Kumaon Walking Holiday

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Kumaon Walking Holiday

Region
Uttarakhand
Distance
About 35 km
Max Altitude
2400m (Binsar TRH)
Max Group Size
8
Duration
8 days/ 7 nights, 6 days trekking
Best Time
All year except mid-June to mid-Sep
Cost Per Person
₹ Rs. 29500+ 5% GST
Overview Itinerary Inclusions Gallery FAQ Reviews

Description

Upcoming Fixed-Departure Trips: 15th to 22nd March 2025, 12th to 19th April 2025

A unique curated experience that takes you to stunning locales in Nainital and Almora districts in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Stay in cozy boutique guesthouses and explore nearby hikes, including a trek through the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its panoramic Himalayan views and diverse flora and avian fauna. Immerse yourself in the hospitality of the Kumaon people and experience the rich local culture. Our group sizes are small ensuring personal attention to all our guests.

Itinerary

  • Day 1Kathgodam to Hartola (70 km, 2.5 hour drive)

    Start from Kathgodam at about 11.30 am. The drive to Hartola should take around 3.5 hours including a stop for lunch. Settle into a comfortable heritage property with amazing views of the Kumaoni peaks.

  • Day 2Hike to Maheshwar Farm and back (5 km)

    After breakfast, go on an easy 5 km (to and fro), 2-hour trek to Maheshwar Farm along a trail that passes through pine forests, patches of mixed forests and offers fantastic views along the way.

    In the afternoon, do yet another exciting hike to Devi Top and back (2 hours)

  • Day 3Hartola to Binsar, 95km drive (4 hours), Binsar (2400 m) - Gaunap village (1900 m), 3 km, 1-hour trek

    The 95 km drive to Binsar should take around 4 hours. From, there, it is a gentle 3 km downhill trek to Idyllic Haven, Gaunap which should take a little more than an hour. The enchanting homestay situated in a tiny village nestled in Binsar wildlife sanctuary will be your home for two nights. Enjoy the warmth of a bonfire in the evening.

  • Day 4Hikes in and around Gaunap

    Set off at 6 am to visit the village temple which is a fantastic view point as well. It’s best to start early in the morning and catch the sunrise there. Return to the homestay and after a sumptuous breakfast, go on a guided birding session and village walk. In the afternoon, a nature walk and (if it’s the season) get your hands dirty helping the village folk in their organic farmlands.

  • Day 5Gaunap (1900) - Dhaulchhina (1850 m), 8.5 km, 5-hour trek. 30 km, 1 hour drive to Shaukyathal

    Set off on a 8.5 km trek to Dhaulchhina. The trail passes through beautiful patches of mixed forests and pine forests. From there drive down to Shaukyathal, a place on a ridge near Vriddh Jageshwar (1 hour). At sunset time, you can do the optional hike to Chandidhar, a view point that offers expansive views of Binsar and the Himalayan peaks

  • Day 6Vriddh Jageshwar to Jageshwar (3 km hike), 10 km drive to Ganghet

    Vriddh Jageshwar is a 4 km drive from Shaukyathal. Visit the ancient 11th century Shiva temple there and then embark on an easy, enjoyable, downhill trek to Jageshwar. Those interested, can visit Jageshwar and Dandeshwar – an interesting cluster of temples of archaeological and religious significance. Then drive to Ganghet, about 10 km away. Settle into a comfortable quaint heritage property that is set amidst a thick oak and rhododendron forest.

  • Day 7Ganghet to Jhakarsiem (6 km hike), drive back to Ganghet

    Go on a moderate 6 km hike to Jhakarsiem temple and return by road. Post lunch, go on a tour of the tiny village

  • Day 8Ganghet - Kathgodam, 4-hour drive

    Check out and embark on the 4-hour drive to Kathgodam. Your amazing walking holiday comes to an end!

Inclusions

  • 7 nights stay in comfortable villages homestays/guesthouses
  • All meals starting with dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 8
  • Ground transport – Kathgodam to Kathgodam
  • Porterage for personal luggage – one bag (weighing not more than 12 kg) per person
  • Guide charges

FAQ

What kind of accommodations are provided during the trek?

You will stay in a homestay in Gaunap, giving you an opportunity to get a glimpse of local culture and experience Kumaoni hospitality. In the other places you will stay in heritage properties with excellent views.

What will the weather be like?

Minimum temperatures are likely to drop to around 10 deg during summer and to 5 deg C during 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

Will there be clean toilets and bathrooms in all places?

Yes, there will be clean, attached western toilets and bathrooms in all places on this trek.

My children are younger than 7. Will they be able to do this trek?

The recommended minimum age for doing this trek is 7. 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. Adequate preparation is necessary though.

What kind of preparation is recommended for participants?

Brisk walking – at least 3 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 be available at all places?

Hot water will be available on request at Gaunap. Hot water geysers are available in all the other places.

Are laundry facilities available?

No, there are no laundry facilities available anywhere on this trek.

Do we have to carry our own luggage?

No, you will only need to carry a backpack in order to carry some water, short-eats, personal medicines etc. We will either use porters or a vehicle to move luggage between stops.

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

While this trek 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.

Do all the places where we will be staying have electricity?

All the villages are connected to the grid. However, please get torches or headlamps with extra batteries and power banks for mobile phones as electricity supply in these places can be unreliable.

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 trek?

All the places have mobile connectivity. Expect poor internet speeds in Gaunap. BSNL and Airtel SIMs work best during the trek.

What are the things to pack for the trek?

We will send you a trek checklist when you register.

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