Hello BTDTians! Isn't it the most perfect time to discuss about the best camping spots in Uttarakhand? Here are my top five picks!
Rishikesh & Shivpuri:
Of-course it is known to be the spiritual capital of the world. Did you know that it is a great place to camp along the holy river Ganga? If you are a seeker who is in search of spiritual awakening in these times of ambiguity you should definitely camp at Rishikesh & Shivpuri. No matter where you camp in Rishikesh you will always find everything within reach. Let's face it, who won't like to see clear and gushing Ganga right in the morning with a cup of tea? It is not only soothing to the eyes but also acts like a travel therapy for your mind. Not only a scenic panoramic view, it offers you with a yogic experience, spiritual cleansing, the ever-famous Ganga Arti by the banks of river Ganga & a range of adventure activities. It’s a balanced mix of an ideal travelling experience; camping, rappelling, rafting & cliff jumping all in one! That isn’t a bad deal, is it?
2. Binsar:
Let us move a little higher in terms of altitude. The next most beautiful spot in the region of Kumaon in Uttarakhand is of course Binsar. Hands down it is one of the most scenic spots of the region. This place serves you with the most amazing view of the rangers Trishul, Nanda Devi, Panchachuli, Shivling & Chaukhamba. Since we are considering Rishikesh as the central point from where you can travel to mostly all the camping places, this quaint location is at a drive of 9 hours and 30 minutes that is around 338 km via NH109. We know the drive might be a little longer than usual but once you reach the place it is all worth it.
Binsar, is a campers Paradise since you are always amidst misty mountain winds and skyrocketing oaks and rhododendrons. Camping here has always been an amazing idea as there is so much to do around the place, you can always walk and explore the green blankets around the area. Since Binsar has a wide variety of wildlife and flora and fauna it has been declared a sanctuary. Isn't that the most amazing offer? You can camp around the area or opt for a home stay as well.
The best time to visit Binsar is from October to March the temperature might be somewhere from 13° C to 30° C during this time. If you are lucky enough you might witness the best snowfall of Kumaon too!
3. Mori:
A village that is located at a distance of around 208 km from Rishikesh, does not attract many eyes & is a scenic beauty in itself. It has canary yellow and green fields throughout its area which are a treat for the eyes. It comes under the district Uttarkashi. Situated at an altitude of 1150m, the temperature fluctuations are normal. during summers is somewhere around 12° to 22° C & during winters it drops to 3 to 9°C. It is pretty secluded and it has turned out to be the perfect hideout for travelers seeking peace and serendipity. It is situated on the banks of the Tons, which in turn is the largest tributary of river Yamuna. One can always camp near the riverside at a safe distance surrounded by lush green mountains and paddy fields.
4. George Everest Estate, Hathipaon:
Mussoorie, a hill station that is located near the tinsel town of Dehradun is also a home to the George Everest Estate. Named after Sir George, the Surveyor General of India who had been involved in the great Arc survey, this place offers the best camping experience near the city.
It offers you a mix of everything, just at a drive of hardly an hour from the bustling city. It is a grassland that offers an amazing view of the starlit valley. On clear night skies one can camp here and indulge into some serious stargazing. You can pitch a tent near Hathipaon and trek to the George Everest House. Do you want to explore the spooky part of the region too? For sure you can rush to Lambi Dehar Mines, which is known to be the second most haunted place of India, after Bhangarh Fort (Rajasthan). Won't it be like the perfect trip?
A quaint and cosy tent, some spooky stories alongside a bonfire, maybe some hot chocolate and marshmallows too & stargazing?
5. Jeolikot:
Would you like to experience a Victorian touch hidden amidst the Himalayas? Located at a drive of 277 km from Delhi, Jeolikot offers the best weekend camping experience. It is located 17 km before the British hill station, Nainital. Weather is super pleasant all year round, it is an all-weather destination for campers. If you plan to camp around Jeolikot, you can witness the Victorian style cottages and cemeteries around the area. Definitely a go-to-place for birdwatchers, this place offers a variety of over 200 bird species & a wide variety of butterfly species too. Do you want to visit orchards full of pears, plums, seasonal flowers? Head straight to this paradise, a meditative space for creators & travelers.
This was my pick for best camping spots in Uttarakhand, of course there are many more locations at which one can pitch a tent & camouflage with nature. What's your pick? Let us know in the comments below!