Himalayas and Village Life

Kumaon Himalayas

Tour Description: Guided

Kumaon, located in the Himalayas, is often referred to as the Land of Gods (Dev Bhumi) due to the many important pilgrimage centres found throughout the state. Magnificent views of the Himalayan peaks, fascinating flora and fauna, picturesque terraced fields being tended by colorfully-attired women, amazing setting of the small villages dotted on the hillsides and charming local cultures – provide the perfect blend for a memorable holiday.

Charmingly, you also get to stay in traditional village houses, stunningly located and have been touched up (and added on with attached bathrooms) to provide very comfortable lodging without compromising the authenticity. 

This region in the lower Himalayas is one of the most scenic rides in India. Every bend has a surprise, dense aromatic forests with misty blue hills in the distance, a lonely hilltop temple, and mirror-smooth lakes that fielded reflections of the surrounding loveliness.

The divine palette boasts a spectrum of colours in the mountains: blue sky,white clouds, green terraced fields, dark green heaven-needling pines, fruit orchards, etc.

Most sections / parts of the road are asphalt surface. However, road conditions are unpredictable in this Himalayan region and could be under repair and might not have an asphalt surface at the time. Mountain bikes are provided.

Learn more about guided tours. 

Tour Description: Self-guided

Kumaon, located in the Himalayas, is often referred to as the Land of Gods (Dev Bhumi) due to the many important pilgrimage centres found throughout the state. Magnificent views of the Himalayan peaks, fascinating flora and fauna, picturesque terraced fields being tended by colorfully-attired women, amazing setting of the small villages dotted on the hillsides and charming local cultures – provide the perfect blend for a memorable holiday.

Charmingly, you also get to stay in traditional village houses, stunningly located and have been touched up (and added on with attached bathrooms) to provide very comfortable lodging without compromising the authenticity. 

This region in the lower Himalayas is one of the most scenic rides in India. Every bend has a surprise, dense aromatic forests with misty blue hills in the distance, a lonely hilltop temple, and mirror-smooth lakes that fielded reflections of the surrounding loveliness.

The divine palette boasts a spectrum of colours in the mountains: blue sky,white clouds, green terraced fields, dark green heaven-needling pines, fruit orchards, etc.

Most sections / parts of the road are asphalt surface. However, road conditions are unpredictable in this Himalayan region and could be under repair and might not have an asphalt surface at the time. Mountain bikes are provided.

Learn more about guided tours. 

Highlights: Guided

• Stunning views of the Himalayan peaks
• Quaint country roads where life moves at a snail’s pace
• Rich flora and fauna in this hilly region
• 1 night stay at a traditional village house
• Game drive at Corbett National Park to sight the elusive Tiger 
• Interaction with local village communities 

Highlights: Self-guided

• Stunning views of the Himalayan peaks
• Quaint country roads where life moves at a snail’s pace
• Rich flora and fauna in this hilly region
• 1 night stay at a traditional village house
• Game drive at Corbett National Park to sight the elusive Tiger 
• Interaction with local village communities 

Daily Program: Guided

Day 1: Arrival
Arrive in Delhi today. Airport transfers will be provided to all participants. Please note hotel check-in time is 12 noon.  
Delhi with its Old and New sections — each with its specific charm and glory — makes a very interesting city for its sustenance to medieval and modern cultures at the same time and space. While Old Delhi, built by Mughal Emperor Shahjehan in the 17th century, still retains its medieval character to a great extent and almost indubitably reminds one of the crowded old towns of the Middle East; New Delhi is like any other modern city with tall buildings and massive shopping complexes.
Accommodation: The Claridges; Meals provided: None
Overnight in Delhi. 

Day 2: Delhi - Naukuchiyatal
Today we will drive to Naukuchiatal (300 km / 8 hr) in the foothills of the Himalayas. We will drive through the sugar bowl of India – en route stopping for lunch. On arrival in Naukuchiatal we will check in to the hotel and spend the rest of the day in leisure.
Accommodation: Lake Resort; Meals provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Naukuchiatal. 

 Day 3: Naukuchiyatal
Post breakfast, we spend the day trying out our cycles and exploring the Naukuchiatal and Saat Tal area.
Naukuchiatal means ‘Lake of Nine Corners’ and is a small hill station with a 175-foot deep lake surrounded by hills covered in trees and shrubs. It is the deepest of the numerous lakes in the region and is fed by an underground perennial spring. 
Saat tal, located 30 km from Naukuchiatal, literally means seven lakes. That is what it is – a group of seven connected lakes in the picturesque Mehragaon Valley. Though this place is popular with travellers, yet it remains unspoilt and serene.  
Accommodation: Lake Resort; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Naukuchiyatal.   

Day 4: Naukuchiyatal - Mukteshwar
After breakfast we will start riding up to Mukteshwar. It is a gradual uphill ride through pine trees that opens up to very picturesque landscapes.
Mukteshwar gets its name from a 350-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as Mukteshwar Dham, situated atop the highest point in the town. This is a great place to observe eagles and other feathered scavengers as they swoop down at their prey. Indeed, views of the Himalayan Peaks from Mukteshwar are simply stunning. 
On arrival check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day in leisure.
Accommodation: Te Aroha; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Mukteshwar. 

Day 5: Mukteshwar - Chalnichhina
Post breakfast, we ride to the village of Chalnichhina. The ride is predominantly downhill with a bit of uphill towards the end when nearing Chalnichhina. Located amidst Oak trees and terrace farmlands, Chalnichhina offers great views of the valley and the snow-capped mountains.
We will stay at 10-acre Itmenaan Estate, a fairytale getaway in a peaceful rural setting in the Kumaon Himalayas. The 10-acre estate includes virgin pine, oak and rhododendron trees; terraced fields laden with seasonal fruits and vegetables; and to top it all, a small private perennial natural spring. The estate offers panoramic views of the Himalayas including the majestic Nanda Devi.
Accommodation: Itmenaan Estate. Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Chalnichhina. 

 Day 6: Chalnichhina
You may spend the whole day at leisure or explore the area on your own. There are beautiful oak and rhododendron forests as well as orchards on the estate where various farming activities are on going and you may partake in them. 
For those feeling more adventurous, we will arrange a day hike with picnic lunch in the neighbouring area. You will be accompanied by an experienced walk guide who will share his knowledge about the region and help you connect with the local people. Share tea with locals, hike to the highest point for enchanting view.
Accommodation: Itmenaan Estate; Includled meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Chalnichhina. 

Day 7: Chalnichhina - Thikalna
This morning, we start cycling to the temples of Jageshwar. It is a beautiful ride through Oak and Deodar forests with picturesque views of the hills and the valley below. These temples are believed to have been constructed between the 8th century and the 18th century. The architecture belongs to the Nagara style of North India, characterized by a tall curved spire surmounted by an amalaka (capstone) and a kalasha crown.
After the temple visit, we will continue cycling uphill to Jwalabanj. From the top of the hill, we ride down a dirt track to the village of Thikalna where we will stay at a village house. From here one gets the most scenic view of the Himalayan peaks and the main massif of Nanda Devi.
Accommodation: Thikalna Village House; Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Thikalna. 

 Day 8: Thikalna - Corbett (37 miles/60 km)
Drive to picturesque Ranikhet for lunch. Later, we will cycle downhill to Corbett National Park, leaving behind the hills and the mountains.
Corbett is one of the finest National Parks in India. The park covers an area of 500 sq. km. and comprises the broad valley of the Ramganga River in the foothills of the Himalayas. This has resulted in great habitat diversity and given the park scenic charm and some magnificent sub-mountain and riverine views. One can see Himalayan animals along with numerous other animals and flora of peninsular India.  
The park was established in 1936 and later renamed after Jim Corbett, who spent many years in this area and wrote the book, The Man Eaters of Kumaon. The park has always been noted for its tigers and it was here that the prestigious ‘Project Tiger’ was launched in 1973. 
Accommodation: Corbett Hideaway; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner; Terrain: Hill road until Ranikhet; afterwards descend all the way to Corbett.
Overnight in Corbett. 

Day 9: Corbett
Today in the morning and afternoon we will enjoy game safari in the park. The rest of the day may be spent in leisure.
The morning safari starts around 6 AM and the afternoon safari starts around 2 PM, each lasting for about 3 hours in open jeeps. A trained driver and a nature guide will accompany you and help you explore the wilderness of Corbett. 
Accommodation: Corbett Hideaway; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Corbett. 

Day 10: Corbett – Delhi – Onward Destination
Drive to Delhi. Departures on your own from Delhi or request us for an extension tour. (Recommended: An extension tour to Agra to see the Taj Mahal!).
Included meals: Breakfast

Daily Program: Self-guided

Dates: Guided

Mar 9, 2013. Daily depatures available on request from May through September for parties of 2 or more.

Dates: Self-guided

Route Map: Guided

Route Map: Self-guided

Packages and Prices: Guided

Tour package (guided)
Per person, double occupancy $2124 Single room supplement (1 person/1 room) $738 Bike Rentals Trek mountain bike (included in tour price) $0

Packages and Prices: Self-guided

Included Services: Guided

• Accommodation on twin-share basis in the mentioned hotels
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
• Transport in air-conditioned vehicle
• Services of accompanying Cycling Escort
• Day hike at Itmenaan Estate with a Guide
• 2 Game Drives at Corbett National Park
• For cycling we have included the following: Cycles, spare cycles, transportation of cycles, backup vehicle, mechanic, helper, GPS data 
• All currently applicable taxes 

Not included: 

• Items of personal nature like tips, laundry, telephone calls, drinks, etc
• Any other meals than those mentioned above
• International or domestic airfare
• Any insurance coverage
• Airport or VISA fee
• Camera charges at monuments
• Any extra expenses incurred for reasons beyond our control such as emergency evacuation, natural calamity, etc
• Any other item not specifically mentioned above in the included services

Included Services: Self-guided

Hotels: Guided

These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability. 

Delhi: The Claridges (Deluxe Hotel) 
http://www.claridges.com/the-claridges-newdelhi/overview.asp
The Claridges is one of the best addresses in Lutyens' Delhi since the 1950s. Graceful architecture, elegant décor, and a seamless blend of old-world charm and contemporary facilities have made it a premier hotel in New Delhi. It is set amid the verdant centre of the city in close proximity of the business district, shopping and cultural centres and historical landmarks. 

Naukuchiyatal: Lake Resort (Standard Category – Best Available) http://thelakeresort.in/ 
The lake resort Naukuchiatal lies amidst miles of oak and pine forests. Aesthetically designed accommodation units, with each room offering stunning views of the lake combined with homely meals and warm service await you here.

Mukteshwar: Te Aroha (Standard Category – Best Available)
http://www.tearoha.in/
Te Aroha is a colonial-style summer house converted into a boutique luxury hotel amidst scenic surroundings. The original structure of a summer house that once stood on the property has been successfully preserved to retain its original charm.  Huge decks and terraces, antique furniture, massive glass windows with breathtaking views of the landscape can transport you through time to the bygone elegance of the colonial era.

Itmenaan Estate (Heritage – Boutique)
http://itmenaanlodges.com/itmenaan.html
Itmenaan Estate is a fairytale getaway in a peaceful rural setting in the Kumaon Himalayas. The 10-acre estate includes virgin pine, oak and rhododendron trees; terraced fields laden with seasonal fruits and vegetables; and to top it all, a small private perennial natural spring. The estate offers panoramic views of the Himalayas including the majestic Nanda Devi.

Thikalna: Thikalna Village House 
Thikalna is a charming traditional Kumaoni village house that has been carefully renovated without compromising the architecture or the sensitivity of its surroundings. The house is stunning located with beautiful views of valley, snow-clad Himalayas and terraced fields. It has tastefully furnished bedrooms with extremely good quality linen and mattresses, attached bathrooms with modern fittings, a small sitting-dining area and a fully equipped traditional kitchen. 

Corbett: Corbett Hideaway (4 star resort – Best Available)
http://www.leisurehotels.co.in/corbett/
Here you will stay at Corbett Hideaway. Spread over an area of 13 acres, this resort is concealed in the thick of a mango grove. Exotic mixed shrubbery, alive with flowers, is crossed by pebbled paths leading to charming cottages with open sit outs. The wonderful stillness is broken only by the sound of the Kosi River and myriad birds. 

Hotels: Self-guided

These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability. 

Delhi: The Claridges (Deluxe Hotel) 
http://www.claridges.com/the-claridges-newdelhi/overview.asp
The Claridges is one of the best addresses in Lutyens' Delhi since the 1950s. Graceful architecture, elegant décor, and a seamless blend of old-world charm and contemporary facilities have made it a premier hotel in New Delhi. It is set amid the verdant centre of the city in close proximity of the business district, shopping and cultural centres and historical landmarks. 

Naukuchiyatal: Lake Resort (Standard Category – Best Available) http://thelakeresort.in/ 
The lake resort Naukuchiatal lies amidst miles of oak and pine forests. Aesthetically designed accommodation units, with each room offering stunning views of the lake combined with homely meals and warm service await you here.

Mukteshwar: Te Aroha (Standard Category – Best Available)
http://www.tearoha.in/
Te Aroha is a colonial-style summer house converted into a boutique luxury hotel amidst scenic surroundings. The original structure of a summer house that once stood on the property has been successfully preserved to retain its original charm.  Huge decks and terraces, antique furniture, massive glass windows with breathtaking views of the landscape can transport you through time to the bygone elegance of the colonial era.

Itmenaan Estate (Heritage – Boutique)
http://itmenaanlodges.com/itmenaan.html
Itmenaan Estate is a fairytale getaway in a peaceful rural setting in the Kumaon Himalayas. The 10-acre estate includes virgin pine, oak and rhododendron trees; terraced fields laden with seasonal fruits and vegetables; and to top it all, a small private perennial natural spring. The estate offers panoramic views of the Himalayas including the majestic Nanda Devi.

Thikalna: Thikalna Village House 
Thikalna is a charming traditional Kumaoni village house that has been carefully renovated without compromising the architecture or the sensitivity of its surroundings. The house is stunning located with beautiful views of valley, snow-clad Himalayas and terraced fields. It has tastefully furnished bedrooms with extremely good quality linen and mattresses, attached bathrooms with modern fittings, a small sitting-dining area and a fully equipped traditional kitchen. 

Corbett: Corbett Hideaway (4 star resort – Best Available)
http://www.leisurehotels.co.in/corbett/
Here you will stay at Corbett Hideaway. Spread over an area of 13 acres, this resort is concealed in the thick of a mango grove. Exotic mixed shrubbery, alive with flowers, is crossed by pebbled paths leading to charming cottages with open sit outs. The wonderful stillness is broken only by the sound of the Kosi River and myriad birds. 

Bike Rentals: Guided

 Khana-badosh offers two options of rental bikes, which come included in the tour price. 

1. Trek 3700 – 21 gear, V brake, cross handle bar, adjustable seat post, comes in 16, 18, 21 inch frames, wide mountain bike tires, front shock absorbers, standard pedals but can be replaced with your clips, bottle cage provided, helmet provided. Extra bottle cages available and the repair kits are with the mechanic and guide on the trip.

2. GT Traffic 2.0/3.0 – 27/24 gear, V brake, cross handle bar, adjustable seat post, comes in S, M, L frames, hybrid bike tires, front fork - stiff, standard pedals but can be replaced with your clips, bottle cage provided, helmet provided. Extra bottle cages available and the repair kits are with the mechanic and guide on the trip.

Bike Rentals: Self-guided

 Khana-badosh offers two options of rental bikes, which come included in the tour price. 

1. Trek 3700 – 21 gear, V brake, cross handle bar, adjustable seat post, comes in 16, 18, 21 inch frames, wide mountain bike tires, front shock absorbers, standard pedals but can be replaced with your clips, bottle cage provided, helmet provided. Extra bottle cages available and the repair kits are with the mechanic and guide on the trip.

2. GT Traffic 2.0/3.0 – 27/24 gear, V brake, cross handle bar, adjustable seat post, comes in S, M, L frames, hybrid bike tires, front fork - stiff, standard pedals but can be replaced with your clips, bottle cage provided, helmet provided. Extra bottle cages available and the repair kits are with the mechanic and guide on the trip.

Surface and Terrain: Guided

This tour is on generally rolling hills with average daily distances of up to 45 miles (70km).

Most sections of the road are asphalt surface. However, road conditions are unpredictable in this Himalayan region and could be under repair with broken asphalt. (Mountain bikes are provided).

This tour is rated Moderate and is for cyclists in good physical condition. 

Surface and Terrain: Self-guided

This tour is on generally rolling hills with average daily distances of up to 45 miles (70km).

Most sections of the road are asphalt surface. However, road conditions are unpredictable in this Himalayan region and could be under repair with broken asphalt. (Mountain bikes are provided).

This tour is rated Moderate and is for cyclists in good physical condition. 

How To Get There: Guided

Tour start and end: 

Nearest airport: New Delhi

The tour company provides all transfers from the start and end of the trip.

How To Get There: Self-guided

Tour start and end: 

Nearest airport: New Delhi

The tour company provides all transfers from the start and end of the trip.

Weather: Guided

Barring peak rainy seasons of June, July, August you can undertake cycling in this region any time of the year. Each month of travel has its own charm:

Sept/Oct/Nov: Cool weather and the mountains views are good

Dec/Jan/Feb/Mar: Cold but the mountain views are at their best

Apr/May: Cool weather, mountains tend to get hazy but rhododendrons are in full bloom

Average temperatures range from maximum of 25°C (77°F) and minimum of 2°C (36°F).

Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.

Get weather information.

Weather: Self-guided

Barring peak rainy seasons of June, July, August you can undertake cycling in this region any time of the year. Each month of travel has its own charm:

Sept/Oct/Nov: Cool weather and the mountains views are good

Dec/Jan/Feb/Mar: Cold but the mountain views are at their best

Apr/May: Cool weather, mountains tend to get hazy but rhododendrons are in full bloom

Average temperatures range from maximum of 25°C (77°F) and minimum of 2°C (36°F).

Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.

Get weather information.

Tour Company Background: Khana-badosh India: Guided

Khana-badosh, meaning a nomad or a gypsy, offers a wide selection of cycling and walking holidays in India, Nepal and Bhutan for people of all ages and ability. Indeed, the word truly reflects the people behind this venture, who share an intense spirit of travel and passion for outdoors.

Managed by a team of travel professionals (with a collective experience of decades in organising outdoor travel related services), Khana-badosh has own offices in North and South India as well as a vast network of associate offices in over 30 cities of India.

We have our own cycling infrastructure with trips to all parts of the country and our cycling expedition leaders are immensely experienced. We take pride in our experienced and multi-talented support staff and mechanics who accompany the groups in support vehicles and are always nearby to offer a lift, refreshments or any other assistance.

We provide local assistance at almost all cities of India through our network of associate offices.    Local guides and naturalists are used for local sightseeing and wildlife viewing so that you can experience and learn from local experts.
Our itineraries are well-researched - they take you to areas of outstanding cultural and natural beauty and offer a comfortable balance of active and leisure time.

Our priority is your comfort, safety, and enjoyment and there is no compromise on that. We charge reasonable prices for quality trips. The hotels we use in major cities are some of the best while in smaller places the hotels we use are THE best available. We know them all personally and have worked with them for numerous years.

Tour Company Background: Khana-badosh India: Self-guided

Khana-badosh, meaning a nomad or a gypsy, offers a wide selection of cycling and walking holidays in India, Nepal and Bhutan for people of all ages and ability. Indeed, the word truly reflects the people behind this venture, who share an intense spirit of travel and passion for outdoors.

Managed by a team of travel professionals (with a collective experience of decades in organising outdoor travel related services), Khana-badosh has own offices in North and South India as well as a vast network of associate offices in over 30 cities of India.

We have our own cycling infrastructure with trips to all parts of the country and our cycling expedition leaders are immensely experienced. We take pride in our experienced and multi-talented support staff and mechanics who accompany the groups in support vehicles and are always nearby to offer a lift, refreshments or any other assistance.

We provide local assistance at almost all cities of India through our network of associate offices.    Local guides and naturalists are used for local sightseeing and wildlife viewing so that you can experience and learn from local experts.
Our itineraries are well-researched - they take you to areas of outstanding cultural and natural beauty and offer a comfortable balance of active and leisure time.

Our priority is your comfort, safety, and enjoyment and there is no compromise on that. We charge reasonable prices for quality trips. The hotels we use in major cities are some of the best while in smaller places the hotels we use are THE best available. We know them all personally and have worked with them for numerous years.

Terms and Conditions: Khana-badosh India: Guided

Terms & Conditions

• There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early.
• We reserve the right to make route and accommodation modifications if the situation demands.
• In case we cancel a trip, all payments received will be fully refunded.
• We are not responsible for expenses incurred due to due to travel delays, flight cancellation or illness.
• If you need to postpone your departure to the next group, you can request us for the same. Previous tour cancellation charges, if applicable as mentioned above, will be advised to you.
• We reserve the right to remove any member of the group during the trip if we feel that person’s conduct or fitness is not compatible with other trip members. 

• We are not liable for bodily injury or property damage as a result of physical exertion for which a guest is not prepared; forces of nature; travel by plane, train, car or bicycle.

 Payment and Cancellation Terms

•  If the tour is cancelled 61 days or more before the start of the tour then 25% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
• If the tour is cancelled within 60-31 Day of the start of the tour then 40% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 30-16 Day of the start of the tour then 60% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 15-6 Day of the start of the tour then 75% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 5 Days of the start of the tour then 90% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges    
• This cancellation policy is applicable with no exceptions including medical and natural emergencies.

Terms and Conditions: Khana-badosh India: Self-guided

Terms & Conditions

• There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early.
• We reserve the right to make route and accommodation modifications if the situation demands.
• In case we cancel a trip, all payments received will be fully refunded.
• We are not responsible for expenses incurred due to due to travel delays, flight cancellation or illness.
• If you need to postpone your departure to the next group, you can request us for the same. Previous tour cancellation charges, if applicable as mentioned above, will be advised to you.
• We reserve the right to remove any member of the group during the trip if we feel that person’s conduct or fitness is not compatible with other trip members. 

• We are not liable for bodily injury or property damage as a result of physical exertion for which a guest is not prepared; forces of nature; travel by plane, train, car or bicycle.

 Payment and Cancellation Terms

•  If the tour is cancelled 61 days or more before the start of the tour then 25% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
• If the tour is cancelled within 60-31 Day of the start of the tour then 40% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 30-16 Day of the start of the tour then 60% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 15-6 Day of the start of the tour then 75% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 5 Days of the start of the tour then 90% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges    
• This cancellation policy is applicable with no exceptions including medical and natural emergencies.