Rock climbing is one of the most popular sports in Karnataka. The rugged landscape of the Indian state makes it ideal for rock climbing. There are several places that attract tourists from different places to try out this adventure sport. Rock climbing is one sport that excites and interests people from different walks of life. Climbing techniques and climbing equipment has been improved considerably. This sport can never be boring and this is a major reason for its popularity. Karnataka offers several different and adventurous routes for rock climbing. You will never get tired of exploring these routes in Karnataka. Apart from the sense of adventure and freedom, rock climbing also offers serenity and calmness. It connects you to nature and in Karnataka, it comes with breath taking views.

Destinations

Karnataka’s uneven and rocky landscape makes it perfect for rock climbing and this adventure activity is carried out at different locations across the state. Ramanagaram, which is 50 km away from Bengaluru, is a favorite location for rock climbing. With different and abundant rock formations, this is a rock climbers’ paradise.

Turahalli is also popular among rock climbers. Located around 10 km away from Bengaluru, this place is full of boulders of different sizes. However, this location can be difficult for beginners.

At Sawan Durga, hills rise up to a height of 4,022 feet above sea level. This location is 62 kms away from the city of Bangalore.

Apart from these, there are several other rock climbing destinations like Antara Gange, Ram Nagar, Kabbal Durga and many more. Artificial rock climbing walls are also gaining popularity.

Popularity

Rock climbing is popular throughout the state of Karnataka. This is mainly because of the rugged and uneven terrain in the state. Rocks and boulders are found at different locations and people from all over the country visit these destinations for rock climbing.

Apart from the natural destinations that are suited for rock climbing, artificial rock climbing walls are also becoming popular. These walls are located at Davangere and at the State Youth Center, Bangalore. The General Thimmayya National Academy of Adventure is a government organization that works for the promotion of adventure sports in Karnataka.

Precautions

Rock climbing has improved considerably over the last few years, yet it can be a dangerous activity if proper safety measures and precautions are not taken. This sport is now easier and simpler to learn and can be easily tried by beginners. Rock climbing requires stamina, skill and control but with the personal satisfaction and excitement that it offers, the efforts seem worth it.

Even though the climbing gear has improved and is now extremely safe, there are a few safety precautions that must be taken. The effects of gravity need to be mitigated to prevent the rock climber from falling. Your life depends on it and back up is the most important part. Respect the dangers of climbing and look for a skilled and experienced mentor or guide to train you. Most accidents happen because of climbers’ errors and can be avoided with a little more care. Appropriate climbing gear and training reduce threat considerably.

Belaying

Having sound knowledge about the sport and the location and using the right gear are of utmost importance for rock climbing. Proper training and appropriate gear reduce threat of accidents while rock climbing. The climber is tied to a rope that is attached to some stationary object and this is belaying. The belayer holds on to the rope and controls the equipment from the other end. There are techniques for protecting the climber in different climbing conditions.

Bouldering

This is an important element of rock climbing when there is a possibility of accidental fall from a height. Bouldering is ideal for beginners and is a wonderful technique for practice where a belay is not needed. It is carried out near the ground to reduce the risk of getting hurt. This method is used to train the climber without putting him at risk. It sharpens the foot and hand skills and increases the stamina of the climber and bouldering is considered a sports activity itself.

A few precautions that need to be considered are:

• Always double check the harness and knots.
• Wear the climbing helmet at all times.
• Check the belay device and the rope.
• Make sure you use a long rope.
• Pay attention to your surroundings and to the actions of the leader above while belaying.
• Determine what equipment is needed beforehand and bring sufficient gear.
• Make sure that the rope is over your leg while climbing.
• Make use of safety anchors and always clip the rope properly.