Moderate walking on varied surfaces, with some long days and regular ascents / descents.
The season for this holiday is:
15 September 2019 - 10 May 2020
15 September 2020 - 25 December 2020
Travelling from the UK
| Outward route | Airline |
|---|---|
| Edinburgh - Delhi (via Dubai) | Various carriers (contact us) |
| Edinburgh - Delhi (via Heathrow) | British Airways |
| Outward route | Airline |
|---|---|
| Leeds Bradford - Delhi (via Amsterdam Schiphol) | KLM |
| Outward route | Airline |
|---|---|
| Gatwick - Delhi (via Doha) | Various carriers (contact us) |
| Gatwick - Delhi (via Dubai) | Various carriers (contact us) |
| Outward route | Airline |
|---|---|
| Heathrow - Delhi | British Airways, Virgin Atlantic |
| Heathrow - Delhi (via Abu Dhabi) | Various carriers (contact us) |
| Heathrow - Delhi (via Doha) | Various carriers (contact us) |
| Heathrow - Delhi (via Dubai) | Various carriers (contact us) |
| Heathrow - Delhi (via Muscat) | Various carriers (contact us) |
| Outward route | Airline |
|---|---|
| Stansted - Delhi (via Dubai) | Various carriers (contact us) |
| Outward route | Airline |
|---|---|
| Manchester - Delhi (via Abu Dhabi) | Various carriers (contact us) |
| Manchester - Delhi (via Dubai) | Various carriers (contact us) |
| Manchester - Delhi (via Heathrow) | British Airways |
| Manchester - Delhi (via Muscat) | Various carriers (contact us) |
| Outward route | Airline |
|---|---|
| Newcastle - Delhi (via Heathrow) | British Airways |
This list of flight options should be used as a guide only, and you should check each airline’s website for current routes, frequency and schedules. Not all flights operate daily, and may not run for the entire season. You should also heed the latest flight arrival time and earliest flight departure time stated in the connecting travel section, as it may not be possible to arrange connecting travel outside these times. Please do not book your flights until we have confirmed your accommodation to you. Alternatively, our expert reservations team will be happy to offer advice and to make flight bookings for you. We charge £35 per person for our flight booking service (£60 for India and Nepal). Your flights are then covered by our package-booking conditions, which give you greater protection in the event of delay or cancellation, as well as providing ATOL cover.
If you've experienced this holiday first hand, why not write a review?
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If you like Indian food and great hiking, then this is the holiday for you. Like other reviewers, we were somewhat apprehensive about it, but our fears were ungrounded. The walking was well within our capabilities (we are fit 57 and 65), though some of the paths were narrow, steep and occasionally a bit slippery and we were glad to have our walking poles. Negotiating Delhi train station for the early morning train was fine, it was very quiet, though the coolie insisted on 400 rupees for our two rucksacks, which was double the amount we were expecting it to be... There is a lot of food on the train - don't be fooled as we were, in thinking that the first thing you are served is all you are going to get. It comes at intervals through the journey (both ways).
We booked an extra day at Khali Estate to recover from the long journey (someone else's tip). It's a lovely peaceful place with fabulous views, but don't expect luxury.
The weather was warm dry for all our walking, but we had thunder storms with heavy rain and even hail on several evenings. Be warned - it really does get very cold as soon as the sun has gone down (we were there late Feb/early March), but once in bed with a hot water bottle it was very cosy. We stayed in all the villages except Matkanya, which was having repairs done. This meant a very long, slow and winding 55k drive to see the temples at Jageshwar - not really our 'thing' - and not worth the hours in the car. We didn't know it was so far away.
Tips:
Take soap (again, a previous reviewer's tip) as there wasn't always some in the guest houses.
Travel cutlery could be useful for the picnics if you aren't handy with a chapatti (we weren't...).
A head torch - most of the time there was electricity, but the lights are a bit dim for reading and not always in the right place.
Plenty of reading matter or other things to do - supper is early evening and everyone goes to bed around 8/8.30!
Don't get an Indian sim card for your phone - it was bliss being out of contact and free from the tyranny of the mobile! The guides have mobiles.
This was a great holiday, we loved almost everything about it. Thank you Inntravel and Village Ways.
This was first and foremost definitely the “Holiday of a Lifetime”! It was not without some trepidation that we left for a 5wk stay in various parts of the subcontinent especially, from my point of view the first 10-day section, walking from village to village in Binsar. Considering my age (68), a rather dodgy right knee, slight breathlessness due to altitude and being quite a bit less fit than my husband, I managed pretty well. I would, however, strongly recommend walking poles if you do have any knee issues etc, they helped enormously.
Before leaving for India I had become anxious that I might have bitten off more than I could chew but, as it happened, that was far from the case and I really enjoyed this mini-adventure. I was travelling solo. Booking with Inntravel was easy and friendly. The accommodation in Delhi was fine - with good rooftop dinners at the Colonel's Retreat 2 - and the train ride and subsequent 4 hour car ride were both interesting and exciting. The walking was just about right for me - a 66 year old; not too easy and not too tough. Most days we would leave around 10am and would arrive at our destination around 3pm. The accommodation in the villages was basic but fine - all the guest houses are of a similar design. It is worth emphasing that the toilet and shower facilities are not en suite so a torch is essential and travelling with a spare bar of soap is advisable. The only hiccup was the failure of the Village Ways car to arrive on time to take me from my Delhi hotel to the airport on my way home. It arrived over an hour late by which time I had oredered - and subsequently took - a taxi, at my own expense. This was a frustrating and unwelcome way to end an otherwise most enjoyable holiday, which I would gladly recommend.
If you like Indian food and great hiking, then this is the holiday for you. Like other reviewers, we were somewhat apprehensive about it, but our fears were ungrounded. The walking was well within our capabilities (we are fit 57 and 65), though some of the paths were narrow, steep and occasionally a bit slippery and we were glad to have our walking poles. Negotiating Delhi train station for the early morning train was fine, it was very quiet, though the coolie insisted on 400 rupees for our two rucksacks, which was double the amount we were expecting it to be... There is a lot of food on the train - don't be fooled as we were, in thinking that the first thing you are served is all you are going to get. It comes at intervals through the journey (both ways).
We booked an extra day at Khali Estate to recover from the long journey (someone else's tip). It's a lovely peaceful place with fabulous views, but don't expect luxury.
The weather was warm dry for all our walking, but we had thunder storms with heavy rain and even hail on several evenings. Be warned - it really does get very cold as soon as the sun has gone down (we were there late Feb/early March), but once in bed with a hot water bottle it was very cosy. We stayed in all the villages except Matkanya, which was having repairs done. This meant a very long, slow and winding 55k drive to see the temples at Jageshwar - not really our 'thing' - and not worth the hours in the car. We didn't know it was so far away.
Tips:
Take soap (again, a previous reviewer's tip) as there wasn't always some in the guest houses.
Travel cutlery could be useful for the picnics if you aren't handy with a chapatti (we weren't...).
A head torch - most of the time there was electricity, but the lights are a bit dim for reading and not always in the right place.
Plenty of reading matter or other things to do - supper is early evening and everyone goes to bed around 8/8.30!
Don't get an Indian sim card for your phone - it was bliss being out of contact and free from the tyranny of the mobile! The guides have mobiles.
This was a great holiday, we loved almost everything about it. Thank you Inntravel and Village Ways.
This was first and foremost definitely the “Holiday of a Lifetime”! It was not without some trepidation that we left for a 5wk stay in various parts of the subcontinent especially, from my point of view the first 10-day section, walking from village to village in Binsar. Considering my age (68), a rather dodgy right knee, slight breathlessness due to altitude and being quite a bit less fit than my husband, I managed pretty well. I would, however, strongly recommend walking poles if you do have any knee issues etc, they helped enormously.
Before leaving for India I had become anxious that I might have bitten off more than I could chew but, as it happened, that was far from the case and I really enjoyed this mini-adventure. I was travelling solo. Booking with Inntravel was easy and friendly. The accommodation in Delhi was fine - with good rooftop dinners at the Colonel's Retreat 2 - and the train ride and subsequent 4 hour car ride were both interesting and exciting. The walking was just about right for me - a 66 year old; not too easy and not too tough. Most days we would leave around 10am and would arrive at our destination around 3pm. The accommodation in the villages was basic but fine - all the guest houses are of a similar design. It is worth emphasing that the toilet and shower facilities are not en suite so a torch is essential and travelling with a spare bar of soap is advisable. The only hiccup was the failure of the Village Ways car to arrive on time to take me from my Delhi hotel to the airport on my way home. It arrived over an hour late by which time I had oredered - and subsequently took - a taxi, at my own expense. This was a frustrating and unwelcome way to end an otherwise most enjoyable holiday, which I would gladly recommend.
Wonderful experience but could just do with some attention to detail with regard to advice and information in the booking process.
From our first contact through the whole planning and booking process we felt valued. Our questions were answered promptly and with consideration. During our whole trip we had the impression that we were valued clients and our needs were always met with great care.
To wake up on our first morning to wonderful views of the Himalayas set us up for the whole trek. Then to be welcomed into the villages and shown how they cooked our excellent meals was a real treat. To be included in the Diwalhi celebrations in Kathdhara made us feel like family. The excitement of the feast, singing and fireworks was infectious. The welcome into the home of our guides was humbling and fascinating. We will treasure these experiences with huge affection.
No roads, no cars, no shops, no wi-fi, no tourists (except for us), guides and village hosts that tend to your every need, comfortable accommodation, excellent local food, beautiful walking trails with views of the Himalayas; this was a brilliant stress busting escape from the modern world. We soon fell into a daily routine of rising early to enjoy the early morning sun and tea on our terrace whilst watching the birds and the villagers going about their business. An excellent breakfast to set us up for the day was normally served outside and by 9, we were usually ready to say farewell to our hosts and get back on the trail. The day’s walk was generally between 3 and 5 hours on good forest paths with a few ascents on the way to get the heart pumping but nothing too arduous. A warm welcome awaited us at every village when we arrived in plenty of time to enjoy an afternoon relaxing on the terrace catching up on some reading, diary writing or wondering around taking photographs. Homemade snacks were served at tea time before we took an early evening stroll around the village to meet the locals, often stopping off at houses for tea on the way around. We would be back in time for a shower before a delicious three course dinner served to us in our own dining room. After that there was time for a quick chat with guides about the plan for the next day before settling down for the evening.
Comments in the house guest books indicated there had been quite a few rainy days between December and March. However, we did our trip in late March and it was shorts and tee shirt weather every day except for one when we did catch a rain shower towards the end of our walk which persisted during the afternoon. The temperature did drop significantly if the clouds rolled in and during the evenings and we were grateful for warm and windproof clothes on these occasions. The villagers lit a fire for us in our living area most nights and always offered us hot water bottles to take to bed; just another nice thoughful touch.
We had been thinking about this holiday for over a year before we eventually decided to do it and were really glad that we did. My advice is, if you are thinking about it, do it. It will do you good and it will do the local community good as the income that you bring will help to keep these villages alive and the local people will be really grateful for your visit.
Eight days of peace and bliss stood us in good stead for the return to Delhi and the Golden Triangle add on. We also enjoyed this completely different phase of the holiday very much, mainly because we were very well looked after by an excellent driver who was with us throughout and the very good guides that we had in Agra and Jaipur.
Finally, I must mention the staff of Village Ways who made everything happen in the right place and at the right time and the Colonel’s Retreat in Delhi, where we stayed a total of 4 nights during our various comings and goings. The staff were always there to welcome us back and make sure that we got away on time. We found it extremely comfortable and came to regard it as a little home from home in Delhi.
INNTRAVEL NOTE: These customers combined Through Himalayan Foothills with our Agra 7 Jaipur add-on, plus a few nights in Delhi
Late Dec / early Jan. We were prepared for the cold, but not for the very pleasant 15-17 deg C of three days. The sun warms the air quickly when neither cold wind nor clouds are fighting it. The thought of getting out of bed in the morning was worse than the actuality of it. So much to see and enjoy. Our personal highlights were (of course) the view of the Himalaya mountains which were obscured 50% of the time by clouds; and leopard paw prints in the frost on the path between Risal and Satri. The villagers are all very welcoming but Satri will be our favourite. Their new electricity supply was installed in November. Just four households and the men too old to undertake the porterage to Gonap so two (not so young) women carried our bags to Gonap. This was one of the hardest days for climbing which they undertook it in their usual footwear - flipflops. The women always carry everything on their heads, even when the bags have ergonomic straps so please keep your luggage light.
We were 'done' by the coolies at Delhi Station because our driver didn't specifically tell us the fee included loading the bags onto the train. Make sure he has included that in their hearing.
We took 2 days site-seeing in Delhi with a guide and driver. Ruby was superb, taking us to places off the beaten tourist track such as a step-well. We learnt a lot from her. We were very moved by our visit to Mahatma Gandhi's last residence and assassination spot.
All the drivers were very good.
We have asked Village Ways to provide info about places to eat supper when staying at Lutyens Bungalow because the manager did not offer suggestions and the supper there was very bland and over-cooked, although breakfast was good.
One of the most wonderful holidays of our lives. The Himalayan experience in particular was amazing. The walks and countryside beautiful, the guides (especially Hem who knew so much and was so helpful and patient) were lovely, the villages and villagers couldn't have been better, wonderful welcomes and service and the food was lovely. But the other legs of the holiday didn't disappoint - Taj Mahal is stunning, train travel fun, good hotels, and apart from one guide in particular being a little keen to take us to craft places looking to sell us stuff, all drivers and guides were excellent. Organisation, bar notification of pick-up times, was really good and well thought out.
INNTRAVEL NOTE: These customers booked our guided walk Through Himalayan Foothills with the Agra & Jaipur add-on
A really good holiday which gave us an experience we will treasure forever. The villagers were such lovely people and it was a privilege for us that they let us into their lives so willingly and enthusiastically. Big tip: don’t rely on ATMs as they are inconsistent and you can’t rely on getting money. Get it at the airport before you go. Village Ways were extremely good.
We loved this holiday. We saw, learned and experienced so much more than we would have done on a more 'traditional' holiday. The air, the light, the landscape, the people, the food, the flora & fauna in Binsar were outstanding. We came away from our walking holiday fitter, healthier and, surprisingly, a little heavier than when we arrived! The trip around the Golden Triangle was fantastic in totally different ways; the most splendid buildings (yes the Taj Mahal IS the most beautiful building we have ever seen and the Baby Taj isn't far behind) with excellent guides from whom we learned a lot. If we did it again we might add an extra day or two because the pace of this part of the trip was a bit rushed, not excessively so but it would have been beneficial to have had a little more time to pause and explore these amazing cities.
INNTRAVEL NOTE: These customers booked our guided walk Through Himalayan Foothills with the Agra & Jaipur add-on
I loved every minute of my holiday. The guides were super - especially Santosh Joshi - the scenery outstanding, the food absolutely scrumptious, and the walking just right for me. The villagers were welcoming and the Committees of the villages where I stayed were super too. The views of the Himalayas throughout Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary are to die for - 'mini Zero Point' is an absolutely unbeatable spot from which to watch sunrise and sunset. I adored the remoteness of the area - I saw nobody other than my guides and the villagers on the paths thoughout the entire week with the exception of Christmas Day at Zero Point, and I loved this. I enjoyed Delhi more than I'd expected. Lutyens Bungalow is so well-positioned, near Lodi Gardens and the Tomb of Safdar Jang, and I enjoyed the rambling nature of the guest house - the communal dinners were good too. To Binsar and to the Himalayas: 'Nameste'. And I shall be back!
We had an amazing time and loved the opportunity to see village life. The scenery was spectacular, the villagers so hospitable and the food was delightful. The whole concept of Village Ways is inspired and we felt it was really making a difference to these beautiful and remote communities.
How to sum up our time in India - fantastic. This holiday far exceeded our hopes and expectations and was everything we imagined and more.
Starting in Delhi with guide and driver, gave us a great introduction to the history and culture, as well as seeing the chaos of Chandri Chowk close up on a rickshaw ride. Colonel's Retreat provided us with a comfortable base and we enjoyed the local cuisine in the restaurants of the nearby Defense Colony. The Taj Mahal was simply breathtaking and the palaces and Amer fort of Jaipur were majestic.
In contrast Binsar was a relaxing haven of peace and tranquility. The views of the distant Himalaya were spectacular and the walking was wonderful. Everyone we met was really friendly and made our time an amazing experience. Our guides were knowledgeable and helped us fully appreciate Binsar's landscape, culture and wildlife. The guest houses were well equipped, warm and comfortable thanks to wood fires, cosy beds and hot water bottles for the chilly nights. Our hosts were incredible, supplying refreshing masala chai and tasty meals using local veg and spices. It was truly humbling to be so well looked after by people who had so little themselves.
Some tips from our experience
Currency - skip Heathrow, get a small amount in Delhi airport to get you started, and then seek out a local currency exchange for the best rate
Railway Coolies - they will try to rip you off so be firm on the agreed rate, if you're feeling confident try making your own way, as the stations and platforms are reasonably well signed
Overall we had a great time and can highly recommend this holiday.