There is nowhere more beautiful to walk than in India’s varied hill country and Shakti offers an enjoyable and unforgettable wilderness experience in the low Himalaya.  In an irresistibly beautiful corner of the mountains in the Kumaon region of the state of Uttaranchal, there is now the chance to really get off the beaten track, away from the ‘madding crowds’ of the city and to be immersed in enthralling mountain surroundings.  The impact of tourism is kept as low as possible but standards of comfort and hygiene are maintained at an extremeny high level.  Little food is brought in – as much as possible is provided locally,  few outsiders are employed – local villagers are nurtured, trained an engaged to look after guests, and numbers are strictly limited.  The accommodation is simple but clean and comfortable, and  does not detract from the authenticity of the experience.  Any shortcomings are more than compensated for by the genuine warmth of the villager hosts. The walks begin and end in Almora.  For the next 4 days, the walkers pass through glorious Himalayan foothills, from village to village, escorted by a friendly local.  The nights are spent in specially spruced up village houses as honoured guests of the villagers, who are keen to share their way of life and tell of the magnificent range of flora, fauna and wildlife to be found in the area.  Villagers cook delicious Kumaoni food, supply hot and cold water, and act as porters along with being hosts each night.  This offers guests a unique and intensely personal opportunity to interact with these welcoming mountain people.  The walks are not particularly arduous but can last all day with a picnic lunch.  Plenty of time is allowed for demonstrations of work, chats with passers-by and tea stops with the locals. The walks can be done at any time of year; each season offers something special.  Spring/Summer (March to June) is the time when the flowers are in bloom at the lower altitudes. The views of the peaks can be magnificent, but can also be a little hazy.  The monsoon season (July to mid-September) sees the newly washed forests literally dripping with life and the flowers at higher altitudes are in full bloom.  Winter time (late September to March) offers the best views of the Himalaya although November to February can be cold at night. Style Traditional village houses Air/Con No Dining Yes Children Yes No. of Bedrooms Varies from place to place, but numbers are strictly limited to reduce the impact on the environment. Pool No Activities Hill walking.  Cultural interaction Price Range Please ask for details. Find Similar Properties