuvering the craft amidst the high waves and tearing winds. Windsurfing is a sport that rouses much interest in the numerous beaches that fringe coastal Kerala.

Nature's Beauty at Munnar

 
Kerala is indeed "God's Own Country" because it has adventure and sports activities available along with the nature's beautiful places to be explored. Do make some plans to visit the state of Kerala in upcoming vacations.


More Information on Sports Tourism in India, 
Check out these links :-
Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Lakshadweep Islands

Bowling a worry for Indian Cricket !

Lot of things said and done about Indian cricket by many people, it's time to really know the problems of Indian cricket. The Indian team as other teams like Australia and Sri Lanka are about to go through phase of changes very soon. But what separates them for India is that they are having the bowlers who are very young and as time passes they will get experienced. Having look at Indian bowling attack seems to be led by aging Zaheer Khan, who lacks the vigour and performances in last one year to boost our hopes.

Indian bowling reserves are inexperienced youthful pace attack like Varun Aaron, Vinay Kumar and Umesh Yadav, and in spin department we are almost not having any body in picture who can take the reins from R. Ashwin very soon. The experienced kitty of players in pace attack have been left out for long time from International arena. Players like Irfan Phatan, RP Singh, Sreesanth are almost out of team for two-three years now. In spin dept, Harbhajan Singh has been in and out of team due to poor run of performances and injuries.

The current test series against England at home has once again raised question marks on the bowling powers. We could not win the game on spin-friendly wicket with three main spin bowlers. And we are still struggling to pick up wickets in the match in Kolkata. As once-colonized were expecting it to be revenge series but the once-colonial powers are seeming to tough to get through this time.

These problems are caused due to lack of exposure of players to various conditions and proper training. As in past, India still lacks quality bowlers who can win us the test match. As far as IPL contribution to Indian cricket, it has just gave the batsmen the platform to bloom in the cricket world. Bowling is the key to win matches still at least in the test, but euphoria of IPL is forcing young aspiring cricketers to shift from bowling to batting. This is a great void in the Indian Cricket which needs to be filled or we might loss our sheen as World Cup winners.

So, Bowling is a worry for Indian Cricket !

Sports Tourism Destination - Lakshadweep Islands

Welcome to our next sporting destination - Lakshadweep Island. As per the Sanskrit literature, Lakshadweep means one hundred thousand Islands. Lakshadweep is one of most scenic and beautiful islands of India. Lakshadweep Islands is a group of small islands scattered in the Laccadive Sea. The islands are around 300 kms off the coast of Kerala (South West State of India). These tiny islands make up the smallest Union territory of India and cover a total area of 32 square Km. These tiny islands are actually the tops of an enormous undersea mountain range in the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.

The islands offer a precious heritage of ecology and culture. The unique feature of the Islands is its coral reef which makes up a pristine spot of leisure for travel enthusiast. The lagoons are rich in marine wealth, is spread over 36 islands in an area of 32 sq. kms. The underwater view at Lakshadweep is kaleidoscopic and breathtaking. The lagoon offers excellent potential for water sports like swimming, wind-surfing, diving, snorkeling and kayaking. Each island is fringed by snow white coral sands. The crystal clear water and the abundant marine life enhance the beauty of these islands. That is the reason why there is no wonder that Lakshadweep is fast becoming India's one of its kind “Adventure sport - Nature Tourism” location.

The Tourism sector is one of the fastly developing sector in Lakshadweep. From 1956 to 1962 there was no ship nor any mechanized vessels operating between the Islands and mainland to carry even the local passengers. Tourism is one of the few key areas in Lakshadweep which can play a vital role in generating income, employment and over all development of islands. Recognizing vast tourism potential, a humble beginning was made in 1974 and one of the uninhabited island Bangaram was opened for International Tourism. The Hotel Corporation of India was looking after the affairs of Bangaram island resort up to 1982. But in the absence of a permanent set up, the flow of tourists were not encouraging. Encouraged by the Bangaram experiment, the Lakshadweep administration has gone ahead with Tourism promotion in the Islands of Kavaratti, Kadmat, Kalpeni and Minicoy were opened for domestic tourists in 1983.

Sports Tourism Destination - Lakshadweep Islands

Against the vast expanse of the blue sea, the island look like emeralds. The huge shallow calm lagoon on one side with wall like reef made of marine live coral boulders blocks the incoming swells of the outer sea. The islands are linked to the mainland by:- ship, helicopter, Indian Airlines, Kingfisher Airlines and mechanized sailing wooden vessels. The islands like Agatti and Bangaram can be reached by ship and air from Cochin. From Agatti, Kadmat and Kavaratti are linked by speed ferry. In all the islands, elaborate infrastructure is in place to meet the needs of tourists.

Lakshadweep with its vast lagoon around all the islands has emerged as a water sport destination in the country. Understanding the potential of water sports, Tourism Department has been striving to make these islands a prime water sports destination not only within the country but through out the world. As such, the Department has been concentrating on developing the water sports facilities. While developing these facilities fragile ecology of these islands have been taken into consideration and only non intrusive water sports are encouraged. 

Therefore, rather than going for the water sports like water scooters, etc which can hamper the ecology of corals. Here, we can go inside the waters and enjoy water sports like scuba diving and para sailing, etc which are also high yielding adventure for Lakshadweep. The island tourism department has set up a full-fledged waters sports Institute at Kadmat island. This Institute offers facilities for Kayaking, canoeing, yachting, snorkeling, wind surfing, water skiing and last but not least scuba diving. A full fledged scuba diving centres are operational at Kavaratti and Kadmat islands and these have emerged as a prime scuba diving destinations to the well heeled and adventurous tourists.  

Water Sports at Lakshadweep Islands

Water sports enthusiast will have a blast with an array of water sports and a beautiful surrounding; these virgin islands provide a perfect setting for experiencing the best of it. You could rent yourself a Kayak or a canoe and sail in the open sea. The glass bottomed boats give you the pleasure to see the best the sea has to offer. Deep sea fishing is also one of the highly recommended water sport even more because of the gifted sea water which breeds fishes like Sail fish, Triveli, yellow fin-tuna and the Baracuda. 

More Information, Check out these links :-
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshadweep

http://lakshadweeptourism.nic.in/

http://www.lakshadweeptourism.com/tourpackages.html

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F1 Indian Grand Prix - A booster to Tourism in India

Sports tourism might represent a niche market, yet it is dynamically developing. Why is it so popular? How can communities utilize its sports tourism potential? So What Is Sports Tourism? Sports Tourism is defined as a specific travel outside of the usual environment for either passive or active involvement in competitive sport where sport is the prime motivational reason for travel and the touristic or leisure element may act to reinforce the overall experience. Another definition worth noting explains sport tourism as a combination of sports activities and travel.

F1 Indian Grand Prix - A booster to Tourism in India

Let’s move to top gear to see what F1 racing as to offer for India as Sports Tourism! As Inaugural Indian Formula One Grand Prix was a big hit last year. The tourism industry expects the inaugural Indian Formula One (F1) Grand Prix would bring the world to New Delhi this October too. It hopes the event would be able to attract more crowds from around the world and within India.

Motor racing has been a sport which has been generating interest of the entire world for quite some time. Buddh racing circuit is the first racing circuit in India which is specially made for Formula 1 racing. Why is it that even India could not distance itself from this hugely popular sport and today is the proud event hosts and organizers? Well, there are many gains from hosting this event. These benefits are mostly economic in nature as the event will be a big boost to the country’s economy. Let us see how.

India has been keen to organize the formula 1 racing event as it will put itself directly under the international media glare. Scribes from all over the world would come in droves to capture every second of the event. Players as well as their girlfriends and wives too would generate a lot of interest. This all would put the Indian subcontinent and its hospitality onto the global map.

Formula One - One of the world's most glamorous sports is on the doorstep of India's untapped world and is ready to boost the tourism and hotel industry in India. Already Delhi circuit has been put up in the F1 calendar events and with other states announcing new F1 circuits to be developed we expect a huge fan following for F1 in India and good growth in tourism revenue.  

Owing to the heavy interest in grand prix and motor racing, people would flock to the country to witness the event. This would surely promote the tourism of India. The F1 racing event is a perfect occasion to showcase the best in terms of Indian cuisine, culture, artifacts and traditions. Though India is already on the global map due to the events in the past and technological advancements, but the event such as F1 racing will put the country under the global spotlight. The hotels and hospitality industry in general will greatly benefit from this entire event. 

Indian Tourism Industry - one of the largest services Industry with a contribution of 6.23% to the GDP of India will add more than 100,000 domestic and foreign tourists. Any F1 event attracts an average of up to 1-2 lakh people to watch the game live at the circuit. And such F1event can definitely draw up to 1-2 lakh foreign tourists during the racing period. The racing circuit and all the action will be a treat for the fanatics to watch. People will spend a huge amount in trying to make sure that they are present to witness all the action in front of their eyes. 

Bookings for this year’s F1 event in India, through travel agents and on-line websites have already registered an increase of around 30% as of now. Hotel bookings have also shown a spike of 20-30%. Industry sources said that the budget properties (three and four star) are already sold out while the five start hotels have some room inventory.

India received 4-5 lakh foreign tourists in October 2010 and 2011, six per cent more than a year ago. With the tourist season starting from October, the travel industry is hoping for further buzz around the Grand Prix so that tourist numbers go up significantly. Hope we encash this opportunity to boost tourism industry and development of the country.

Australia vs India Super Eight T20 Match Preview

India vs. Australia Super Eight T20 match is among the most crucial match of this tournament. After the comprehensive victory against England and Harbhajan Singh`s brilliant comeback has raised questions as to what exactly will be a winning combination against George Bailey`s men who have looked good in both their group league matches against Ireland and West Indies respectively. Australia would love to prove to the world that it has not lost its winning touch and that despite being placed at the bottom in Twenty20 world cricket, they have the same flair and touch of invincibility as before.

India, on the other hand will try to come with similar performance they came against England. India won the most convincing match in this tournament against any super-8 team. Indian batting was impeccable and bowling was superb. Even the fielding against England was exceptional and that contributed to a great extent in winning the one-sided tournament.

India cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni indicated Thursday that he would be going in with five bowlers against Australia in Friday’s crucial Super Eights match of the World Twenty20 tournament, a move which will mean that India will have one batsman short. India are likely to go in with five specialist bowlers to plug their bowling loopholes when they take on the mighty Australians in its opening `Super Eight` fixture of the ICC World Twenty20 on Friday.

In that case, either opener Virender Sehwag or Yuvraj Singh may have to sit out of the match and Dhoni admitted that it would be a "tough decision". It will be interesting to see what bowling combination Dhoni would prefer for the first `super eight` game and whether he would opt for three spinners or three pacers. On current form, Lakshmipathy Balaji is a better bowler at the death overs than the 33-year-old Zaheer Khan mainly because of the variety of slower deliveries he bowls.

The two key batsmen in the Australian set-up are left-handers David Warner and Mike Hussey. The presence of the duo at the top of the order certainly means that Harbhajan`s inclusion is necessary because of his stupendous record against the left-handers. Ravichandran Ashwin, who was rested against England, will also make a comeback into the playing eleven and Irfan Pathan, who has been providing the team with breakthroughs regularly is certain to play in eleven. The batting, however, bears a much more settled look with the good news being that Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma are back among runs. The only thing to worry will be Yuvraj Singh`s place in batting order. The talented left-hander has been struggling with the bat.

The main threat for India will be all-rounder Shane Watson who is in prime form having won back-to-back MoM awards. Watson has been cleverly used by skipper Bailey as he has proved to be a potent partnership breaker. The Indian batsmen will need to be careful against Watson. Left-arm seamer Mitchell Starc can prove to be a handful but it will be chinaman bowler Brad Hogg who will need to play a big role. The only problem for Australia will be its middle-order which hasn`t been tested in the two matches which were single-handedly won by Watson. The all-rounder has taken full advantage of the Powerplay overs to slaughter the bowlers. With Warner and Hussey for company, the `terrific trio` make up for a superb top-order.

Key players

Australia: Shane Watson, Michael Hussey, David Warner, Brad Hogg, Pat Cummins 

India: Virender Sehwag, Virat Kohli, Yuvraj, Harbhajan Singh, Ravichandran Ashwin.