15 Adventurous Places to Visit in India: Update Your Travel Wish List

If you are an adventure buff, we have compiled the most adventurous places in India for you. Not only will these places unravel the true colours of the Indian landscape for you but they will also inject addiction to discover more such places in the future.

1. Shillong, Meghalaya - Known For Caves Exploring

Spelunking, generally referred to as caving, is an adventure activity filled with excitement and eagerness. With its fascinating caves, Shillong in Meghalaya is one of the best places for spelunking. The Mawjymbuin Cave, Krem Umshyrpi, Krem Mawmluh, Mawsmai Cave, Siju Cave and Marai Cave are just a few popular ones to be named.

The rolling green mountains, highland plateaus and valleys, enticing waterfalls and dense green forests of Meghalaya set the perfect mood for exploring the ancient caves. The Krem Puri Cave in Meghalaya is approximately 24.5 km long and is the world's longest sandstone cave. It is located about 90 km away from Shillong and attracts thousands of caving enthusiasts every year.

With hundreds of corridors interconnected, Krem Puri is a complicated maze that opens up to a whole new world of amazement and history. Meghalaya nestles over 1700 caves in its arms, making it one of the best adventure places in India.

Things to Do:

Expedition at Caves of Shillong

Discover the Don Bosco Museum

Trekking at Living Root Bridges, Laitlum Canyon, etc.

Enjoy water sports at Umiam Lake, Ward's Lake, etc.

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year

2. Spiti, Himachal Pradesh - Known For Trekking

Spiti Valley is the go-to spot for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts because of its long and twisty roads, snow-crowned mountains, and cold desert region. Surrounded by the Himalayas on all sides, Spiti Valley is an extremely cold place that hardly gets 250 days of sunshine throughout the year.

Acting as a separation point between India and Tibet, the trekking trails of Spiti make it an adventure junkie's heaven. Although Spiti is only accessible in the summer season, trekking along its 1.5 km trail is completely worthwhile. The Spiti trek is a magnificent adventure activity, even for beginners and the panoramic view from the peaks will make you crave for more trekking adventures.

Things to Do:

Bird watching at the slopes of Spiti Valley

Discovering old monasteries such as Buddha Shrine, Tabo Monastery, Lhalung Monastery, Gandhola Monastery, etc.

Camping near Suraj Tal lake

Jeep safari to Chandratal Lake

Best Time to Visit:

May to October

3. Kamshet, Maharashtra - Known For Paragliding

Kamshet is a spectacular hill station famous for its flying schools, located just 45 kilometres from Pune, in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. This place is dotted with ruins of fortresses along the hills, ancient caves and old temples. Paragliding, being the most famous adventure activity at Kamshet, draws thousands of domestic as well as international tourists every year.

This travel location is bordered by paddy and traditional Indian huts on all sides. You will spot a lot of sunflower fields around you in Kamshet. Paragliding for beginners takes off at the ShindeWadi Hills located around 100 feet above the ground level. If you have prior experience, you must try paragliding in Bhandar Dongar.

Things to Do:

Paragliding at ShindeWadi Hills, Bhandar Dongar, Bhairi Cave, etc.

Exploring ancient caves

Pitching a camp near Pavana Lake

Visiting the ancient Kondeshwar temple

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year except for the monsoons

4. Andaman & Nicobar Islands - Known For Scuba Diving

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer a thrilling scuba diving experience at more than nine famous diving spots. Dive into the azure warm waters of Andaman and Nicobar Islands to witness schools of vibrant fish, coral gardens and mesmerizing marine life. If scuba diving is your take for adventure, always make sure to dive under the guidance of an experienced instructor.

Things to Do:

Scuba diving in Havelock Islands, Neil Islands, Barren Islands, etc.

Banana boat riding in Andaman

Parasailing in Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex

Jet Skiing in Andaman

Fishing in Havelock Islands

Seaplane Ride in Port Blair

Kayaking at Mayabunder

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year except for the monsoons

5. Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir Known For Trekking

Trekking along the Chadar Trek is considered amongst the rarest and the most challenging treks in India. The exhilarating thrill starts at the frozen Zanskar River and takes around six days to complete. Ladakh teems with iconic beauty under the bulky carpet of snow – calling the frozen Zanskar River a “chadar”.

The long and strenuous distance along with the chilly weather conditions might make this trek challenging but it is not difficult. Hence, this trek requires good physical and mental fitness along with prior experience in trekking. Nerak is the ending point of the chadar trek, making this 6-days long trek an unforgettable and enriching experience for a lifetime.

Things to Do:

Trekking along the Chadar Trek

River Rafting in Zanskar River

Ice skating across the Pangong Tso Lake

Exploring the Nubra Valley

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year

6. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir -Known For Skiing

Also known as Gauri Marg, Gulmarg is a picturesque hill station located in Baramulla, Jammu & Kashmir. A popular skiing and honeymoon destination, Gulmarg will bewitch you with its scenic beauty and cool ambience. Enclosed by the ice-capped Himalayas, flower-rich grasslands, deep canyons and lush green valleys, Gulmarg attracts couples and adventure enthusiasts across the globe.

A hotspot for adventure activities such as skiing, mountaineering, trekking, etc. at the Alpather Lake, Gulmarg is a must-visit if you are planning to escape from your humdrum city life. Gulmarg Gondola also set a record for the second-highest Gondola ride in the world.

Things to Do:

Skiing in Alpather Lake

Gondola ride from the Apharwat Mountain

Trekking at frozen Alpather Lake

Sightseeing at Strawberry Valley

Enjoy a ride in Gulmarg Golf Course

Visit the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve

Best Time to Visit:

October to June

7. Gir National Park, Gujarat - Known For Wildlife Safari

Gir National Park is the best wildlife adventure place if you are up for spotting wildlife creatures amidst the plush deep forests. Located 55 km away from Junagadh, you can spot the endangered Asiatic lion at Gir National Park. Besides, this National Park is home to over 2,300 animal species.

The Indian Flying Fox, Chousingha - the only four-horned antelope of the world, Sloth Bear, Golden Jackal, and Striped Hyena are the regular inhabitants here. The wildlife safari tour at Gir National Park adds an extra edge to your trip by giving you the opportunity to explore these rare animals.

Things to Do:

Take a Jungle Jeep Safari tour

Spot rare birds at Gir National Park

Visit the Somnath Temple

Discover the Uperkot Fort

Enjoy boating at Nalsarovar Lake

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year except for the monsoons

8. Ramnagar, Uttarakhand - Known For Jim Corbett Safari

Just in case, you are looking for another place to sight wild animals, Ramnagar is the perfect destination to embark on your journey for an extra adventure. The Jim Corbett National Park in Ramnagar will take you to a whole new world of unexplored wildlife species. The feeling of spotting wildlife creatures in their natural habitat is incredible.

This National Park is home to the famous Royal Bengal Tigers, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Sloth Bear, Otter, Asiatic Elephant, etc. The famous reptiles that you will witness at Jim Corbett are Mugger Crocodiles, Gharial Crocodiles, Monitor Lizards, Pythons, etc. The aquatic animals at Jim Corbett include the Pallas Fish Eagle, Indian Pitta, etc.

Things to Do:

Jungle Safari in Jim Corbett

Parasailing in Corbett Falls

Visit the Garjiya Temple

Explore the Corbett Museum

Bird watching at Sitabani Forest

Camping at Camp Kyari

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year

9. Manali, Himachal Pradesh - Known For Paragliding, Trekking

With never-ending meadows and bird's-eye view of the snow-covered peaks of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar ranges, Manali is the perfect getaway for an adventurous and romantic escape. Manali is the hotspot for a vast variety of adventure activities and its jaw-dropping scenery makes a trip to this Indian paradise a must.

From paragliding to trekking, horse riding to downhill cycling, river rafting to camping, Manali has a lot in store to give you an exhilarating experience. Apart from adventure activities, Manali is also a breathtaking spot for discovering old local traditions of Himachal Pradesh, Indo-European architecture, natural beauty and rich history of our country.

Things to Do:

Paragliding at Dhobi, Kullu-Manali

Skiing in Solang Nala

Horse riding at Solang Valley

Riverside Camping at Beas River

Mountain biking at Rohtang Pass

Undertaking the Beas Kund Trek

Visit the Hadimba Temple

Best Time to Visit:

October - June

10. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand - Known For Bungee Jumping, Rafting

Located beside the Ganges River on the foothills of Himalayas, Rishikesh is a city filled with adventure, spiritual relaxation and scenic beauty. Recognized as the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh will amaze you with its myriad of thrilling sports and plenty of pilgrimage spots.

The holy Ganga River provides you with plenty of water sport options such as white water rafting, cliff jumping, kayaking and riverside camping. Activities like mountain biking, trekking and bungee jumping are also popular thrilling activities at Rishikesh. The Laxman Jhula and Triveni Ghat are the two most famous tourist spots in Rishikesh.

Things to Do:

Bungee Jumping in Mohanchatti

River rafting from Shivpuri to Laxman Jhula

Camping near Ganges River

Mountain biking in the Himalayas

Flying fox at Shivpuri Village

Rappelling and rock climbing in Shivalik mountains

Cliff jumping near Brahmapuri Stretch

Paragliding in Rajas Airfield

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year

11. Panaji, Goa - Known For Water-skiing, Flyboarding, Scuba

Diving

Panaji, the capital of the state of Goa sits on the banks of the Mandovi River. Goa is one of the most adventurous places in India and it is easy to access all places from Panaji. With many treks and water sports to offer in Goa, Panaji is a scenic adventure destination that you must add to your travel wish list. Plan your trip from Panaji and get busy with its unending list of adventure activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, water-skiing, flyboarding, cycling, camping and kayaking.

Things to Do:

Explore the Aguada Fort

Enjoy Water-skiing at Patnem-Colomb Beach

Go kayaking at Mandovi River

Bird Watching at Chorao Bird Sanctuary

Scuba Diving at Baga Beach, Sail Rock, Grand Island, etc.

Ferry Ride at Divar Island

Best Time to Visit:

12. Serchhip, Mizoram - Known For Paragliding

Serchhip is an unexplored adventure destination by many but it is certainly worth a few days out of your busy schedule. Located around 112 km from Aizawl - the capital of Mizoram, Serchhip will fascinate you with its scenic attractions. Paragliding and water sports are the most popular adventure activities you can opt for in Serchhip.

Things to Do:

Paragliding at Chhuahvahna

Trekking along the hills of Serchhip

Exploring the wildlife at Thenzawl Deer Park

Sightseeing at Vantawng Falls

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year

13. Bangalore, Karnataka - Known For Trekking, Rock Climbing

Famous for being blessed with over 15 trekking destinations, Bangalore has a lot more adventure hidden in its lap. Rock climbing is one of the most popular adventure activities in Bangalore. Bangalore is close to many Wildlife Sanctuaries. If you like being in nature and exploring wildlife, you can try one of the many wildlife safaris accessible from the city.

Apart from these, Bangalore has an abundance of ancient temples, fortresses and caves for the history buffs. You can also try Kayaking, Parasailing if water adventure is your kick. If you are craving for some uncommon adventure, Bangalore won't disappoint you. Activities like Mountain Biking, Zip-Lining, Zorbing, Archery, Paintball, etc. will give you the excitement you are longing for.

Things to Do:

Rock climbing at Avathi Hills,

Wildlife safaris at Bannerghatta, Bandipur or Nagarhole national park

Paragliding at Nandi Hills

Trekking at Skandagiri, Savandurga Hills, Ramanagara, Devarayanadurga, Madhugiri, Kunti Betta, etc.

Camping at Bheemeshwari, Kolar and Manchanabele dam

River rafting at Dandeli and Kondaji

Caving at Antaragange

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year

14. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan - Known For Camel Safari

Jaisalmer may not seem like an adventure destination to many but if you hop into this city, you will observe a plethora of options to get your dose of thrill and excitement. Camel safari at Jaisalmer is undoubtedly an epic escapade. The Camel Safari on the gigantic sand dunes of Jaisalmer attracts thousands of Indian as well as foreign tourists annually.

For more adventure at Jaisalmer, you must try boating at the pristine Gadisar Lake, Parasailing at Kanoi, Quad Biking at Sam Sand Dunes and explore the much-hyped Salim Singh ki Haveli. The list of fun-filled adventures you can experience in Jaisalmer is literally unending.

Things to Do:

Parasailing at Kanoi

Explore the Jaisalmer Fort

Enjoy water sports at Gadisar Lake

Quad Biking at Sam Sand Dunes

Camel Safari and Desert Jeep Safari

Discover the wildlife at Desert National Park

Best Time to Visit:

November to March

15. Thenmala, Kerala - Known For Flying Fox or Ziplining

How about enjoying the gravity and experiencing the thrilling feel of flying over the rivers, mountains and valley while being tied to a wire? We know you are already as excited as we are. Located on the eastern side of Kollam, Thenmala is a hub of exhilarating activities such as zip-lining, mountain biking, flying fox, etc. For an added thrill, you can enjoy the trampoline, trekking, water rafting, rock climbing and mountaineering in Thenmala.

Things to Do:

Flying fox adventure at Thenmala

Enjoy water sports at Thenmala Dam

Explore wildlife at Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary

Visit Aryankavu Sastha Temple

Best Time to Visit:

Throughout the year

16. Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu - Known For Mountain Climbing, Paragliding

Yelagiri, a hill station located in Tamil Nadu, is a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts in India. The majestic waterfalls, rocky mountains, expansive paddy fields and lush greenery make Yelagiri an alluring tourist spot. Surrounded by four gigantic mountains, Yelagiri is a treasure trove for adventure activities such as hiking, trekking, mountaineering, etc.

The magnificent view from the hilltop after a strenuous and challenging trek makes a trip to Yelagiri more worthwhile. Since Yelagiri is not a well-known hill station, it is a fantastic adventure spot for thrill-seekers looking for a less-crowded place.

Things to Do:

Trekking at the Swamimalai Hills

Water sports at Nilavoor Lake

Explore fauna at Fundera Park

Best Time to Visit:

November to February