Camping – The Best Way to Experience Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand's diverse landscapes — riverside beaches, oak and pine forests, high-altitude meadows, and snow fields — create camping experiences unlike anywhere else in India. Whether you prefer the luxury of a glamping tent with mountain views or the raw adventure of a high-altitude bivouac, Uttarakhand has it all.
Top Camping Destinations
1. Chopta – Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand
District: Rudraprayag • Altitude: 2,680m • Best time: April–June, Sep–Nov, Dec–Feb (snow camping)
Chopta is a stunning meadow surrounded by dense forests of oak, buransh (rhododendron) and deodar. Campsites here offer views of Trishul, Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba. It's also the base for the Tungnath–Chandrashila trek. Magical in winter when everything is snow-covered.
2. Kanatal – Forest Camping near Mussoorie
District: Tehri Garhwal • Altitude: 2,590m • Best time: March–June, Sep–Nov
Just 78 km from Dehradun, Kanatal is a peaceful village surrounded by dense deodar forests. Ideal for corporate camps, family trips and weekend getaways. Several well-equipped campsites offer tents, bonfire, and Himalayan views.
3. Pangot – Birding Camp near Nainital
District: Nainital • Altitude: 2,100m • Best time: Oct–Mar (birding season)
Pangot is a birder's paradise — over 580 bird species have been recorded here including the rare Himalayan Griffon, Koklass Pheasant and Kalij Pheasant. Perfect for nature camps and bird photography tours.
4. Rishikesh – Riverside Camping
District: Tehri/Haridwar • Altitude: 375m • Best time: Sep–Jun
The most popular camping destination in Uttarakhand — riverside camps on the white sandy beaches of the Ganges near Shivpuri. Combine with rafting, kayaking, cliff jumping and bungee. Campfire under the stars with the sound of the Ganga is unforgettable.
5. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
District: Almora • Altitude: 2,420m • Best time: March–June, Sep–Nov
Dense forests of oak and rhododendron shelter leopard, barking deer and over 200 bird species. Binsar offers eco-camping with a 300km Himalayan panorama from the Zero Point viewpoint including Kedarnath, Chaukhamba and Nanda Devi.
6. Munsiyari – High Himalayan Camping
District: Pithoragarh • Altitude: 2,200m • Best time: May–June, Sep–Oct
The gateway to the Johar Valley — camping near Munsiyari offers jaw-dropping views of the Panchachuli peaks (five summits representing the five Pandavas). A paradise for serious trekkers and mountain photographers.
Types of Camping Available
| Type | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Riverside Camping | Sandy beach camps on Ganga, Rishikesh | ₹1,500–₹3,500/night |
| Forest Camping | Eco tents in oak/deodar forests | ₹2,000–₹4,500/night |
| Bugyal Camping | High-altitude meadow camps | ₹1,000–₹2,500/night |
| Snow Camping | Winter camping in Chopta, Auli | ₹3,000–₹6,000/night |
| Glamping | Luxury tents with beds and attached bath | ₹5,000–₹15,000/night |
What's Included in Most Camp Packages
- Swiss or dome tents with sleeping bags and mats
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) — basic Indian meals
- Evening bonfire and music
- One activity (rafting / trek / nature walk)
- Toilet and shower facilities (basic)