10 Awe-Inspiring Camp Destinations in North India

Darkness prevails, the pin-drop silence is deafening and the vision above you has rendered you breathless. As you lie below the star studded sky, breathing in the chilly air of the night, you are sure to send a silent thank you to all those who encouraged you make a camping trip to Northern India. The travel experience of camping across the most awe-inspiring locations of North India is something few travellers have experienced. The trip is sure to not just rejuvenate you, it will also awaken the explorer inside you, help you discover the true beauty of nature and maybe even yourself!North India has many scenic locations across various hill stations, green valleys and even barren landscapes. Camping is a popular travel activity and people plan well ahead in time to make this journey. Ranging from camps on the banks of cold lakes to the midst of a valley of flowers, the region offers a unique experience for everyone. So if you truly want to embrace nature, make a trip to some of these camping destinations in North India. Among the popular camping destinations in North India is Sangla Valley located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. Located in the Greater Himalayas and surrounded by towering mountains and steep valleys, this is among the places that are as far removed from mundane life as you can get. Take treks, camp out under the stars and give a hand at the adventure sport options available in the nearby Kaza. This is one unique trekking experience that is not to be missed.Photo Courtesy: Sandeep Kaul A barren landscape that is the desert mountain valley called Spiti, the sights here are nothing short of stunning! Meaning the middle land in reference to the region being between India and Tibet, Spiti Valley is a camping destination in North India that offers an opportunity to be close to nature, as well as to explore the Buddhist influences that have left an enduring park on the region. Camping by the River Spiti is an experience you will never forget.Photo Courtesy: Vikash Prasad Situated on the route that stretches between Leh and Manali, Sarchu is a popular destination for camping in the country. At an altitude of 4,290 mt, the camping destination Sarchu offers tent accommodation on silvery sands, surrounded by mountains and a view of cotton candy clouds on sunny days. The camp is also a base point for various adventurous treks in the region.Photo Courtesy: Elroy Serrao Located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, Sonmarg justifies its name as the Meadow of Gold. This beautiful camping destination is situated against a backdrop of vast mountains and the trails of River Sindh that is popular for fishing activities. The stunning beauty of the place combined with availability of sports such as river rafting makes Sonmarg a great travel destination.Photo Courtesy: Girish Suryawanshi A wise man once said, It is not the destination, but the journey that matters, well we say otherwise. With a destination that is as beautiful as the Chandertal Lake or Moon Lake, it is hard to be mesemerised with anything else. A place that attracts trekkers from across the world, this lake is a treasure located at an altitude of 4,300 mt. The lovely lake with the source of water underground is among the most amazing camping destinations in the country.Photo Courtesy: Shiraz Ritwik Located at a distance of 9 km from Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh, Kareri Lake is among the best camping spots in North India. Being the starting point of various treks and with the attraction of the fresh lake, it is only natural that this seems like the idyllic place to camp. Whats more exciting is that the lake is not accessible by motor transport and the final journey has to be made on hiking trail. As far from the maddening crowds as it can be, dont you think?Photo Courtesy: Shalabh.w Among the highest lakes in the world, the Tsomoriri in Changthang area of Jammu and Kashmir is located at an altitude of 4,595 mt. It is also the largest lake in the region. The stunning vistas of the lake will leave you in a trance for awhile. The wetland has interesting variety of vegetation and wildlife as well, including birds and even rare sightings of the Snow Leopard. Fed by melting snow and water springs, this beautiful camping spot in India is to be experienced at least once in your lifetime!Photo Courtesy: Zee Pack The long, narrow and enchanted lake that is Pangong in Tibetan, is an important adventure destination in the country. Located in Ladakh, this popular camping spot has also been the fascination of many photographers and film makers. The azure waters tempt you to sink in them, just as the biting cold warns you to keep distance! The lake is completely frozen in winters, but the summers see the vivid lake come to life in a variety of hues. Camping here is sure to change your definition of beauty.Photo Courtesy: Bappaditya Dasgupta Holding great significance as a religious and spiritual destination, Rishikesh Valley is also a popular camping site in the country. Situated amidst the foothills of the Himalayas and by the rushing Ganges river, the region offers many camping sites. Imagine being put up in a tent from where you wake up to the sights and sounds of the great River Ganges. It is an incredible experience to say the least. Activities such as river rafting can also keep your adrenaline racing. It is referred to as the adventure capital of the country for the many adventure sports, trekking options and travel experiences available here.Photo Courtesy: Travayegeur (Sahil) Located in Uttrakhand, Mussorie is a popular travel destination in the country. The hill station and its surrounding regions offer many sites for camping. Staying in swiss tents surrounded by green hills and scenic vistas is sure to make you forget all your worries! Take walks, explore the adventure sports available and satisfy the photographer in you at the Mussorie camping spots. Whats more, you can enjoy all this with your entire family by your side!Photo Courtesy: Rajkumar1220