The Best Luxury Camping Sites by Rivers and Lakes!

Table of Content:
 

• Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

• Thiksey, Ladakh

• Tons River, Uttarakhand

• Jawai Bandh, Rajasthan

• Pangong Lake, Ladakh

There’s something undeniably magical about waking up to the sound of gently flowing water, birdsong echoing through the trees, and the golden glow of sunrise reflecting on a shimmering lake. Now, imagine experiencing all this without sacrificing the comforts of a luxury retreat. That’s the charm of luxury camping by rivers and lakes—a trend that’s taking travel enthusiasts in India by storm.

Blending the raw beauty of nature with premium facilities, luxury camping (also known as glamping) by water bodies offers an immersive, yet indulgent escape. From the banks of the Ganga to the serene lakes of Rajasthan, India is home to several top-notch camping spots that offer stunning views, cosy accommodations, gourmet dining, and curated nature experiences.

Ready to unwind in style? Here are the top 5 best luxury camping sites by rivers and lakes in India that promise an unforgettable escape into nature.
 

1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Nestled amidst a forested hillside, this place offers an upscale glamping experience just outside Rishikesh. It’s the perfect destination for thrill-seekers who also appreciate high-end comfort. With eco-friendly cottages available and panoramic views of the river, this retreat blends adrenaline and tranquility like no other. Check out our meticulously curated Rishikesh Holiday Packages at EaseMyTrip to book your unforgettable trip. 

Why It Stands Out:
 

• River rafting, kayaking, hiking, and ziplining activities

• Ganga-side yoga sessions and guided birdwatching

• Locally inspired cuisine served with mountain hospitality
   

Whether you want to chase rapids or meditate by the river, this place sets the bar high for riverside luxury camping in India.

2. Thiksey – Ladakh

If you dream of camping under the starlit Himalayan sky with the Indus River flowing nearby, then Thiksey is your ideal luxury retreat. Surrounded by stark mountains and pristine wilderness, glamping at this place offers an experience like no other.

Why It Stands Out:
 

• Private views of the Thiksey Monastery and snow-capped peaks

• Tailor-made excursions including monastery visits, polo matches, and village walks

• World-class dining with Ladakhi and global cuisine
   

This destination is where royalty meets ruggedness, offering a once-in-a-lifetime glamping experience near one of India’s most iconic rivers.

3. Tons River, Uttarakhand

Tucked deep in the lesser-explored Har-ki-Dun Valley, this site is a remote yet luxurious getaway set by the scenic Tons River, a tributary of the Yamuna. Known for its exceptional hospitality, glamping here is a favourite among trekkers, nature lovers, and those looking to unplug completely. For a great staycation in Uttarakhand, check out the best Hotels in Uttarakhand and make the most of your getaway. 

Why It Stands Out:
 

• Swiss tents with comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, and electricity

• Tons River rafting and angling experiences

• Guided treks to nearby meadows and glaciers

• Bonfire evenings with stories under the stars
   

The setting is serene, the experience is raw yet indulgent, making it a hidden gem among riverside luxury camps in India.
 

4. Jawai Bandh, Rajasthan

Set against the dramatic granite hills and near the scenic Jawai Bandh (a reservoir), this spot redefines glamping. While not a river or lake in the traditional sense, Jawai Bandh offers a luxurious water-side safari experience, complete with leopard sightings and rural immersion.

Why It Stands Out:

• Ultra-luxurious tents with private decks, air-conditioning, and elegant bathrooms
   

• Personalized safari drives to spot leopards and migratory birds
   

• Farm-to-table cuisine curated daily
   

• Experiences like bush dinners, stargazing, and village walks
   

It’s one of India’s finest examples of how sustainability, wildlife, and luxury can co-exist by a picturesque water body.

5. Pangong Lake, Ladakh

No list of luxury camping by lakes is complete without mentioning the iconic Pangong Lake. It is one of the few luxury sites, offering front-row access to Ladakh’s most surreal landscapes. You can also opt for Delhi to Ladakh cab booking at EaseMyTrip for a hassle-free and comfortable journey. 

Why It Stands Out:
 

• Well-furnished tents with warm bedding, heating, and attached bathrooms

• Located right beside the pristine blue waters of Pangong

• Stargazing and bonfire evenings with traditional music

• Local Ladakhi meals served with heartwarming hospitality
   

Staying here means waking up to one of the most ethereal views in the country, with the lake changing colours throughout the day.
 

Suggested Read: Top 5 Glamping Experiences Around the World!
 

The Bottom Line!

Luxury camping by rivers and lakes isn’t just a holiday—it’s an experience that reconnects you with nature while indulging your senses. Whether you prefer the meditative calm of Rishikesh’s Ganga, the stark serenity of Ladakh, or the regal wilderness of Rajasthan, these destinations redefine what it means to escape in style.

From fine dining in tents to adrenaline-packed river adventures and tranquil lakeside mornings, India’s luxury camping scene is a blend of thrill and tranquility, curated to perfection. So pack your bags, leave behind the city chaos, and dive into a waterside retreat that soothes the soul and pampers the spirit.