South India's coolest, craziest adventures

South India, also known as Dakshina Bharat, is that one gorgeous part of India that you will never be over with. If you have been here and already indulged in South India's most loved things to do, such as a houseboat stay in Alleppey, an Ayurveda retreat in Kumarakom, driving through Ooty's tea estates, searching for Coorg's best coffee, it is time for adventure.

Here, we have compiled the coolest adventures that you can have in South India and get your adrenaline pumping.

While Thekkady is more like a magical place with its lush greenery and deep, dense forests, there is more that awaits. When here, go for some hours of bamboo rafting at the lake here and you will come back refreshed. This is also a very famous site for birdwatching.

Bouldering at Hampi is surprisingly an activity that not many indulge in. The terrain here is so perfect for those into rock climbing and bouldering that the famous documentary, Pilgrimage, was also shot here. When here, do not hold back if you have a love for the sport.

Yes, you can go on a jungle patrol (also known as night scouting) at the Periyar Tiger Reserve here. Gear up for a night time hike in the jungle (only buffer zone) with the patrol guards here. A lifetime's adventure is guaranteed. Also, this is the great love of those into macro-photography as there is no visual treat like a forest at night.

Rafting in the wild waters of Karnataka's Dandeli River is one of the most thrilling experiences in South India. Enthusiasts can enjoy a number of rapids here, and the water is nothing less than inviting. Don't forget to carry your action camera for this ride!

Gavi is one of the most offbeat places in Kerala and this experience is nothing less than offbeat. This Kerala village is home to an elephant training centre, where orphaned or abandoned baby elephants are taken care of. Visitors can also partake in a number of elephant-care activities here. DO NOT MISS!

Lakshadweep is pristine and you can very well imagine the charm that snorkeling here would be. The clear blue waters at Bangaram and Kadmat are inviting and you will be awed at the sight of the marine life here. If you are wary of deep diving, snorkeling here should be your go-to.

Savandurga is one of Asia's largest monolithic hills and is a surreal sight. Though people usually go trekking here, rock climbing is a well-kept secret that scores over trekking. The hills here are preferred by both enthusiasts and experts; it's a great adventure as long as you are not trying this out in monsoon season.

Puducherry is home to one of the first surfing schools in India, Kallialay, so you know what awaits you here. On the other hand, Varkala in Kerala has plenty of surfing schools and some great waves that you will love catching. Of course, both the places are tourists' havens and fun to explore.

Get closer to the wilderness in South India with a wildlife safari at the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve. It's a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, with free-flowing Kabini River traversing it. The Kabini Reserve also has the reputation as one of the country's richest biodiversity spots. Don't forget to grab a telephoto lens for this adventure.

Read more: Madhya Pradesh national parks that are a must for all wildlife enthusiasts