We took the question to Aloke Bajpai, Founder and Partner of The Explorers. A certified mountaineer and skier, Bajpai has also trained in river rafting. His advice for the Best camping spots in India:
Being a city dweller with not enough time for extended vacations, I find camping by a lake or in the woods with friends to be a perfect getaway. Fortunately, one is never too far from a great camping spot in India.
Maharashtra, according to me, provides abundant camping opportunities that lie only kilometres away from the bounds of its capital city Mumbai. I have fond memories of a weekend in Tikona Fort which sits on a scenic hill and is accessible through an easy 45-minute trek. Once there, we had uninterrupted views of Pawana Dam and Tung Fort during the day and a clear sky for star gazing at night. Peth Fort in Karjat also makes for a great site owing to the presence of Peth village at the base and the ample open space available to pitch a tent at the top. Tandulwadi is another camping site located very close to Mumbai.
Those in Bangalore can drive to Madikeri in Coorg for a weekend of camping. Amidst coffee plantations or Chikmagalur if you will find some adventure and great sunset views. The best experience, however, can be had in a campsite in Bheemeshwari where you can go for fishing, birding and wildlife spotting by the majestic Cauvery River.
From Delhi, you could drive to the hill station of Dhanaulti in Uttarakhand. You will find established campsites on the meadows with a backdrop of the beautiful snow-capped Himalayas. Looking for someplace even quainter? The valley of Rajgarh which lies 40 kilometres from Solan in Himachal Pradesh is the best option. Longer Himalayan expeditions like Parvati Valley and Chandratal treks also provide excellent camping opportunities.
Know Before You Go | Camping Tips:
Read the map carefully to have an idea of where the motorable roads will lead you.
When looking for a secluded spot, remember to ensure that there is a water body in the vicinity.
If possible, camp close to a village that can provide you with food and safety in case of any emergency.
If your camping spot requires the permission of the Forest Department, get that on a priority basis.
It is advised to Reach the camping site at least 3 hours before sundown. Once there, get a clear perspective of the surroundings to navigate later in the dark.
Practise how to pitch a tent well in advance. Mark a snake pit around it and light a fire only at an adequate distance.
Carry essentials like a sleeping bag, a good torch, a first-aid kit, adequate water, a Swiss knife, and a food supply.
Visit www.explorersindia.com to pick your adventure trip!
Input: Sarita Santoshini
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