Paddle Boarding in India

What it is

Stand-up paddling (SUP) on flat water: part workout, part slow sightseeing. The fastest-growing paddle sport in India because almost any calm water works.

When to go

Nearly year-round on sheltered water; sea paddling follows the October to May beach season.

First time?

Start kneeling, stand when the board settles, and expect to fall in once or twice. Most people paddle comfortably within half an hour. Being able to swim is required.

Where to do it

• Kerala backwaters

  glassy morning water between the villages

• Goa rivers

  Sal and Chapora river sessions, plus sunset paddles

• Varkala and Kovalam

  SUP surf when the waves are small

• Rishikesh

  flat Ganga stretches above the rapids