Holiday On Wheels: A Detailed Guide To Plan A Caravan Tour In India

Road tripping through majestic sunsets, waking up next to a pristine waterfall, and traversing rugged mountains across the country - all these encounters have sparked the urge for caravan tours in India. With the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the world, a caravan trip makes perfect sense. Ensuring that all protocols for social distancing and sanitation are followed. This travel trend is the new future of tourism that you can pursue via caravan rental in India. From the freedom of planning your trip to the excitement of exploring the offbeat places, a caravan trip ensures a remarkable experience. If you're planning a caravan trip in India, this detailed guide will help you plan and execute a perfect holiday-on-wheels experience. If you can not choose between the hills and the sea, a campervan Indian road trip is for you. Carvanas, enjoy your holiday without setting plans in stone. These self-contained vehicles have everything on board, from kitchenettes to washrooms, allowing you to carry your life wherever you go. Additionally, you can park almost anywhere you like, meet new people, and explore the local culture along the way with caravan hire in India.

Here is a list of caravans available to rent across different cities for a road trip in India.

What is a Caravan Tour In India?

A Caravan is a motor vehicle or van equipped with a bed and cooking facilities, designed for traversing offbeat routes and exploring remote places during a caravan tour in India. A group of people can use it for a road trip. The vehicle is designed to be easily towed by a car. Camping in nature and exploring offbeat trails will enhance your travel experience. So, if you're tired of the monotonous way of travelling, a caravan trip is the best bet for you. A caravan travel experience in India is a distinctive and adventurous travel experience where travellers explore varied destinations while living in a fully equipped, mobile home on wheels. These caravans, also known as tourist cars or motorhomes, are equipped with basic features, including a bed, a couch, seating, and often a toilet. They offer the comfort of home, combined with the freedom of the road, making them ideal for family caravan travel in India.

Famous among nature lovers for offering offbeat experiences, caravan tourism allows travellers to immerse themselves in India's diverse landscapes, whether it be the Himalayan valleys, Rajasthan's deserts, the lush Western Ghats, or the coastal stretches of Goa and Kerala. With the growing trend of slow travel and socially distanced caravan trips, caravaning has gained popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic, which you can experience through a motorhome rental in India. States such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Karnataka have developed dedicated caravans or campsites with necessary facilities and encouraged road trips to detect low-lying areas safely. These trips are ideal for families, couples, or single people who want a deep connection with flexibility, scenic driving, and the natural world. A caravan tour in India is more than just one trip; it is a lifestyle choice that combines adventure, freedom, and stability in a truly memorable way.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Caravan Trip in India

From planning your itinerary to finding the right camping spots and preparing your meals, there is a lot that goes into planning a road trip or caravan in India. We have curated all the tips and tricks that will help you plan a perfect caravan trip in India for an exceptional holiday experience.

Step-1 Plan your destination and the itinerary

The first step in planning a caravan trip is to decide on a destination. It can be a short weekend getaway near your hometown or a more extended trip that allows you to explore multiple destinations through an RV rental in India. The key to planning a perfect caravan tour in India is to select offbeat destinations that will enable you to stay close to nature and indulge in activities such as trekking and camping, while also discovering some hidden gems. Plan your itinerary, budget, and all the stopover places in advance; last-minute add-ons to your Motohome rental in India trip can be overwhelming. You also need to ensure that you find a safe place for camping and always adhere to the itinerary.

Step-2 Rent a Caravan

Now that you have an idea of the planning, another significant task is to rent a caravan. The easiest and simplest way is to outsource a caravan hire in India from an established company. This will help you plan the routes. They also provide a driver and guide. This will save all the hassle of driving and planning caravan travel in India. You can also rent just the caravan and drive through the routes on your own, ensuring the vehicle is in good condition for safe travel via road trip with a caravan in India. You can even opt for an all-in-one caravan that features all the necessary facilities, including a kitchenette, a lavatory, and roll-out beds.

Step-3 Select the right place to stay

If you plan to camp at a stopover location, choosing a non-isolated spot is the best option when considering how to rent a caravan in India. Stay near the city or the local market. Also, make sure to plan all your accommodations and research them thoroughly before travelling.

 Step-4 Plan Your Meals

A significant part of the trip includes food, and since you're planning a caravan tour in India, you have the liberty to cook on the go. One thing to keep in mind is to gather all the necessary ingredients and prepare meals that are both easy and healthy. For anyone planning a long caravan tour in India, it is essential to have sufficient supplies for cooking and other necessities while you are on a self-drive caravan in India. Make sure to carry extra dry snacks that you can have on the go. Set up a mini refrigerator, induction cooktop, and an adequate supply of drinking water. This will ensure a good supply of home-cooked meals.

Step-5 Stay Organised

To enjoy the trip and have a hassle-free experience on your caravan campervan routes in India, you need to stay organised. Use separate baskets for each item and try to keep the space open and uncluttered, as you will be spending a lot of time in the caravan.

Essential Packing List for Caravan Trip

• Permit: Depending on your tour, you would need a state or national license. If you opt for a rental caravan from Delhi to Manali, the company handles all the necessary permits.
• Camping kit: Carry an essential camping kit that includes sleeping bags, portable chairs, and other essentials, in case of impromptu camping plans.
• Clothes: The key here is to pack minimally and bring clothes that can be reused multiple times. Avoid carrying fancy clothes when you are in a rental caravan in India.
• Cutlery: It's a good idea to carry basic cutlery and cooking utensils, just in case.
• First Aid Kit: A first aid kit containing all the necessary basic first aid supplies and medications should be kept in the caravan in case of unforeseen emergencies.
• Toiletries: Carry extra towels, hand towels, tissues, and basic toiletries for handy use when you hire a caravan in India.

Caravan Companies to Consider In India

Driving through the rugged trails of Leh Ladakh and camping along the heritage circuit of Hampi, India, reveals many great caravan routes. With the shift in travel trends, caravan trips in India are gaining popularity over time. Here are a few companies to consider when planning a caravan tour in India.

• Luxe Camper

This Bangalore-based start-up is India's first commercially approved motorhome. The caravan is available for daily rental, including overnight stays. It can accommodate up to 4 people and provides amenities such as two queen-size beds, a kitchenette, a small refrigerator, a microwave, and a shower. Bheeneshwar, Kabini, Bandipur, and Hampi are a few trips you can take on the Luxe Campervan India road trip.

• Wacation on Wheels

This Nagpur-based hiring company was established in 2016 and provides caravans at affordable rates. They offer options for five-seater and seven-seater caravans, along with facilities such as a TV, shower, kitchenette, and generator, tailored to your specific requirements.

• Motorhome adventures

Founded in 1998, this Delhi-based company offers trips to destinations such as Ladakh, Himachal, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand. The caravan hire in India can accommodate groups of 12 people or smaller groups of 2 people, along with facilities such as a microwave, fridge, lounge area, and bathroom.

• Camper trails

Founded in 2018, this caravan offers trips to destinations such as Sakleshpur, Chikmagalur, Coorg, Gokarna, Kabini, Mangalore, Mysuru, and Bandipur National Park. You can explore via luxury caravan rental in India. It can accommodate five people, providing facilities like a central AC caravan, bathroom, kitchen and lounge area.

• Trippy wheels

These four funky-looking caravans in Bangalore offer trips to destinations such as Hampi, BR Hills, Hirekolale Lake, Dubare Forest Camp, Kundapura, Bhadra Sanctuary, and Sakrebayalu. It provides facilities such as kitchenettes, utensils, bathrooms, and beds in the campervan routes in India.

Things to Keep in Mind While Booking a Caravan Trip In India

1. Choose a Reliable Caravan Rental Provider

• To ensure you make an informed decision, check online reviews, licenses, and insurance coverage.
• Ensure the company provides roadside assistance during travel via RV rental in India.

2. Be mindful of the features of the caravan.

• Confirm the basic features, including beds, cooking facilities, toilets, air conditioning, heating, and backup power.
• Ask about water shortages, waste management and charging points.

3. Route Planning and Parking Spots

• Plan your route and identify caravan-friendly roads for your road trip in India.
• Book a stay at an official caravan park or campsite for access to safety, water, and electricity.

4. Understand Costs

• Clarify rental charges, fuel, driver cost and tolls.
• Ask about security deposits and cancellation policies.

5. Driving License and Permits

• If self-driving, ensure you have a valid driver's license.
• Some states in India may require advance permits for road trip caravans.

6. Connectivity and Emergency Contacts

• Carry maps or GPS systems.
• Ensure mobile network availability or alternative communication options in remote areas.

7. Packing Essentials

• Carry food supplies, extra blankets, a torch, medicines, and eco-friendly toiletries.
• Bring board games or books for entertainment.

8. Follow safety and Environmental Norms.

• Don't litter, respect local rules, and nature while you are on a family caravan travel in India.
• Follow fire and gas safety precautions inside the caravan.

Best Places to Visit in India via Caravan

1. Himachal Pradesh

• Best Routes-Manali-Spiti-Kinnaur
• Why Go- Majestic mountains, serene valleys, and charming villages. There are plenty of open spaces and peaceful camping spots.
• Caravan Parks- Shimla, Sangla, Chitkul.

2. Rajasthan

• Best Routes- Jaipur-Jodhpur-Bikaner-Jaisalmer, the best road trip with a caravan in India.
• Why Go-Desert landscapes, forts, camel rides, and starry night camping in the Thar Desert.
• Caravan Highlights- Desert camping near Sam Sand Dunes

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3. Maharashtra

• Best Routes-Mumbai-Lonavala-Mahabaleshwar-Konkona Coast
• Why Go? Hills, beaches, and lush greenery, especially during the monsoons.
• Caravan Highlights- MTDC(Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation) caravan parks in Lonaval and Malshej Ghat.

4. Karnataka

• Best Routes- Bengaluru-Coorg-Chikmagalur-Gokarna, you can explore even via a self-drive caravan in India.
• Why Go- Coffee estates, serene beaches, and heritage towns.
• Caravan Highlights- Jungle lodges and eco camps welcome caravans.

5. Kerala

• Best Routes- Kochi-Munnar-Thekkady-Alleppey-Varkala
• Why Go- Lush greenery, backwaters, spice gardens, and peaceful beaches.
• Caravan Highlights- Kerala Tourism's Caravan Kerala Initiative offers campsites with essential amenities.

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6. Goa

• Best Routes- North to South Goa beach trail that you can explore with a caravan rental in India.
• Why Go- Coastal views, bohemian vibes, beach camping, and freedom to explore hidden coves.
• Caravan Highlights- Exploring the beautiful picture, friendly views and beaches.

7. Uttarakhand

• Best Routes- Rishikesh-Auli-Valley of Flowers-Binsar
• Why Go- Perfect for nature lovers and spiritual seekers. Mountain views and forest retreats.
• Caravan Highlights- Discover the valleys and mountains via road trips and go on a caravan travel experience in India.

8. Northeast India

• Best Routes- Guwahati-Shillong-Cherrapunji-Kaziranga
• Why Go- Unspoiled nature, waterfalls and wildlife. Requires experienced driving skills and proper permits.
• Caravan Highlights - Best experienced during a campervan India road trip, where nature and peace are experienced hand in hand.

What is the Best Time to Visit India?

The best time to travel to India largely depends on the region you plan to visit, but the most favourable months are usually October to March. During this period, the weather in most parts of India is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, festivals, and outdoor activities that you can experience via caravan hire in India.

In North India, particularly in destinations such as Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh, winter offers cool temperatures, clear skies, and comfortable travel conditions. It's perfect for visiting monuments, trekking in the Himalayas and enjoying desert safaris in Rajasthan.

South India also thrives during these months. States like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka experience milder weather, making backwater cruises, beach holidays and temple tours more enjoyable with RV rental in India.

In Central India, including Madhya Pradesh and parts of Maharashtra, the wildlife sanctuaries are open and teeming with activity. It's the best time for jungle safaris.

Festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Christmas and Makar Sankranti fall during this season, providing lively cultural experiences.

Avoid the summer months in most areas when you are travelling via Motorhome rental in India, except for ground stations, due to excessive heat. The monsoon season brings a juicy landscape, but it can interfere with the travel schedule due to heavy rain. For a generally comfortable and rich experience, the months October to March are ideal.

Final Takeaway

Now that you are all set and prepared to plan a caravan road trip in India, what are you waiting for? Plan a caravan trip in India to explore the best of these stunning landscapes, offbeat routes and stunning surroundings that India has to offer. Hiring a caravan for a road trip in India provides a unique and flexible way to explore the country's diverse landscapes at your own pace. It combines the comfort of home with the freedom of travel, allowing you to visit offbeat destinations, stay amidst nature, and avoid crowded places. As caravan tourism gains popularity, several states now provide dedicated parking spots and campsites, making it a convenient and memorable way to experience India's beauty on wheels, which you can experience with a luxury caravan rental in India.