In the countryside near the old hill station of Mukteshwar, you follow the villagers’ own ancient footpaths, which meander among chir (pine), oak, kharso, rhododendron, kafal forests and terraced fields of potatoes, cabbages, peas and wheat. This is a unique opportunity which enables you to slow down and see the world differently, becoming immersed in your surroundings, captivated by detail and welcomed with extraordinary grace and warmth by the local people and meet villagers keen to welcome you into their homes - and their way of life. The Village Experiences provide an intimate snapshot of day to day rural life in the Himalayas.
The village women’s saris are a flash of vivid color as they go about their daily tasks – just as they have done for centuries. The children stare, shy at first sight of rare strangers in their world - wreathed in smiles as they run towards you with cries of ‘Namaste!’. As night falls, the village men prepare a delicious, home-cooked dinner over the wood fire and, later, you sit in the moonlight, the stillness broken only by the sound of a dog barking or by the bark of a deer.
Forget arduous treks, this is about taking your time to breathe in views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and the simple pleasures of village living. Walk at your own pace for around 2-4 hours each day in the company of an expert guide. You can see spectacular open view of mountain ranges & great Himalaya, cultivated terraced farming. 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.
Overnight stays are in spruced-up village houses where your hosts serve up delicious Kumaoni food. The local Kumaoni cuisine is served by your village host according to tradition and cooked over the household fire. You get food consists of ‘pahari’ dal, pumpkin, saag ‘hill spinach’, Pahari Aloo & chapattis with Pahari Ghee. Fresh yoghurt comes from the villagers’ buffalos and cannabis chutney is a delicious local condiment made from hemp seeds, pomegranate and mint. You get fresh ginger tea to refresh you & during trek we serve you red rhododendron juice which is a regional specialty. All meals are prepared to a high standard of hygiene using purified water and combine fresh ingredients grown by the villagers – including the spices and herbs.
No comments:
Post a Comment