Looking for a place far away from traffic snarls, smoke, the busy lights and endless din? Most Bengalureans are. It’s a good thing they are always on the look out for a weekend getaway and that’s where camps feature on the agenda. Far away from the madness, city folk are literally the happy campers as they pitch their tents. We round up some camping sites close to the city for you to try. You’re welcome!
Located in the Charmadi Ranges of the Western Ghats, this is one of the most picturesque places you can camp at. Camping atop a waterfall that drops 200 feet into the valley is something you can’t miss. Expect a steep trek through intense forests and indulge in some serious star gazing under the vast skies. A peak called the Amedikallu in the same region is worth a try. Touted as one of the most difficult treks, the last stretch on the trail has a man-made nest overlooking the lush canopy of trees below. And this, is a secret hideout for campers!
Distance from Bengaluru: 350 km (approx)
If you are a nature lover, this should be on your list. You can witness whirling cycle trails, picturesque coffee and tea plantations and trekking opportunities at this hill station popularly called the Scotland of India. The two most popular camping sites include Civet Creek Camp in Bettigeri, Madikeri and Votecad Nature Camp in Virajpet where there’s no network and evenings come alive with kerosene lamps (no electricity!) Rest assured, your other life can’t follow you here. At the Votecad camp, you can also savour as many as 20 flavours of homemade wines along with a mean spicy barbecue with birds eye chilly!
Distance from Bengaluru: 268 km (approx)
Who wouldn’t want to wake up to mist-covered hills? Located just outside Munnar, the Meesapulimala peak promises the view. If you’re up for an adventure, trek up (21 km) from Munnar to the camping sites where alpine or dome tents provided by the Kerala Tourism Department await you at the base camp, this is the place for you. This UNESCO Heritage Site also allows you to gaze at one of the highest tea-growing estate in the world!
Distance from Bengaluru: 512 km (approx)
This camping site is located near Ooty, so, naturally, it’s known for its tea, coffee and spice plantations. The Kalhatty Jungle camp is surrounded by dense forests and sparkling waterfalls and makes it possible for a slew of activities including trekking, jeep safaris, rock climbing and fishing at '4,000 for two inclusive all meals. It’s nestled deep within the jungle and is cut off from civilisation, so make sure you come packed with supplies and don’t expect cellular service.
Distance from Bengaluru: 259.8 km (approx)
You can pitch your tent by the majestic Cauvery river but this will require you to obtain permissions from the Kanakapura forest department. Else, head to the Bheemeshwari Adventure and Nature Camp. This is a haven for bird watchers with over 200 species to be spotted including the grey headed fish eagle, pied crested cuckoo and darter. This is also known for its coracle rides and fishing (especially the Mahseer, one of the finest and largest fresh water sport fish known to man.)
Distance from Bengaluru: 103 km
A popular weekend camping destination near the city, this camp offers breathtaking views of the Manchinbele Lake. Other activities such as paintball, the multi-vine, horizontal ladder called the rope course, water sports like kayaking, canoeing, swimming and raft building makes it a popular camp for family outings and corporate activities at Camp Manchinbele and Extreme Zone Getaways.
Distance from Bengaluru: 40 km
— Compiled by Sneha K Sukumar
