Want to go camping army-style? Here’s how you can do it in Uttarakhand

To promote sustainable rural tourism and empower border communities, the Indian Army has supported the launch of a new community-run camping experience in Garbyang village, which is a high-altitude destination, in Uttarakhand. The initiative was officially inaugurated in October with local villagers attending and welcoming the development as a much-needed step towards economic development and cultural preservation efforts.

Developed under Operation Sadbhavna and now operated independently by the village community, the camping project is part of the central government’s Vibrant Villages Programme. It aims to attract travellers seeking authentic cultural and nature-based experiences while providing locals with alternative livelihood opportunities. The initiative offers visitors a chance to experience traditional Himalayan life first-hand, set against the backdrop of snow-clad peaks, sacred valleys, and centuries-old heritage.

????️ “???????????? ???????????????? ???????? ????????????????: ????????????????????????????????’???? ???????????????????????????? ???????????????? ???????????????? ???????????????????????? ???????? ???????????????????? ????????????????????????."

???????? ????️ A game-changing transformation is underway in Kumaon region of the Himalayas. The newly constructed motorable road connecting #Dharchula to… pic.twitter.com/Daezub25SD

— SuryaCommand_IA (@suryacommand) October 8, 2025

Garbyang, in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, is a tranquil village in Kumaon region and serves as the starting point for important pilgrimage routes to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat. It’s located near the India-Nepal border and is known for its serene beauty and rich spiritual history. Through the camping experience, tourists can stay close to nature, interact with local families, and take in the majestic landscape, all while contributing to the region's growing rural tourism economy.

Also read | Redefining modern engineering: 10 things to know about world's highest Huajiang Canyon Bridge

The village in an earstwhile trade centre and was home to the Rang-Shauka community, known for their unique customs, architecture, and craftwork. While some traditional homes are affected by land subsidence, many still showcase ornately carved wooden doors and windows that reflect the region's historical significance. Visitors can also explore nearby Kalimata Mandir, Parvati Kund, Rishi Vyas Cave, and the origin point of the Kali River, which is a natural boundary with Nepal.

Also read | As tourism takes a hit in Ladakh, sector seeks financial relief to overcome unrest in union territory

A highlight for visitors is the community-run museum in Gunji, where exhibits include traditional clothing, ancient tools, weapons, jewellery, and everyday household items of the Rang people, a Tibeto-Burman ethnic group native to the region. The museum gives travellers a deeper understanding of the rural way of life and the region's enduring legacy.

The cost for the camping experience is ₹1,000 per person per night, which includes meals. All bookings are managed by the Garbyang Village Committee, and reservations can be made by contacting local coordinators.