20 Best Camping Places in India

Hotels can sometimes weigh down your experience of a trip! Why so? Because you will be camped up in a hotel room! And for places where there are no inhibitions when it comes to sights and sounds from the surroundings, where the busy noises of the city life does not drown out your adventurous spirit, camping can be your best bet.

Taking a trip into the wilderness like a retreat from civilization with nothing more than a backpack and the company of greatest friends or a special someone, sleeping under the twinkling stars can be the most memorable experience for you.

With all set by packing for – mosquito repellents, torches, plastic bags, sunscreen, a local map and gutsy instincts let us set about on a journey where mesmerizing scenery hug the twinkling stars on an endless sky.

Read here about the Top 20 Camping Places in India :

1. Ladakh

Ladakh is the perfect spot for a camping experience of a lifetime. It vast spreads of the skies, crystal clear panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas, sudden lakes that come as a stark contrast from the scenery of desert around you. Take a trip to Ladakh between May to September. Some of the best places for camping in Ladakh are Mystic Sangla Valley, West Ladakh Camp or Tsomoriri Lake. But regardless of whichever you choose, be prepared to witness flocks of migratory birds flying in, gorgeous sunsets, and natural beauty that touches your soul. Ladakh has visitors from all over the world coming in, and offers a whole host of tourist activities like rock climbing and apricot picking.

Camping in Ladakh

Suggested Tour : 6 Nights - Pangong Tsomoriri Lakes Tour

Read More : 5 Compelling Reasons to Visit Ladakh

2. Rishikesh

This destination is set about the foothills of the Himalayas right on the lap of the holy river Ganga. Rishikesh is a spiritual one more than being an adventurous one. The spot will spoil you with a plethora of outdoor activities, you can choose to camp, river raft, trek or more. Simply get yourself an inexpensive tent, and dig into the hot foods and drinks offered at the camping sites here. And when the sky turns dark and puts on the ornaments of stars, you can sit with other friendly campers and bask in the warmth of a shared campfire mingling, singing, and living.

Note of advice, it is best to visit this place in the summer months in India as the place gets very cold in the winter months.

Camping in Rishikesh

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3. Kullu

Kullu’s mountainous landscape makes it the best place to enjoy camping. Peak summer is the best time to enjoy camping here. May and June are the prime months. Top places to find camp operators are Bandrol, Sarsai, Tirthan River Valley, Seobagh, Bradha, and others. If you want to pitch your own camp, the best places in Kullu are Serolsar Lake, Tirthan River Valley, Jana Waterfalls, and others.

The late winter (February and March) is also common among campers to enjoy snow camping. Remember that camping in winter comes with its own potential hardships. If you are an avid camper, you can camp in the wild. If not, it is best to choose any designated campsites and camp as a group.

Camping in Kullu

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Suggested Tour: 15 Days - Western Himalayas Tour Packages

4. Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is famous for jungle camping. Top places to enjoy camping in Madhya Pradesh are Pachmarhi, Hanuwantiya Island, Sailani Tapu, Pagara Reservoir, and others. Apart from these, you can also find numerous luxury resorts conducting private camping tours at unique destinations.

The peak time to enjoy camping here is from October to March. While camping at wildlife destinations, make sure to follow the guidelines. It is not always safe to play your luck with wild animals.

Camping in Madhya Pradesh

Also Read: Best Time to Visit Kanha National Park in M.P.

Suggested Tour:

5. Sangla

Sangla is a small Himalayan town located in Baspa Valley, closer to Tibetan border. You can choose between camping resorts and wild camping. If you are a novice camper, it is best to choose camping resorts, which are located in untouched picturesque destinations with all required amenities. If you want to trek and camp in the middle of nowhere, you can choose to explore the Sangla Valley and find your lively spot.

Tourists usually enjoy adventure activities at Kaza and then, trek to any beautiful spot in the valley and camp for the night. Best time to visit Sangla for camping is from March to June and from September to November.

Camping in Sangla

6. Spiti Valley

Spiti Valley is a small mountain valley with cold desert topography, located in the Himalayas, in the eastern part of Himachal Pradesh. This valley and the regions around it are one of the few least populated regions of the country. This valley is located on the route from Manali via the Rohtang Pass. You get to explore the mountain passes, explore pine valleys, trek along the Spiti River and enjoy the culture in the small colorful settlements of Hansi and the Dhankar Gompa. Top sites for camping are Kunzum La Pass, Chandra Tal and Kaza. Cliché activities to enjoy are wildlife safari, mountain biking, bird watching, trekking and exploring.

Spiti Valley Camping

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7. Jaisalmer

You can find yourself in this desert of golden sand dunes while coming from any major city via Jodhpur. This desert lies at the very heart of Rajasthan. Nature has a very different face here with stark vastness with the sun in the middle meets the sand. Camping here will definitely wrap you in sheer wonder as you gaze around the emptiness under the open skies.

Jaisalmer Desert Camp Rajasthan

The place is called the golden city for a reason, with its golden sand dunes, perfectly preserved architecture and rich history. Take a camel ride or a barefoot walk on the sands after sunset; enjoy scrumptious cuisine, campfires under the sky and local folk performances. Jaisalmer is definitely a spot to camp for those seeking grand sunrises and dazzling night skies lit with stars a thousand.

Jaisalmer Camel Safari

Read More : Top Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer

Suggested Tour : 7 Days - Rajasthan Tour

8. Pushkar

Say, you are looking for the traditional desert camping experience and Jaisalmer is too touristy for you. Then, it is time to check out Pushkar. This is a quaint desert destination covering desert regions closer to the main city, for camping, safari, and desert adventure activities.

You can find numerous camp service providers offering camping and many cultural activities to enjoy. You can also choose luxury tent camping experiences here. If you wish to enjoy a desert camping experience, this is one of the best places to cover. Pushkar is best visited between October and February for camping.

Camping in Pushkar

Also Read: Top Things To Do In Pushkar And Ajmer

Pushkar Travel guide

Suggested Tour

9. Rann of Kutch

If you love to camp in the middle of a salt desert, Rann of Kutch is the best destination. This place is open for camping only during winter season and the best time to cover is during full moon nights, when locals camp, enjoy cultural performances and take part in adventure activities in this desert region.

Rann Utsav festival is celebrated during this season. If you are looking for a cultural camping experience, Rann of Kutch is the best destination. Winter starts in October and ends in February. You can choose self-camping or enjoy any camping sites offered by service providers.

Also Read: Rann Utsav - India’s Biggest White Desert Festival

10. Sonamarg

Sonamarg is a small grassland town. This region is one of the beautiful green spots with the spotless background of the snowy Himalayas. The Sindh Sagar adds beauty and fertility to the land, allowing it to become a natural camping spot. If you are looking for an adventure of lifetime, it is time to pick Sonamarg. This town is well connected with Srinagar, Jammu, and other regions.

Sonamarg Camp by Sind River

If you visit during summer, the place is a paradise with exclusive trekking trails, spotting glaciers, mountain cycling, water adventures at Krishnasar Lake, Gangabal and Vishansar and others. Top water activities to enjoy in summer are river rafting, fishing, canoeing and kayaking.

Thajiwas Glacier, Sonamarg
Thajiwas Glacier, Sonamarg

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Read more: Most Beautiful Places in Himalayas Region for Holiday

11. Kaudiyala

This is a scenic spot in Uttarkhand, kissed by River Ganges along the foothills of Garhwal ranges. Drive through the Rishikesh Badrinath highway and you will get to this peaceful hamlet. You can choose between organized campsites and wild self-camping.

Kaudiyala Camping, Uttarakhand

Being close to River Ganges gives many activities like cliff jumping, bungee jumping, rapid water rafting, flying fox and others. This is the best place to relax and enjoy stargazing. The winter and the summer skies are clear and you can bask in the sunshine of nature’s bliss here. This is the spot for romantic visitors and for those who are looking for extreme sports.

River Rafting Rishikesh

Also Read: A Divine Experience in Uttarakhand

12. Dehradun

There are many organized camp grounds and self-camping spots in the hill regions of Dehradun. Best spot for camping is located around 25 km away from Chakrata. This region is closer to step farms and thus, nature will be at its bliss.

Chakrata Camping Uttarakhand
Chakrata Camping Uttarakhand

Apart from bon-fire, exploring and trekking activities along with camping, this region is famous for many mild to moderate adventure activities like mountain biking, mountaineering and others. Thanks to the pristine River Yamuna, this place holds many water adventure activities including river rafting.

Uttarakhand Trekking

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Read more : 10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Uttarakhand

Get Complete Info: About The Gairsain declared Uttarakhand’s Summer Capital

13. Assam

Assam is one of the hidden beauties for camping. Camping is very common in Khasi Hills and surrounding regions. Some trek to Mawphlang or take up any bicycle trail and camp in the wilderness. The most pleasing camping route is the Japfu Peak trek, which allows you to camp amidst wild rhododendrons, local lilies, and numerous colorful birds.

If you are an adventure camper, trek to Chang Las Pass, and enjoy a high-altitude camping experience. Best time to visit Assam for camping is from October to April. If you are looking for luxurious options, you can camp as a part of a resort or eco-tour activity.

Camping in Assam

Also Read: Complete Information About North East India States

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14. Andaman Group Of Islands

People do not think beaches as viable camping site. However, they make the perfect ambience for camping. Havelock Island is the best place for camping in Andaman. You can also find similar lush camp sites in Neil Island, and other areas. People usually opt for luxury beach camps offered by resorts.

These camping packages come with a set of activities along with camping. If you wish to go solo trip, you can pitch your camp in any serene beach and enjoy camping. Remember that it is important to choose camping closer to spots with good human activities, when it comes to Andaman camping.

Camping in Andaman

Also Read: Top 20 Places You Must Visit In Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Andaman Travel Guide

15. Anjuna Beach

The entire Goa is the land for hippies and campers. When it comes to the cream of camping area, Anjuna Beach stands out. This is the land for camping and beach partying. The core of Goan party culture can be enjoyed here in a bonfire night with booze, dance and music. Apart from the Goa nightlife of camping, you get to explore flea markets, chapels and of course all the water activities in the beach.

Anjuna Beach Goa

Also Read: A Complete Backpackers Guide to Goa

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16. Bhandardara

A hill-station yet to be popularized, this place is a short 3-hour drive away from Mumbai. One of the greatest camping spots in the country, the location is situated about 2500 feet above the sea level. The skies are crisp and clean the air moist with chillness, the waterfalls like crystal and the greenery like water colored paintings… given its close proximity to Mumbai, this place is the crowning jewel of camping spots in the country.

Bhandardara Camping

The lakes are very refreshing and welcome a swim, and there are provisions for setting up a tent close to the water. The locals are friendly and there is plenty of hot meals to choose from. Take a lazy, romantic boat ride in the lakes and make the most of your special place in the universe.

Bhandardara Mumbai

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17. Pune

The main city of Pune is not a camping destination. However, areas around Pune are best for budget camping amidst lush natural beauty. Top destinations closer to Pune for camping are Panchgani, Wali, Lonavala, Uttan, Bordi beach, Velhe, Bhor, Kass Plateau, Kundalika River, and others.

Most of these destinations are quiet and hidden. Thus, you can enjoy a serene and pleasing camping in the wild. Each of these destinations would be at prime beauty at different times. In general, early winter and late monsoon are the best times to cover these camping sites.

Lonavala Camping

18. Karnataka

When it comes to camping, people seldom think about southern India. As a matter of fact, the southern part of the country has adequate diversity to allowing unique camping experiences. Mullayanagiri is the right place for mountain camping, trekking, hiking, and others. People visit Karnataka the campsite by evening to watch the sunset before retiring to their camps.

If you love to camp in open plains, the grasslands of Tadiandamol is the right place for wild camping. Are you up for some exotic experience, camp closer to plantations at Sakleshpura? For adventure lovers, Dandeli offers jungle camping sites. It is best to visit between October and March, if you wish to enjoy camping in Karnataka.

Camping in Tadiandamol

Also Read: 15 Top Places To Visit In Karnataka

Karnataka Travel Guide

19. Wayanad

Wayanad of Kerala offers unique styles of camping like tent-stay camping, night trekking and camping, mountain camping, and others. You can also find service providers who offer tent stays with luxury or basic amenities. There are resorts, which offer treetop camping in treehouses too. Wayanad is the best place for both luxury and wild camping. Wayanad is at prime beauty for camping, throughout the year. However, most of the tourists prefer winter as the climate will be pleasing.

Camping in Wayanad

Wayanad Travel Guide :

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20. Coorg

Aptly named as the Scotland of India due to its similarity with the region in weather and ambience, this is a peaceful camping spot tucked away in the mountainous southwestern region of Kerala, easy to access from places like Bangalore and Mangalore. Prepare to be mesmerized with stunning views of the Western Ghats as you take a trek on one of its several trekking routes. You can pitch your tent by any one of the streams that runs down and be enveloped by the mist of wonder by night as sparkling stars allure your mind. A great camping spot here is Bettigiri.

Camping in Coorg

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Suggested Tour : 4 Days - Coorg Madikeri Hill Station Tour Karnataka

And here were the 20 best camping Places in India, where you can star gaze and wake up with the sun without any rush of the killing city life. So, what are you waiting for? Take out your camping shoes and set about the trek of a lifetime.