Camping in Nepal offers a breathtaking and immersive outdoor experience amidst the country's diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to towering peaks. Nepal's diverse terrain, including the Himalayas, tranquil lakesides, verdant forests, and remote valleys, provides an array of camping options. The Himalayas present a unique opportunity for adventurous camping. Popular regions like Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang offer trekking-cum-camping experiences. Trekkers often set up camps at designated sites along the trails, soaking in panoramic mountain views and enjoying starry nights. Guided camping tours and packages are also available, providing tents, meals, and expert guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience.
Best Camping Destinations in Nepal
Some of the exotic camping sites are Shivapuri National Park, Gurjebhanjyang-Suryachaur, Nagarkot, Chitlang-Markhu-Kulekhani village, Balthali village, and Lapsiphedi. Such dreamy locations may make it a bit hard to finalize where to go, so below is an account of what all the place has to offer.
1. Nagarkot
Source
Ringed by the eight popular Himalayan ranges is the bewitching destination of Nagarkot. With the spectacular view of the mountains during sunrise and sunset, this place has emerged on the top of the bucket list of holidaymakers. Situated on a ridge at an elevation of about 2,195 meters, this village has many trails running through the woods, making it ideal for a thrilling camping getaway. The cloud banks enveloping the horizon make the weather pleasant and windy. It is also an abode of many Hindu temples, marking as a prominent pilgrimage site.
Source
Blessed with crystal lakes and enchanting landscapes, the metropolitan of Pokhara is the epitome of bewitching scenic beauty and, hence, is known as the tourism city of Nepal. Lying in the heart of the country, the emerald green surroundings were once the shelter of Gurkha soldiers and is now the second most populous city in the country. With the sun gleaming on the snow-capped peaks of the Annapurna mountain range, which are closer than they appear, you can witness some of the most romantic sunrises and sunsets. The peaceful ambiance of the place provides an ideal location for camping and trying adventure sports like paragliding.
3. Ilam
Source
Lush green tea leaves planted all over the slopey hills form a panoramic vista as you step into the city of Ilam. Resting in the foothills of the Mahabharat range, the Ilam district, also known as Charkhol, is an unexplainable beauty adorned with alpine forests, pristine rivers, and pleasant weather. The district gives glimpses of the Nepalese culture, and the locals are very welcoming.
4. Lapsiphedi
Source
Just 20 kilometers away from Kathmandu Valley, in the midst of verdant tea gardens, lies the village of Lapsiphedi, now a popular hill station. At this place, you'll get to experience the vibrant Nepali Tamang culture and traditions. Located in Central Nepal, it is a gorgeous place where you can hike with the snow-covered Langtang mountain range running beside you. Several points in this village are known to offer some of the most breathtaking views of sunsets and sunrises. Hiking in this terrain will be an arduous task, but the mouth-watering delicacies made in traditional style at the end of the journey will be worth the adventure.
5. Balthali Village
Source
Far away from the hustle-bustle of modern towns, resting on top of a plateau, lies the tranquil village of Balthali. It is located in Central Nepal and is roughly 32 kilometers away from the Kathmandu Valley. Suffuse with lush green forests and flourishing rice fields; this hamlet is now emerging as a popular destination for campers and trekkers. The place has a captivating landscape of the mountain ranges of Langtang and Mahabharat, with many Buddhist temples nearby. You can hike up to Namo Buddha, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, from this place.
6. Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
Source
Resting on the northern hills 12 km away from the main town of Kathmandu, the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park is amongst the top go-to places in Nepal for a natural retreat. The panoramic views of the giant Himalayas and the secluded location away from the chaos of the cities make it perfect for camping and several other activities. Adventure freaks are in for a delight as the park as many trekking and hiking trails. Tracing your way through the silent forests will be thrilling, and at the end of your trail, you will get to see the vast Kathmandu Valley beneath. The National Park is also home to various native birds and endemic flora species living carefree in their undisturbed habitat.
7. Gurjebhanjyang-Suryachaur
Source
To feel the rural vibes in a city, you can visit the mesmerizing setting of Suryachaur Hill. Situated at an elevation of 2100 meters in the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, Suryachaur is an unspoiled camping spot providing a bird's eye view of the Thangshing Valley below and the Ganesh Himal range in the front. To reach this hill, you have to cross the Gurje Bhanjyang pass. Autumn and winter seasons are the most preferred times to visit the place as in the other seasons the mountains hide behind the clouds and you won't get clear skies.
8. Chitlang-Markhu-Kulekhani Village
Source
Towards the south of Nepal lie the three adjoining villages of Chitlang, Markhu, and Kulekhani. Well-known for extensive organic farming and gamey goat cheese, camping in these colorful alpine villages will rejuvenate your soul and connect you to nature. Climbing up the dusty roads, you will get to see some astonishing views of the Himalayan range and the cable cars running on ropes between the hills. The warm, welcoming gestures of the localities will bring a smile to your tired face, and the alluring beauty of the landscape will soak your stress away. You can end the journey by visiting the magnificent architecture of Kulekhani Dam or go boating in the water of Indra Sarobar Lake.
9. Lele Village
Source
24 kilometers away from the capital city of Kathmandu, in a small solitary valley away from the hustle-bustle of town, lies the serene village of Lele. With terrace farming on hills and rivers flowing through the valley, Lele forms the image of a perfect village retreat for holidays. Dating back to the reign of the Lichhavi dynasty, this place is now a popular tourist destination for camping and trekking with the Langtang range in the backdrop. It is also home to countless temples.
10. Kakani
Source
Bushes of bright red strawberries greet you as you enter the gorgeous hamlet of Kakani. Situated on at an elevation of 2030 m in the Bagmati Zone of Central Nepal, the lush alpine forests of this hill station have attracted many campers and hikers from all corners of the world. With birds of all hues flying in the open sky, you cannot imagine a more apt place to go bird-watching. Apart from the vibrant wildlife, Kakani village is also famous for the mesmerizing views of Everest, Ganesh Himal, and many more ranges.
Best Time For Camping in Nepal
The months from March to May and September to November are an ideal time to go camping in Nepal. It can quickly be passed as the best time as September marks the end of the humid monsoon climate and welcomes the season of cool breeze and clear skies. Although the other parts of the city might be dusty, the mountain regions will have the ideal temperature and atmosphere for trekking. The panoramic views of olive green vegetation and high mountain peaks touching the clear skies promise an enchanting landscape to go for a nature escapade.
Cost of Camping in Nepal
Depending upon the location, time, and duration of the visit, the cost of the packages available online varies from a minimum of NPR 4780 to a maximum of NPR 19130.
Tips for Camping in Nepal
Pack light, wear light
Try limiting the use of plastic bags and help preserve nature.
Avoid taking any gadgets with you. It will give you a more fulfilling experience
Dispose of garbage properly and do not litter. Be a responsible tourist and don't spoil the beauty of the place.
Always carry an ample amount of water with you
Do not attract wild animals by any means
Always douse off campfires before leaving a site
As Keats said, "A thing of beauty is a joy forever". Camping in Nepal will be a blissful experience for anyone. It will take you to the pinnacle of calmness and make you appreciate the beauty of Nature. It has alluring Himalayan views, sublime sunsets and sunrises, picturesque rice fields, and deep, dark woods with dazzling streams flowing through them. What more can a traveler wish for, right?
.jpg){kind=link}
