Experience Wilderness: 13 Popular Camping Sites in India in 2024

Camping provides a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a top choice for outdoor and nature lovers. It is all about being outside, enjoying fresh air, looking up at the stars, and feeling super calm and relaxed. Whether you are traveling solo or in a group, camping provides special benefits that make it a preferred choice over staying in hotels. While hotels offer ease and facilities, camping is ideal for those seeking adventure, connection with nature, and those who want a break from their everyday routine.  We have put together a list of all the coolest camping places in India to help you plan your adventure.

Ladakh

Ladakh, located in the extreme north of India is surrounded by the grand Himalayas and captivating Karakoram mountains. It is known for its breathtaking scenery, distinct cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor activities. All these things combined make it the ultimate destination for the unique camping experience of a lifetime. The best time to visit here is from May to October. When it comes to choosing the type of accommodation, Ladakh offers a diverse range of options from basic tents to luxury ones. There is something to suit every traveler’s preferences. Imagine yourself setting up your tent with the snow-capped mountain as a backdrop, enjoying a bonfire under a sparkling night sky, and waking up to amazing sunrises. Camping here promises a remarkable adventure amidst its awe-inspiring landscapes.

 Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

For those of you who looking for an authentic desert experience amid the shimmering dunes of the Thar Desert then Jaisalmer is the perfect place for you. Camping here is so much fun, simply select the camp location, set up everything, and watch the beautiful sunset making everything look golden and warm. The camp here is equipped with everything to make it a pleasant and comfortable stay packed with fun activities. During your stay, you can indulge yourself in various adventures available there. Hop on a camel or go for a jeep safari to explore the vast desert region. You also get to discover Rajasthan’s vibrant culture with its traditional folk music. It is performed by “Langas” accompanied by women beautifully performing “Ghoomar”.

 Kutch, Gujarat

Camping in the Rann of Kutch offers a unique experience. Surrounded by Gujarat’s vast salt flats and stunning landscapethe place creates a beautiful backdrop. During the day, you can explore the vastness of the salt desert on camelback or on a jeep safari. You can also take a trip to villages nearby, and meet the people who live there, explore delicious local cuisine, and learn about their rich culture and traditions. During winters the desert gets lively as it hosts Rann Utsav. It’s a vibrant festival with dancing, music, and lots of entertainment. You can be a part of it and enjoy it all from your fancy and cozy camps. 

Manali

Camping in Manali assures an unforgettable experience amidst snow-capped mountains. From the excitement of night camping amid snowy peaks to serene camping by the river, this place is full of beautiful surprises. December is the best time for camping at this amazing location, with different types of camps like riverside camps, trekking camps, night camps, and adventure camps. In addition to camping, there are numerous fun activities you can take part in depending on individual preferences, like trekking, rock climbing, rafting, paragliding, and others. The kind of experience Manali provides for camping lovers is truly unmatchable. It is the perfect opportunity to take hold of.  

Coorg

Also known as the ‘Scotland of India” because of its stunning landscapes and rich vegetation, camping in Coorg provides a calm retreat in the heart of lush greenery and foggy hills. The place is a popular tourist destination in India, yet, only a few of these tourists consider staying at offbeat camping sites to enhance their overall experience. Coorg is celebrated for its coffee plantations, allowing you to enjoy the fragrance of fresh coffee, making your mornings pleasant. The location also offers some thrilling adventures like hiking, jungle safaris, or rock climbing, adding to the camping enjoyment. So, depending on your budget preference, you can select your campsite.

Wayanad, Kerala

Wayanad, located in Kerala, is a stunning camping destination, known for its lush green views, diverse wildlife, and exciting adventure opportunities. The best time to visit here is during winter because of its pleasing and enjoyable weather. You can try out diverse camping styles the place has to offer, such as tent-stay camping, night camping, mountain camping, and a lot more. The place is suitable for both premium and wild camping.  Nestled within the tropical rainforest, camping in the Wayanad region is truly an incredible adventure you won’t want to miss. Just remember to be nice to nature, obey the camping rules, and make sure to clean up all your trash and leave no litter behind, so nature can stay pretty for the years to come.

Rishikesh                                                                                    

When it comes to camping, Rishikesh deserves a special mention on this list of must-visit camping sites. This location is set near the bottom of the Himalayas, alongside the Holy River Ganga, creating an ideal environment for people who love outdoor adventures and camping. Another highlight of camping here is that the place offers opportunities for exciting activities like trekking, white-water rafting, rock climbing, ayurvedic spas, and more.  Rishikesh camping is not just about sleeping outside; it’s a journey packed with adventure, calmness, and feeling refreshed. Enjoy comfy tents and yummy meals in this serene setting for a memorable experience. Camping in Rishikesh is one of India’s top picks.

Panchmarhi, Madhya Pradesh

Located in central India, Madhya Pradesh is a fantastic place for camping lovers due to its diverse nature and beautiful camping spots. The place is famous mainly for jungle camping. Talking about Panchmarhi, the place has dense green forests and beautiful waterfalls. Satpura Tiger Reserve is an added bonus for wildlife enthusiasts. There are numerous places to camp near Panchmarhi that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you love camping in quiet forests, near flowing streams, or with a view of scenic valleys, there is diversity for everyone. You can also find many high-end resorts arranging private camping tours at exclusive spots. The best time to enjoy camping here is from October to March.

Chopta, Uttarakhand

Chopta, also referred to as “Mini Switzerland” because of its lovely views, grassy fields, and tall snowy peaks, is gaining popularity among nature lovers and trekkers year after year. The region has a variety of flora and fauna, with Rhododendron and Deodar trees all around. Chopta Hill station (village) is located at an altitude of 2680 meters above sea level and is an exquisite natural spot that provides amazing views of the majestic Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, and Trishul. Being in a pollution-free environment like this helps you connect with nature’s embrace, fostering relaxation. Chopta serves as the base campsite for trekkers exploring the surrounding hills. The expansive “Bugyals”   offer a perfect camping spot. Tent pitching requires permission from the Chopta forest department. 

Pune

Pune City isn’t a camping spot because of its urban setting, but the areas around Pune provide budget-friendly options amid scenic landscapes. Top destinations nearby Pune with scenic delights are Lonavala, Khandala, Mulshi Ghat, Panchgani, Wali, Kass Plateau, Kundalika Rivers, and others. Each showcases awe-inspiring and tranquil atmosphere, making them excellent for camping. Ditching the city hustle, camping near Pune allows travelers a serene retreat in nature to embrace. Each of these camping spots displays its beauty at different times throughout the year. Still, generally, early winter and late monsoon are regarded as the most preferred time for camping, due to favorable weather conditions. The location guarantees a memorable adventure amidst the mesmerizing beauty of the Western Ghats and Maharashtra’s countryside.

Sonamarg

Sonamarg is a picturesque hill station situated in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled at 9000 feet above sea level, it is a delightful grassland town, known for its beautiful green vistas contrasting against the flawless snowy backdrop of the Himalayas. The presence of Sindh Sagar adds beauty and fertility to the area, creating a perfect spot for camping.  The location serves as a great campsite during the summer months, spanning from mid-April to October. Camping during the monsoon season is generally not recommended. Sonamarg features numerous camping sites, from basic tents to luxurious accommodations, to suit everyone’s tastes. Trekking, hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, and horse riding are popular activities available here. If you are yearning for an adventure of a lifetime, then Sonamarg is the ultimate choice.

Andaman Group of Island

People usually do not consider beaches as suitable camping sites, yet they offer an ideal setting for a relaxing camping adventure. The Island of Andaman and Nicobar is an exceptional destination for island camping. You get the chance to tent the beaches and revel in the spectacular sights and soothing sounds of the sea. People also opt for luxury beach camps rendered by resorts. Another notable aspect of camping at this location is the opportunity to explore the diverse biodiversity of the region. You can engage in activities like snorkeling and scuba diving to explore a variety of colorful fish, turtles, and other marine species. In addition, hiking trails provide chances to spot rare flora and fauna.

Solang Valley

Solang Valley, located amidst the great summits of the Himalayas is an exceptional destination for those passionate about camping and seeking adventure. The place is famous for its exciting sporting activities. The valley is a paradise for adventure seekers. Travelers here can indulge in paragliding, zip lining, skiing, trekking, and more, promising an excitement-infused vacation. The prime camping spots are located near the banks of the River Beas. You can easily choose according to your desired activities, scenery, and amenities. The best time to visit this amazing camping place is between April and November. Solang Valley presents a perfect blend of wonders of natural beauty and excitement of outdoor activities. All these things added make it a fulfilling experience for travelers.