Remember the iconic stargazing scene between Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara? Or the one from A Beautiful Mind, where John Nash and Alicia find patterns and shapes in the night
sky? Well, this is your sign to live that magical momentand the best part is, you can experience it right here in India.
Imagine being far away from buzzing screens and looming deadlines and instead surrounded by a starry night, a lush green meadow, and complete serenity. Camping offers the perfect escape. But in today’s world, where most places are crowded, polluted, and noisy, finding real peace is not so easy.
To help you discover the best destinations for camping under the stars, travel expert Ravi Gosain, President of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), shared his insights on North India’s diverse and breathtaking camping landscapes.
Best Camping Destinations In India
In a conversation with HT Lifestyle, Ravi Gosain shared, “The majority of these locations are situated in areas with little to no light pollution, well-distant from urban areas, making them very suitable for astrophotography and tranquillity during the night.”
Here are five destinations recommended by Ravi, along with what makes them special, the best time to visit, and the experiences you can enjoy there:
Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
The first on his list is the Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, often referred to as Little Tibet. This high-altitude desert is pollution-free and the perfect place to witness mesmerising starry nights. Set up your tent near Kibber or Chicham Bridge and watch the Milky Way sparkle across the sky. Monasteries like Key and Tabo are a must-visit. The best time for camping in Spiti Valley is between May and September.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Experience peaceful camping along the holy Ganges River and enjoy starry nights under a clear sky. The area is almost pollution-free, which offers a refreshing escape from city life. When in Rishikesh, don’t miss river rafting for an adrenaline rush and early morning yoga sessions by the riverbank for serenity. The perfect time to visit Rishikesh is from October to March.
Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled within the Great Himalayan National Park, the valley is often described as a cradle of nature. Adventure seekers can enjoy trekking and fishing, while those seeking peace can simply meditate under the star-studded sky. The best time to visit this valley is from March to June and September to November.
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
The Thar Desert is one of the largest and most beautiful places in the world for stargazing, which makes it a favourite spot for astronomers. Try the desert safaris, enjoy vibrant cultural shows, and spend the night on the golden dunes under a sky full of stars. The ideal time to visit this desert is from October to February.
Chopta, Uttarakhand
Known as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, Chopta offers lush green meadows and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Trek enthusiasts must try the Tungnath Temple Trek to experience the scenic trails and create memories of a lifetime. The best time to pay a visit here is from September to November.
