‘If Outdoor Adventure Calls You, Don’t Let Society Hold You Back’
Vaijayanthi Bhat, an adventure enthusiast, shares her journey of embracing adventure travel and the challenges women face in outdoor spaces
I have always loved being outdoors and connecting with nature. Unfortunately, in our country, easy access to outdoor spaces can be limited. My idea of a vacation revolves around spending time in nature, but with a bit of excitement—something more action-packed than just hiking. While hiking is great, I prefer activities with a faster pace. This love for adventure has naturally drawn me toward adventure travel whenever I get the chance.
Another major reason is my daughter. I don’t want her growing up disconnected from the outdoors. I want her to experience the beauty of nature and see me embracing adventure as a woman. While things are changing, many girls in our country are still taught to play it safe, avoid risks, and not be adventurous. This mindset deprives them of essential life skills. I want my daughter to grow up confident, willing to take calculated risks, and connected to the world around her. That’s why I embrace adventure travel—not just for myself, but also to create a different world for her where these experiences are a natural part of life.
As a single woman, one of the biggest challenges with outdoor activities is needing company. Even though I’d love to go alone, it’s just not safe. This remains a significant and ongoing hurdle for women like me who want to explore the outdoors independently.
When it comes to facilities, I acknowledge that off-the-beaten-path adventures often come with basic amenities, and that’s okay. However, there has been significant improvement in recent years. For instance, on a hiking trip in Goa, the organizers provided mobile tents for changing clothes, which was both thoughtful and practical. Such progress is encouraging.
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Safety and security, however, remain concerns. It’s a chicken-and-egg situation—the more women participate in outdoor activities, the more normalized and safer these spaces will become. For that to happen, we must take the initiative and put ourselves out there. It’s a gradual process, but change is happening, and I’m optimistic about the future.
When planning outdoor activities, I take basic but crucial precautions. I always seek out trustworthy groups or guides who come recommended by women or friends. Having that network of trust makes a big difference. Unfortunately, venturing out completely alone isn’t something I’d feel safe doing, so careful planning ensures a safer, more enjoyable experience.
One thing that truly stands out now is the incredible support from people within the outdoor adventure community. Whether it’s surfers, mountain bikers, or kayakers, these communities are welcoming and encouraging to women. The individuals involved are often extremely supportive, helpful, and enthusiastic about seeing more women participate. This sense of belonging makes the journey into outdoor adventure much easier and more enjoyable.
If outdoor adventure calls to you, don’t let societal pressures or others’ expectations hold you back. My advice is simple: give it a try. It’s an empowering and liberating experience. The lessons learned in nature are unmatched—taking calculated risks, understanding your limits, and pushing beyond your comfort zone all build a strong foundation of confidence. These experiences are transformative, whether you’re a child or an adult woman. If this resonates with you, take the leap and discover a whole new version of yourself.
When it comes to safety, choose guides and operators who prioritize sustainable tourism and are mindful of their environmental footprint. Such organizations are often more progressive, supportive of women, and safer. Travel with guides or companies recommended by people you trust, as familiarity adds an extra layer of safety.
Plan your journey wisely. Avoid driving at night or through isolated areas. Basic precautions and common sense go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Stepping into the world of outdoor adventure can be life-changing. It builds resilience, confidence, and a sense of self that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. Take the first step, plan thoughtfully, and embrace the journey—it’s worth it.
As told to Mamta Sharma
