The search for the authentic is something that we are obsessed with. It can be a challenge, but fortunately there are still plenty of authentic experiences out there - it's just a case of knowing where to look. With that in mind we'd definitely recommend taking a 'look' at this incredible experience in northern India. Combining walks in the stunning foothills of the Almora region of Northern India with time taking in the Delhi's buzz, this is a fantastic way to experience India in a way that few others have done.
Developed by our friends at Shakti, the Kamoun village walks will see you spending time following the trails of villagers' ancient footpaths which meander through gorgeous pine forests and through fields of rice and wheat. The scenery is stunning and alongside the rolling hills, you will get views of the towering Himalayas. The beauty of these walks (other than the mesmerising landscapes) is that they provide you with an insight into the village culture of the region. Tiny, self-sustaining settlements are dotted throughout the countryside and as you walk through them you get a glimpse of daily life in these remote yet energy-filled villages. Children run to greet you, farmers herd goats through the hills, women harvest the fields and delicious smells of cooking waft out of the houses. A visitor you may be, but never have we felt so welcome.
Over the course of three days you will walk between different villages, and each night you will stay in a village house. The rooms are simple and relaxing; you stay in the heart of the community with locals as your neighbours. As the sun sets, the landscape is illuminated by distant fires of other villages and the sound of the animals down in the valleys provides an atmospheric sound track for the night.
Each day, a guide will lead the walks (no more that 3-4 hours a day) and will prepare lunch at a great viewpoint and dinner at your village house in the evening. As authentic experiences go, this is hard to beat and it is a must for anyone looking for a healthy dose of travel reality.
The perfect combination with the serenity of the hills is the buzz of Delhi. Whilst Mumbai may grab the fashion and creative plaudits, the history of Delhi combined with its cutting edge growth makes for a wonderful dose of urbanity at the end of your trip. Stay in one of our favourite hotels, The Imperial, and spend your days combining visits to some of the classic monuments such as Humpayun's Tomb (the inspiration for the Taj Mahal) with sites, such as the museum of modern art. This is a city that grabs you from the minute you arrive and holds your attention for the whole of your stay.
