Stressed out by your city life, or have a dream of an escape? If you want fresh air, starry night experience, and the peace of the mountains, then it is time to pack your bags for a summer camping trip to Uttarakhand.
Now, you might be thinking, Camping? In summer? Won’t it be too hot? That is where Uttarakhand works its magic. While June in the plains can feel too hot, the higher locations of this beautiful state offer a refreshing escape. Think cool breezes, lush green landscapes, and sometimes even the first gentle kisses of monsoon showers, making everything sparkle.
Best Camping Sites in Uttarakhand:
Rishikesh & Shivpuri: The Adventure Hub (with a spiritual twist)
Imagine waking up to the sound of the Ganga River, birds chirping, and the smell of fresh mountain air not with your mobile alarm, stress of getting late, traffic noise. All this is possible at Rishikesh, a serene haven known for yoga and meditation, But just a short ride away, places like Shivpuri bring a different kind of thrill, buzzing with adventure camps and outdoor excitement.This is one of the best places to try camping in Uttarakhand with family, just a book Tempo traveller from Delhi to Rishikesh and plan this trip.
Must See Sights & Experiences
- Lakshman Jhula & Ram Jhula
- The Beatles Ashram
- Triveni Ghat
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram
- Neer Garh Waterfall
Thrills & Chills: Adventure + Relaxation Activities
- White Water Rafting
- Bungee Jumping
- Ziplining & Rock Climbing
- Kayaking & Cliff Jumping
- Nature Walks & Birdwatching
- Yoga by the River
Beyond Rishikesh: Worthy Side Trips
- Haridwar – Another holy town, just 1 hour away, famous for its Ganga Aarti
- Devprayag – Junction of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers (start of Ganga)
- Mussoorie – A hill station getaway, 3–4 hours drive from Rishikesh
- Rajaji National Park – Great for jungle safaris and spotting wildlife
- Kunjapuri Temple – A sunrise trek to this hilltop temple offers stunning views
Chopta: Uttarakhand’s “Mini Switzerland”
If you have a dream of walking through meadows surrounded by towering green trees and snow capped peaks in the distance, Chopta is your spot. It is often called Mini Switzerland for a reason. As the place looks so dreamy and romantic, this is one of the best places to go camping in Uttarakhand with a partner.
Top Things to See & Do in Chopta
- Tungnath Temple
- Chandrashila Summit
- Deoria Tal
- Bugyals (Meadows)
- Birdwatching
Outdoor Fun: Adventure & Leisure Activities
- Trekking
- Camping Under the Stars
- Mountain Photography
- Nature Walks & Forest Exploration
- Meditation & Sunrise Watching
Nearby Getaways to Add to Your Trip
- Sari Village & Deoria Tal A peaceful bypass ideal for a day or overnight hike
- Ukhimath Winter seat of Kedarnath and a cultural stop
- Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary Offers a chance to spot musk deer and Himalayan monals.
- Auli or Joshimath Extend your trip toward these popular hill stations.
Suggested Reading: An Enriching Experience of Visiting Rishikesh, Haridwar and Mussoorie
Auli: Meadows with Mountain Majesty
Most people know Auli for its winter beauty, but in summer, it transforms! The snow melts away to reveal vast, lush green meadows, a perfect place to try peaceful camping in Uttarakhand.
Scenic Highlights & Must Visit Spots
- Gurson Bugyal
- Auli Artificial Lake
- Ropeway Ride from Joshimath
- Nanda Devi Viewpoint
- Auli Chair Lift
Adventure & Leisure Activities in Summer
- Trekking to Gurson Bugyal & Kwani Bugyal
- Camping with a View
- Photography & Landscape Exploration
- Nature Walks
- Yoga/Meditation in the Meadows
Nearby Destinations to Explore
- Joshimath – A spiritual and scenic town, gateway to several treks
- Valley of Flowers – A UNESCO World Heritage Site (accessible via nearby Govindghat)
- Hemkund Sahib – Sacred Sikh pilgrimage site, reachable by trek
- Tapovan – A lesser-known meadow offering solitude and raw Himalayan beauty
- Badrinath – A revered Char Dham site just a few hours away
Deoria Tal: The Lake of Reflections
Imagine a crystal clear lake reflecting the towering peaks of Chaukhamba. That is Deoria Tal. It is a sight straight out of a postcard and a popular spot for camping in Uttarakhand and short treks.
Top Sights & Experiences Around Deoria Tal
- The Reflective Lake View
- Lakeside Sunrise & Sunset
- Forest Trails
- Mythological Significance
- Birdwatching
Activities to Enjoy
- Trekking
- Camping by the Lake
- Photography
- Yoga & Meditation
- Stargazing
Nearby Places to Add to Your Itinerary
- Chopta A short drive away, with meadows, treks, and Tungnath Temple
- Ukhimath Cultural town and winter home of Kedarnath deity
- Kalimath Spiritual site nestled in serene surroundings
- Tungnath–Chandrashila Trek Combine this with Deoria Tal for a rewarding adventure
- Sari Village A quaint Himalayan village that’s the base for your trek
Binsar: the untold beauty of Uttarakhand
Tucked away in the Kumaon hills, Binsar is a quiet and beautiful place. Here, thick oak and rhododendron forests open up to wide views of the Himalayas. If you dream of waking up to the sound of birds and fresh, cool mountain air, Binsar is the perfect place for you.
Must explore places
- Zero Point
- Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Binsar Mahadev Temple
- Mary Budden Estate
- Golu Devta Temple
Adventure as well as Leisure Activities in Summer
- Yoga & meditation in the stillness of nature
- Trekking through dense forests
- Camping with sunrise views over the Himalayas
- Birdwatching in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Photography & exploring hidden trails
Nearby Destinations to Explore
Almora: A cultural town with ancient temples located just 30 km away
Jageshwar: this is a cluster of over 100 ancient stone temples tucked in deodar groves
Kausani: Known for its wide Himalayan views and tea gardens
Ranikhet: A scenic hill station perfect for a leisurely day trip
Chitai Temple: Famous for thousands of bells and local legends
What are the types of Camping?
Here are certain types of camps that you can try –
1. Alpine Tents
Light and simple tents are perfect for trekkers who want to sleep right under the stars.
2. Luxury Camps
Big, comfy tents with real beds, attached bathrooms, and sometimes even electricity—great if you want comfort in the wild.
3. Dome Tents
Small, round tents that are easy to set up. Ideal for couples or small groups who want something cozy.
4. Swiss Cottage Tents
Spacious tents with wooden floors and good facilities. Perfect for families who want to have both adventure and comfort.
5. Eco Huts
These are cute little wooden or you can say bamboo huts that feel like a tiny house in the middle of nature.
Travel Tips & Packing List
Here are certain things to keep in mind before going camping in Uttarakhand:
- Take Quick dry clothes & swimwear
- Prefer Trekking shoes/sandals with a grip
- Keep Sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medications
- Always carry Torch/flashlight and power banks
- Carry Yoga mat (if you’re planning sessions)
- Book Camps in Advance. As it is a popular activity, try to book before.
- Limited ATMs & Connectivity, always keep extra cash
- Pre-book your vehicle, whatever you book, whether it’s a car, a bus or even a tempo traveller on rent, pre-booking is a must. Summers are the peak season.
FAQs
- What is the best time for summer camping?
Ideal season is March to June for clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and accessible mountain roads. Monsoon (July–Sept) brings landslip risks, and winter (Oct–Feb) is too cold for many sites .
2 .Can beginners or families go camping?
Yes many camps are beginner friendly and family oriented. However, high altitude meadow stays and rugged treks are better suited to those with moderate fitness.
3. How much does camping cost?
- Budget camps: ₹1,500–2,000/night (e.g., basic tents)
- Luxury/glamping: ₹3,000–4,000+/night with enhanced amenities
4. Can we go camping with kids?
Yes, camping with kids is a great idea and activity to try with them. You can go to places like Rishikesh & Shivpuri.