Triund, Himachal Pradesh
Perhaps one of the most accessible and rewarding treks near McLeod Ganj, Triund offers a front-row seat to the magnificent Dhauladhar range. The 9-kilometre trek is moderately easy, making it perfect for beginners. The real magic begins in the evening
and early morning. As the sun sets, clouds often roll into the Kangra valley below, creating a surreal 'sea of clouds' that makes you feel like you're floating on an island in the sky. Waking up to this view, with the snow-capped peaks gleaming in the morning sun, is an experience that stays with you forever. Tents and basic food are readily available for rent at the top, making it a hassle-free camping destination. Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November. Avoid the monsoon (July-August) due to heavy rains and slippery trails.
Dzongri, Sikkim
For the more seasoned trekker, the Dzongri trek in West Sikkim is a gateway to the spectacular Kanchenjunga National Park. This high-altitude trek takes you through rhododendron forests and pristine landscapes. The campsite at Dzongri, situated at around 4,000 metres, is frequently enveloped in thick, moving clouds, giving it an otherworldly atmosphere. The reward for your challenging journey is the breathtaking panoramic view of over 14 major Himalayan peaks, including the mighty Kanchenjunga, from Dzongri Top. The feeling of standing amidst the clouds, surrounded by giants of the Himalayas, is both humbling and exhilarating. This is a proper expedition-style camp, so going with a registered tour operator is essential. Best Time to Visit: April to May and September to mid-November.
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Known as the 'Princess of Hill Stations', Kodaikanal in the Palani Hills of the Western Ghats is famous for its rolling mists. While you can find many campsites around the town, venturing a little further to areas near Vattakanal or Poombarai offers a more immersive experience. Here, you can camp in meadows and shola forests that are perpetually draped in a cool, gentle mist. The clouds move through the valleys and trees, sometimes reducing visibility to just a few feet, creating a mystical and serene environment. It's a different kind of 'under the clouds' experience—less about being above them and more about being right in the heart of them. It’s perfect for those who love the quiet, cool embrace of a foggy mountain. Best Time to Visit: September to March, when the weather is pleasant and the mists are frequent.
Nag Tibba, Uttarakhand
If you're looking for a quick weekend getaway from Delhi, the Nag Tibba (Serpent's Peak) trek is an excellent choice. At 3,022 metres, it's the highest peak in the lower Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. The trek is relatively easy and takes you through dense forests of oak and deodar. The campsite, often set up at the base of the summit, provides a stunning vantage point. In the mornings, it's common to find a thick blanket of clouds settled in the valleys below, with prominent Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kedarnath piercing through. The 360-degree view from the summit at sunrise, with the world waking up beneath a layer of white, is a truly spectacular sight. Best Time to Visit: All year round, except peak monsoon (July-August). Winter treks (December-February) offer the added charm of snow.
Mullayanagiri, Karnataka
As the highest peak in Karnataka, Mullayanagiri offers a thrilling experience for adventure lovers in South India. While camping directly on the summit is often restricted to protect the fragile ecosystem, there are several approved campsites at the base and on nearby hills. The trek to the top is known for its incredibly strong winds and the thick fog that can roll in unexpectedly, transforming the landscape in minutes. Driving or trekking up the winding roads, you literally pass through clouds. The viewpoint from the peak, when the clouds part, reveals the vast, green expanse of the Chikmagalur region. Camping nearby allows you to experience these dramatic weather shifts and wake up to a landscape bathed in soft mist. Best Time to Visit: September to April. The winds can be very strong, so be prepared with appropriate gear.
