If you are an adventure freak and enjoy being with nature, or wish to explore the nature being one with it, then camping is something you should try. Camping in India is a different and amazing experience because it is the best way to enjoy the natural diversity of the country. Campers usually love to explore those regions that aren’t very well-known and, why not, because camping gives travellers a chance to know a place inside out. Be it mountains, valleys, river-side destinations, forests, or snow regions, you can set up a camp and explore the wonders of nature in India. Here are the top 10 places where you can go camping with friends or fellow travellers.
1. Rishikesh
The location of Rishikesh in the lap of Himalayas makes the place serene and beautiful. Though Rishikesh is more renowned as a pilgrimage centre, it is also a place where one can undertake different adventure sports. It is also one of the most popular and sought after camping destinations of India. The winters of Rishikesh can get too cold and hence, summers are the best time for camping in Rishikesh.
2. Sonamarg
Jammu and Kashmir is so serenely beautiful that you might wish to stay in any place to enjoy the beauty. But of all, Sonamarg is definitely a camper’s paradise. The word, ‘Sonamarg’ means ‘meadow of gold’. It might have been named so because when sun shines, the snow laden mountains and peaks too glitter which is an amazing view, something that you can never experience anywhere else in the world. The Sindh Sagar flowing beautifully, the snowy mountains, the fresh air and the breathtaking view of nature are what campers get to enjoy. Camping at Sonamarg is not a treat to the eyes and mind but it also invigorates your soul and of course, great for your health as well, with its fresh air and great climate. Summer is the best camping time here as well.
3. Kaudiyala
Uttaranchal does have many camping sites, but Kaudiyala can be referred to as one of the best and the most popular. Located on the banks of Ganga, this is a beautiful and calm place, surrounded by natural beauty. It is also surrounded by dense forests, so you can camp here and view a little jungle life too. Many pilgrims and tourists too camp here on their way to Kedarnath.
4. Mussoorie
This is another renowned place in Uttarakhand known for its scenic beauty. It is also called as ‘Gateway’ for pilgrims bound for Yamunotri and Gangotri from Mussoorie. Camping here gives a chance to explore nature, enjoying the beauty of lush greenery and be with nature. March to June is the best time for camping in Mussoorie.
5. Jaisalmer
What makes Jaisalmer in Rajasthan a favourite of campers is its natural setting. Sand dunes, the amazing culture and traditions, the vast desert and star gazing are some of the things that any camper would love to indulge in. One can just sit here and look at the never ending desert before their eyes, or take a walk around and feel the sand beneath your feet and wind in your face. Enjoying calmness and looking at the sand dunes which look serene and majestic at the same time, Jaisalmer camping will also give you a few lessons on life itself. You can enjoy an absolutely thrilling camp fire with amazing Rajasthani cuisine and spectacular folk dances.
6. Manali Solang Valley
When you hear Himachal Pradesh, you imagine a place surrounded by natural beauty at its best. With beautiful plantations, green fields and a breathtaking valley, Manali Solang Valley is a great place to camp and enjoy the nature at its purest form. It is also a popular place for trekkers and there are enough activities here which can keep the camper busy.
7. Spiti Valley
The best time to go camping in Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is May and June. Surrounded by beautiful nature, along with its gentle and calming climate, staying in a camp at the Spiti Valley is not just pleasant to the senses, it is also invigorating and an experience to cherish for a long time.
8. Chandertal Lake
This is yet another place for campers in Himachal Pradesh. At around 4,300 m above sea level, Chandertal lake offers a different camping experience with its divine surroundings. Tourists from all over the world visit Chandertal to experience its beautiful nature. This ‘Lake of Moon’ is definitely worth visiting at least once in your lifetime, if not for camping but at least to spend a few moments here in serenity.
9. Pushkar
Of course, there are quite a few places in Rajasthan to go camping in, but Pushkar is a different experience altogether. With many beautiful lakes, astonishing ghats and numerous sacred temples, Pushkar is best experienced through camping than staying in hotels. It is also renowned for its Brahma temple, one of its kind in the world. Also, tourists can even stay in luxurious tents that offer all the luxury of a posh hotel in a tent or those who wish to experience camping the basic way, can go for that too. As camping is undertaken because travellers want to be one with the place, then Pushkar is definitely an experience ardent campers shouldn’t miss for anything in the world. There are also other adventurous sports that you can experience here at Pushkar.
10. Anjuna
This place in Goa is home to numerous astonishing and beautiful beaches. Camping here not only gives you a chance to enjoy the beaches, it is also a great way to experience the hippy culture of the state. Goa has many fabulous camping destinations but Anjuna is definitely the best. Campers can experience the culture of Goa, enjoy the sea and the beach, and explore the local places, the flea markets, its cuisine and the life of the locals. Of course, the nights are absolutely thrilling with fun parties along with an enjoyable camp fire. Those who wish to enjoy camping but at the same time, have fun and a chance to party hard, then; Goa is the place to go.
