Kumaon Village Walks

Gentle 3-day (or longer) hikes through stunning Himalayan foothills, immersing yourself in village life with authentic homestays

Spend spectacular days walking through the lush terraced fields, remote villages and pine and rhododendron forests of the unspoilt Kumaon region in north-western India. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in an ancient culture and meet villagers keen to welcome you into their homes - and their way of life.

Forget arduous treks: this is about taking your time to breathe in views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and enjoy the simple pleasures of village living. Walk at your own pace for around 4-5 hours each day in the company of an expert guide, while porters carry your bags. Overnight stays are in spruced-up village houses where your hosts serve up delicious Kumaoni food. All tours are private and carefully planned to take in ancient temples, working flour mills, prehistoric rock paintings and spectacular cultivated valleys. Finish each day with a refreshing sundowner as you watch the sky turn orange and pink over the peaks and listen to the chatter of mountain life echo around the hills.

Why we chose this partner

• This is a rare chance to experience Himalayan village life at first hand but with a dose of luxury (comfortable beds in spotless rooms, home-cooked food, steaming ginger tea in the mornings, even a hot water bottle)
• You set your own pace and don’t have to be super-fit: these walks are graded as ‘easy’ and porters carry your bags
• You can also arrange tailormade hikes (a minimum of 2 nights), or ride purebred horses if you don't fancy walking
• With a maximum of 4 people on each walk and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, this truly is low-impact, high-service eco-tourism
• Everything is included: transfers, guides, accommodation, porters, food, even some equipment

• This is real Himalayan village life: expect simple bathrooms in outdoor wash-houses, with no TVs or hairdryers
• It's not for those seeking a romantic getaway - time alone is limited and nights are spent in single beds, but you can combine this trip with a relaxing and secluded stay at beautiful luxury lodge, 360 Leti
• The area is remote - it's an overnight train ride from Delhi then a 3-hour car journey to the hill station where you begin your walk