Have you ever wondered whether anything beyond the ordinary falls into the realm of natural wonders? Probably not! That’s why adventurers compete only for those experiences whose scope differs. Camping is also one of them! Camping is one such natural therapy that takes you on detoxification of the soul of nature while being close to nature. Providing an excellent escape from the mundane life, the best camping places in India are mesmerizing experiences. In this guide, we take you on a virtual tour of the 10 best camping spots in India. Each site is a gateway to new horizons, where you can enjoy the tunes of nature, bask under the stars and create lasting memories that last long after the trip. Let’s dive into the enchanting world of camping and discover the extraordinary landscapes of India.
Contents
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand:
In the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas, Rishikesh stands out as a premier camping destination along the banks of the revered River Ganges. Famous among adventure enthusiasts, riverside camping in Rishikesh holds a unique charm.
The campsite caters to the thrill of adventure activities like river rafting, trekking, and practicing yoga beside the flowing water and invites you to completely immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the great outdoors. Here, amidst the lap of nature, you can enjoy moments of peace and explore a world where the thrill of adventure blends with the tranquility of the riverbank.
- Best time to visit: September to March
- Price: Starting from INR 900/-
Lonavala, the adventure hub of Maharashtra, brings to the fore the experience of the exotic world of camping amidst the lush green landscapes of Maharashtra. Nestled in the Sahyadri Range, Lonavala is a picturesque camping destination that blends adventure with nature’s charm.
The cool breeze rustling through the trees and the panoramic views of the surrounding hills are the perfect backdrop for a memorable camping trip. Whether you are looking for a quiet retreat or an adrenaline-filled holiday, the camping sites in Lonavala have something for everyone.
- Best time to visit: Monsoon
- Price: Starting from INR 1500/-
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand:
Image – Tripadvisor
Mussoorie, located 30 km from the capital – Dehradun, and at about 2,005 meters above sea level, is known as the “queen of hills”. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Mussoorie is an ideal camping destination offering a seamless blend of nature’s charm and adventure.
Mist-kissed mountains, sweet whispers of the forests, and crisp mountain air combine to create a pleasant ambiance for an unforgettable camping retreat. Whether you are a nature lover seeking peace or an adventure enthusiast seeking a thrill, the camping sites in Mussoorie satisfy everyone.
- Best time to visit: April to June & October to March
- Price: Starting from INR 800/-
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan:
Jaisalmer is situated amidst golden sands famous for desert camping, like Sam Sand Dunes and Khuri Sand Dunes. It combines the desert landscape’s charm with Rajasthani culture’s mystery. The vast expanse of gleaming dunes, the warm glow of the setting sun, and folk tunes wafting in the air create a picturesque backdrop for an unforgettable camping experience.
Whether you are a cultural encounter seeker or an adventurer searching for unique adventures, Jaisalmer’s desert camps satisfy every soul. Enjoy the tranquility of the desert, immerse yourself in age-old traditions, and enjoy the magic of the stars covering the night sky.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Price: Starting from INR 1400/-
Pangong lake, Leh- Ladakh:
Pangong Lake, situated in the arid Himalayas of Leh-Ladakh, is a beautiful camping site that immerses every tourist in its natural beauty. Situated at an altitude of 4,350 metres, Pangong Lake is known for its ever-changing shades of blue, giving a heavenly look.
Setting up camp on the banks of Pangong Lake is like connecting with nature in its purest form. The starry sky over the high-altitude desert at night will amaze you. The experience is as rustic as it is magical, featuring cosy campfires, stargazing and the gentle sound of the waves.
- Best time to visit: October to April
- Price: Starting from INR 2200/-
Ananthagiri hills, Telangana:
Image – myadventurezone.com
Ananthgiri hills of Telangana always sing the praises of nature. Camping on Ananthagiri Hills is an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located in the Rangareddy district, these lush green hills are just a few hour’s drive from Hyderabad.
The comfortable, misty climate and dense forests make it an ideal destination for camping enthusiasts. Pitching a tent amidst lush green surroundings, you can wake up to birds’ sweet chirping and eucalyptus trees’ aroma. While exploring the ancient trails, you’ll stumble upon gushing streams and hidden springs, perfect for a refreshing dip.
- Best time to visit: After Monsoon
- Price: Starting from INR 1000/-
Manali, Himachal:
Manali, located in the Kullu district, is one of India’s most prominent hill stations. The tourist capital of Himachal – Manali, is known for its winter destination, but camping in Manali is also an exciting experience.
Beas River offers various camping options ranging from riverside sites along the banks of the river to high-altitude camps in the Solang Valley. During the day, you can also indulge in thrilling activities like trekking, river rafting, paragliding, and camping. Camping in Manali perfectly blends nature’s beauty and adventure, making it a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Price: Starting from INR 1800/-
Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh:
Image – Thrillophilia.com
Gandikota is seen as the attraction of the Canyon camping in Andhra Pradesh. Situated on the banks of the Pennar River, this hidden gem offers a unique camping experience amidst breathtaking landscapes. Rugged red sandstone cliffs carved by the river over centuries create a dramatic backdrop for your adventure.
By setting up camp near the magnificent Gandikota Fort, you will witness an awe-inspiring sunset that will paint the sky in vibrant colors. The starlit canopy over the valley provides an unforgettable stargazing opportunity as night falls.
- Best time to visit: After Monsoon
- Price: Starting from INR 900/-
Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand:
Image – thevalleyofflowers.com
The Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand is a natural wonder that looks like a page out of a fairy tale. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, this UNESCO World Heritage Site blooms in a vibrant tapestry of colours during the monsoons.
Every year, from June to September, the valley comes alive with a breathtaking display of over 300 species of wildflowers, including the rare Himalayan flowers. The snow-capped peaks make this floral paradise also home to diverse wildlife. Trekkers and nature lovers flock to this remote valley, hiking through ancient forests and meadows adorned with a kaleidoscope of flowers.
- Best time to visit: June to September
- Price: Starting from INR 1600/-
Kedarkantha, Uttarakhand:
Image – triptradition.com
Camping in Kedarkantha, Uttarakhand is a high-altitude adventure highlighting the pristine beauty of the Himalayas. Located in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, this trekking destination offers a unique camping experience amidst dense deodar forests and snow-capped peaks. The journey to Kedarkantha involves passing through picturesque grasslands, frozen lakes and charming villages.
Camping here is a mixture of peace and adventure. It is a chance to disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in the calmness of nature. Kedarkantha Camping is an unforgettable experience for trekkers and nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in the Himalayan wilderness.
- Best time to visit: December to February
- Price: Starting from INR 1400/-
Conclusion
India offers a plethora of camping destinations that are a seamless blend of comfort and adventure and cater to the diverse preferences of nature lovers. Each place has its unique charm, from the serene backwaters of Lonavala to the extreme heights of the Himalayas.
Whether you seek the tranquillity of the mountains or the thrill of the woods, these camping spots offer the chance to reconnect with nature while enjoying the comforts of well-organized campsites. Camping in India doesn’t just mean pitching a tent; It’s also all about experiencing the soul-stirring beauty of this incredible country!
Meet Saurabh! He is a passionate traveller, storyteller and adventure enthusiast who currently presents his writings with Trip Tradition. Saurabh is originally from Tehri, Uttarakhand and seeks adventure in every journey and peace in every destination.
