Do you like looking at the stars and exploring the forest? 5 places in North India for camping under the stars

Also read: Crowds bothering you during trips? 5 stress-free travel tips for introverts

To understand what are the best places for camping under the night sky, travel expert Ravi Gosain, President, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) shared with HT Lifestyle that North India has some diverse scenarios for campers.

“Most of these locations are located in areas with little or no light pollution, far enough from urban areas, making them very suitable for astrophotography and tranquility during the night,” he said. “In other words, whether you are located in the icy desert of Spiti or the golden sand dunes of Jaisalmer, camping here is not just a trip but a spiritual pilgrimage.”

There are some off-beat locations where there is less light pollution due to their remoteness from urban areas, making them suitable for camping under the sky, astrophotography and other night activities.

Here are 5 destinations recommended by Ravi, along with why they are special, the best time to visit and what you can do there:

1. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

• Why: Referred to as ‘Small Tibet’, Spiti has a pure, high-altitude desert, with no light pollution and the best conditions for star observation.
• What to do: Pitch a tent on Kibber or Chicham Bridge, watch the Milky Way sparkle and visit monasteries like Ki and Tabo.
• Best time: May to September.

2. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

• Why: Rishikesh is a commune situated on the banks of river Ganga where the camping sites are comfortable and the riverside sites are almost untouched by nature and pollution.
• What to do: Go river rafting, make yoga your motto at sunrise, or have a bonfire by the river during the night.
• Best time: October to March.

3. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

• Why: Surrounded by the Great Himalayan National Park, this valley is generally called the cradle of nature, pristine and lush green.
• What to do: Re-experience the wildness of the Tirthan River by trekking, fishing, or simply meditating under the starry sky.
• Best time: March to June and September to November.

4. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

• Why: The Thar Desert gives India one of the prime locations for stargazing, making the destination a ‘must-visit’ for astronomers as well as sky-watchers.
• What to do: Apart from desert safaris and cultural programs, you can spend a night gazing at the stars on the sand dunes.
• Best time: October to February.

5. Chopta, Uttarakhand

• Why: It is also called the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’ due to its lush green grasslands and sweeping views of the Himalayas.
• What to do: Go trekking on scenic routes like the Tunganath Temple Trek.
• Best time: March to June and September to November.

To refresh, try connecting with nature instead of constantly being connected to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Sometimes an effective way to recharge is to switch off and go outside.