Five new hobbies to take up

Are you looking for something to do in your spare time? Get off the computer and try something new! India is full of opportunities to take up hobbies and sports, no matter how old you are.

There’s so much out there for people of all ages to discover, but here are the five best things to try in the coming months.



1. Cooking

Good cooking can bring a home to life. The smell of a meal combined with the chatter of assembled family is one of life’s great pleasures, and it’s a scene played out across India every day. Learning to cook – not just in the way you’re used to, but in new and exciting styles – will liven up your home and bring exotic tastes into your kitchen. Try out these cooking classes in Mumbai and show your family some exciting new recipes.

It isn’t just home that will benefit from your newfound skills. Your friends will be impressed with your new skills and will be keen to sample some of your cooking.

2. Bowling

Ten-pin bowling is a great way to pass the time with your friends. It’s a sociable, entertaining night out – with huge health and fitness benefits. It’s one of the few physical sports that you can practise at any time of the day or night. Bowling is soaring in popularity in India, probably because it’s a great way to meet new people.

There are several leagues with which to get involved.The Tenpin Bowling Federation of India is based in Bangalore, where there are several multi-lane bowling alleys.

3. Water sports

This is something for the summer months! The term ‘water sports’ can apply to a huge range of leisure activities, some of which are fast-paced while others are laid-back – thrill-seekers might want to try wakeboarding, while others might find scuba diving very relaxing.

The Indian coast has some excellent water sports facilities, such as those found in Goa and Kerala, or islands such as Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar. Other sites such as Uttaranchal offer great opportunities for inland water sports.

4. Golf

Golf can be expensive to get into, but with around 135 public golf courses around India, you’re never too far from the tee. Follow in the footsteps of JeevMilkha Singh – who knows, you might achieve golfing greatness!

The Woman’s Golf Association of India is an organisation that promotes ladies’ involvement with the sport. Golf is popular with men and women of all ages – try it today.

5. Go-karting

We saved the best until last. Go-karting is amazing, silly fun, and it’s exactly the kind of thing you can take as seriously as you want to. You could just take a group of friends go karting in Hyderabad for the afternoon, or you could invest in a kart yourself and try to work your way up the leagues.The greatest drivers in Formula 1 all started out on the go-kart track. AyrtonSenna, Lewis Hamilton, Michael Schumacher – maybe you’ll be next!

Image of go-karting by Steve Fareham

This is a guest post by Michael Palmer.