Village Walks in the Himalayas

1. Day 1 Arrive Delhi

   Arrive at Delhi International Airport. Delhi: The bustling capital of India is a vibrant megapolis. A near-perfect blend of the ancient and the modern, Delhi, consisting of two parts Old & New Delhi, is a city with something for everyone. From Forts and monuments that are almost centuries-old to modern shopping malls, nightclubs and golf courses, Delhi truly is India's crown jewel. Upon clearing Customs and Immigration, you are met by our representative who will present you with a welcome pack including all necessary documentation and arrange your transfer to The Claridges Hotel for check-in. No activity is scheduled today, since most of the International flights arrive into India close to midnight only. The Claridges: Located in the heart of the city, The Claridges has been a landmark in Lutyens Delhi since the 1950s. Set on 3 acres of land, the hotel is a low-rise building with only three floors. It is within close proximity of the business district, ministries, diplomatic missions, shopping & cultural centers and historical landmarks. The Hotel's facilities include a Swimming Pool, Health Club, and several Bars and Restaurants. Overnight in Delhi.

2. Day 2 Train Delhi – Kathgodam (2005/0505 hrs)

   This morning you are collected from your hotel for a full-day tour of Old and New Delhi. The tour of the old city takes you back to the 17th-century. Visit the magnificent Red Fort listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the great mosque of Jama Masjid, the main street of Old Delhi which is also the colorful shopping bazaar known as Chandni Chowk ("Moonlit Street"). Drive past Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. The tour of New Delhi includes the Humayun's Tomb- a world heritage site and the precursor of the Taj Mahal. Drive down the spectacular Rajpath ("the Kingsway") passing the India Gate (the memorial built to commemorate the unknown soldiers,) the President's House, and the House of Parliament. Late evening transfer to the railway station in time to connect overnight train for Kathgodam. Overnight onboard train.

3. Day 3 Arrive Kathgodam and drive to Itmenaan Estate (3 ½ hrs)

   Upon arrival at Kathgodam Railway Station, you are met by our representative and driven to the Itmenaan Estate. The drive to the Itmenaan Estate, is on a beautiful road, lined with forests of Oak, Rhododendron and Chir Pine on either side. Your journey through the lesser Himalayas takes you past the small picturesque hamlets of Almora and Bhimtal. The final approach to the Estate is done on foot, with a short 10 minute down hill walk. The Itmenaan Estate, is spread over 10 acres of virgin pine, oak and rhododendron trees, and terraced fields where seasonal fruits and vegetables are grown, and even has it’s own perennial natural water spring. Offering panoramic views of some of the highest Himalayan peaks, the Estate has a large 100-year-old traditional Kumaoni style house, that has now been restored. The afternoon is free to relax and unwind in the beautiful Himalayan surroundings. Overnight at the Itmenaan Estate.

4. Day 4 Itmenaan Estate - Thikalna Villge House (2-5 hours walk)

   After a hearty breakfast at the Lodge, begin your Himalayan Village walk, through the remote mountain countryside, walking towards the Thikalna Village House. From Thikalna, you will walk to and explore the neighboring village of Dhaulchina and Barechina, walking through trails that are full of rhododendron trees, and through pine forests. The evening is free to leisurely explore the surroundings and perhaps interacting with the local community. Overnight at the Thikalna Village House.

5. Day 5 Thikalna village house – Ganghet village house (4-5 hours walk)

   After breakfast at the Village House, you resume your Village Walk, by walking along the ridge to the Bridh Jageshwar temple, an area that offers beautiful views of the Nanda Devi range. Also visit the Jageshwar Temple, about a one hour walk away. After a simple home-style picnic lunch, that will be served by your guide, in the midst of a Cedar forest, you walk uphill to the Ganghet Village House, which will be your home for today. Overnight at the Ganghet Village House.

6. Day 6 Ganghet village house – Itmenaan Estate (4-5 hours walk)

   After breakfast at the Village House, you begin a 2-hour downhill walk, via the temple of Jhankarsem, one of the most famous temples of the Kumaon region, and then the valley of Dudum again you get a chance to walk through several small villages, excellent photo opportunities, and an excellent opportunity to interact with the local villagers. After a picnic lunch at the base of the Dudum valley, you begin a two hour uphill walk, leading you back to the comforts of the Itmenaan Estate. Farewell Dinner at the Itmenaan Estate. Overnight at the Itmenaan Estate.

7. Day 7 Itmenaan Estate – Kathgodam (3 ½ hours) andtrain Kathgodam – Delhi (2035/0515 hr

   The day is at leisure to relax and enjoy the mesmerizing Himalayan views from the Estate. For the adventurous, there is an opportunity to take either birding or photography tours, or, walks to the nearby villages and farms. After a day of relaxation, late afternoon transfer to the Kathgodam Railway Station (3 ½ hours) in time to board your overnight train back to Delhi. Overnight onboard train.

8. Day 8 Arrive Delhi & Depart

   Arrive Delhi at 0515 hrs. Get assisted on arrival at the railway station and transfer to the Delhi International airport in time to board the flight home.

Price

Start from: USD 1256 Per Person

Accommodation

Important Information

• Small supplements may apply for travel between 20th December' and 05th January'.
• The figure quoted above is net per person in US Dollars.