Kick off this epic adventure with a first class train journey into the foothills of the Himalayas

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Liliana Johnson
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+44 (0)20 8741 7390 Considered amongst the most beautiful mountain landscapes on earth, the Indian Himalayas provide the breathtaking backdrop to this unforgettable journey into the wild lands of

Beginning with a first class train journey into the foothills of the Himalayas, you will travel from Delhi into the beautiful landscapes of the Kumaon Hills, to explore the villages around Kalmatia.

route to Jawalbanj. Turning your back on the mountains, you then head into the landscapes of the Corbett Tiger Reserve, one of India s most important tiger sanctuaries.

1 +44 (0) Considered amongst the most beautiful mountain landscapes on earth, the Indian Himalayas provide the breathtaking backdrop to this unforgettable journey into the wild lands of northern India. Staying at some of the most exclusive hideaways on the continent, the journey takes you by first class train and jeep deep into the heart of rural India. Beginning with a first class train journey into the foothills of the Himalayas, you will travel from Delhi into the beautiful landscapes of the Kumaon Hills, to explore the villages around Kalmatia. Hiking across some of the most spectacular landscapes in northern India you will pass through villages that have changed little in centuries, staying at a succession of unique mountain retreats en route to Jawalbanj. Turning your back on the mountains, you then head into the landscapes of the Corbett Tiger Reserve, one of India s most important tiger sanctuaries. Here you will have an opportunity to track the rare and elusive tiger, before continuing to the banks of the sacred Ganges and the spiritual setting of Rishkesh, The Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. HIGHLIGHTS: Kick off this epic adventure with a first class train journey into the foothills of the Himalayas Experience village life in the foothills, with walks and homestays amongst the Kumaon Hills Enjoy the unique attractions of Leti 360, a Himalayan hideaway like no other Track the rare and elusive tiger amongst the rich landscapes Corbett National Park Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambience of Rishikesh on the banks of the Ganges TOUR INCLUDES: 13 nights varied accommodation

13 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 11 dinners Private

driver and vehicle Sightseeing programme including

airports *Please note the prices shown are per

2 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 11 dinners Private excursions with English speaking guides Private driver and vehicle Sightseeing programme including all entrance fees Private transfers to and from all airports *Please note the prices shown are per person and based on two persons sharing a twin or double room

3 ITINERARY DAY 1: DELHI - KATHGODAM Arriving early in the morning (around 2am) you will be taken straight to your hotel for a good rest before your sightseeing of the Indian capital, which will include a look around the new town and a trip into the heart of the old town. After an early dinner you will jump straight into this adventure by boarding your overnight train to Kathgodam in the foothills of the Indian Himalayas. Travelling in style, you make your way towards the beautiful landscapes of the Kumaon Hills. (L, D) DAY 2: KATHGODAM - KALMATIA Situated on the banks of the Gaula River, Kathgodam is the last stop on the line and from here you alight the train and drive on to Kalmatia, enjoying the beautiful serenity of the surrounding landscapes as you make your way towards the Kalmatia Sangam Himalaya Resort. (B,D) DAY 3: HIMALAYAN VILLAGE WALK - DEORA VILLAGE Today you begin your exploration of the surrounding villages, offering you a chance to discover a little something of the true heart of rural India. Following a gentle trail from the lodge, you will negotiate a landscape of bubbling streams and lush valleys, as you hike across hills blanketed in rhododendrons and forests of pine and oak. The walk today will take around 5-6 hours and during the day you will pass through villages whose ways of life have changed little over the intervening years. (B,L,D)

4 DAY 4: HIMALAYAN VILLAGE WALK - PALIU VILLAGE The trail on to Paliu today follows an even easier course than yesterday, passing traditional flour mills along the way, where you will get an opportunity to see a demonstration of how they work. On arrival in Paliu your porters will see to your luggage, whilst you have the chance to watch how the locals prepare some regional delicacies for this evening's meal. (B,L,D) DAY 5: HIMALAYAN VILLAGE WALK - LETI 360 It is just a short walk to the road-head this morning, where you will be met and driven on to Leti, a five hour journey that takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery that the Indian Himalayas can provide. Your destination today is the unique Leti 360, a Himalayan hideaway that is the only place of its kind in this part of the world. Set some 8,000 feet up, amongst some of the most beautiful mountain scenery imaginable, the retreat consists of just 4 exquisitely appointed cottages, surrounded on all sides by a glorious panorama of mountains and valleys. (B,L,D) DAY 6: LETI 360 The next two days are free to indulge in the delights of mountain walks, pashmina blankets and gourmet cooking, as the resort's abundant charms are placed at your disposal. With private mountain guides, relaxing yoga sessions and fabulous views on offer, you can choose to do as much, or as little, as you wish. Take a delicious picnic lunch and enjoy some al fresco dining, or simply luxuriate in one of the planter's chairs and bask in the glory of this breathtaking setting; the choice is yours. (B,L,D) DAY 7: LETI 360 Day at leisure at Leti 360 (B,L,D)

DAY 8: LETI 360 - JAWALBANJ VILLAGE Walking back down to the road-head this morning you will be met by your private vehicle and transferred back toward Almora, tucked away in a little visited corner

5 DAY 8: LETI JAWALBANJ VILLAGE Walking back down to the road-head this morning you will be met by your private vehicle and transferred back toward Almora, tucked away in a little visited corner of Uttaranchal. To the east lies Nepal and China, to the north Jammu and Kashmir. Almora occupies a horseshoe-shaped ridge among the foothills and provides an ideal gateway onto your rural stop for this evening, the small village of Jawalbanj. (B,L,D) DAY 9: JAWALBANJ VILLAGE - CORBETT TIGER RESERVE Taking a last look towards the stirring landscapes of the Kumaon Hills, you turn your back on the mountains and head down a gentle meandering slope into the valley below. The 5 kilometre trail takes you through forests of cedar and past terraced fields and remote village houses, as you make your way towards the cluster of temples that makes up the Jageshwar Temple Complex. From here you will then be driven on to the Corbett National Park, one of the country's most important tiger sanctuaries. (B,L,D) DAY 10: CORBETT TIGER RESERVE With a tiger population of around 160, Corbett National Park is one of India's most spectacular wildlife preserves. Set amongst the rich landscapes of the Ramanganga River Valley, it is also one of the best places in India for bird-watching, with something close to 600 different species being recorded here. Each game drive takes around 4 hours and there depart early in the morning and late afternoon. (B,L,D)

DAY 11: CORBETT TIGER RESERVE - RISHIKESH After being collected from your lodge this morning, you will drive some 6 hours to the holy town of Rishikesh, travelling through a multitude of colourful

6 DAY 11: CORBETT TIGER RESERVE - RISHIKESH After being collected from your lodge this morning, you will drive some 6 hours to the holy town of Rishikesh, travelling through a multitude of colourful towns en route to the sumptuous setting of your next hotel. Anada in the Himalayas is a setting like no other. Tranquil in the extreme, it is surrounded by Sal forests and overlooks the majestic ribbon of the River Ganges as it carves its way through India's spiritual heart. (B) DAY 12: RISHIKESH With time to relax and soak up the unique ambience of this exclusive setting, the next two days have been left free for you to enjoy at your own leisure. Today the river's banks are lined with ashrams, where holy men gather to rest and pray before they begin their arduous pilgrimage up into the snow covered lands of the 'Abode of the Gods'. During your time here you can indulge in a range of spa treatments and yoga sessions, enjoy the pool and the grounds, or perhaps take an evening trip down to the river to watch a traditional aarti ceremony. Night at Ananda in the Himalayas. (B) DAY 13: RISHIKESH Day at leisure in Rishikesh. (B) DAY 14: RISHIKESH - DELHI Ending your journey as you began it, you travel back to Delhi by train this morning. On arrival in the Indian capital you will met and taken to a restaurant for dinner before being transferred to the airport, where your tour will end. (B,D)

ACCOMMODATION ALMORA VILLAGE HOMES: DEORA, PALIU & SOKYATAL Deora, Paliu and Sokyatal are lovely villages with wonderfully carved doors and windows overlooking the valley with the ancient temples.

These homestays give you a fantastic impression of Kumaoni local life, where old traditions and culture are still part of their daily routine lives.

7 ACCOMMODATION ALMORA VILLAGE HOMES: DEORA, PALIU & SOKYATAL Deora, Paliu and Sokyatal are lovely villages with wonderfully carved doors and windows overlooking the valley with the ancient temples. On arrival, enjoy a welcome drink while a traditional and delicious Kumaoni dinner is cooked by the host. Guests are welcome to watch! Relax, chat with the locals and listen to tales from the past. These homestays give you a fantastic impression of Kumaoni local life, where old traditions and culture are still part of their daily routine lives. As with everywhere in Kumaon, the people are friendly and more than happy to chat and be photographed. CORBETT NATIONAL PARK HIDEAWAY RIVER LODGE The Hideaway River Lodge is strategically located on 8 acres of private land, a stone's throw away from the banks of the Ramganga River and on the very edge of the Corbett Tiger Reserve, this unique location allows you to get up close to the wildlife of the National Park, as you can sit on the lawn overlooking the river as the sunsets or rises and watch the scenes play out in front of view undisturbed by jeep noises or other tourists. The 10 rooms are made of simple reinforced tents with running hot water and en-suite bathrooms and there is al fresco dining to continue your nature watch unabated.

JIM'S JUNGLE RETREAT Jim's Jungle Retreat is a slightly alternative camp option in the area, about half an hour from the main park entrance.

The hotel focuses on nature and offers very comfortable lodgings in the form of rooms and tents.

The hotel offers nature packages, with nature walks, bird watching and also visits into the National Park. This is a great option offering a taste of camping luxury in very natural surroundings.

8 JIM'S JUNGLE RETREAT Jim's Jungle Retreat is a slightly alternative camp option in the area, about half an hour from the main park entrance. The hotel is based about 15km from the main entrance to the National Park but is in a great location, allowing wildlife and bird life to enter the grounds. The hotel focuses on nature and offers very comfortable lodgings in the form of rooms and tents.the newer 'Jungle lodges' are first floor rooms with 3 sided verandas, and are set away from the main restaurant area and pool but are slightly more modern and luxurious. The hotel offers nature packages, with nature walks, bird watching and also visits into the National Park. This is a great option offering a taste of camping luxury in very natural surroundings. THE RIVER VIEW RETREAT - CORBETT RESORT This lovely resort is spread across 8 acres in the Jim Corbett National Park. The River Kosi flows alongside the resort attracting a decent amount of wildlife. The resort has a swimming pool with lodges and cottages spread out across the site. DELHI HAVELI DHARAMPURA During the Mughal period, havelis were initially constructed as a residence for the royal family or rich merchants. Originally built in 1887 AD, the haveli in Dharampura, Old Delhi has been transformed into an award-winning heritage hotel. 14 beautifully furnished rooms - in 3 catagories - have been tastefully designed to create a unique ambience and charm, keeping the royal Mughal era in mind. The facilities include Satellite LCD TV, tea/coffee maker, electronic safe, mini bar and high speed internet. The hotel also has 2 restaurants, including a rooftop terrace with views of the famous Red Fort.

LALIT HOTEL NEW DELHI A top-notch modern central option. The Lalit is extremely well located close to Connaught Place and so perfect for sightseeing and dining out.

The 2 rooftop Pan-Asian restaurants offer both great views and fine dining and there is a large outdoor swimming pool and well eqipped healthclub/spa facilities.

MAIDENS HOTEL The Maidens Hotel in Delhi is one of the oldest and probably the most famous Heritage Hotel in the city (built in the early 1900s) and has managed to maintain a majestic atmosphere with

9 LALIT HOTEL NEW DELHI A top-notch modern central option. The Lalit is extremely well located close to Connaught Place and so perfect for sightseeing and dining out. It has an airy, spacious vibe and despite lacking character, the rooms are large and comfortable with all you would expect of a hotel of this five star standard. The 2 rooftop Pan-Asian restaurants offer both great views and fine dining and there is a large outdoor swimming pool and well eqipped healthclub/spa facilities. The staff are warmly welcoming making for a great stay at this elegant option. MAIDENS HOTEL The Maidens Hotel in Delhi is one of the oldest and probably the most famous Heritage Hotel in the city (built in the early 1900s) and has managed to maintain a majestic atmosphere with its colonial architecture and designs. The hotel is located in an accessible part of the city, within walking distance of some of the most magnificent Mughal monuments and the famous shopping centre Chandni Chowk. However with its lush gardens and spacious grounds, one is still able to escape the hustle and bustle of Delhi and relax in this peaceful little piece of history. OBEROI NEW DELHI HOTEL Located 20 minutes from the city centre the ordinary exterior belies an extravagant, opulent interior. A chandelier-strewn lobby opens to wonderful restaurants (Italian & Chinese) and a great bar. A large indoor swimming pool/spa area is a sanctum of serenity. The rooms are beautifully furnished and the views over the golf course and towards the city are impressive. Checkout the basement patisserie which is a haven of sophisticated charm. One of the city's finest fives star deluxe options.

PARK HOTEL Situated in the heart of Delhi's business and entertainment area, the Park Hotel provides a perfect place from which to explore the city as well as enjoy refined luxury and high-class

The interior is a mix of modern and classic art, with a wonderfully designed bar of walnut timber and bronze and orange walls, cleverly devised by Conran and Partners, London, as well as very

SAUBHAG BED AND BREAKFAST Saubhag Bed and Breakfast has just three en suite rooms, each tastefully and classically decorated, light and spacious.

10 PARK HOTEL Situated in the heart of Delhi's business and entertainment area, the Park Hotel provides a perfect place from which to explore the city as well as enjoy refined luxury and high-class hospitality. The interior is a mix of modern and classic art, with a wonderfully designed bar of walnut timber and bronze and orange walls, cleverly devised by Conran and Partners, London, as well as very comfortable rooms with all the modern amenities one would expect of a five star option. SAUBHAG BED AND BREAKFAST Saubhag Bed and Breakfast has just three en suite rooms, each tastefully and classically decorated, light and spacious. Meera, the owner is a welcoming host and will do her best to make sure that you feel at home from the moment you arrive until you leave. Breakfast is included at the guest house but they will also cook an evening meal for you and will even arrange a taxi for you, should you wish to venture out to a restaurant. There is a small outdoor patio area, central sitting room and free internet too. This is a fantastic option for people wanting a more personalised service in Delhi. THE CLARIDGES The Claridges has been a veritable treasure in Lutyens Delhi since 1950's. Amidst the rush of new modernity, the soul of The Claridges lives on. Refurbished, redesigned and revitalized, the hotel now offers the guests an experience that is new and yet so familiar. The hotel is also in an excellent location just a short Auto ride from Khan Market and not much further to Connaught Place. The Claridges has appointed new management personnel to blend tradition with modernity, which gives it a completely refreshing look. Leading designers of international repute have helped enhance the heritage and elegance of this four star hotel.

THE IMPERIAL The Imperial is an exceptional hotel located in an oasis of greenery, hidden amongst the hustle and bustle of New Delhi.

This is especially exemplified by its architecture and the time-honoured hospitality of the Indian staff.

restaurants. THE LODHI Located in the heart of New Delhi, just south of the Delhi Golf Course and adjacent to the medieval Nizamuddin complex lies this beautiful city-based resort.

11 THE IMPERIAL The Imperial is an exceptional hotel located in an oasis of greenery, hidden amongst the hustle and bustle of New Delhi. Considered one of the top hotels in Delhi, this grand five star deluxe establishment successfully mixes a traditional blend of elegance with the modern comforts of a high-class hotel. This is especially exemplified by its architecture and the time-honoured hospitality of the Indian staff. The hotel's facilities include a spa, swimming pool with Jacuzzi and sauna, shops, money exchange, not to mention the wide range of delicious menus spread across a generous number of bars and restaurants. THE LODHI Located in the heart of New Delhi, just south of the Delhi Golf Course and adjacent to the medieval Nizamuddin complex lies this beautiful city-based resort. The design of the resort is contemporary, complemented with Indian touches such as hand-made rugs and jaali screens. Spacious rooms afford guests the opportunity to relax in enveloping comfort, while the heady aroma of fresh flowers throughout the resort brings nature home to this metropolitan haven. There is also a wonderful spa, a luxury 50m pool and health centre plus fine dining options to enjoy. JAWALBANJ ALMORA VILLAGE WALKS Traditional from the outside, western on the inside, these village houses dotted through the Almora region mix local Kumoan charm with modern comforts perfectly. Set a few hour's walk apart, each house blends into its village, giving guests the chance to witness Himalayan life up close. Each house is equipped with comfortable beds, western toilets, and outside shower blocks. Private chefs prepare meals each night, and porters carry your luggage. This is a truly wonderful off-thebeaten-track, low-impact look at rural Indian! KALMATIA

KALMATIA SANGAM HIMALAYA RESORT Kalmatia Sangam Himalaya Resort is a Boutique Resort nestled in the heart of the Kumaon hills, offering the most exclusive and unusual of accommodations in Uttaranchal.

The cottages are constructed in a British colonial style with Kumaoni inspiration and equipped with wood burners for the winter months.

12 KALMATIA SANGAM HIMALAYA RESORT Kalmatia Sangam Himalaya Resort is a Boutique Resort nestled in the heart of the Kumaon hills, offering the most exclusive and unusual of accommodations in Uttaranchal. This gorgeous location is perfect for Yoga, meditation and exploring Kumaoni villages around with 'village walk' programmes developed with the local population. The cottages are constructed in a British colonial style with Kumaoni inspiration and equipped with wood burners for the winter months. Not one cottage resembles the other, but all have their own veranda or terrace, and windows/skylights allowing an unhampered view of the snowclad Himalayas. LETI LETI 360 Set in a stunning location at an altitude of 2,200m, it offers wonderful views across the Himalayan peaks. One is able to truly relax and set your own pace of life. The camp comprises 4 supremely comfortable cottages and a well-appointed dining/living room with beautiful rustic wooden furniture. Dining off damask tablecloths by candlelight, feasting on superb cuisine and delicious wines, one can then retire to the comfort of their bed adorned with duvets and pashmina blankets. You may like to simply rest, rejuvenate your body and mind with the stunning scenery around you, taking in the achingly fresh air and absolute peace and quiet. RISHIKESH

ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYAS This five star luxurious hotel and spa is situated in the Himalayas, 45 minutes by (winding) road from the sacred town Rishikesh.

The hotel itself is spread over 100 acres in 2 buildings, it is a sprawling, lushly verdant area where you are transported in golfcarts.

Indian music in the music pavilion! GLASSHOUSE ON THE GANGES Situated 23 kilometres north of Rishikesh on the banks of the mighty Ganges sits this lovely riverside, boutique lodge.

13 ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYAS This five star luxurious hotel and spa is situated in the Himalayas, 45 minutes by (winding) road from the sacred town Rishikesh. The stunning outlook from the hotel is phenomenal with the Ganges snaking through the landscape and towns below and the majestic mountains towering in the distance. The hotel itself is spread over 100 acres in 2 buildings, it is a sprawling, lushly verdant area where you are transported in golfcarts. Once belonging to the Maharaja of Tehri-Garwal there is much to enjoy, the large outdoor swimming pool, the spa with ayurvedic treatments, cooking lesson and you can even learn to play classical Indian music in the music pavilion! GLASSHOUSE ON THE GANGES Situated 23 kilometres north of Rishikesh on the banks of the mighty Ganges sits this lovely riverside, boutique lodge. Comprising 23 rooms or cottages (most with river views) the property is surrounded by lush mangroves and strawberry trees. There is also a small sandy beach where you can go directly into the Ganges, should you want a dip. The vibe is relaxing, with the sound of the river and in cooling river breeze as you sit on one of the terrace to watch the river glide by. A plethora of activities can be arranged and Rishikesh centre is just half an hour away, or enjoy the treatments of the spa. HOTEL VASUNDHARA PALACE Located close to the thriving heart of the sacred town of Rishikesh -this hotel is within walking distance of the first of the 2 great suspension bridges that reach across mother Ganges. There is a small rooftop pool and a vegetarian restaurant serving local cuisine (nb: no alcohol is served) and the staff are friendly and helpful. This is a fine mid-range option with clean and comfortable rooms with some nice local designs decorating the walls. Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel Ltd Tel +44 (0) Fax +44 (0)

14 Website wildfrontierstravel.com

HIGHLIGHTS: TOUR INCLUDES: +44 (0)

HIGHLIGHTS: TOUR INCLUDES: +44 (0) +44 (0)20 8741 7390 From the bustling streets of the Indian capital, to the serene foothills of the majestic Himalayas, this idyllic adventure takes you into the heart of a remarkable country. Beginning