Hartola Walking Holiday – 2N/3D

Hartola Walking Holiday – 2N/3D

Region
Uttarakhand
Distance
12 km
Max Altitude
2250 m
Max Group Size
12
Duration
3 days / 2 nights
Best Time
mid-September through June
Cost Per Person
₹ Adults - 8900, Kids under 10 yrs - 5400 + 5% GST

Description

Hartola is a relatively unexplored, sleepy village in the Ramgarh/Mukteshwar fruit bowl. The panoramic views from here, fruit orchards, alluring forests and the hikes nearby make it an excellent getaway.

Tranquil Peaks, Hartola is a unique, 100+ year-old Kumaoni heritage home, lovingly restored and repurposed into a welcoming homestay. Enjoy breathtaking views right from your room and go on some of the many scenic hikes nearby. Relax and recharge, while savouring delicious, authentic Kumaoni cuisine prepared by the skilled local staff.

Itinerary

  • Day 1Kathgodam - Hartola (70 km, 2-hour drive), Satpuri temple hike (4 km, 2 hours)

    Arrive at Kathgodam by noon. Drive to Hartola near Mukteshwar. Check into Tranquil Peaks Heritage Homestay, a heritage property with astounding views, set amidst an orchard of plums, peaches, apples, apricots and pears.

    Post lunch, set off on a 3.5 km hike to Satpuri temple and back. The trail follows the unpaved road (as of 2024) up to Satpuri village. Beyond that, we shall follows the path to the left, up to the small Shiva temple. We shall go about 1/2 km beyond the temple through a thick forest and retrace the route back to Tranquil Peaks.

  • Day 2Hike to Maheshwar Farm viewpoint (5 km, 2.5 hours), Hartola temple circuit hike (3.5 km, 2 hours)

    To catch the views, it’s best to start off early in the morning on the hike to a view point beyond Maheswar Farm in the thick rhododendron, oak forest beyond Satpuri village. Return to the homestay and enjoy a hearty breakfast. Enjoy a relaxed morning, and post lunch set off on another exciting hike to Devi Top, the trail to which starts from the Shani temple at the edge of the village. On the return, take another route which brings one to the Shiva temple (Hartola gets its name from the deity here) and then return to Tranquil Peaks.

  • Day 3Hartola - Kathgodam (70 km, 2 hour-drive)

    Check out and embark on the 2-hour drive to Kathgodam, and reach the destination at around 2 pm.

Inclusions

  • 2 nights stay at Tranquil Peaks Heritage Homestay on double-sharing basis. Extra mattress for kids under 10 yrs.
  • All meals starting with lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 3
  • Ground transport – Kathgodam to Hartola and back (Ertiga or equivalent)
  • Guided hikes

FAQ

What will the weather be like at Harola, Mukteshwar?

Minimum temperatures are likely to drop to below 10 deg during summer and to sub-zero deg C during peak winter. So please come prepared with adequate warm clothing. Also, mountain weather is unpredictable and it can rain sometimes. So simple rain gear is also necessary

Does the accommodation have attached bathrooms?

Though it is a heritage property, it has been renovated so that each room has clean, attached western toilets and bathrooms.

What is the minimum recommended age for the walking holiday?

The recommended minimum age for doing this walking holiday is 7 years. However you are the best judge. If your child is physically active and is used to walking long distances, he or she should be able to do it, even if younger than 7. Adequate preparation is necessary though.

What kind of preparation is recommended for participants?

Brisk walking – at least 5 km, at least 3 or 4 times a week, preferably on hilly terrain.

Stair-climbing – at least 15 minutes of climbing up and down stairs everyday.

Will hot water for bathing, and heating available in the rooms?

Yes, all the rooms are equipped with room heaters, and the bathrooms with hot water geysers

Are laundry facilities available?

Yes, laundry services are available for a fee.

Do we have to carry our own luggage?

During  the hikes, each participant will need to carry their own ‘daypack’ containing essentials for the hike (water, some short eats, cap, medication etc.)

Can I use sports shoes or do I need to buy trekking shoes?

While this walking holiday is doable using sports shoes, trekking shoes are highly recommended since they have a better grip and are usually waterproof. It is very important that you break-in new shoes before coming on the trek.

Is water safe to drink in these places?

Water is safe to drink. However as a precaution, please carry personal water purifiers (Aquaguard and LifeStraw are two popular brands available online).

How is the mobile connectivity on this trip?

BSNL and Jio SIMs work best from the homestay, as of 2024.

What are the things to pack for the trek?

We will send you a trek checklist when you register.

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