Kuamon – Nature, culture and trekking in the Himalayas

In the heart of the Indian Himalayas on the Nepalese border, the little known and well preserved area of Kumaon is waiting for you. The trek is filled with stunning landscapes and encounters with local mountain people, Bhotias of Tibetan origin. This trek of easy to medium difficulty offers you a splendid Himalayan nature and cultural experience. We will also visit the fabulous Taj Mahal, two national parks and ancient temple compexes. 

The spirit of the journey: To explore Himalayan landscape, discover Indian culture, meet local mountain people and visit ancient places of worship in unspoiled natural surroundings

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Program (21 days):

  • Day1: Arrival to New Delhi.Visit of some of Delhi’s most colourful Hindu and Sikh temples. Night in a hotel.
  • Day 2: Sightseeing in Delhi (or free time). Afternoon train to Sawai Madhopur, a small village close to Ranthambore national park (13.20 / 18h00+). Night in a hotel.
  • Day 3: A full day of safari in the national park, experiencing the wilderness. Ranthambore park has many interesting animal species such sambars (Indian deer), gaurs (Indian bison) and many other mammals. It is the best area in Rajasthan for seeing tigers. There is also over 300 species of birds. Night in a hotel.
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  • Day 4: In the morning, a short train journey (07:10/09:30) to visit the one of the largest bird reserves in the world, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, aka Keoladeo National Park. We will spend most of the day observing rare bird species in the reserve. In the evening a short transfer to Agra and a night in a hotel.
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  • Day 5: After breakfast a visit to the legendary Taj Mahal, described by Rudyard Kipling as «an incarnation of purity». One of the most beautiful monuments of the world, it was built by emperor Shah Jahan as a funeral tomb of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child in 1631. In the afternoon, road towards Almora, and night in an ancient colonial fort of Unchagaon. 6-7 hrs drive.
  • Day 6: Drive to Almora. We leave the plains and enter the Himalayan foothills on our way to the capital of Kumaon. We have lunch at a simple roadside restaurant, «dhaba», and spend a night in Kasar Devi, a scenic village just outside Almora. 7 hrs drive, 1800 m altitude.
  • Day 7: Short drive to Jageshwar (30km), a visit to old shivaist temple ruins dating from 9th century. A lovely walk to Binsar wildlife sanctuary with its ancient oak and rhododendron forests and Himalayan views. 6-7 hrs walk. Night in a hotel in Kasar Devi.
    Kumaoni House (2)
  • Day 8: Drive to Leti, entry point to Ramganga valley, on the foot of the Nanda Kot peak (6860 m). Camp (2200 m). We will meet our trekking team here (porters, chef etc). 2 hrs walk, rising 100m. Night in a tent (comfortable foam mattresses provided).
  • Day 9: Beginning of the trek. We enter the Ramganga valley. We spend a night in a traditional Kumaoni house in Gogina and visit this lovely little village, situated in front of a glacier. 4,5 hrs walk, 100 m rise (2300 m). Night in a local family house.
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  • Day 10: A long walk to the high altitude meadows of Talla; wonderful views of the snow peaks. We often meet shepherds here with flocks of goats and sheep. 7,5 hrs walk. Night in a tent.
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  • Day 11: Weather permitting, ascend to Chopua and Sumdakhan, surrounded by giant 7000 m snow peaks: Nanda Devi (7816 m), Trisul (7120 m), Nanda Kot… Unforgettable views. Return to camp in Talla. Ascend 700-800 m. 7 hrs walk. Night in a tent.
  • Day 12: Descending through beautiful oak and rhododendron forest towards Namik, a well preserved traditional Kumaoni village. Visit of this Bhotia village on the ancient Tibetan trade route, and an ascent to the Kimu village. Camp (2300 m). 6 hrs walk. Night in a tent.
  • Day 13: From Kimu, ascend through a forest to Gogina alpine meadows. An unforgettable campsite at 2800 m altitude, in the middle of a dense ancient rhododendron forest. 4 hrs walk. Night in a tent.
  • Day 14: A great ascend to Kurnia meadows for wonderful panoramic Himalayan views. Camp 3100 m. 4 hrs walk. Night in a tent. Possibility of extra 40 min walk to a spectacular snow view spot.
  • Day 15: Early wake up for sunrise on the entire Himalayan chain. There we can trace the whole trek, a circle that we soon will have completed. After breakfast, descend towards Lhur village. Camp on the riverside. End of the trek. 6 hrs walk. Night in a tent.
  • Day 16: Road to Almora. Visit of ancient temples in Bageshwar and Baijnath. Stop in Kausani for lunch and great views of the Trishul peak. Night in a hotel in Kasar Devi, Almora.
  • Day 17: In the afternoon, road to Corbett National park. We see green foothill landscapes descending slowly towards the plains. 5 hrs drive. Night in a hotel.
  • Day 18: Corbett NP (altitude 400-1210m) was created in 1936 and is named after the famous British tiger hunter turned conservationist Jim Corbett. It was the first Indian national park to start the “Tiger Project” to protect the big cats and has, in addition, wild elephants, leopards, deer, monkeys, etc. We will spend the entire day on a jeep safari in the park. Night in a hotel or jungle camp.
  • Day 19: In Corbett. Full day in the park discovering the wildlife on a jeep or/and elephant safari. Night in a hotel or jungle camp.
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  • Day 20: ln the morning, drive to Ramnagar, train back to Delhi. Afternoon free time or sightseeing in the capital. Night in a hotel.
  • Day 21: Departure for the airport

 

  • Best time for the program :

March-April or October

  • Change of program, adding or removing places or dates is very much possible as long as it is done well in advance! J

Spiritual Ladakh:

Mountains, mantras and monasteries

A spectacular 21-day spiritual journey in the dramatic landscapes of the “Roof of the World”: acclimation in the capital Leh (3500m), visit of the most impressive monasteries of the Indus valley, an 8-day trek in the wilderness and finally a silent yoga and meditation retreat in the powerful vibrations of the “Moonland”.

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Program (21 days)

 

  • Day 1. Arrive in Delhi. Time permitting, visit of the capital. Night in a hotel.
  •  Day 2. Early morning, short flight to Leh, capital of Ladakh (3500m). Morning rest, after lunch visit of the colorful markets of the town.
  • Day 3. A peaceful day of acclimation, with visit of impressive monasteries of Hemis, Thiksey and/or Shey. Leh being at 3500m altitude, several days acclimation period is essential before starting trekking and moving on to higher altitudes!
  • Day 4. Leh–Lamayuru A spectacular 4 hrs drive through the Indus valley. Visit of Likir Gompa, XVth century, famous for its enormous Maitreya Buddha statue. Then we will continue to Lamayuru Gompa, where sage Naropa was meditating in 11th century. It is surrounded by dramatic lunar landscape and a beautiful authentic village. Night in a simple hotel at Lamayuru.
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  • Day 5. Lamayuru- Leh. Return to Leh. Visit of Rizong Gompa and the monastery of Alchi with its famous iconography dating from 11th century.IMG_6725
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  • Day 6. Beginning of the trek Road to Spituk (20 min). Trek until Zenchan. 4-5 hrs easy walk, night in a camp
  • Day 7. From Zenchan to Gandala Ascend to Gandala, where we can admire a stunning panoramic view. 6 hrs walk. Night in camp.
  • Day 8. From Gandala to Skiu We follow the valley with small ascends, then descend to arrive to Skiu camp. 6 hrs walk. Night in camp.IMG_7471
  • Day 9. Walk along the Markha river (with possibility to swim). Great views of the Kangyatse peak (6400m). 7 hrs walk. Night in camp.
  • Day 10. From Markha to Thachungtse. A good climb up and crossing the Markha river 2-3 times. Arrival in the small village of Thachungtseen. 5-6 hrs walk. Night in camp.
  • Day 11. From Thachungtse to Nimaling. 4-5 hrs walk to arrive to Nimaling village. We will cross beautiful pasture with a different views on the Kangyatse peak. Night in camp.
  • Day 12. From Nimaling to Shang Sumdo. Walk to the Shang Sumdo, via Kongmaru la pass (5100m). This is the high point of the trek! 6-7 hrs walk, night in camp.IMG_8510
  • Day 13. From Shang Sumdo to Hemis. 5 hrs walk along a small stream until the Hemis monastery where our cars are waiting to pick us up for 1hr drive back to Leh. Night in a comfortable hotel!
  • Day 14. Resting day in Leh – free time. A day of well deserved rest in Leh! Night in a hotel.
  • Day 15 Drive to the Mahabodhi International Meditation Center,MIMC (20min). Meeting with Venerable Bikkhu Sangasena, a monk and the founder of the centre. Introduction of the centre. Beginning of the retreat.IMG_6768IMG_6315
  • Day 16. Retreat
  • Day 17. Retreat
  • Day 18. Retreat
  • Day 20. Early morning flight to Delhi. A full day in the capital of India. We can visit the serene Sikh temple Gurudwara Bengla Sahib, great Hindu temple Birla Mandir and some colorful markets….

In the evening, departure to the airport.

  • The best time for the tour: July to September
  • Change of program, adding or removing places or dates is very much possible as long as it is done well in advance!

TREKKING IN LADAKH: Markha Valley & Stok Kangri Peak (6123 m)

This variation of the classical Markha trek is a spectacular introduction to the nature, culture and landscape of Ladakh. We will culminate this medium to advanced level trek by climbing the high peak of Stok Kangri, 6123m, an experience of a lifetime!

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Program (20 days, 12 days trek): 

Day 1. Arrival to Delhi. Time permitting, visit of Delhi or resting before the early morning transfer to Leh. Night in Delhi hotel.

Day 2. Delhi – Leh. Early morning arrival in Leh, the colorful capital of Ladakh at the altitude of 3500m. Transfer to the hotel for rest and acclimation. Night in hotel.

Days 3 & 4. Leh. Days of acclimation. During these peaceful days of acclimation, we may walk around and discover the Leh markets and visit some of the most beautiful monasteries of the Indus valley (Hemis, Thiksey, Phyang, Spituk, etc). Nights in hotel.

Day 5. Leh –Lato. Start of trek.

Road to Lato along the Leh – Manali Highway. On the road we will visit some important monasteries belonging to the Gelukpa sect of Buddhism. First night in tent.

Day 6. Walk from Lato to Rigyul Sumdo (5hrs)

An easy walk following river Lato to the camp. Pack lunch. Night in tent.

Day 7. Walk from Rigyul Sumdo to Chagtsang (5 hrs +)

5h+ walk according to pace. Crossing of the first high pass, the Poze La, at 4950m, with spectacular view on the snow peaks around. Night in tent.

Day 8. Walk from Chagtsang to Nyimaling: 6-7 hrs.

We will go through two high passes today – Chagtsang La 5200m & Lhalung La 5320 m, both with great views.

We will arrive to the the summer pastures of Nyimaling at 4700m altitude. This is where we will camp – nights can be very cold here.

Day 9. Nyimaling – Hankar (3800m). 4 hrs.

We descend again to the altitude of 3800m. We might have a chance to see some nomads, since it is in this area where they bring their flocks of sheep, goats and yak. Our camp is located close to the small village of Hankar. Night in tent

Day 10. Hankar – Markha (3650m): 5-6 hrs

We will descend to the Markha valley where there will be several streams to cross. We will pass through villages where we will have a chance to drink the famous salted yak butter tea. We can visit the Tetsa monastery on the way. Night in tent.

Day 11. Markha-Skiu: 7-8 hrs.

We start the day by crossing some streams. Most of the day we descend until the camp. Night in tent.

Day 12. Skiu-Gandala Base Camp (4600 m).6-7 hrs.

Ascend to Gandala Base Camp, passing by the village of Shingo. Night in tent

Day 13. Gandala Base Camp- Rumbak (4200m) 7hrs.

We start the day with 3 hours walk to the high Gandala pass of 4900m. An easy descend of few hours to reach our campsite. Night in tent

Day 14. Rumbak- Mankarmo: (4600 m.) 6-7 hrs.

We will cross another high pass, Stockla La at 4800 m, after which we descend to the camp. We pass through the famous Hemis national park, which is a good place to see wildlife – perhaps, if we are very lucky, even the elusive snow leopard! Night in tent.

Day 15. Mankarmo – Stok Kangri Base Camp (4800m): 2hrs.

This day is short and easy for rest and preparation for reaching the summit of Stok Kangri the next day. Night in tent.

Day 16. Stok Kangri Peak. 6123 m

We will wake up around midnight to start our walk to the summit. We will reach the peak for an unforgettable sunrise at the top of the world. Stok Kangri is not a very technical peak, with good acclimation such as ours we all should be able to make it to the top. We will be back in camp early afternoon for a well-deserved lunch.

Day 17. Extra day (in case of bad weather conditions)

Day 18. Walk back to Stok village and transfer to Leh. (4-5h walk). Night in hotel!

Day 19. Free time in Leh. Night in hotel.

Day 20. Flight Leh – Delhi, free time or sightseeing in Delhi, evening transfer to Delhi international airport

  • Best time of trek: July to September
  • Change of the program, adding or removing places or dates is very much possible as long as it is done well in advance!
  • Markha Valley trek can also be done as an easier option without climbing the Stok Kangri Peak

Spiritual North India : On the banks of the Ganges

This journey, filled with spiritual and religious experiences, will lead you to the heart of India. With visits to Haridwar and Varanasi, two of the most important holy cities of North India, a 2 day cruise on the Ganges in a traditional wooden boat, and a stay with Buddhist pilgrims in Bodhgaya, the place of Buddha’s enlightenment, this program will introduce you to the unforgettable spiritual India filled with colour and devotion.

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Program (18 days):

  • Day 1: Arrival to Delhi
  • Day 2: Visit of the spiritual sites of the city. Time permitting, we can see the serene Sikh gurdwara Bangla Sahib or the great Durga temple Birla mandir. Afternoon train to Haridwar (15.30-19.30), holy city at the foot of the Himalayas and one of the most important pilgrimage places of the country. Thousands of pilgrims come to Haridwar to bathe in the Ganges, its holy water purifying them from their sins. It also hosts the famous KumbhMela, the largest spiritual gathering in the world, every 12 years. In the evening we will participate in “arati”, fire ceremony by the river. Night in the Ma Anandamayi ashram or a riverside hotel.6S7A2644
  • Day 3 & 4: Haridwar. We will spend the days wandering in the ancient, colourful market alleys, visit the Mansa Devi hilltop temple, or just sit by the ghats and observe life passing by. We can also join the pilgrims bathing in Hari-ki-Puri, the holiest area of Haridwar. Night in the Ma Anandamayi ashram or a riverside hotel.
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  • Day 5: Morning drive to Rishikesh (1h), to Parmath Niketan ashram, or hotel. Afternoon we can practice yoga and meditation and participate in devotional singing on the banks of the Ganges.Night in ashram.
  • Day 6: In Rishikesh, the “international capital of yoga”. We can take a walk to a waterfall (half day) or visit the famous cave “Vashisht guffa” where yogis have lived and meditated since thousands of years. Night in ashram.
  • Day 7: Morning in Rishikesh, afternoon we will take night train (comfortable sleeper coach) to Allahabad (16.45/ 07.45 +)
  • Day 8: Early morning arrival to Allahabad, short stay in a hotel for shower and breakfast. A drive (2-3h) to Batoli Ghat, where we will board small, traditional sailing boats, which will take us towards Varanasi. Night in a camp by the Ganges.
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  • Day 9: A relaxing day on the boat. Afternoon arriving to Varanasi, night in a hotel by the Ganges.
  • Day 10 to 13: In Varanasi. Known also as Kashi (“city of Light”) and Benares, it is one of the oldest still inhabited cities in the world, and perhaps the holiest city in all of India. A sunrise in a boat is a magical experience, seeing pilgrims bathing in Ganga and performing their morning rituals. We can visit the cremation ghats, the heart of Varanasi, as it is here that every Hindu prays to end his life and be guided by Lord Shiva to higher realms. We can visit the many temples and ashrams, get lost in the old town with its narrow streets and bustling markets, or simply sit at the ghats meditating and experiencing the chaos and spiritual presence that is Varanasi. We can do an outing to a nearby Buddhist town of Sarnath, where the Buddha gave his first sermon. Evenings we can watch the sunset drinking sweet milky chai by the ghats and then participate in the Ganga Arati.
  • Day 14:Morning train to Gaya (10.35-13.30), and on to Bodhgaya (19km). Free time to discover this little town, which is the world’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage place. Night in a monastery or a hotel.
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  •  Days 15 and 16: 2 days in Bodhgaya. This is the place where prince Siddhartha Gautama, sitting under a Bodhi tree, reached Enlightenment (Nirvana) 2500 years ago. We can follow the Buddha’s footsteps and meditate at the Mahabodhi temple under the descendant of the same Bodhi tree, visit other temples built by international Buddhist communities, and see the caves in which the Buddha was doing his ascetic practices. In the evening of 16th day we move on by sleeper train or plane towards Agra.
  • Day 17:  Arrival to Agra, home of the magnificent Taj Mahal, described by Rudyard Kipling as «an incarnation of purity». One of the most beautiful monuments of the world, it was built by emperor Shah Jahan as a funeral tomb to his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child in 1631. Night in hotel
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  • Day 18: Arrival to Delhi, visit of the city or free time in the capital.

In the evening, transit to the international airport.

  • The best time for the tour: October-November and February-March
  • Change of program, adding or removing places is very much possible as long as it is done well in advance!

Saints and Sages of South India

This program uncovers the spiritual and religious treasures of South India. It will take you to sacred places where some of the greatest sages of the century have shared their wisdom. With visits of holy ashrams, magnificent temples, colourful markets and a scenic national park as well as two nights on a houseboat on idyllic Kerala backwaters, this tour will give you an unforgettable experience of vibrant and authentic spiritual India

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The spirit of the journey: to discover Indian cultural and spiritual heritage and to put spirituality in practice in day-to-day life.

Spiritual practice and meditation in ashrams and holy places 

Program (18 days): 

  • Day 1: Arrival to Chennai, drive to Mahabalipuram (60 km, 1,5 hrs). In this small seashore town, famous of its stone carvings, we will visit the ancient Shore Temple and its impressive stone art sites.
  • Day 2: Drive to Pondicherry (130 km, 3 hrs). Visit of Sri Aurobindo ashram, the home and Samadhi (tomb) site of this great saint and his spiritual partner, the Mother. We can join meditation at his Samadhi and visit this bustling seaside town, a former French colony. 
  • Day 3: Visit of Auroville, the alternative lifestyle community envisioned by Sri Aurobindo. We will visit its central shrine Matrimandir which has the largest crystal in the world, and get to know its spiritual and ecological projects. Night in Pondicherry
  • Day 4: Drive to Tiruvannamalai (105 km, 2-3hrs), a colourful town on the foot of the holy mountain Arunachala. Here we find the ashram of the legendary saint Sri Ramana Maharshi, as well as many other saints and spiritual teachers. We can spend the day absorbing the spiritual vibrations of the ashram, meditating in the room of Sri Ramana and participating in the ashram ceremonies.

– Ramana Maharshi-              Ashram in Tiruvannamalai

  • Day 5:Tiruvannamalai. Free time. We can also start the day joining the pilgrims with “pradakshina”, circumbulation of the Arunachala. We can then visit the impressive Tiruvannamalai temple, other ashrams, or go to hear the spiritual teachings of some local saints or visiting teachers…
  • Day 6: Tiruvannamalai. We can visit the two famous caves on the mountain, where Sri Ramana used to meditate, or just relax and find a peaceful place to meditate and enjoy the presence of the Arunachala. In the afternoon we will take a comfortable night (sleeper) train to Madurai (17.55 – 04.55)
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  • Day 7: Early morning arrival to Madurai. After breakfast we will visit the famous Meenakshi temple and spend the most of the day there. This immense and impressive complex is a jewel of South Indian religious architecture.
  • Day 8: Drive to Periyar national park (140 km, 4 hrs). A relaxing day, we will stop and visit some colourful markets on the way. Afternoon free time in the surroundings of Periyar.IMG_9601IMG_0350
  • Day 9: A day inside the Periyar national park. This park of 777 km2 was created by the British in 1895, and is well known for its large population of wild elephants. We can also see wild boars, langur monkeys, sambar deer etc.
  • Day 10 and 11: Drive to Kumarakom, where we will board a traditional Keralan houseboat, “kettuvallam”. We will spend two relaxing days on famous Keralan backwaters, a 900 km labyrinth of water channels, surrounded by lush tropical nature and peaceful village lifeIMG_9877
  • Day 12: After breakfast, we will leave the houseboat and drive to the ashram of Amma (Sri Mata Amritanandamayi), a great living saint known also as the “hugging mother”.
  • Day 13, 14 and 15: In Amma’s ashram. In this bustling ashram we can meet Amma, have her blessings and participate in the ashram routine of meditation, spiritual practices and selfless service. Evening of day 15, transfer to a night train for Kanhangad, North Kerala. (9.20-6.25). Night in a sleeper coach

– Amma                                 – Swami Ramdas

  • Day 16 and 17: Early morning arrival to Anandashram, home of the great saint Swami Ramdas. This sweet homely ashram has a practice of chanting the mantra “Om Sri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram”, and we can join in singing and circumbulation of the Samadhi tomb of Papa Ramdas.
  • Day 18: Transit to Mangalore airport, 100 km/3 hrs, and on to Mumbai for international flight.

BEST TIME FOR THE TOUR: November to February

 

* As Amma travels most of Her time, to ensure meeting her, the best time for a visit is August/September and December. But even in Amma’s absence the Amritapuri ashram is a place of interest, as well as of strong spiritual presence!

 

* The change of program, adding or removing places or dates is very much possible as long as it is done well in advance! To make additions to this itinerary, we suggest visits to Munnar (scenic hill station with tea and spice plantations), Trichy (famous temple town) or relaxing on the beaches of Varkala and Kovalam….

To the Source of Ganges

The Spirit of the Journey : to discover Indian culture and spirituality, practice of meditation in ashrams, visit of holy places, pilgrimage to the source of the Ganges, visit of the Taj Maha

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 Program (19 days, with 3 days trek)

  • Day 1. Arrival to Delhi, discovering the sacred and spiritual places in the city, time permitting. Night at a hotel or Sri Aurobindo Ashram.P1020023
  • Day 2. Train to Haridwar, one of the most holy cities of India located by the Ganges. Night at the ashram of the legendary saint, Sri Ma Anandamayi.
  • Day 3. Haridwar. Visit of the town, its ancient colourful markets and famous bathing ghats. We will participate in the evening ‘Arati’ fire ceremony by the Ganges.  P1020031
  • Day 4. Drive to Rishikesh (2 hrs), the «international capital of yoga». We will discover the town and its surroundings. We can take a scenic walk to a nearby waterfall (4hrs) or visit the famous cave Vashisht Guffa, home of generations of yogis. Stay in an ashram.
  • Day 5. Drive from Rishikesh to Uttarkashi (6hrs). We will now enter the Himalayas, driving through curvy mountain roads and lovely landscapes of the Gharwal Himalayas. Night in a simple hotel.
  • Day 6. Drive from Uttarkashi to Gangotri (4-5hrs), one of the most important pilgrimage places of India. The road gets more and more impressive and snow peaks unveil themselves. Night in a simple hotel, altitude 3042 m.
  • Days 7-8. Gangotri. Important days for acclimation. We will enjoy the idyllic little village of Gangotri, have walks at the deodar forest, see caves of sadhus and yogis and meditate on the banks of the river. We will also visit the famous Gangotri temple, which is dedicated to the mother goddess Ganga Ma.
  • Day 9. Beginning of the trek, Gangotri – Bhojbassa (6-7 hrs walk). We will walk 14km to camp in Bhojbassa, 3790m. We witness vegetation getting less, giving place to rocky high altitude landscape. We can also see some wildlife, such as bharals (Himalayan wild goat). Picnic stop on the way, night in tent.
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  • Day 10. Trek from Bhojbassa to the majestic Gaumukh glacier – it is a 5 km walk to the source of the Ganges. In Gaumukh, the «Cow’s Mouth», we see the source, where the icy water spurts out of the glacier – 4300m.

Return back to Bhojbassa, altogether 5-6 hrs walk. Night in tent.P1000800

  • Day 11. Return walk to Gangotri and drive to Uttarkashi. Night in a hotel.
  • Day 12. Drive from Uttarkashi to a small quiet ashram on the river Yamuna
  • Day 13-16. At the ashram. Meditation retreat. Serious, introverted spiritual practices according to the ashram schedule and discipline
  • Day 17. Departure to Dehra dun, 1,5h transfer to flight or train to Delhi. Night in hotel in Delhi.
  • Day 18. Train to Agra (2h), where we will visit the famous Taj Mahal, constructed at the 17th century by Mogul emperor Shah Jahan as a funeral tomb of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. We will also visit the Agra fort, one of the most beautiful Mogul forts of India. In the evening, return to Delhi, night in hotel
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  • Day 19. Free time in Delhi for shopping or sightseeing. Transfer to the international airport.
  • The best time of the tour: October
  • Change of programs, adding or removing places or dates is very much possible as long as it is done well in advance!
  • As an alternative to the ashram retreat, we would suggest replacing it with a 4-day visit to the “City of Light”, Varanasi

North Indian National Parks 

A fantastic journey for photographers and nature lover

A unique program that brings you to the heart of Indian nature and introduces you to six different national parks. You will also visit the legendary Taj Mahal as well as the unique temple complex of Khajuraho, getting to see some of the religious and historic heritage of India. This is a custom-made journey for photographers and nature lovers

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Spirit of the journey: Learn and improve skills to photograph landscapes and animals…or simply enjoy watching mammals and birds in their natural environment, together with guidance of skilled specialists.

Program (21 days) :

  • Day 1: Arrival to Delhi. Visit of the capital of India. Night in a hotel.
  • Day2: Afternoon train to Ramnagar, the closest town to Corbett National Park. Night in a hotel
  • Day 3: Corbett NP (altitude 400-1210m). This National park was established in 1936. It has been named after the famous British tiger hunter Jim Corbett. We spend the whole day inside the park on a jeep safari. Night in a hotel.
  • Day 4: Full day inside the park. A jeep and/or an elephant safari (according to availability). We will enjoy the natural beauty and animal life inside the park and look out for tigers, leopards, wild elephants, several species of deer, monkeys, birds etc… The safaris offer us many opportunities to learn about nature. We are stopping a lot to LISTEN and WATCH any sign of movement of the big cats and other animals. The specialists with us will explain and guide us to understand the play of nature.

There are many tigers at Corbett National Park as well as in many other parks in India, but unfortunately they are on the edge of extinction due to poaching and loss of habitat. We need both patience and luck to see and photograph these big cats from close distance!
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  • Day 5: Morning in Corbett, jeep safari inside the park. Afternoon drive to Unchagaon fort, an old colonial fortress hotel where we’ll spend the night.
  • Day 6: Early morning drive to Agra (180km – 5h). Visit of Taj Mahal, one of the most wonderful monuments of the world, which Rabindranath Tagore described as a “tear in the face of eternity”. We then continue to Bharatpur bird sanctuary. (55km, 1.5h) Night in a hotel.

Note – Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays

  • Day 7: Full day in Bharatpur bird sanctuary, one of the most important bird reserves in the world. It hosts about 370 species of birds and is a vital sanctuary for many Central Asian bird species.
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  • Day 8 :Morning train to Ranthambore national park(10.30 / 13.05 +). Afternoon safari inside the park. Night in a hotel.
  • Days 9, 10: Ranthambore national park. Here we can see many animal species such as nilgai (or blue antelope), gaur (indian bison), deer etc. It is the best park in Rajasthan to see bengali tigers. There are also over 300 bird species. We will spend these days on a jeep safari inside the park. The safaris start early morning with a lunch break and continue in the afternoon until sunset. Evening of day 10 we will take a sleeper train to Jabalpur (19.30/09.05 +)
  • Day 11: Arrival in the morning to Jabalpur, transfer to the hotel close to Kanha national park (165km/3hrs). A walk in the park. Night in a hotel.

Kanha National park is one of the largest parks in India, and a home for tigers and leopards as well as for a rare barasingha, also called swamp deer. We can also see spotted deer, langur and macaque monkeys, jackals etc…
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– Days 12 and 13: Kanha. Jeep and/or elephant safari. Two full days to see wildlife in the park.

  • Day 14: Drive to Bandhavgarh national park (265km/ 5-6 hrs). Night in a hotel.
  • Days 15-16: Two full days in the park.

Bandhavgarh, named after a nearby hilltop fort, is a home a large number of tigers, leopards (which are not easy to see), wild boars and deer. We can also do an elephant safari here. Night in a hotel
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  • Day 17: In the morning, drive to Panna national park. (240km / 5hrs). Walk in the surroundings and night in a hotelP1010233
  • Day 18: Panna national park. This is our last national park, famous for crocodiles that inhabit the Ken river as well as its landscapes. We will spend the day here before proceeding to Khajuraho temples
  • Day 19: Drive to Khajuraho. We will spend the morning visiting the temple complex of Khajuraho. These splendid Indo-Aryan temples are famous for their erotic sculptures, inspired by the Kama Sutra. Out of the 85 temples that were originally built, about twenty are still standing; we will visit the most interesting ones. We will continue to Alipura village (75km/2hrs). Night at Alipura palace.
  • Day 20: Morning drive to Orchha (90 Kms / 2.5 hrs), visit Orchha Palace, then transfer to Jhansi railway station (18 Kms / 45 minutes) for boarding the train to Delhi (17h55/22h45 hrs). Night in a hotel.
  • Day 21: Transfer to Delhi International airport.

Best time for the program:

October to March

  • National parks in India give shelter to many different animals. It is important to know that even while visiting many of them, we cannot be 100% certain of spotting tigers. An attitude of appreciating all wildlife equally will guarantee a satisfied experience
  • Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Panna national parks are closed on Wednesdays for jeep safaris
  • Change of programs, adding or removing places or dates is very much possible as long as it is done well in advance!

Hidden Tribes of the North-East: Assam-Arunachal Pradesh-Nagaland

Cultural and trekking adventure in one of the most remote and unspoiled areas of India, with a discovery of rarely seen landscapes and hidden hill tribes untouched by modern civilization.

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             Program (20 days, 4 days easy trek):
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  •  Day 1: Arrival to Delhi. Transfer to hotel, time permitting sightseeing in the capital. Night in hotel.
  • Day 2: Flight to Guwahati, afternoon sightseeing. After breakfast, short 2h flight to Guwahati, a major business center for tea industry along the river Brahmaputra. After lunch, visit of the city with its colorful markets. We will catch a ferry to go see the « Peacock Island » Shiva temple in the middle of the Brahmaputra. On the way back we will visit the Kamakhya temple on the Nilachal hill. Dinner and night in hotel.
  • Day 3: Drive from Guwahati to Tezpur and Potosali (245km, 6 -7h) On the road we will visit the Sualkuchi village, with its many silk workshops. Assam is also world famous for its tea plantations, introduced by the British in 1836. In this area alone more than half of all the tea in India is produced. Night in Potosali in a fixed camp.femme au marché_2
  • Day 4: Drive from Potosali to Itanagar (200km, 5-6h) Road to Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, named after the ancient fort that dominates the city. We will visit the Nehru museum, and do a little walk on the hills, with a visit to a hillside gompa (monastery). Night in hotel
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  • Day 5: Drive from Itanagar to Ziro (170km, 4-5h). On the way we cross Nishi tribal area. The Nishi belong in one of the largest ethnic groups of Arunachal Pradesh (49 500 people). We can admire their traditional clothing and ornaments made of leather. Night in hotel or family house.
  • Day 6: Ziro, situated in 1700 m altitude, is a home for a large number of Apatani tribals, known for their womens’ spectacular facial tattoos and large nose decorations. We will spend the most of the day here, in the middle of this well-preserved culture. The Apatanis still practice shamanism. They have great respect for the nature and protect it for the future generations. They practice rice cultivation and are famous for having developed a sophisticated irrigation system. Night in hotel or family house.femme au visage tatoué_1
  • Day 7: Drive from Ziro to Daporijo (195km, 5-6h). Road to Daporijo, on the way visit of the tribal village Hill Miri. We will traverse the Kamla river, and see Miri Hill and Tagin tribals in the Kamla valley. Night in Daporijo in lodge, hotel or guest house.
  •  Day 8: Drive from Daporijo to JumloMonko Village (200km, 6h) Road to JumloMonko village, located by the Siang or Brahmaputra river. The Brahmaputra – in Sanskrit, «Son of Brahma» – is one of the greatest Asian rivers, 2 900 km long and starts from the high Himalayas in Tibet, the Angsi Glacier. This area is one of the richest in the world in biodiversity. Its yearly flooding provides important fertilizing nutrients to its surroundings, but causes damages as well. The river is also commonly used for transport. During the drive, we will cross some Adi and Tagins
villages. Lunch in a local restaurant, night in a traditional house.
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  • Day 9: Trek from JumloMonko Village to Komsing Village (3h walk) We start the walk by crossing a spectacular hanging bridge before reaching the village of the Adi Minyon tribe. The Adis generally inhabit the area of Western Siang. Their magical bamboo villages have a fascinating atmosphere. Skulls and hides of mithuns, the local buffaloes often decorate the houses. Night in Komsing in a local guest house.mitoune_1
  • Day 10: Trek from Komsing village to Ponging and Siang village (6-7 h walk). We will walk through spectacular lush tropical landscape until Ponging village where we can try some Apong, local rice wine. Now we are at the heart of the land of the Adi, where every tribe has their own traditions and customs. Night in a family house in Siang.
  • Day 11: Trek from Siang village to Adi-Minyong Sisen Village. Walk through impressive tropical jungle along the Brahmaputra to the village of Adi-Minyong (5-6h). Night in family house or tent.
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  •  Day 12: Adi-Minyong – Pangi road & drive to Pasighat (65km/2h) We begin with a forest walk along the Brahmaputra, with a stop for a swim. A 1h+ uphill walk brings us to the road for a short 65 km transfer to the town of Pasighat in the center of Arunachal Pradesh (22 000 inhabitants). We’ll have an afternoon stroll in this important town, where the rivers Siang and Lohit join to form the Brahmaputra. Night in hotel.
  •  Day 13: Drive and ferry from Pasighat to Dibrugarh (185km, 5-6h) We start the day by a short drive and a visit of an Adi village, then we’ll board a ferry to Dibrugarh. Picnic lunch on board, afternoon walk on the markets of Dibrugarh. Night in a simple hotel in Dibrugarh.
  • Day 14: Dibrugarh-Sibsagar-Mon (Nagaland) (220km, 6- 7h) We cross a part of Nagaland on our way to Mon district. We will stop many times on the way to see tea plantations and to drink excellent local chai. The state of Nagaland is inhabited by the Nagas, who originate from South- East Asia. The main Naga tribes include the Angami and Regma tribes, most of whom have been converted to Christianity. Night in a hotel in Mon.
  • Day 15: Around Mon. Visit of villages and «murongs», traditional buildings that are used communally as schools, dormitories and study rooms. Night in a guest house or a hotel.village traditionle.2
  • Day 16: Drive from Mon to Sibsagar and Jorhat (210km, 5-6hrs) Visit of the village of Nagas Mon, drive to Jorhat in Assam. On the way we will visit the ancient capital of the Ahoms kings, who ruled Assam for 6 centuries before the arrival of the British in 1826. Time permitting, we can visit the Ahoms museum, then continue to Jorhat. Night in hotel in Jorhat.
  • Day 17: Drive and ferry from Jorhat to Majuli Island (15km + 2h of ferry) Short transfer to Numatu Ghat and ferry to Majuli Island, the largest floating island in the world. The main attraction here is the famous Vaishnavi monastery, unique in the whole world. We will participate in the devotional dance performance for Vishnu, performed by the monks of the monastery. Night in the monastery or in a nearby guesthouse.
  • Day 18: Drive and ferry from Majuli Island to the Kaziranga national park (2h drive, 2-3h ferry) We will arrive in the afternoon to the Kaziranga national park, the only one in India to host rare one-horned rhinos. Night in a comfortable lodge close to the park.
  • Day 19: Full day game in Kaziranga national park. We will spend the day discovering wildlife in this park, established in 1926 mainly to protect the highly endangered one-horned rhinos. The current rhino population is now 1100 and we will be sure to see them. The park is also home for the rare capped langur monkeys, as well as for species of deer, monkeys, tigers, leopards and a large number of reptiles and birds. Night in the lodge.personnes a dos d'elephant_1rhino et elephant
  • Day 20: Kaziranga-Guwahati-Delhi-Airport Road to Guwahati airport, flight to Delhi. Transfer to hotel, time permitting sightseeing in Delhi and rest, then transfer for the international flight.
  • Best time for the program: November, February-March
  • Attention! The North-East India is a pristine area that has only recently opened up to receive tourists. Therefore, all things may not always go as smoothly as they do back home… please join this great adventure with an open and flexible mind!
  • Change of program, adding or removing places or dates is very much possible as long as it is done well in advance!

Discovery of Ladakh on Motorbike

An adventure for motorbike lovers!

We travel with legendary Indian Royal Enfield 500cc bikes from the Southern foot of the Himalayas via the famous « Manali-Leh highway » all the way to the high mountain plateau of Ladakh. We drive on dramatic landscapes and scenic roads, over high mountain passes, through valleys and peaks until we reach the high plateau of Ladakh at 3500m altitude, characterized by colourful Tibetan culture. We enjoy the stunning scenery, unspoilt nature and warm encounters with locals from the saddle of a classic Royal Enfield motorcycle.

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Program:

 

DAY 1 Flight to New Delhi

Arrival and transfer to the hotel. 

DAY 2. Delhi

Afternoon visit of the main attractions, temples and markets of the capital. Welcome dinner, with introduction of our adventure tour.

Day 3. Delhi – Chandigarh

Early morning train to Chandigarh, city that was designed by the Swiss architect Le Corbusier. In the afternoon we visit the most interesting sights of the city (the rock gardens, etc). 

DAY 4. Chandigarh – Manali

6 to 7hrs scenic minibus drive that takes us into the Himalayas. We pass through the beautiful Kullu Valley and at its northern end we reach the town of Manali, situated in the altitude of 2050 m by the Beas River and surrounded by snow peaks.

DAY 5. Manali

Finally, we can take our iconic motorcycles! With a test drive in the surrounding area, we prepare ourselves for the challenge ahead. Night in Manali

DAY 6. Manali – Jespa (Approx 147 Km)

We will leave Manali and soon cross the first high pass, the Rohtang La (3908 m). We can see a wonderful view of the Shingri Glacier, before we reach Jespa.

 DAY 7. Jespa – Sarchu (Approx 96 Km)

Our path leads along the Bhaga River to Suraj Lake, which is already at the altitude of 4800 meters. After the pass Baralacha La we reach the village of Sarchu. Night in a fix camp.

DAY 8. Sarchu – Tsokar (Approx 140 Km)

This day’s drive is one of the most challenging and enjoyable ones! Passing 21 hairpin curves, the so-called « Gatalla loops », we drive to the summit of La Lachulung to 5060 meters and on to the Pang La, which is located at 4630 meters. Ride to the high plateau of Rupshu, continuing to the banks of the stunning Salt Lake Tsokar.

DAY 9. Tsokar – Tsomoriri (Approx 76 Km)

We cross a high plateau where we have a chance to see wild ass (khyangs). The road condition requires our full attention. Rocky sections follow on dirt tracks until we reach the beautiful turquoise Tsomoriri Lake at the altitude of 4500m. Night in a fix camp.

DAY 10. Tsomoriri

Well-deserved day of rest in Korzok. We can visit the village and see the Changpa nomads who have preserved their traditions for centuries. The nearby lakeshore invites you to stretch your legs. Free day, night in fix camp

DAY 11. Tsomoriri – Hemis (Approx 200 Km)

We follow the road back to the village of Sumdo and drive on to the Indus Valley. Our destination is the village of Hemis, where is one of the most important monasteries of Ladakh. Night in camp.

DAY 12. Hemis – Leh (Approx 43 Km)

Visit the monastery of Hemis, one of the largest and most famous Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. It is perfectly nestled in a lovely valley, surrounded by streams and long Mani prayer stone walls. In the afternoon, drive to the capital of Ladakh, Leh.

DAY 13 Leh (Approx 80 Km)

The majestic highlight of our tour! Ride to the 5606-meter high pass Khardung La, second highest road in the world. We can admire spectacular views over the Nubra Valley on one side and the Indus valley on the other side of the pass. Return to Leh. Night in hotel

DAY 14 Leh- Indus Valley – Uley Tokpo (Approx 65 Km)

A drive along the Kashmir road takes us through the beautiful landscape of the Indus Valley. We reach our camping resort in Uley Tokpo, situated on the banks of the Indus River. Night in fix camp.

DAY 15 Indus Valley (Approx 30 Km)

We visit two of the most beautiful monasteries of the valley. The biggest monastery of the valley – Lamayuru – boasts a spectacular location on a rocky plateau. One of the oldest monasteries in the area – Alchi – impresses with unique paintings dating from 11th century. Night in Uley Tokpo.

DAY 16 Indus Valley – Leh (Approx 70 Km)

The last nice and easy drive back to Leh. The afternoon is free time for shopping, sightseeing or just for well deserved relaxation.

DAY 17 Departure from Leh – Arrival in New Delhi

In the morning we bid farewell to Ladakh and board the plane to Delhi. We can spend the day sightseeing or shopping in the capital. In the evening we enjoy a farewell dinner before departure to the airport.

DAY 18. Arrival in France

IMPORTANT: The program may change according to the weather and/or the state of the roads.