Valley crossing

Imagine that you’re hanging by a rope in the middle of two mountains, with a valley thousands of feet below. If this vertigo-inducing situation gives you an adrenaline rush, you would definitely enjoy valley crossing.

Valley crossing is an adventure activity that involves getting from one mountain to another across a valley using nothing but ropes whose two ends are securely fastened on the two mountains. Participants then wear a harness and mount the ropes to traverse several feet above the ground.

Crawling upside down on a rope is one of the most exciting experiences ever. Unlike zip lining, which is more popular and easier as it gives one the feel of pseudo-flying as you zip past over treetops and valleys at great speeds, valley crossing requires more efforts. Once you’ve pushed yourself off the edge of one mountain, you pull yourself across the mountains using your own strength and efforts.

Sometimes the distances between mountains can be a few hundred metres long. Therefore, physical fitness is a must. And so is keeping a cool head when you’re hanging by the rope right in the middle and have a look at the valley under you. It can be unnerving and even people who aren’t afraid of heights have second thoughts. Also keep in mind that first, you need to climb a mountain to be able to valley cross and get to another one.

And when you’re in stuck in such a situation, all you need to do is close your eyes for a few seconds, fill your lungs with the fresh air of the mountains and then start pulling yourself across again. Slowly, but steadily you'll be on the other side with your friends or fellow adventure seekers cheering you.

Many trekking clubs and adventure organisations organise valley crossing trips in the Western Ghats, the best place to valley cross. A quick search on the internet can yield many results and you can choose a place of your convenience.

Here are a few points to note before you choose a club or a company:

• Confirm the instructor’s skill and experience
• Check the group’s quality and safety certifications And there are a few do’s and don’ts too
• Wear well-fitted clothing and helmet
• Be alert
• Follow the instructions and safety precautions
• Don’t be overconfident even if you’ve participated in such activities before
• Don’t be in a hurry. Pace yourself to avoid fatigue.