Ultimate Camping Guide For Rishikesh (2024)

Tired from your daily routine and looking for a way to relax while praising the beauty of nature?

Then you should try camping in Rishikesh – One of the best camping destinations in India, where you can experience pleasant surroundings, stunning visuals, bonfires, and stargazing.

Plus, Rishikesh provides various types of camping, like Riverside camping, jungle camping, beach camping, etc.

Every summer, thousands of visitors arrive here to get this once-in-a-lifetime experience of camping, and the numbers are still increasing.

And, to make sure your next camping trip goes smoothly, this comprehensive guide will help you by providing every basic knowledge of camping. 

Table of Content

• Why is camping popular in Rishikesh?
• Is camping allowed in Rishikesh?
• Is it Safe to Camp in Rishikesh?
• Best camping places in Rishikesh
• Best time for camping in Rishikesh
• What to wear for camping in Rishikesh
• Gear and Equipment
• Backpacking for camping in Rishikesh
• How to reach Rishikesh
• Tips for camping in Rishikesh

-📋Planning Your Camping Trip –

First, we should start with the planning phase. And this segment consists of basic but pivotal knowledge, you need to consider before proceeding with your booking.

Like, is camping allowed in Rishikesh, is it safe, what is the best time, suitable camping spots, etc?

1. Is Camping Allowed in Rishikesh?

ABSOLUTELY YES!

Camping is completely legal and permitted in Rishikesh, because of its amazing camping locations, stunning visuals, economic impact, cultural benefits, and so on.

In fact, Rishikesh is considered one of the best camping spots in India, which attracts thousands of visitors and camping enthusiasts from all over the world.

Here, you will find different types of camping options and facilities, which makes it a primary and must-visit destination for anyone who seeks an extraordinary camping experience.

That’s why even after COVID-19, natural disasters, and several banning practices, the camping conditions in Rishikesh are still thriving and flourishing.

Source – Instagram

Pro Tip – You should acquire a travel pass, although it’s not compulsory, As most of the tourists visit Rishikesh and have a camping trip without any of these.

Whether you are a foreigner or a resident of India, you can camp freely in Rishikesh, and talking about travel passes, you can take them, but it is not compulsory.

But, you cannot pitch your tent anywhere, the NGT and authorities have set up special spots and areas for camping. That includes riverside, beach, Jungle, and mountains. 

There is not a major issue regarding ”Mountains” and ”Jungle”, so you camp there freely. But riverside camping is different because the NGT has allotted 25 sites for riverside camping, which are at least 100 m away from the river. (Source)

However, NGT has reduced the number of camping sites near the Ganga River, which include riverside camping and beach camping, to protect the quality of the Ganga River, the natural wildlife of Rishikesh, and the safety of tourists. 

a) What About the Travel Pass?

I would say, it’s optional!

It totally depends on you and your camping spot. Generally, no one applies for a travel pass or seeks permission for camping, and as of now, they haven’t faced any consequences.

Although, I would recommend getting a travel pass (along with permission), especially if you plan to pitch your tent riverside. Because it serves as proof that you are authorized to explore and camp in Rishikesh. Without a pass, you may be subject to fines.

Now, where to get it?

It’s simple, you have to visit the Dehradun Smart City web portal and register there. (Web portal)

2. Why Camping is Popular in Rishikesh?

Rishikesh is undoubtedly one of the most popular camping destinations in India, which attracts thousands of tourists across the globe. 

But, what are the reasons for its popularity and why people choose Rishikesh as their camping spot? Let’s explore those reasons in-depth.

Source – Instagram

• Location – Located on the foothill of the Himalayas and a range of mountains, this place is perfect for adventure activities.

• Sceneries – The spectacular scenery of nature, the Himalayas, rivers, and forests can provide an experience that will last for years.

• Activities – Camping and rafting are the major activities of Rishikesh, but it also offers hiking, bungee jumping, bird watching, swimming, sightseeing etc.

• Attractions –  There are many famous tourist attractions, like Ram Jhula, waterfalls, temples etc. So, after camping, I recommend you to also visit them.

• Serene and calm weather – The River Ganga and evergreen forests provide serene and cool weather that can captivate almost everyone.

• Camping types – Rishikesh provides various types of camping, such as Riverside camping, Jungle camping, Beach camping, and Mountain camping.

• Safety – Rishikesh provides a safe and secure environment for camping and other adventurous activities.

• Accessibility – Rishikesh is well-connected to other states and locations, So, it is easily accessible to everyone. You can use any means of transport, such as roadways, railways, or airways.

• Rivers – The Ganga River adds to its charm. You can roam on the riverside, swim, do river rafting and much more.

• Spirituality – Rishikesh is one of the most spiritual cities in India. As soon as you step into Rishikesh, you will come across a lot of ashrams, temples, and devotees.

• Ganga Arti – Don’t miss the Ganga Arti. An enormous fest of spiritual seekers gathers here to seek enlightenment.

These reasons will skyrocket your confidence.

Source – Instagram

3. Is it Safe to Camp in Rishikesh?

Yes, of course!

Rishikesh provides a safe and secure environment for camping. That’s why thousands of camping enthusiasts arrive in Rishikesh. Because, the crime rate, camping spots, climate, and weather are appropriate for camping.

Besides this, local authors and the NGT of Uttarakhand monitor the location, crowd, and visitors to keep track of them and their safety. If you follow the guidelines, then the chances of any mishaps or danger are extremely low.

Some safe places to camp in Rishikesh are Shivpuri, Byasi, etc. Even the people of Rishikesh are very friendly and supportive. You can depend on them for navigation and guidance. 

But, the overall safety of a place depends on various factors. So, let’s discuss them in-depth.

Source – Instagram

a) Crime Rate

You won’t believe it, but Uttarakhand has the second lowest crime rate index in India, that is 18.68, and the safety index is a whopping 81.32. This data shows that Rishikesh is generally safe for everyone. 

However, minor crimes do exist in Rishikesh, But, you can avoid them by paying extra caution to your surroundings.

Some minor crimes of Rishikesh are –

• Pickpocketing
• Minor Robberies
• Scams

Among them, one you should focus on is shopkeeper’s scams. Many shopkeepers in Rishikesh charge unreasonable amounts from foreign tourists or visitors from other states. So, be aware of these scams, by checking their prices online or asking local citizens about the price.

b) Females

As a woman, If you are worried about your safety, then relax. Rishikesh is generally safe for women and females, and there has not been a single case regarding women for years.

But still, pay attention to your surroundings, and follow the guidelines. Avoid any secluded and shady places

c) Officials

Just imagine, you are camping in an amazing spot with beautiful surroundings, then suddenly an officer or forest ranger approaches you. What will be your next step?

Nothing, if you have your travel pass and permission, then you don’t have to do anything. Just show him the documents.

But, if you don’t have any permission or proof, then he has the right to fine you. So, to save yourself from officials, grab your documents in advance.

d) Natural disaster

Natural disasters can heavily affect the geography and activity status of a region, and Rishikesh is not an exception. It is a hub for earthquakes, floods, and landslides.

Do you remember the infamous 2013 flood of Uttarakhand? A brutal and massive flood originated from Kedarnath that killed numerous people and destroyed several properties. That was indeed a heart-wrenching event. Even camping in Rishikesh was prohibited for months.

But, since then, I haven’t seen a major or noticeable disaster that can affect the condition of camping in Rishikesh. 

However, some of the common natural disasters, that often affect Rishikesh are –

• Earthquake – ⭐⭐⭐
• Flood -⭐⭐⭐⭐
• Landslide -⭐⭐⭐

– 🤩The Camping Experience –

Now, you are ready to camp in Rishikesh, but to get the best experience, you need to check some points, like the best places and the best time.

1. Best Camping Places in Rishikesh

Now, you have to choose a perfect spot for camping, and it is a challenging task. Because, during this phase, you need to check various things, like whether is it safe, is it legal, facilities, weather, environment, fun, etc

But, that’s why I’m here.

I know major camping spots and resorts, which are the best in all of Rishikesh in terms of fun, experience, and thrill.

Let’s review some of them.

a) Riverside

This is the most famous camping spot in Rishikesh, thanks to the river Ganga and rigid mountains. Even a large number of tourists and camping enthusiasts consider this as their primary spot for camping. 

That’s why Rishikesh has plenty of riverside camping spots, and all are easily accessible, you don’t have to walk miles. Just a small walk, and you will find yourself between an amazing and spectacular camping spot. 

Source – Instagram

Now, camping on the riverside will provide several benefits, like a never-ending water supply, pleasant weather, and delightful surroundings.

However, before camping on the riverside, you need to consider these tips: first, get permission from the nearest forest ranger; second, stay away from the river if you don’t know how to swim; and third, avoid the monsoon and winter seasons. (Because these are not suitable for camping)

Some major spots for riverside camping are Shivpuri, Marine Drive, and Kaudiyala. They have suitable places, facilities, and spots, where you can camp freely and all are easily accessible.

Thus, if you don’t have a particular place in mind, but want to experience a fantastic camping trip, then you can go for riverside camping.

b) Beach

Have you ever been to a beach? If not, then in Rishikesh, you can experience a camping trip on top of a mini but realistic beach.

Rishikesh has plenty of riverside beaches that are suitable for camping and the credit goes to the river Ganga. So, I would recommend you utilize this facility and have a once-in-a-lifetime experience of beach camping. 

Source – Instagram

From here, you can have a clear view of the river Ganga, Rishikesh wildlife, and mesmerizing sunsets while sitting on soft sand. You can even take a quick dip into the water, but be cautious.

The rules and regulations of beach camping are almost similar to riverside camping. Even the benefits are the same, excess water, moderate temperature, and a breathtaking view.

Pro tip – Check the water level of Ganga

But, it is more dangerous than river-side camping. First, even a minor flood can wash away a lot of sand, so at night you have to be extra cautious second, the monsoon and winter season are the worst, so try to avoid them.

If you want some recommendations, then Brahmpuri Beach, Shivpuri Beach, and Marine Drive Beach are some of the best camping spots that are safe and fun.

c) Jungle

If you like nature and want to camp in a secluded place, then you can choose forest camping. A tranquil and rich environment, filled with nature and wildlife, that’s a unique experience in itself.

It is a combination of nature, forest, rigid mountains and maybe a river nearby, that will be a spectacular view.

Source – Instagram

Camping here will provide numerous benefits, like moderate and suitable weather, inner peace, stargazing, and safety from floods and landslides.

Some famous spots for jungle camping are Byasi, Neelkanth Road, and Phool Chatti. 

But, be aware of wild animals roaming in jungles, and don’t go too deep in the forest. There is a high chance that you will get lost, or encounter wild animals. Both are equally dangerous.

So, if you want to camp in a secluded place in nature, then I would recommend jungle camping.

d) Mountains

Another famous camping spot that foreigners, the general public, YouTubers, and vloggers choose is the mountains.

To camp here, you need to do a little hike or trek, so you can have two activities at the same time, camping and hiking.

But, the view from the top is gorgeous, and you are safe from every common disaster in Rishikesh, like floods or landslides.

There are several benefits of camping in the mountains it provides the best sceneries among all the camping options, secondly, it’s generally safe, and third, you can even camp here without permission.

But, before embarking on this spot, check some things in advance, like weather, temperature, etc. And, don’t pitch your tent on the edge of the mountain.

Neelkanth Road and Kunjapuri are some of the greatest camping spots that provide all the facilities that mountain camping generally provides.

So, if you want a thrilling but equally fun camping experience, then go for mountain camping. It is the best.

2. Best Time for Camping in Rishikesh

Every activity and destination has a specific or suitable time when you can harness the maximum fun and thrill from it.

And, Rishikesh is no exception.

Generally, the whole year is suitable for camping. But, September to June is considered the best time for camping in Rishikesh. And, if we narrow it down, September to November and March to June are most ideal.

Source – Instagram

In these months, the weather is more pleasant and suitable for adventurous activities like camping. You can even roam freely outside or near your camping site. And, don’t ignore the views, they are fabulous and mesmerizing.

But, the monsoon season is the exact opposite of what I stated above. The increased water level, unexpected rain, and strong winds make almost every type of camping inaccessible,

I would suggest May or June. They are perfect for camping, and the nights will be super fun and memorable.

3. Other activities

In addition to camping, Rishikesh provides a range of activities, including water-based and hill activities. Consider giving them a shot. It will make your camping trip even more memorable.

a) Rafting

Besides camping, Rafting is another famous activity in Rishikesh. And seriously, it is like a hub.

There are different rafting stretches, varying from short and easy stretches to long and thrilling stretches. So, you can choose anyone, depending on your preference, like rafting experience, family, etc.

Follow the guidelines set by NGT of Rishikesh, and check some crucial details, like water level, weather, etc.

But, make sure you choose the right agency or package for rafting. As they will provide almost everything for a smooth experience.

b) Bungee Jumping

You can also try bungee jumping in Rishikesh. A more thrilling activity where you jump off a high platform and feel a thrilling free fall before bouncing back up.

It is easily one of the most thrilling activities in Rishikesh and even a large number of people experience this during their visit to Rishikesh.

Jumpin Heights, Rishikesh, is currently India’s Highest Bungy spot, with a height of 83 meters.  

Besides this, there are many jumping spots, but make sure to check your health before trying it. And, to make sure kids and old people won’t participate, it can be dangerous for them.

c) Hiking & Trekking

If you love adventure activities, like hiking and trekking, then Rishikesh has some amazing hiking trails surrounded by beautiful nature and lush greenery.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, you will find some amazing trails that offer unique and memorable hiking experiences.

Explore popular trails like Neer Garh Waterfall or Kunjapuri Temple for a fantastic adventure. They are safe and accessible for everyone.

d) Meditation/Yoga

Rishikesh is popularly known as the yoga capital of the world and attracts yoga enthusiasts from around the globe to its peaceful settings and renowned ashrams.

Ashrams and even some camping resorts provide daily yoga sessions to their audience.

Whether you are a beginner or a professional, Rishikesh creates a harmonious environment for yoga.

-🧳Preparing for the Adventure –

Now, it’s time to prepare for the trip, which means what to pack, what to wear, how to reach, etc.

1. What to Wear for Camping in Rishikesh?

Choosing the perfect outfit is a crucial aspect of planning your outdoor adventure. The right attire depends on various factors like the time of day, prevailing weather conditions, and the specific season. 

Let’s explore what type of clothes would be the best for your next camping trip and to ensure that you’re well-prepared and comfortable during your camping experience. 

Source – Instagram

a) Clothing:

• Undergarments – Wear comfortable and soft undergarments for a smooth experience.

• Upper – Wear full-sleeved shirts to protect yourself from the sun and mosquitos or short-sleeved for warmer weather.

• Bottom – Wear comfortable pants, like simple jeans or trousers. You can also try convertible pants, which

• Waterproof Jacket – Pack a waterproof and windproof jacket to stay dry during unexpected rain showers.

• Upper wear – A sweater or jacket to protect yourself from cool weather or Rishikesh.

b) Footwear:

• Hiking Boots – Wear durable and comfortable hiking boots that have good ankle support for walking on uneven and rough terrain.

• Socks – To keep your feet dry and reduce the risk of blisters.

• Slippers or Sandals – To relax or take a simple stroll around the campsite.

c) Headwear:

• Hat – A wide hat to protect yourself from the sun or a beanie for warmth, depending on the weather.

d) Accessories:

• Sunglasses – To protect your eyes from the sun’s rays.

• Gloves – Nighttime can be more coo, sun gloves can provide you some extra warmth and you can handle cold equipment too.

e) Clothes to pack:

• Extra pair of clothes
• Shorts
• Trousers
• Half shirts
• Under Garments
• Muffler
• Sleeping Clothes
• Rain jacket, insulated jacket,
• Extra socks gloves.

2. Gear and Equipment

Now, it’s time to check the list of gear and equipment, you will need during your trip, like camp, tent, etc.

Without these, you can’t even think of camping.

• Backpack – Use a comfortable and appropriately sized backpack to carry your essentials.

• Rain Cover – Ensure your backpack has a rain cover or use a separate rain cover to protect your gear in case of rain.

• Tent – Pack a weather-appropriate tent with a rainfly for shelter.

• Trekking Poles – If you plan on hiking, consider bringing trekking poles for added stability.

• Sleeping Bag and Mat – Choose a sleeping bag suitable for the expected temperature and bring a sleeping mat for insulation and comfort.

• Cooking Gear – If you plan to cook, bring appropriate cookware, a portable stove, and utensils.

• Headlamp/Flashlight – Bring a flashlight or any other reliable light source for navigating in the dark.

3. How to pitch your camp

Here is a step-by-step guide for pitching your tent, in case you don’t know how to pitch a tent.

Step 1 – Select a Suitable Site

First, Choose a flat and level area to set up your tent. Avoid low-lying areas prone to collecting water, and be aware of the direction of winds. You can check the surroundings, view, location, safety, etc.

Step 2 – Clear the stones, pebbles, and trash. 

Then, clear the camping site. Remove any rocks, sticks, or debris from the ground where you plan to pitch the tent. This helps to provide a more comfortable sleeping surface and prevents damage to the tent floor.

Step 3 – Lay Out the Components, like Camp, stick, surface, and other parts.

Unpack the tent and lay out all the components on the ground, including the tent body, rainfly, poles, stakes, and guylines. Check if any part is missing or broken.

Step 4 – Assemble the Pole

Next, you have to assemble the poles, and the number of poles depends on your camp. If your tent has separate poles, assemble them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most modern tents have color-coded or numbered poles to make this process easier.

Step 5 – Attach the Tent Body to Poles

Now, Insert the poles into the designated sleeves or clips on the tent body. And, If your tent has clips, then attach them to the poles. Ensure that every pole is inserted in their respective sleeve.

Step 6 – Raise the Tent

Then raise the tent along with the body. Grab the common point, where all the poles merge. Then firmly lift the whole camp, while checking the other parts. 

Step 7 – Secure the Tent Body

Check every part of your camp, poles, tent, base etc. Make sure the tension of the tent on the poles is balanced, the shape of the camping is perfect and completely opened, like there is no fold, crease or shrink anywhere.  

Step 8 – Use a tarp for unexpected rain

Rishikesh is known for unexpected rains, so you need to use a tarp or waterproof layer, to protect yourself from getting wet during the night.

Step 9 – Adjust for Ventilation: keep the door open.

Don’t suffocate your camp, try to make proper ventilation. Ensure that windows or vents on the tent are open for proper ventilation. This helps to reduce condensation inside the tent.

Or, just keep the gate open.

4. Backpacking

Now, it’s time for backpacking.

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It is a very critical part of your planning, and you should not underestimate it,

From basic little things to some luxury items, everything can enhance your experience.

a) Choosing the Right Bag

First, it’s all about choosing the right bag. Its material, features, and capacity all play an important role.

So, I have made some points to be noted during this process.

Source – Instagram

• Capacity – Choose a bag with a larger capacity cause you need to pack a lot, and I mean a lot—clothes, necessary items, water, food, etc.
• Comfort – Backpack should be comfortable because first, you have to pack a lot and second you may need to walk a lot. So, if your bag is not comfortable, your back might start to hurt.
• Waterproof – Rain, rivers, and accidents can wet your bag and cause some serious harm. So, your bag should be waterproof.
• Extra bag – Try to carry a small backpack or waist bag to keep some of the most important stuff, like cash, mobile, cards, etc.

b) Basic things

• Clothes, warm clothes, gloves, socks and full sleeves
• Water
• Food
• Insect and mosquito repellents.
• Raincoats and umbrellas.
• Sunglasses, body lotions, and moisturizers.
• Energy drinks
• Precautionary medicines for fever, cold, and cough.
• Personal towel
• Toothbrush
• Two thin bed sheets
• Paper soap
• Hand sanitizers
• Toilet roll
• Some garbage bags

c) Essential

Now after basic stuff, it’s time to pack essential things that you can’t afford to forget.

• Purse- Cash, cards, etc.
• Mobile 
• Travel or E pass.
• Navigation device, compass, and paper map (Don’t depend on anything with batteries)
• Lighter/matches
• Bandages
• Disinfectant wipes or tissues.
• Torch and extra batteries
• Pocket knife

d) First aid kit

• Precautionary medicines for fever, cold, and cough.
• Glucose (powder or drink).
• Bandages.
• Medicine for rash or inflammation.
• Vomit or motion sickness medicine.
• Personal or doctor-prescribed medicine.

e) Luxury items

There are some luxury items, that can enhance your trip experience. For example –

• A pillow
• Books
• Camp chair
• Camera
• Drone
• BBQ

f) Food and cookware

• Cooking pan
• Portable stove
• A portable cylinder or gas can
• Maggie
• Instant food/Ready to eat food
• Water bottles
• Snacks

5. How to Reach

Now, it’s time to reach your camping destination, and you will be amazed that Rishikesh is well connected with every city, state, and part of India.

You can choose any means of transport, such as bus, train, flight, car, bike, etc. Let’s take a look at them.

a) By road -🚌

Rishikesh has a rich network of roads that are well-connected to every major city and state of India, like Delhi, UP, Himachal, Haridwar etc.

So, if you are using your own vehicle, like a bike or car, you can easily drive your way to Rishikesh. You can use Google Maps for navigation. 

Source – Instagram

But, if you are choosing bus transport, then you have to reach your nearest state-level bus depot or simply ISBT (Inter-State Bus Terminal).

From there, You can book a regular bus, an AC bus, or even a sleeper bus, And their rates are surprisingly low or affordable.

The connectivity and availability of the bus and road network make it a superior means of transport for others

b) By Train – 🚈

There is a railway station in Rishikesh, known as Rishikesh Junction or simple Rishikesh Railway Station

You can book a direct train to Rishikesh, but there is a catch or problem. If a direct train is unavailable from your location, then you have to book a train ticket to Haridwar.

Source – Instagram

Because, Rishikesh is only connected to a single but major railway station, and that station is Haridwar. But, the distance between Haridwar and Rishikesh is 20 km, which is not far.

Besides this, Haridwar is well-connected to major cities and railway stations in India, like Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, and Varanasi.

c) By air – ✈️

The closest airport to Rishikesh is located in Dehradun, which is roughly 20 km away from Rishikesh.

The name is Jolly Grant Airport.

Source – Instagram

It’s not very far from Rishikesh, and you can grab a cab or bus directly to Rishikesh. It will take at least 40 minutes.

But, don’t worry, this airport is well-connected to all the major airports of India and international airports.

Flights like Air India Regional, Spice Jet, and Jet Airways have daily flights from Delhi to Dehradun.

– 💡Tips and Guidelines –

Finally, I have some tips and important guidelines that will assist you in your next camping trip.

Make sure to follow them, because tips are necessary to ease your work, aid you, and make your trip a blast, while the guidelines provide you with some basic rules and regulations of Rishikesh.

• Collect your travel pass or e-pass from the Dehradun web portal.
• Always check the weather situation before proceeding with the booking.
• Keep your litter to yourself, or throw it in the dustbin. 
• Don’t harm nature and the environment because other people will also camp at your site soon.
• Camping in nature is a tranquil experience, so don’t ruin it with unwanted sounds and loud music.
• Be cautious during riverside camping, and keep a distance.
• Carry an extra pair of clothes, gloves, socks, and warm clothes.
• Wear full sleeves for the night.
• Keeping insect repellant and full sleeves cloth keep insects away.
• Raincoats, umbrellas, and other items are a must.
• Carry Sunglasses, moisturizers, and lotions to protect yourself from both hot and cold weather.
• Try to buy a tiny bag to keep your wallet, cash, phone, cards etc, safe.
• It will be great if the bags are waterproof.
• Energy drinks and other drinks can aid you in physical and adventure activities.
• Keep essential medicines for fever, cold, cough, vomiting, etc.
• Lastly, avoid rainy and monsoon seasons; they will create a lot of hassles for you.
• Remember to pay extra care towards backpacking.

FAQ

Wrap Up

Well, that’s everything you should know before planning your trip to Rishikesh.

Again, in conclusion, Rishikesh is one of the best spots for camping, where you can enjoy different types of camping, like Riverside, jungle, Mountain, and beach camping.

Don’t forget that there are other activities and many famous attractions to visit.

But, you are here for camping, so just pack your stuff according to the list, get your travel pass, choose means of transport, and enjoy the divine and natural feel of Rishikesh.

You can visit with any companion, whether it is friends, family, lovers, or just yourself.

I can bet, every penny and your time will surely be worth it.

If you liked the post, do share and Comment below, if you have any queries or Questions related to camping in Rishikesh, and know whether camping is allowed in Rishikesh – Read this article.