As India's youthful population and rising disposable incomes converge with an insatiable thirst for unique experiences, the adventure tourism sector is witnessing unprecedented growth. At the forefront of this movement is Rocksport, a trailblazer in the industry, known for its innovative offerings and unwavering commitment to building a community of adventure enthusiasts. With a robust market strategy and an ambitious vision for the future, Rocksport is redefining the adventure landscape in India.
The Pulse of Adventure Tourism in India
According to recent reports, India’s adventure tourism market was valued at approximately USD 2.7 billion in 2023, and it is expected to grow at a staggering Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 19.6 per cent over the next five years. This rapid expansion is being fueled by a number of factors: a young, adventurous demographic, increasing disposable incomes, and a rising interest in outdoor activities. Amidst this boom, Rocksport stands tall, carving out a unique niche in the burgeoning industry.
Amit Goyal, CEO of Rocksport, attributes the company’s success to its focus on inclusivity and accessibility. “We aim to democratise adventure sports by making them accessible and affordable for all age groups,” Goyal explains. “Our offerings are designed to be safe, enjoyable, and family-friendly, catering to a broad audience, including schools, corporates, and individual travellers.”
Creating an Adventure Tribe of One Crore Superheroes
Rocksport's journey began with a focus on educational institutions, rapidly becoming Asia’s largest school program provider in the adventure space. Today, the company has expanded its reach to cater to a wider audience, transforming into a consumer brand that serves not just schools but also families and corporations. The company’s partnership with global marquee brands like Coleman and Edelrid has further solidified its position in the market, offering a comprehensive range of services and products.
“Our goal is to build an ‘adventure tribe’ of 1 crore Indians by 2030,” says Goyal. This ambitious target is rooted in Rocksport’s vision to integrate adventure into the Indian lifestyle, ensuring that for every four vacations or outings a family or individual plans in a year, at least one of them would be with Rocksport.
Expanding Horizons with New Experiences & Strategic Collaborations
Rocksport’s growth strategy is both bold and methodical. The company currently enjoys a significant presence in the adventure tourism market, particularly in the segments of educational institutions and corporate groups. To scale up, Rocksport is focusing on several key areas: expanding its geographical footprint, innovating and diversifying its offerings, and strengthening partnerships with schools, corporates, and tourism boards.
A recent collaboration with Club Mahindra has enabled Rocksport to extend its reach to new and diverse locations, offering unique adventure experiences in regions such as Assonora, Goa, and Netrang, Gujarat. Additionally, Rocksport is exploring new experiences like multi-day experiential holidays and survival stays, the latter being a collaboration with the legendary Bear Grylls.
Embracing Global Trends, Fostering Local Growth
The demand for outdoor adventure activities in India is growing, with preferences largely mirroring global trends. From trekking, hiking, and camping to more adrenaline-pumping activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and water sports, Indians are increasingly seeking unique and engaging experiences.
What sets Rocksport apart is its ability to blend global best practices with local flavours. “In India, adventure experiences often integrate cultural elements, such as trekking routes that include visits to remote villages or spiritual sites,” says Goyal. This approach not only makes the adventure more meaningful but also ensures that it is accessible to a wider audience, including families and beginners.
With growth comes responsibility, and Rocksport is acutely aware of the environmental impact of adventure tourism. The company is committed to promoting sustainable and responsible tourism practices, ensuring that all its operations are conducted in an eco-friendly manner. This includes adhering to stringent environmental guidelines, proper waste management, and preventing pollution, all while respecting local environmental regulations.
The Future of Rocksport: Expanding with Purpose, Safety & Community
Rocksport has been in business for 17 years, and its journey has been nothing short of remarkable. The company, initially bootstrapped, has reached a critical mass that now allows it to leverage external capital to fuel its next phase of growth. In 2020, Rocksport closed a strategic partnership deal with Mahindra Holidays, and more recently, onboarded Times of India Group’s venture capital arm, Brand Capital.
The infusion of capital is set to drive Rocksport’s expansion plans, which include opening new sites, launching differentiated offerings, and building the Rocksport brand through focused marketing activities. The company’s vision is clear: to create an adventure tribe of one crore superheroes by 2030, transforming every ordinary holiday into a super adventure experience.
“Our nearly two decades of experience and our comprehensive approach to adventure tourism make us stand out in the industry,” says Goyal. “We’re not just offering adventure experiences; we’re building a passionate community that values safety, quality, and unforgettable memories.”
As Rocksport continues to push the boundaries of adventure tourism in India, it remains committed to its core values of safety, inclusivity, and sustainability. With its eyes set on the future, Rocksport is poised to lead the charge in making adventure a way of life for millions of Indians.
