Table of Contents

10 Best Camping & Rafting Sites in India

• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

• Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

• Dandeli, Karnataka

• Kullu-Manali, Himachal Pradesh

• Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

• Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir

• Kolad, Maharashtra

• Kasol, Himachal Pradesh

• Lonavala, Maharashtra

• Munnar, Kerala

Are you tired of your daily life and looking for a beautiful escape with camping and rafting in India? Then you are at the right place. There are many places to go camping and rafting in India, drenched in natural beauty. Today, we will look at some camping and rafting places in India that are perfect for solitude and adventure. Camping and rafting are two activities that everyone loves, and they are an incredible way to connect with nature and get refreshed. From Spiti Valley to Munnar, we will explore every place in India that is on top for camping and rafting. We list India’s top 10 camping and rafting destinations for adventure and relaxation.

10 Best Camping and Rafting Sites in India

1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand:

Situated on the banks of the Ganges, Rishikesh is one of the most adventurous destinations in India. Rafting, camping, bungee jumping, ziplining, and trekking are some of the popular adventure activities here. It isn’t easy to find a place like Rishikesh in India as a rafting and camping destination. Shivpuri, Mohanchatti, Kyarki and Rattapani are the main sites for Rishikesh camping. The rafting also ranges from 9 to 34 kilometres, and the starting point is Kaudiyala. Whether you want to raft in crystal clear water or camp on the banks of the river, there is no better place than Rishikesh.

• Best time – October to May

2. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh:

Tawang will satisfy your quest if you’re looking for paradise on Earth. Nestled in the northeast, this beautiful hill station is a haven of serene natural splendour dotted with Buddhist monasteries! Tawang offers designated camping spots amid pristine forests and grasslands. Popular spots include Lungten Phu near the Tsongha-Tser Lake and camping sites near the Tawang Monastery. The Kameng River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra, offers a thrilling rafting experience. The ideal time for this adventure is during the summer months (March to June).

• Best time – March to June

3. Dandeli, Karnataka:

Dandeli in South India is a paradise for adventure seekers, especially if you are interested in rafting and camping. Rafting and camping are the leading adventure activities here and are mostly famous from October to March. Whether camping amidst lush green forests or rafting in the Kali River, Dandeli has everything for you. Rafting with grade 1 to 4 rapids suits everyone, from beginners to advanced. Along with trekking, you can also go on wildlife excursions and get a chance to spot animals like deer, bears, leopards, etc.

• Best time – October to June

4. Kullu-Manali, Himachal Pradesh:

If you want to start rafting as your first experience, rafting in Manali, Kullu, is the best place. Most rafting places in India can be challenging for beginners, but rafting in Manali-Kullu is a comfortable experience. There are very few rapids here, which is not difficult for anyone. With amazing Pir Panchal Himalayan range views, camping in Manali is a great outdoor experience. Tourists can enjoy activities like trekking, paragliding and trout fishing to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the foothills of the Himalayas.

• Best time – October to June

5. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh:

Spiti Valley, adjacent to Ladakh-Himachal, is a remote and picturesque region famous for its arid environment and mountain biking trails. Camping is the most prominent outdoor activity here, offering a unique way to experience the region. Camping in stunning landscapes is a unique opportunity to connect with nature and test your limits. Spiti has popular camping sites like Pin Parvati Pass, Chandratal and Dhankar Lake. The season from October to March is ideal for camping, during which you can go camping.

• Best time – December to March

6. Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir:

Pahalgam, located 90 km from Srinagar, is a beautiful hill station famous for camping and trekking. Camping is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Pahalgam. Large grassy meadows make this place ideal for camping. Pahalgam is also famous for outdoor adventures like trekking and horse riding.

• Best time – October to March

7. Kolad, Maharashtra:

Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a refreshing break, Kolad has something for everyone. The Kundalika River is a great place for rafting and riverside camping. Rafting and kayaking, grades 1 to 5 rapids, are the major water activities in Kolad. But the adventure doesn’t end here; camping under the starry sky is also ideal, offering an excellent opportunity to connect with nature. The greenery and the calming sound of waterfalls make Kolad a great place to visit.

• Best time – November to June

8. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh:

If you want to listen to the sound of waves flowing along the river, meditate amidst nature and live every moment with deep breaths, then Kasol is the best place for you. Located on the banks of the Parvati River, Kasol offers a calm and relaxed atmosphere ideal for camping enthusiasts. Famous for riverside camping, Kasol is a great place to mingle with nature and spend some relaxing moments. For adventure seekers, rafting on the Parvati River offers a thrilling experience.

• Best time – November to April

9. Lonavala, Maharashtra:

Lonavala is an asset for tourists who want a camping experience. People from metropolises like Mumbai and Pune come to Lonavala to experience outdoor activities, including trekking, rafting, and camping. Surrounded by several calm waters like the Pavana River, Tungarli River, and Lonavala River, these beautiful natural options are usually popular backpacking places where you can pitch open-air camping tents and enjoy Mother Nature. 

• Best time – September to July

10. Munnar, Kerala:

Munnar is a beautiful destination in South India, also called the Shimla-Manali of South India. There is no better place than Munnar to enjoy camping with tea plantations. Situated at the confluence of Madhurapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundali rivers, this hill station is perfect for a natural and refreshing camping experience. The temperature here rarely goes above 20 degrees Celsius, even in summer. Munnar is lovely, a place of peace and relaxation, and a delightful tourist destination in God’s country.

• Best time – October to June

Conclusions: 

India is not just limited to bustling cities; it is also an adventure hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Its many camping and rafting destinations will leave you exhilarated. From Rishikesh to Munnar, there are many camping and rafting attractions hidden from the outside world. As you explore, you will discover the vastness and diversity of this country. These experiences will create unforgettable memories and a deep connection with the heart of India.

Author – Saurabh

My name is Saurabh Goniyal. I am an avid traveller, storyteller, and adventure enthusiast. I am originally from Uttarakhand, India, and I seek adventure in every journey and peace in every destination. Through words and experiences, I capture the essence of travel, inspiring others to go on unforgettable adventures.