Wild Walking Mountains & Villages
Example Itinerary
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Overview
Considered amongst the most beautiful mountain landscapes on earth, the Indian Himalayas provide the breath-taking backdrop to this unforgettable journey into the wild lands of northern India. Staying at some of the most exclusive hideaways on the continent, the journey takes you by first class train and jeep deep into the heart of rural India. Beginning with an overnight train journey into the foothills of the Himalayas, you will travel from Delhi into the beautiful landscapes of the Kumaon ...
Considered amongst the most beautiful mountain landscapes on earth, the Indian Himalayas provide the breath-taking backdrop to this unforgettable journey into the wild lands of northern India. Staying at some of the most exclusive hideaways on the continent, the journey takes you by first class train and jeep deep into the heart of rural India. Beginning with an overnight train journey into the foothills of the Himalayas, you will travel from Delhi into the beautiful landscapes of the Kumaon Hills, to explore the villages around Almora. Hiking across some of the most spectacular landscapes in northern India you will pass through villages that have changed little in centuries, staying at a succession of unique mountain retreats and remote village properties. Turning your back on the mountains, you then head into the landscapes of the Corbett Tiger Reserve, one of India’s most important and first tiger sanctuaries. Here you will have an opportunity to track the rare and elusive tiger, before continuing to the banks of the sacred Ganges and the spiritual setting of Rishkesh, “The Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas”
Meet the Expert
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
How Tailor-Made Works
Discuss your initial ideas with one of our experts, the types of things you want to see and do.
Your expert will start designing your perfect trip. Within a day or two we'll send a suggested itinerary.
At this stage you can still tweak anything from accommodation to experiences and dates, using our expert advice.
Time to prepare for your trip, safe in the knowledge you'll be in the expert hands of local guides and drivers throughout.
Relax and enjoy...through our partners you'll have support on the ground as well as 24-hour emergency assistance in the UK.
Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 DELHI - KATHGODAM
Arrive Delhi, you will be taken straight to your hotel before your sightseeing of the Indian capital via rickshaw, which will include a look around the new town and a trip into the heart of the old town. After an early dinner you will jump straight into this adventure by boarding your overnight train to Kathgodam in the foothills of the Indian Himalayas.
Day 2 KATHGODAM - ALMORA
Situated on the banks of the Gaula River, Kathgodam is the last stop on the line and from here you alight the train and drive on to Kalmatia, enjoying the beautiful serenity of the surrounding landscapes as you make your way towards the Ayurved Kalmatia Resort.
Day 3 ALMORA - NAUGAON
You will be driven to Itmenaan Estate, set in a peaceful rural setting in the Kumaon Himalayas. You may choose to laze around or read a book, admire mesmerising valleys and snow-clad peaks, enjoy the warmth of bonfire, gaze at the countless stars in night time. Those who are looking for some more walking within and around the estate you may trek to the highest point for enchanting views or roam the beautiful oak and rhododendron forests.
Day 4 NAUGAON
Begin your village walk from the estate, a 500-metre ascent. On reaching the village, one gets a sense of having travelled back in time. All houses are constructed in traditional Kumaoni architecture with locally available materials. After spending time in the village and experiencing a totally different way of life, it is time to visit the local temple and pay obeisance to the gods. The little village temple that falls on the final leg of the walk is dedicated to the local deity, Siam. Villagers believe that the deity guards their crops and livestock and thus ensures prosperity.
Day 5 NAUGAON – ALMORA – THIKALNA VILLAGE
Journey on to Almore today by road. Stop at the charming Chitai Temple, dedicated to Golu Devta, who is considered to be the God of Justice. As one approaches the temple, the first thing that strikes you is hundreds of bells hanging at the entrance, hung here after Golu Devta has granted someone a wish. Continue to Thikalna, a picturesque hill station which is among the few hill stations of India not created by the British. In fact, it is an ancient town, and some 400 years ago, it was the capital of the Chand Rajas of Kumaon.
Day 6 THIKALNA VILLAGE
Today's walk sees you following a trail to Dhaulchina, Kachula and Barechina. Sights on the trail include villages buzzing with little children, people farming their fields, peaceful pine forests, elderly men enjoying their hookah over tea, cattle grazing, and the elegant Magpie. From Barechina you will walk back to the village house for a late lunch. Rest of the day may be spent at leisure or you may explore the neighbouring countryside.
Day 7 THIKALNA - KOT NAIKANA
After a leisurely breakfast, walk along the ridge towards Bridh Jageshwar temple complex (2229-metres) with beautiful views of the Nanda Devi range on your left. The next destination on your walk is the Temple of Jageshwar (1780 metres), believed to have been constructed between the 8th century and the 18th century. Enjoy a picnic lunch before an uphill walk to the village of Gurdabaj through some of the oldest Deodar forests in the entire region. The evening may be spent at leisure by a bonfire.
Day 8 KOT NAIKANA - BHIMTAL
Following breakfast, walk to your vehicle and driver who will transport you to Bhimtal. Arrive at Fredy's Bungalow, located in the midst of acres of dense oak forest, this is a peaceful haven where only the sounds of nature break the silence. A steep mountain trail, adjacent to the bungalow, leads to 'the Ridge' with its breath-taking view of the Sattal Lakes below and Nainital in the distance. A level walking track from the bungalow offers an easy and short walk to these lakes.
Day 9 BHIMTAL – CORBETT NATIONAL PARK
After a leisurely breakfast you will then be driven on to the Corbett National Park, stopping en route to visit Jim Corbett’s Museum in Kaladhungi. Late afternoon you will experience a game drive at Corbett National Park, one of the country’s most important tiger sanctuaries.
Day 10 CORBETT NATIONAL PARK
With a tiger population of around 160, Corbett National Park is one of India's most spectacular wildlife preserves. Set amongst the rich landscapes of the Ramganga River Valley, it is also one of the best places in India for bird-watching, with something close to 600 different species being recorded here. Early this morning set out on a wild game drive through the park, before enjoying an afternoon at leisure.
Day 11 CORBETT - RISHIKESH
After being collected from your lodge this morning, you will drive for around 6 hours to the holy town of Rishikesh, travelling through a multitude of colourful towns en route to the sumptuous setting of your next hotel.
Day 12 RISHIKESH
Today you can enjoy some time at leisure to relax or explore Rishikesh, also known as the 'place of sages'. It is found at the confluence of the Chandrabhaga and Ganga, where the Garhwal Mountains rise abruptly from the Gangetic plains. Its many ashrams – some clearly humbly ascetic, with others verging on opulent - continue to draw devotees and followers from around the world. The whole place is considered to be sacred, as it is believed that meditation here leads to attainment of salvation. There are some wonderful activities on offer, including river rafting, evening aarti, bird-watching walks, yoga classes, market visits, visiting the Beatles Ashram, mountain hikes, and many more.
Day 13 RISHIKESH
Enjoy another day at leisure today, before this evening witnessing one of India’s great ceremonies. The Ganga Aarti in Rishikesh is an unforgettably spiritual experience, generally beginning at sunset and lasting for about an hour to an hour and a half. The aarti is performed by a group of young priests as they chant holy prayers and perform sacred rituals using oil lamps in order to provide offerings to the holy river, and it can only be witnessed in a handful of places in India.
Day 14 RISHIKESH - DELHI
Ending your journey as you began it, you travel back to Delhi by train this morning. On arrival in the Indian capital you will met and transferred to the airport in time to catch your onward flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Jim's Jungle Retreat, Corbett National Park
Jim's Jungle Retreat is a slightly alternative camp option in the area, about half an hour from the main park entrance. The hotel is based about 15km from the main entrance to the National Park but is in a great location, allowing wildlife and bird life to enter the grounds. The hotel focuses on nature and offers very comfortable lodgings in the form of rooms and tents.The newer 'Jungle lodges' are first floor rooms with 3 sided verandas, and are set away from the main restaurant area and pool but are slightly more modern and luxurious. The hotel offers nature packages, with nature walks, bird watching and also visits into the National Park. This is a great option offering a taste of camping luxury in very natural surroundings.
Ayurved Kalmatia, Almora
Built in 1867 by a British Captain, this British colonial style building is now the ultimate healing destination in the Himalaya’s. Overlooking the town of Almora, seven kilometres away, the three-star accommodation is set within fourteen acres upon a hilltop of the Kumaon Himalayan region. British colonial style cottages are now dotted around the estate with Kumaoni architectural influences. The cottages are heated with bukhari wood burning stoves during the winter and all feature an en suite bathroom and private verandahs. The ancient Indian system of healing and living, Ayurveda, is practised here and is best enjoyed in the treatment centre, also complete with a swimming pool, jacuzzi and sky shower session. Walk through the garden of healing to reconnect with your environment and your own core self. Reach the Naivedya restaurant with outstanding mountain views from the terrace and fresh produce served from the garden. Book a personal Yoga Acharya during your stay for a comprehensive set of asanas, pranayamas and meditation techniques.
Itmenaan Estate, Naugaon
The Itmenaan Estate is set within a ten-acre resort in the Kumain Himalaya. Take a stroll through the resort, basking in the shade of virgin pine, oak and rhododendron trees and sampling seasonal fruits and vegetables from the terraced fields. The main house has been restored from a 100-year-old traditional Kumaoni style stone house with fantastic panoramic views of the Himalayas. Stay in the main house or in your own private cottage with a lovely sitting room and a king size bedroom. All bathrooms are designed in the traditional Kumaoni architectural style, using local stones and no cementing material, yet have modern fixtures and fittings. The restaurant serves delicious and well thought out recipes that range from traditional Kumaoni, regular North Indian, to dishes from the Western world. Only fresh, seasonal produce is used - either from the estates organic farms or sourced locally. From the lodge, choose to enjoy the warmth of the campfire, hike to another enchanting view, help in the estate farm or walk to a nearby village to share a pot of tea with the residents.
Thikalna Village House, Thikalna
Stay at Thikalna Village House, a simple and quiet three-star mountain retreat owned by Itmenaan Estate. High up in the mountains and surrounded by oak, rhododendron and pine forests, guests will appreciate the romantic view of the Himalayas. The accommodation does not have electricity, but it still offers a very comfortable stay with solar lanterns, comfy double beds, en suite bathrooms and cosy sofas. There are only two double rooms in the retreat, ensuring privacy and excellent service from the friendly staff. Along the trekking route, you will only see local villagers and keen trekkers. There is a kitchen where staff prepare Kumaoni style cuisine, best enjoyed on the outside eating area.
Fredy’s Bungalow, Bhimtal
Only two kilometres from Bhimtal Lake is the three-star Fredy’s Bungalow. Nestled amongst cypress and deodar trees, along a hill side, the colonial style property is set within an outstanding location overlooking Bhimtal valley. There are only four rooms available with private bathrooms, elegant furnishings and modern facilities. Each room opens out to a romantic wooden veranda with forest and garden views. The shared living area is adorned with the in-house butterfly collection and restored antique furniture, topped off with a cosy fireplace with franklin stove. At Fredy’s Bungalow, sample some popular mouth-watering recipes of Kumaoni cuisine, prepared using fresh ingredients, as well as a wide selection of regular Indian and Continental dishes are served.
Atali Ganga, Rishikesh
Kot Naikana Village House, Kot Naikana
Hotel Rating
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Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
MEALS
TRANSPORT
ENTRANCE FEES
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
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EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
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HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Shalmali
Shalmali is our Indian Subcontinent expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Shalmali by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258
OTHER ITINERARIES IN INDIA
Check out our group tours in India
As well as private tailor-made trips, we also offer small group tours (max size 12) to India. Led by an experienced tour leader, travel with a group of like-minded people on one of our award-winning group tours.
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