Summer of adventure in Solang Valley

If you are someone who craves for some adrenaline-pumping action, loves to look life in its eyes and live it by the second, Solang Valley is the place to be this summer. Located in the picturesque Himachal Pradesh, barely few kilometres from Kullu, this valley is best known for the array of adventurous sports - parasailing, paragliding, parachuting, zorbing, horse riding and skating. I decided I've an adventurous side to myself, and to prove that to my doubting friends, took on the challenge of parasailing from a height of almost 4000 feet. After being warned of the possible hazards, I was taken up a high-rise hill by a rope car, and after descending almost two more hill curves by walk, I reached the plains. I was instructed by my pilot to tighten the straps of the parasail, secure my position and hold on tightly to my camera that I insisted I carry with me. We then ran a good two kilometre with the parasail, and as we took wings, I decided I had to hold on tightly to my life as well. Amidst screaming at the top of my lungs and furiously brushing away tears (of joy!), I must admit I was literally blown away by the sight. As I rose higher up in the air, everything beneath seemed like tiny specks. I found the high view of Manali, the surreal peaks that showed traces of snow, the trees that dotted them and the unassuming locals who carried on with their work, unmindful of screaming tourists, a serene experience. How t get there - Well-connected roadways from Manali and Shimla make Solang Valley easily accessible. - All transports will be stopped a few kilometres before the valley. One has to completely rely on terrain vehicles or your own legs to reach the heart of the valley. Remember: - To check out the government-operated tour operators in the base camp before booking your guides as private operators charge you triple the amount. - To wear sturdy shoes, for the paths are quite slippery. - To check out the photos and videos of you that locals claim they've clicked while you were indulging in sports before you start bargaining! Other activities: - You can rent native costumes at the base camp for less than ` 100, and click photos in them. - Rohtang Pass, Manali, Shimla, Hadimba and Vashist temples, Manikaran and Naggar Castle are closely located.