Uttarakhand Camping and Trekking, Uttarakhand, nestled in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, is a paradise for adventure seekers. This northern Indian state offers some of the most stunning trekking and camping experiences in the country. From beginner-friendly trails to challenging high-altitude treks, Uttarakhand has something for every outdoor enthusiast.
An Introduction to Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand, also known as the Land of Gods, is bounded on the north by Himachal Pradesh and Tibet, on the east and south by Nepal, and on the west by Uttar Pradesh. Some key facts about the state:
- Location: Northern India
- Capital: Dehradun
- Major Cities: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Nainital
- Area: 53,483 sq km
- Population: 10.1 million (2011 census)
- Languages: Hindi, Garhwali, Kumaoni
- Major Religions: Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity
The region is blessed with a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Popular tourist destinations include the hill stations of Nainital, Mussoorie, and Ranikhet as well as holy towns like Haridwar and Rishikesh along the Ganges River.
But it is the state’s magnificent landscapes that make it a trekker’s paradise. Some of the famous Himalayan peaks located in Uttarakhand include Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Bandarpunch, and Trishul. The state also boasts famous trekking routes like Roopkund Trek, Valley of Flowers Trek and Dodital Trek along with plenty of options for camping in lakeside towns like Nainital and Mukteshwar.
Why Go Uttarakhand Camping and Trekking
Here are some of the top reasons to go camping and trekking in Uttarakhand:
- Diverse landscapes and terrains: From lush green valleys and wildflower meadows to rugged mountain peaks, Uttarakhand offers incredible diversity. Treks range from beginner-friendly to highly challenging.
- Abundant nature and wildlife: Experience pristine forests filled with pine, deodar, rhododendron, and oak trees. Spot exotic Himalayan birds and animals like snow leopards and musk deer.
- Adventure activities: Try river rafting on the Ganges or bungee jumping at Rishikesh. Go mountain biking, rock climbing, or paragliding for more thrills.
- Spiritual significance: Trek to holy sites like Hemkund Sahib, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri. Attend unique festivals and rituals.
- Scenic beauty: Witness majestic snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, and high mountain passes overlooking stunning vistas.
- Unique culture and cuisine: Interact with friendly locals and experience Garhwali and Kumaoni food, music, art, and traditions.
- All season destination: Enjoy different trekking experiences in summer, monsoon, winter, and spring in Uttarakhand.
In summary, Uttarakhand offers unmatched natural beauty, exciting outdoor adventures, and cultural immersion opportunities that make it a top destination for camping and trekking in India.
Top Places for Camping in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand has numerous great spots for setting up a tent and camping under starry skies. Here are some of the top places for camping in the state:
Nainital
The picturesque hill station of Nainital, set around the emerald green Naini Lake, is one of the top places to go camping in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by thick forests and towering peaks, it offers excellent scenic views.
Popular camping spots around Nainital include Sattal, Bhimtal, Naukuchiatal and Kanatal which have organized camping facilities. Activities like boating, hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing can be enjoyed.
Rishikesh
Rishikesh, located on the foothills of Himalayas along the holy Ganges River, is considered the adventure capital of India. It has many campsites on sandy river beaches that offer stunning views of the hills and river.
Some of the best camping places are Shivpuri, Brahmapuri and Byasi, providing easy access for activities like river rafting, cliff jumping, and kayaking. Luxury, budget, as well as eco-friendly camps are available.
Corbett
Nested in the Himalayan foothills bordering Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh, Corbett National Park is renowned for its wildlife including Royal Bengal tigers. Several lodges and resorts offer luxury tented accommodation for a true jungle camping experience.
Popular places to camp in Corbett are Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna and Durga Devi zones. Wildlife safaris, nature walks, birdwatching, angling can be enjoyed by campers. Permits are required.
Chopta
Known as mini Switzerland, Chopta offers surreal camping opportunities with magnificent views of Himalayan peaks. Located in Tungnath village, it serves as the basecamp for Tungnath temple trek.
Camping in the Bugyals (meadows) surrounded by rhododendron forests andViews of peaks like Chaukhamba is an incredible experience. The tranquil environs are perfect for nature walks, birding and stargazing.
Dhanaulti
Situated amidst thick deodar forests along Mussoorie-Chamba route, Dhanaulti is an offbeat place to go camping. Glamping resorts provide luxury tents with campfires and private sit-outs overlooking hills.
Kanatal and Chamba located closeby also have campsites. Activities include hiking to Surkanda Devi temple, angling at Deora lake, and visiting apple orchards and ECO parks.
So from lakeside towns to dense jungles, river banks to alpine meadows, Uttarakhand offers stunning spots for memorable camping vacations.
Top Trekking Trails in Uttarakhand
With its magnificent Himalayan terrain, Uttarakhand is undoubtedly a trekker’s haven. Spanning over easy day hikes to difficult high-altitude multi-day treks, here are some of the top trekking trails in Uttarakhand.
Valley of Flowers Trek
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Located in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, this spectacular trek takes you through vibrant meadows of exotic flowers with views of towering Himalayan peaks. The national park remains covered in snow from November to April. July-August is the best season to see valley in full bloom. Permits required.
Duration: 6 days
Distance: 47 km
Max. Elevation: 3,600 m
Key Highlights: Blooming valley, Glacier, Waterfalls, Lakes, Flora & Fauna
Roopkund Trek
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
The mystical lake surrounded by glaciers has skeletal remains adding to its intrigue. Starting from Loharjung, the route passes through gorgeous alpine meadows and thick forests before culminating at the lake. Best seasons are April-June and September-November.
Duration: 8 days
Distance: 53 km
Max. Elevation: 5,028 m
Key Highlights: Lake, Glaciers, Meadows, Skeletal remains, Unique culture
Kuari Pass Trek
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Offering stunning Himalayan vistas, this “Curzon’s Trail” starts from Joshimath and goes through forests and meadows like Chitrakantha and Kuari. It is open all year round but best done before winter snow.
Duration: 6 days
Distance: 33 km
Max. Elevation: 3,850 m
Key Highlights: Panoramic views, Camping,Rhododendron forests, Mountain passes
Har Ki Doon Trek
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
A beautiful valley surrounded by pristine forests and alpine vegetation, Har ki Doon offers great beginner trekking experience. The best seasons are April-June and September-December. Trekkers can also summit Swargarohini peak.
Duration: 7 days
Distance: 35 km
Max. Elevation: 3,566 m
Key Highlights: Villages, Wildlife, Swargarohini Peak, Ruins, Serene environs
Chopta – Chandrashila
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
This short summit trek starting from the picturesque meadow of Chopta offers splendid views atop Chandrashila peak. Tungnath temple visit enroute adds to its appeal. Ideal seasons are March-May and October-December.
Duration: 3 days
Distance: 20 km
Max. Elevation: 3,680 m
Key Highlights: Alpine meadows, Temples, Panoramic Himalayan views, Diverse flora
Dayara Bugyal Trek
Difficulty: Easy
An easy trek great for beginners, Dayara Bugyal meaning “high altitude meadow” lives up to its name with breathtaking views all around. The trek to the vast expanse of meadows studded with wildflowers is nothing short of magical. April to November is the ideal period.
Duration: 6 days
Distance: 30 km
Max. Elevation: 3,408 m
Key Highlights: Sprawling meadows, Shepherd huts, Snow-clad peaks, Temple
Deoriatal – Chandrashila
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Another short trek from Chopta, Deoriatal – Chandrashila offers dramatic views of Mt. Chaukhamba. After camping near the beautiful Deoriatal lake, summiting Chandrashila makes for an unforgettable experience. May-June and September-October are good months.
Duration: 2 days
Distance: 8 km
Max. Elevation: 3,680 m
Key Highlights: Lake, Rhododendron forests, Temple, Panoramic views
With its vast and diverse trekking terrain, Uttarakhand offers appealing trails for every season that beautifully showcase its magnificent Himalayan landscape.
Recommendations for Planning Your Camping or Trekking Trip
Here are some tips for planning a safe, convenient, and memorable camping or trekking trip in Uttarakhand:
Best time to visit
- Summer (April – June) offers pleasant weather for valley treks and lake camping with plentiful greenery
- Monsoon (July – September) has lush forests but prone to landslides in hilly areas. Valley treks possible.
- Autumn (October – November) has clear skies. Moderate temperatures ideal for all activities before winter sets in.
- Winter (December – February) brings snow to higher altitudes. Low-level camping in foothills possible. Carry proper winter gear.
Permits
- Obtain required entry permits for treks in national parks like Valley of Flowers and Nanda Devi Sanctuary.
- Get camping permits for specific zones in Corbett and other protected areas.
- Consider hiring certified local guides who can arrange permits in advance.
Travel Essentials
Carry comfortable trekking shoes, layered woolen/waterproof clothing, sleeping bags, tents, first-aid kit, maps, torchlights, food supplies etc. depending on trek difficulty and season.
Accommodation
Choose from basic forest rest houses, homestays, mid-range lodges or luxury resorts at base camps as per your requirement and budget. Advance booking recommended.
Safety
- Check weather conditions and forecasts to avoid getting caught in sudden storms.
- Carry your ID and permits at all times during the trek.
- Register at entry checkpoints of parks and sanctuaries.
- Hire experienced guides for high altitude or difficult treks. Avoid trekking solo.
- Follow all regulations for trekking zones, wildlife areas, villages etc.
With ample preparation, responsible conduct and respect for local regulations, you can have a safe and memorable trekking or camping experience in Uttarakhand.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Uttarakhand a good destination for camping and trekking?
With its magnificent Himalayan landscape encompassing dense forests, riverside, alpine meadows, and soaring peaks, Uttarakhand is an excellent destination for camping and trekking. It offers diverse options suitable for beginners to advanced levels.
2. What are the different types of camping and trekking available in Uttarakhand?
Camping options range from luxury resorts to basic forest rest houses. Lakeside camping, riverside beach camping, jungle camping are popular.
Treks span day hikes to high altitude multi-day treks. Valley treks, summit treks, forest treks, meadow treks are abundant.
3. What is the best time of year to go camping and trekking in Uttarakhand?
- Summer (April – June) and Autumn (October – November) are best for most treks and camping with pleasant weather.
- Monsoon season from July-September has lush greenery but prone to rainfall and landslides.
- Winters from December-February offer snow trekking options but fewer lower altitude camping choices.
4. What are the permits and regulations required for camping and trekking in Uttarakhand?
Entry permits, camping permits, and forest rest houses bookings may be required for treks in national parks and wildlife zones. Guides can arrange these in advance. Follow all regulations regarding garbage disposal, noise, and responsible conduct.
5. How much does it cost to go camping and trekking in Uttarakhand?
- Budget: INR 1500-2000 per day for basic accommodation, local transport and meals
- Mid-range: INR 2500-4000 per day for lodges/homestays and guide fees
- Luxury: INR 5000+ per day for upscale resorts, amenities and arrangements
Cost varies based on accommodation, amenities, season and trek difficulty. Advance booking often offers discounts.
6. What are the best places to go camping in Uttarakhand?
Top places for camping in Uttarakhand include Nainital, Rishikesh, Corbett National Park, Chopta, Auli, Dhanaulti, Mussoorie, Lansdowne, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Lakeside and riverside beaches are most popular.
7. What is the difficulty level of different treks in Uttarakhand?
Easy treks include Chopta – Chandrashila, Dayara Bugyal Meadows, Har Ki Doon.
Moderate treks are Kuari Pass, Hampta Pass, Pangarchulla Peak.
Difficult treks are Roopkund, Kedarkantha Summit, Nanda Devi Base Camp.
Choose treks matching your fitness levels and prior high-altitude hiking experience.
8. Do I need a guide for trekking in Uttarakhand?
Hiring certified local guides is highly recommended for high altitude treks to manage safety, directions, porters, and arranging food/lodging enroute. For low altitude day treks, guides are optional.
9. What are the packing essentials for trekking in Uttarakhand?
Sturdy trekking shoes, layered woolen and waterproof clothing, fleece jacket, sunglasses, torchlight, first aid kit, water bottles, energy bars, sunscreen, toiletries, power bank, camping supplies like sleeping bags etc. depending on the trek.
10. What are some tips for planning a trip to Uttarakhand?
Book accommodation and transportation well in advance. Obtain necessary permits and gear. Consider your fitness levels and choose treks accordingly. Travel in groups and hire local guides when needed. Respect local culture, don’t litter, and follow all regulations.
