5 Best Things to Do in Shivpuri (Beyond Rafting)

Most people come to Shivpuri for just one reason: River Rafting. It makes sense. The rapids here are world-famous. But, let me ask you something. What if you are scared of water? What if you have already done rafting and want something new? Or what if you just want to relax?

I have been working in the travel industry for 15 years, and I have seen Shivpuri change from a small village to a major hub. I run Clans Stays, and I meet travelers every day who ask me, “Mayank, what else can we do here?”

The truth is, Shivpuri has much more to offer than just rubber boats. From high-speed adventure activities in Shivpuri to quiet corners for meditation, this place has it all.

Here is my personal list of the top 5 things to do in Shivpuri that will make your trip memorable, even if you never touch a paddle.

1. Feel the Thrill with Bungee Jumping and Giant Swing

If you think rafting is the only way to get your heart racing, think again. Shivpuri has become a hotspot for extreme sports. Several adventure parks here offer activities that are safe and very exciting.

This is perfect for the younger crowd or groups of friends. You don’t need to know swimming. You just need a bit of courage.

Popular Activities:

• Bungee Jumping: You jump from a tall platform with a safe rubber cord. The height is usually around 50 to 80 meters.
• Reverse Bungee: Instead of falling down, you are shot up into the sky like a rocket.
• Giant Swing: You swing across the valley. It feels like flying.

These activities are run by certified experts. They use high-quality gear from countries like New Zealand.

Cost Estimate for Adventure Activities:

Activity	Approx Cost (Per Person)	Time Taken
Bungee Jumping	₹3500 – ₹4000	1 – 2 Hours
Giant Swing	₹3000 – ₹3500	1 Hour
Reverse Bungee	₹1200 – ₹1500	15 Minutes
Zip Line	₹1500 – ₹2000	30 Minutes

My Local Tip: Book these slots in the morning. The wind picks up in the afternoon, and sometimes they have to pause operations.

2. Trek to the Beautiful Neer Garh Waterfall

If you love nature but hate crowds, this is for you. Neer Garh Waterfall is one of the most beautiful Shivpuri tourist places. It is not exactly in the main market, but very close by (about 5-6 km away).

The trek starts from the road and goes up into the hill. It is not a very hard trek. Even families with kids can do it easily. The path is green and full of trees. When you reach the top, you see crystal clear water falling into small pools.

Why you should visit:

• The water is clean and cool (perfect for summer).
• You can take a bath in the natural pools.
• There are small shops (Maggi points) where you can eat snacks while dipping your feet in the water.

This is a great morning activity. Go there around 9 AM, spend two hours, and come back for lunch.

3. Find Peace at Vashistha Gufa (Cave)

For my clients who come from busy cities or my NRI guests who want “real peace,” I always suggest this place. Vashistha Gufa is an ancient cave located on the banks of the Ganga. It is about a 15-minute drive from the main Shivpuri camping area towards Kaudiyala.

According to history, the great Sage Vashistha meditated here. When you enter the cave, it is completely dark and silent. You can sit there for 10 or 20 minutes and close your eyes. The only sound you hear is your own breath.

What to do here:

1. Meditate inside the cave.
2. Sit by the beach: Just outside the cave, there is a very clean, white sand beach. It is usually empty.
3. Visit the ashram: There is a small ashram nearby which is very clean and well-maintained.

Note: Please dress modestly here and keep your phone on silent. It is a spiritual place, not a picnic spot.

4. Go for “Cafe Hopping” with Mountain Views

Ten years ago, you could only find Dal Makhani and Maggi in Shivpuri. Now, things have changed. A nice cafe culture is growing here.

If you are a couple or a solo traveler, spending an afternoon in a cafe is one of the best things to do in Shivpuri. These cafes are built on the edge of the hills. You get a direct view of the river and the mountains.

You can order a cappuccino, a pizza, or a smoothie bowl and just read a book. The vibe is very similar to places like Kasol or Landour now.

What to try:

• Wood-fired Pizzas: Many new places make fresh pizzas.
• Ginger Lemon Honey Tea: A local favorite that soothes the throat.
• Pancakes: Great for breakfast with a view.

5. Enjoy a Staycation (Camping & Bonfire)

Sometimes, the best activity is to do nothing at all. As the founder of Clans Stays, I see many guests who book a camp just to sleep, eat, and relax.

Camping in Shivpuri is an experience in itself. You don’t always need to run around. We have luxury tents now that have attached washrooms, air coolers, and even swimming pools.

Your Evening Plan:

• Check into your camp around 12 PM.
• Have a nice lunch buffet.
• Play casual games like Badminton or Volleyball in the evening.
• At night, sit around a Bonfire. Listen to light music, look at the stars, and enjoy the cool breeze.

This is perfect for families who want to spend quality time together without the noise of the city.

Choosing the Right Stay:

Type of Stay	Best For	Facilities
Beach Camp	Bachelors/Students	Basic tents, sand, common washroom
Luxury Camp	Families/Couples	AC, attached washroom, pool, garden
Riverside Resort	Luxury Seekers/NRIs	Premium rooms, room service, private balcony

Conclusion

So, is Shivpuri only for rafting? Absolutely not.

Whether you want the adrenaline rush of bungee jumping in Shivpuri, the peace of Vashistha Gufa, or just a lazy weekend at a luxury camp, this place has something for everyone.

I have spent years exploring every corner of this town. My advice? Don’t just come for a day. Stay for a weekend, breathe the fresh air, and enjoy the mountains.

Ready to plan your trip?

If you need help choosing the right camp or booking safe adventure activities, feel free to contact us at Clans Stays. We will sort it out for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are the best things to do in Shivpuri for families?

A: Families can enjoy the Neer Garh Waterfall trek, visit Vashistha Gufa for peace, or book a luxury camp with a swimming pool. Adventure activities might be too intense for small kids.

Q2: Is Bungee Jumping in Shivpuri safe?

A: Yes, it is safe. The operators use high-standard equipment and have certified jump masters. However, always check the weight and age limits before booking.

Q3: How far is Neer Garh Waterfall from Shivpuri?

A: Neer Garh Waterfall is about 5 to 6 km from the main Shivpuri market. You can drive up to the starting point and then trek for 20-30 minutes.

Q4: Can we visit Shivpuri in summer?

A: Yes, summer (March to June) is the peak season. The days are warm, but the evenings are cool. It is the best time for camping and water activities.

Q5: Are there good places to eat in Shivpuri?

A: Yes, many new cafes and small restaurants have opened up. They serve Indian, Italian, and Chinese food with great mountain views.

Q6: Do we need to book adventure activities in advance?

A: It is highly recommended, especially on weekends. Slots for bungee jumping and giant swings get full very quickly.

Q7: Is it safe for solo female travelers?

A: Yes, Shivpuri is generally very safe. The locals are helpful. However, it is always better to book your stay with a reputed agency like Clans Stays to ensure safety and comfort.