Complete Guide to Camping in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand's camping options range from resort-style tent villages (fully equipped, meals included) to wild high-altitude camping on trek routes (self-sufficient or guided). Here are the best sites for every style and budget.
| Campsite | Location | Type | Best For | Cost/night (per person) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rishikesh Riverside | Rishikesh (Shivpuri) | Resort-style riverside | Couples, groups, rafting | ₹1,500–₹4,500 |
| Chopta Meadow | Chopta, Rudraprayag | Alpine meadow | Trekkers, stargazing | ₹800–₹2,500 |
| Auli Snow Camp | Auli, Chamoli | Snow camping | Winter snow experience | ₹2,000–₹5,000 |
| Kanatal | Near Chamba, Tehri | Forest camp | Families, apple orchards | ₹1,800–₹4,000 |
| Deoria Tal | Above Sari, Rudraprayag | Lakeside alpine | Sunrise reflection photography | ₹700–₹1,800 |
| Har Ki Dun | Uttarkashi | Trek campsite | Serious trekkers | ₹500–₹1,200 (GMVN) |
| Kedarkantha Base | Sankri, Uttarkashi | Snow trek camp | Winter trekkers | Included in packages |
| Munsiyari | Pithoragarh dist. | Himalayan panorama | Panchachuli views | ₹1,000–₹3,500 |
Best Time for Camping in Uttarakhand
- October–November: Best overall camping season — clear skies, crisp air, dramatic peak views; minimal rain
- April–June: Long days, rhododendrons, pleasant temperatures; Rishikesh riverside camping at peak; book ahead
- December–February: Snow camping at Auli, Chopta, Kanatal — magical winter experience; carry quality sleeping bag
- July–September: Avoid most campsites due to rain and landslide risk; only Rishikesh and valley camps are safe
How to Reach Top Campsites
- Rishikesh (Shivpuri): Delhi → Rishikesh (240 km, 5 hrs) → Shivpuri (16 km north on Badrinath highway)
- Chopta: Rishikesh → Rudraprayag → Ukhimath → Chopta (210 km, 7 hrs); jeep services from Rishikesh
- Kanatal: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Chamba → Kanatal (100 km total, 3 hrs)
- Deoria Tal: Rishikesh → Ukhimath → Sari (200 km) → 2 km trek uphill to campsite
- Auli: Rishikesh → Joshimath (250 km, 8 hrs) → Gondola to Auli ski resort area
Camping Costs and What's Included
| Camp Type | Cost/person/night | What's Included | What to Carry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resort-style (Rishikesh) | ₹1,500–₹4,500 | Tent, meals (AP), bonfire, activities | Personal toiletries, warm layer |
| Forest / meadow camp | ₹800–₹2,500 | Tent, sleeping bag, basic meals | Trekking shoes, torch, layers |
| Trek camp (guided) | Included in package | All gear, guide, meals, emergency | Personal items, camera |
| DIY / wild camping | ₹200–₹500 (land fee) | Nothing | Full camping kit, navigation |
Travel Tips and FAQs
- Always carry a sleeping bag rated to -5°C or lower — Himalayan nights drop sharply even in May
- Rishikesh riverside camps include white-water rafting — book a 2-day package for raft + camp at ₹2,500–₹3,500
- Chopta meadow has dozens of camps; pre-book Oct–Nov — fills up quickly with Tungnath trekkers
- Wild camping is restricted in most national park areas (Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, Valley of Flowers) — only use designated sites
- For winter snow camping (Dec–Feb) at Chopta or Auli, choose operators who provide expedition-grade sleeping bags
FAQ: Which is the best camping destination in Uttarakhand for beginners? Rishikesh (Shivpuri) for absolute beginners — all facilities provided, no trekking needed. For a slightly more adventurous first camp, Kanatal or Chopta are ideal with stunning forest settings.