Also known as the ‘Adventure Capital of the Country’, Rishikesh is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The city has emerged tremendously as a famous spot for tourists in recent years, owing to the development in infrastructure and connectivity.
The city holds some of the holiest Hindu shrines in the country and is quite popular among pilgrims and devotees. Apart from its religious importance, Rishikesh is also known for its breathtaking scenic beauty and endless opportunities for adventure.
The ‘Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas’ provides some of the best locations for trekking, camping, and mountaineering, and is visited by trekkers and hikers from all over the country. This article gives a brief introduction to some of the best camping sites one can visit in Rishikesh.
Rajaji Tiger Reserve:
Located at the foothills of the Himalayas and spread over three districts of Uttarakhand (Haridwar, Dehradun, and Pauri Garhwal), the Rajaji Tiger Reserve (previously a National Park) is one of the most visited camping destinations in the state and lies at a distance of about 20 km from Rishikesh.
Spread over an area of about 1075 sq. km, the reserve is known for its collection of rare and endangered species of plants and animals, along with the spectacular scenic beauty of the Shivalik range of the Himalayas. The reserve is a significant part of the Terai-Arc landscape between the Yamuna and the Sharda rivers and is home to animals like the Asiatic elephant, the great pied hornbill, Indian pangolin, king cobras, tigers, hyenas, and so on.
The place is no less than a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, and also makes up for a great spot for camping and jungle safari. With the river Ganges flowing through the middle of the park, the region has dense vegetation and is a suitable habitat for wildlife.
Also a treat for bird watchers, the park is home to more than 315 different species of birds, which include vultures, woodpeckers, kingfishers, pheasants, and many more. The park can be suitably visited during the months of November to June, as the weather remains relatively pleasant.
Taliyal Gaon:
A small village in the Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, Taliyal gaon lies at a distance of about 25 km from Rishikesh. The region has evolved as quite a popular tourist destination in recent years, and offers endless opportunities for camping and a variety of different adventure sports, like river rafting on the Ganges and cliff jumping.
A large number of resorts and campsites have emerged in the Taliyal gaon and nearby areas, which offer a wide range of different camping experiences, which include adventure sports and different outdoor activities. A perfect destination for adventure seekers, the region also offers spectacular views of the snow-laden mountains and valleys of the Garhwal Himalayas.
The region has numerous streams and waterfalls, lush green valleys, and forests set on the lap of the mountains, making it an ideal location for camping and hiking and an absolute treat for nature lovers. A significant number of tourists from all over the country visit the different camps in the region every year looking for solitude and peace away from the crowd and amidst nature, with the added appeal of the adventure and adrenaline rush.
Shivpuri:
Lying at a distance of about 16 km from Rishikesh in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, Shivpuri is one of the most visited tourist destinations and among the most popular white water river rafting spots in the state. The region has one of the most beautiful beaches to the Ganga river and is frequently visited by tourists in large numbers all around the year.
One of the most famous camping destinations in the state, Shivpuri is known for the ample opportunities for different water sports that it offers. These include white water river rafting at the Ganges, kayaking, jungle safari, trekking and mountaineering, rappelling, and various beach activities.
Adding to the charm and appeal of the place is the breathtaking scenic beauty of the magnificent mountains and valleys, streams and waterfalls, and so on. The region has emerged as quite a popular choice for adventure seekers and has its admirers and visitors from all over the country.
A favorable weekend getaway, it is no less than a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The region also has numerous camping sites which provide all different kinds of experiences for camping. It is ideally visited during the months of October to March, due to relatively pleasant weather and clear sky.