Puducherry Joins India’s Growing Caravan Tourism Movement

There are new trends emerging in the travel space every day, and the latest one happens to be caravan tourism. Puducherry tourism recently launched an initiative which will issue permits for caravan vehicles, opening up a new way of exploring the much-loved travel destination. The tourists will now be able to rent these caravan vehicles for a duration of three days, seven days, or thirty days. 
If you are the kind who loves road trips but wants the comfort of a home, then the caravan tourism initiative would be perfect for you. Imagine exploring the nooks and crannies of this stunning destination without having to switch accommodations every time, waking up by the beach side in the morning, without any rush.

For tourists who prefer to see new and fascinating locations without having to figure out conventional hotel stays, caravan travel is ideal. Caravan tourism initiatives have been started by several state tourism authorities, enabling travellers to hire fully furnished cars with contemporary conveniences. In recent years, a number of caravan parks have been built in India to provide safe overnight parking spaces for these cars.

Caravan tourism in India

The first state to start this initiative in India was Karnataka. The Karnataka government introduced their caravan tourism policy in June 2020. Tourists can opt for a completely furnished caravan with four convertible beds, a shower, a contemporary toilet, a smart TV, and a music system, on rent. There is a kitchenette with a refrigerator, freezer, and microwave for onboard meals.

In addition to Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Kerala also offer caravan tourism initiatives. There are, however, regulations for these camper parks. According to the government guidelines, these things need to be taken care of. 

Government guidelines for caravan parks in India

• Caravan Parks to be operational 24 x 7 during season
• Caravan Parks to be connected by a fair-weather road from the main road
• Caravan Parks shall have all necessary trading licenses / NOCs from the concerned authorities, including a fire NOC
• Establishment shall have public liability insurance
• Standardisation of electricity, water and sewage connections to ensure total compatibility with Caravan specifications in India.
• The parks could be standalone or hybrid. However, in the case of hybrid parks, the caravan parking facilities and related services should be physically separated and be away from other services like wayside amenities, restaurants, general vehicle parking or accommodation, etc.

Camping destinations you should explore

Wondering what destinations are perfect for caravan tourism? We got you. Here are some suggestions.

Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

This caravan dreamland is a white-salt desert with a limitless sky. Enjoy local crafts, dancing, folk music, and surreal moonlit scenery when you visit during the Rann Utsav and park your caravan close to the cultural centres. Your closest significant supply stop is Bhuj. Campsites with amenities that are suitable for caravans are beginning to appear all throughout Dhordo. It's the perfect place to drive alone because of the level terrain and unobstructed roadways.

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer is the original nomadic fantasy, with its golden beaches, historic forts, and caravan romance. In Sam or Khuri, camp under the stars after driving by striking desert dunes. Here, a lot of caravan parks provide water, electricity, and covered areas. After exploring the beautiful Jaisalmer Fort and shopping at vibrant bazaars, you can head back to your comfortable van while the desert winds outside tell you stories.

Coorg, Karnataka

One of the OGs when it comes to caravan tourism, this one is hard to miss. Bring your caravan to Coorg if you're in the mood for misty mornings and coffee-scented air. There are lots of nature stops along the lush, winding, and picturesque roads, making them ideal for a leisurely drive. There are a few homestays and resorts that welcome caravans and provide parking and overnight accommodations. Enjoy regional beer, see coffee estates, go on a walk to a waterfall, and end the day while listening to the sounds of the forest.

Wayanad, Kerala

A unique yet approachable caravan experience can be enjoyed in Wayanad, with its verdant woods, waterfalls, and tribal communities. With Kerala's recent initiatives to promote caravan tourism, the district has begun to embrace it. There are eco-resorts or modest estates that provide secure overnight parking, and the roads are kept up nicely.  You may bathe in freshwater streams, see spice farms, wildlife sanctuaries, and caverns.

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Spiti is raw, rugged, and wild. From May to October, it's one of the most beautiful caravan routes you can explore. The vistas from the winding roads and high-altitude desert will make you feel like your problems have miraculously vanished. Although there aren't many amenities, homestays and monasteries frequently greet visitors with warm grins and hot chai, so bring your necessities. As the sun sets, set up your caravan next to cliffs or rivers and observe the starry sky, which is super rare in the cities. 

Which destination are you exploring first?