The rainy season is just wrapping up and the air is starting to feel colder, denser, and a lot more exciting to go camping and stargazing. After all, the onset of winter acts as the perfect time to pack your bags and soak in nature’s bounty as you light up bonfires and lie down under the vast expanse of starry skies. Luckily, India has a few spots where you can go camping and stargazing, especially in the winter months of October and November. Here are our top 5 picks!
Best Camping Spots In October And November And The Best Stargazing Places In India
1. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
Why Visit: Endless white stretches of the desert, pristine sunset views, and the sheer joy of camping under the spotless skies. The white salt desert of Rann of Kutch becomes home to the vibrant Rann Utsav. This is a cultural carnival where Gujarati culture, folk music, handicrafts, and cuisine are celebrated in the majestic Rann of Kutch. This gives one more reason for travelers to visit Rann of Kutch in October and November.
Nearest Airport: Bhuj Airport (approx. 85 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Bhuj Railway Station (approx. 80 km)
Suitable For: Culture lovers, night photographers, and couples looking for a romantic getaway.
2. Neil Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Andaman & Nicobar Islands are quite underrated among Indian tourists who often don’t realize the sheer natural beauty these islands have to offer. With minimal light pollution, tranquil shores, and peaceful atmosphere, Neil Island among the rest of the islands here is particularly perfect for camping and stargazing. The island has a decent range of hotels, restaurants, and the weather too is quite pleasant after the monsoon months pass away. Light a small bonfire, sing and dance, and live the perfect island life of your dreams at Neil Island.
Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair (approx. 37 km by ferry)
Nearest Railway Station: Not applicable (nearest major railhead is Chennai or Kolkata; flights/ferries connect to Port Blair)
Suitable For: Beach lovers, couples looking for a romantic getaway, and travelers seeking a peaceful escape surrounded by the sea.
3. Bhandardara, Maharashtra
The Sahyadri ranges in Western Maharshtra are home to many peaceful, lush-green hilly escapes and Bhandardara is one of them. Soak in panoramic views of the Arthur Lake or participate in nature trails and easy to moderate hikes in the hills and valleys nearby. End your day with a solid sunset and set your own camp and make delicious food over fire pits. Bhandardara is also famous for its Bhandardara Kajwa Festival where you get to witness fireflies, mostly in the pre-monsoon months of May or June. So, if you wish to wake up to the sound of misty, rolling waters and end your day with a stunning view of the night sky from the Sahydaris, Bhandardara must be on top of your list.
Nearest Airport: Nashik Airport (approx. 90 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Igatpuri (approx. 45 km)
Suitable For: Adventurers, weekend travelers, and solo backpackers
4. Coorg, Karnataka
Step foot into Coorg and you’ll instantly realize why it is called the “Scotland of India”. Coorg, with its verdant-green natural beauty, wraps you up in cool mist, a calm rhythm, and postcard-perfect views. When night falls, the hill station transforms into a living canvas of lush vegetation lulled to sleep by the blanket of stars above. Set your camp, book a stay in a wood cabin, or go for budget hotels and homestays – the experience would only be surreal. And of course, begin your day with Coorg’s specialty coffee and fresh bakes..
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (approx. 88 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysuru Junction (approx. 117 km)
Suitable For: Nature lovers, couples, friend groups, or just anyone looking for a mix of luxury and wilderness.
5. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
With clear, minimally polluted skies, open desert land, and warm hospitality, it is no wonder why Jaisalmer is considered one of the best stargazing places in India as well as one of the best camping spots in October and November. The weather in these months is perfect – neither too hot nor too cold. Plus, the tourist season is just beginning, so you wouldn’t find a lot of tourist crowds either. Participate in exploring the sand dunes, attend cultural shows, set your own camp under the stars, and savor authentic Rajasthani food. Jaisalmer is a haven for those who look for a blend of tradition and heritage with a side of nature’s bounty!
Nearest Airport: Jaisalmer Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jaisalmer Railway Station
Suitable For: Families, solo backpackers, friend groups, couples – basically anyone and everyone!
Useful Tips For Camping And Stargazing Spots In October & November
- For the best night sky views, pick a new moon night.
- Carry warm layers such as jackets, coats, scarves, and mufflers as nights in all of these destinations can become super chilly.
- Pack all your essentials like flashlights, portable burners, first-aid kits, insect repellents, and necessary medicine.
- Use stargazing apps like Planets, Star Walk 2, and SkySafari to easily identify constellations and celestial bodies.
- Respect nature and do not harm, litter, or cause noise disruptions when camping or stargazing.
- Always camp in a designated area and take help of the locals and tour guides to ensure your safety.
Summing Up
Camping and stargazing are such activities that bring you closer to nature and also help in bonding with fellow friends, travelers, or complete strangers. Whether you’re going to Coorg or Bhandardara or Rann of Kutch or just any other destination in this list, we assure you that your experience would definitely be worth it. So, follow our basic tips, plan your trip in advance, and let the sky become your roof (and never the limit).
