Tamil Nadu has everything that makes South India interesting with plenty of specialties of its own. There’s literally something for everyone here. Temples, mountains, waterfalls, forests, metropolitan cities, museums, and the list just goes on. It is a perfect balance of culture, nature, and modernization. But did you know it is also a camper’s paradise? Well, it is and an awesome one at that! There are many hill stations and villages in Tamil Nadu that offer memorable camping experiences. Here are our picks for the best places for camping in Tamil Nadu.
Top Camping Destinations In Tamil Nadu
- Kodaikanal
- Ooty
- Yelagiri
- Yercaud
1. Kodaikanal
It is also known as the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’ and its name literally means ‘The Gift of the Forest’ in Tamil. And Kodaikanal has undoubtedly earned this reputation. The hill station enjoys pleasant, chilly weather throughout the year. So apart from the rainy season, you can show up in any month and prepare yourself to be delighted. Along with having majestic dense forests, Kodaikanal is adorned with temples, caves, lakes, waterfalls, churches, and some great campsites.
Spice Valley
At a short drive of 20 km from the main town of Kodaikanal and even closer to the forests, is the Spice Valley Camp. The only sound you will hear at this camp will be that of the birds, the rustling of leaves, and of course, the sound of happy campers. The site is gigantic and it is home to a beautiful waterfall. One will find a variety of trees grown here like oranges, gooseberries, avocados, and more.
Approximate Cost Of The Stay: INR 1,200 per night.
Pear Orchard
Not only do you get to be amidst a beautiful forest, but you can also spend some time at the campsite’s very own farm. They grow a lot of their vegetables, which are used for preparing the guests’ meals here. So, you can expect freshly plucked potatoes, butter beans, carrots, cauliflowers, and pears to make it to your plates. Staying here is a great way to soak in the beauty of Kodaikanal. Another way to truly reap the benefits of your stay is to go on the treks organized by Pear Orchard.
Approximate Cost Of The Stay: Around INR 3,000 per night
2. Ooty
Located at an altitude of 2,240 meters, is Ooty, also known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’. Didn’t Kodaikanal have a similar nickname? Yes. But what can one do when both these places are so beautiful? Take one look at Ooty and it will seem as though God worked overtime while creating it! The pristine lakes, the greenery that seems to go on forever, the dreamy mist, and the absence of pollution of every kind, makes Ooty a must-visit destination for campers.
Janardan Tea Campsite
This is a campsite with only basic amenities so don’t expect to sleep in a luxurious soft bed. But camping is all about getting in touch with the earth and you’ll get all the rest you need in the lap of nature. Don’t expect a strong internet connection here either, but you’ll get all the entertainment through treks, campfires, stargazing, and more. The site is also a tea estate and a neighbor to a jungle, so you might see cute rabbits and majestic black bucks frolicking nearby your tent.
Approximate Cost Of The Stay: Around INR 1,500 per night
Misty Ooty Camp
Situated on the southwestern slope of Ooty’s beautiful Western Ghats is the Misty campsite. The presence of heavy mist here gives this idyllic site a dream-like look. The tents are set up on raised platforms to give an even better view of the surroundings. The famous Bandipur & Mudumalai Tiger Reserves can be seen from the tents. You can spot Nilgiri Laughing Thrush, Orange Flycatchers, Red-whiskered Bulbuls, and many other unique birds while sipping a cup of tea outside your tent.
Approximate Cost Of The Stay: Around INR 2,900 per night
3. Yelagiri
It’s a hill station pieced together by 14 hamlets located in the Tirupattur district. Yelagiri is nestled between a land of orchards, lush green valleys, and an expanse of rose gardens. Although it is still undiscovered by many tourists, it has all the charms and attractions of a popular hill station. Every picture you take here is worthy of being framed. This is the beauty of Yelagiri.
Yelagiri Farm House
If you are a first-time camper or someone who wants the thrill of camping, but with proper amenities, then this is the one for you. The campsite is surrounded by farms and a few houses. Apart from that, it’s just you, and other campers under the wide open skies of Yelagiri. You can spend your time going on treks, making new friends, reading your favorite book, or just gazing at the beauty of your surroundings.
Approximate Cost Of The Stay: Around INR 1,800 – INR 2,500
Yelagiri Adventure Camp
Have you ever thought of combining the simple joy of camping with the adrenaline-pumping activities of an adventure park? The creators of this campsite did just that and they executed it perfectly. They have created a one-of-a-kind experience here. Visitors can go on treks, enjoy the campfire, and be amazed by the stars as in any other camp. But they also get to feast on BBQ delicacies, watch movies on a big outdoor screen, ride ATVs, zipline, jump on a trampoline, and more!
Approximate Cost Of The Stay: Around INR 2,900
4. Yercaud
Famously known as the ‘Jewel of the South,’ this hill station lies in the Salem district. Its name, ‘Yeri-Kaadu,’ translates to ‘lake forest,’ giving you a clear idea of what to expect. Explore its scenic trails, meet like-minded travelers, and enjoy encounters with rabbits, deer, foxes, bulbuls, sparrows, and more. Fun and adventure await at every turn!
Wilde Troupe – Camping Grounds
A short walk from the popular Yercaud Lake will take you to the Wilde Troupe. It is a very minimalistic and wholesome campsite that is lit up using a string of golden-LED bulbs. This adds so much to its ambiance. Especially when the mist sets in, the whole place just looks marvelous.
Approximate Cost Of The Stay: INR 3,300 to INR 4,000
Heaven’s Ledge
It is like a little boat in the sea of trees. There are so many trees around here! It is situated on the edge of a hill and it gives you an astonishing view of Yercaud. Seeing the sunrise and sunset from here will make you forget about all the worries of your life for a while. Just you, the sun, and the enormous sky, whose color changes with every passing moment. But hey! That’s not all. Now that you have forgotten about your worries, you got to fill your mind with fun memories. So go boating, catch a fish, explore the region on your trek or go cycling on the empty open roads, the possibilities are endless!
Approximate Cost Of The Stay: INR 4,370 per day for a tent of 3 people and INR 8,740 per day for a tent of 6 people
Tips for a pleasant camping experience:
- Carry a cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
- Wear clothes that are comfortable and cover your entire body. It will protect you from insect bites, thorny bushes, and the sun.
- If you are camping in the rainy season, carry an umbrella, a raincoat, waterproof bags, small plastic pouches for your phone, and other valuables.
- Carry an extra plastic bag to store your waste wrappers, fruit peels, and other trash. Do not litter.
- Don’t wear strong perfumes as their scent could disturb the animals. Also, refrain from playing loud music if you are very close to the forests.
- Carry a power bank for your phone. If you are venturing into a no-network area, always let someone know in advance.
- Carry a small first aid kit and a powerful torch.
- Enquire about all the facilities available at the campsite before booking.
Summing Up
There is just something liberating about getting out of your tent and opening your eyes to a land full of trees and birds while the sun gently warms up your face. The joy of singing your favorite song near the campfire under the light of a million shining stars is unforgettable. So what are you waiting for? Choose your favorite location from these best places for camping in Tamil Nadu and plan your trip. You’ve got memories to make!
FAQs
Do We Need Permission For Camping In India?
There are no set rules for camping in India. It is always better to do your research about this while you are in the planning stage of your trip. One thing to remember is that there might not be any restrictions on camping in some places, but you also have to consider if those places are safe for an overnight stay.
What Age Is Appropriate For Camping?
There isn’t any specific appropriate age for camping. You can bring young kids along if you think they can be outside for a long duration and away from the amenities they normally have. Camping can be an exciting adventure and a major learning experience for them.
What Should You Not Keep In A Tent?
Don’t leave food inside your tent as it could attract insects, squirrels, and other animals. The same goes for trash and scented items.
What Should You Not Do While Camping?
- Do not be loud
- Do not leave your food unattended when you go out
- Do not leave your bag unzipped
- Pack sensibly
What Should You Not Bring Camping?
As we have already mentioned, do not use or bring perfumes and deodorants as their smell attracts animals. Do not bring too many electronics. Your phone is extremely necessary, but that Ipad and laptop can stay at home. The point of camping is to get closer to nature. Don’t bring ceramic and glass items. It will be a hassle to take care of them and they could break easily.
How Do I Get The Most Out Of Stargazing?
To see most amount of stars, you need to be as far away from light pollution as you can. Once you are at the stargazing site, wait for 15-20 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Carry a binocular to get a closer look at the stars. A high-end binocular can also show you the craters on the moon.
Which Season Is The Best For Camping In India?
Winter is the best season to go camping. The first few months of the winter to be exact. As they are chilly, but not so cold that it will make you uncomfortable.
What Are The 3 Most Common Types Of Camping?
Tent camping is the most popular type of camping followed by backpacking and glamping.
