Adventure travel is hugely popular in India, as there is such a wide range of things to do.

The Himalaya region is the setting for many India adventure travel activities. However, there are plenty of options for adventure travel in India's south as well!

Here are 10 of the most popular adventure activities in India. 1. Trekking and Mountaineering

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India's snow capped peaks and wilderness to the north make it a delight for trekkers and mountaineers. Easy treks, difficult treks, long treks, short treks -- the options are almost endless! There's something for everyone, from an extreme 22 day walk along the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh (Chadar Ice Trek), to a hike amongst the delightful The Valley of Flowers. For guided treks of all descriptions, some of the best companies are Ibex Expeditions, Peak Adventure Tours, Garhwal Himalayan Explorations, Great Indian Outdoors, and Himalayan Frontiers. 2. White Water Rafting and Kayaking

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Going on a white water rafting expedition in India combines picturesque scenery with exciting thrills and spills. Raft down renowned rivers, such as the holy Ganges, by day and camp at pristine beaches by night. If you have real adventure on your mind, there's nothing like the extra adrenaline rush from white water kayaking. Companies providing these activities include Mercury Himalayan Explorations, AquaTerra Adventures, Thunder Bow Expeditions, and Southern River Adventures. Where: The Himalaya region, including Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand (Rishikesh), and Sikkim. Also in Karnataka. 3. Paragliding

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If you've wondered what it's like to fly like a bird, paragliding is the answer! There are two ways to go about it -learn how to do it yourself, or take a tandem joyride with a professional. Companies offering paragliding joyrides in India include Wings and Flights, Nirvana Adventures, Indus Paragliding, and Adventure Holidays. For those wanting to learn how to paraglide, Nirvana Adventures is the oldest and most reputed paragliding school in India. Temple Pilots is also highly rated. Where: Kamshet, between Mumbai and Pune, in Maharastra. Also in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh.

4. Water Sports

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Traditional water sports such para sailing, jet skiing, water skiing, windsurfing, and banana boat rides have been popular for many year in India. Newer activities, such as kite surfing, are now catching on as well. Imagine the rush from surfing while hanging onto a kite high up in the sky! Lessons are available for those who are inexperienced. It's possible to learn in 12-14 hours. Atlantis Water Sports is the most well established provider.

Where: Water sports are offered all along Goa's beaches. In north Goa, particularly around Candolim, Calangute, Morjim, and Arambol beaches. Also selected beaches in south Goa, such as Benaulim.
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5. Motorcycle Touring

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Touring India on a motorcycle is the ultimate way of exploring the countryside if you have a love of traveling and motorbike riding. Enjoy the freedom to discover and experience India in a way which isn't possible using other forms of transport. Companies that offer motorcycle tours of India include Wheel of India, Asia Bike Tours,Himalayan Bike Tours, and Indian Motorcycle Adventures. For those who prefer a more competitive pursuit, there's The Raid De Himalaya -- an endurance testing, week long race on two wheels from Shimla to Leh. It's held during the first week of October. Where: All over the country, including the Himalaya region, Rajasthan, and south India. 6. Auto Rickshaw Rampaging

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Did you know that it's possible for you to drive an auto rickshaw across India? Known as the Rickshaw Challenge, Chennai Event Management Services operates around four of these madcap events a year. They're an hilarious, extraordinary way of experiencing India and seeing the Indian countryside, while contributing to charity as well.

Where: South India, through the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, and Maharastra.
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7. Camel and Yak Safaris

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One of the most unforgettable and enchanting experiences you can have in India is to ride through the rippling, windswept desert on camel back and camp out under the stars. Taking a camel safari will also give you the opportunity to witness the rustic, rural desert life of India.

Where: Jaisalmer and Bikaner in Rajasthan. It's also possible to go on a camel safari in the the alpine desert around Leh Ladakh, mainly in the Nubra Valley from Hundar to Diskit. The camels on these trips are the double hump Bactrian variety. Alternatively, for a really unique experience, opt for a yak safari! Where: Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh.
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8. Hot Air Ballooning

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Hot air ballooning is a relatively new adventure activity in India, but one that's fast growing in popularity. It's a thrilling way to experience India and get a different perspective of the country. Imagine having a calm and peaceful view of India's breathtaking scenery from a quiet place high above the crowds.

Where: Jaipur, Pushkar, and Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan. Hot air ballooning can also be possible in Delhi and Manali (in Himachal Pradesh).
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9. Mountain Biking

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Riding a bike amidst the peaceful surroundings of nature provides a special kind of pleasure for adventure lovers. The vastly varied topography of India ensures that there's wide scope for mountain biking, including plenty of tricky terrain. Ride individually or on a tour, an assault on your senses is guaranteed. Companies that offer mountain biking in India include Ecosphere Spiti, Unique Trails, Himalayan Mountain Bike Adventures, Peak Adventure Tours, and Mountain Bike Kerala. Feeling competitive? Himachal Mountain Trail Biking organizes an eleven day race over 750 kilometers, starting and ending in Shimla, during September/October. Where: Mainly in the Himalaya region. Also in the mountainous areas of Kerala, in south India.

10. Heli Skiing

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Take skiing to a whole new level and explore pristine, normally inaccessible terrain. You'll be airlifted by helicopter to slopes and mountain tops that are impossible to reach otherwise. Marvel at the virgin environment, and be the first to leave your tracks in the snow. Be warned, the thrill doesn't come cheap though! Companies that offer heli skiing in India include Himalayan Heli Adventures and Himalaya Heli Ski Kashmir. The season runs from January to April. Where: Himachal Pradesh (based in Manali) and Kashmir (based in Srinagar).