Camping under mountain skies is one of the most memorable ways to experience the north — if you do it safely and respectfully. Rules, facilities and conditions vary a lot, so plan carefully.
In this guide
Popular camping areas
| Area | Notes |
|---|---|
| Kumrat Valley | Riverside and forest camps; beware flash floods |
| Deosai | High, cold and windy; permissions needed |
| Fairy Meadows and Beyal | Cottages and tents; basic facilities |
| Naltar | Lakes and forest; rough road |
| Sharan Forest | Forest camping above Paras |
| Attabad and Passu area | Lakeside and meadow camps in season |
Always check whether camping is allowed and whether permission or fees are required, especially in national parks.
Gear checklist
- A sturdy tent suitable for wind and rain.
- Sleeping bag rated for low temperatures and an insulated mat.
- Stove, fuel and cooking gear.
- Headlamp, extra batteries and power bank.
- Warm layers, hat, gloves and rain jacket.
- First-aid kit and water purification.
Safety
- Avoid riverbeds, dry streams and the foot of steep slopes — flash floods and rockfall can occur without warning.
- Do not camp alone in remote areas.
- Store food securely and away from tents; wildlife and livestock may investigate.
- Keep fires small and only where allowed; fully extinguish them.
- Watch the weather and be ready to move.
Leave no trace
- Carry all rubbish out.
- Use toilets where available; otherwise bury waste far from water.
- Respect local communities and grazing lands.
Camping with a guide
A local guide or operator arranges permissions, safe sites, equipment and logistics. See our Jaz Banda trek for an example, or ask us to plan a camping trip.
A basic camp-site checklist
- Level, well-drained ground away from riverbeds and cliffs.
- Protection from wind, such as trees or terrain.
- Access to water and a place to dispose of waste.
- Permission from landowners or authorities, if needed.
Cooking and fire safety
Use stoves where possible, as wood is scarce in many places. Keep fires small, never leave them unattended, and extinguish them fully before sleeping or leaving.
Camping with children
Choose easy sites near facilities, pack extra warm clothes and set clear rules about water and fire. Allow time for children to settle and keep a first-aid kit handy.
Frequently asked questions
Is camping allowed everywhere?
No. Some areas, such as national parks, require permission or restrict camping. Check locally.
Is camping safe in summer?
It can be, but flash floods, storms and cold nights are real risks. Choose your site carefully.
Do I need to bring all my gear?
In remote areas, yes, unless you arrange equipment through an operator.
Is wild camping allowed?
Rules vary by area and land ownership. Ask locally or through an operator before camping.
What is the best season for camping?
July to September for high areas; May to October for lower valleys.
