#Luxury Resorts in Uttarkashi

[travellingmantra]

Places to Stay in Uttarkashi

When planning your visit to the serene and spiritually enriched town of Uttarkashi, nestled amidst the mighty Himalayas and graced by the divine Bhagirathi river, selecting the perfect places to stay in Uttarkashi is essential for a fulfilling experience. Uttarkashi, serving as a gateway to the sacred Gangotri and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, offers a plethora of options for accommodation to cater to every traveler’s needs and preferences.

For those seeking a tranquil retreat, Uttarkashi presents a variety of places to stay in Uttarkashi, ranging from cozy guesthouses to luxurious resorts, all providing a comfortable haven amidst the Himalayan serenity. Whether you’re drawn to the rustic charm of a riverside cottage or the modern amenities of a boutique hotel, there’s an option to suit every taste and budget in Uttarkashi.

Travelling Mantra, your trusted booking partner, simplifies the process of finding the perfect places to stay in Uttarkashi. With an extensive range of accommodations and user-friendly booking solutions, Travelling Mantra ensures that you can easily discover and reserve your ideal lodging for your Uttarkashi getaway. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or on a romantic retreat, Travelling Mantra offers personalized assistance to ensure a seamless and enjoyable booking experience.

Staying in Uttarkashi provides not only a comfortable base for exploring the town’s spiritual and natural wonders but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage. From visiting ancient temples to embarking on scenic hikes amidst the Himalayan vistas, Uttarkashi offers endless opportunities for exploration and rejuvenation.

At Travelling Mantra, we understand the importance of finding the perfect places to stay in Uttarkashi to make your experience truly unforgettable. That’s why we are dedicated to assisting you every step of the way, ensuring that your accommodation meets your expectations and enhances your overall journey.

Whether you’re seeking peace and tranquility or adventure and exploration, let Travelling Mantra be your guide to discovering the best places to stay in Uttarkashi. Your Uttarkashi adventure awaits — book your stay with Travelling Mantra today and embark on a journey of discovery and serenity amidst the Himalayan paradise.

[priyanka104]

A Practical Guide: How to Plan Chardham Yatra From Delhi

The Chardham Yatra, a spiritual journey to four sacred destinations in the Indian Himalayas – Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath – is a dream pilgrimage for millions. Originating from Delhi, this journey not only promises spiritual fulfillment but also a chance to witness the incredible beauty of the Himalayas. In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through planning this sacred journey, ensuring a fulfilling and hassle-free experience.

Preparing for the Journey

1. Best Time to Visit: The ideal time for Chardham Yatra is from May to October, avoiding the monsoon season (July to August) due to landslides and road blockages.

2. Fitness and Health: The journey involves trekking at high altitudes. Ensure you are physically fit and consult your doctor before planning the trip. Carry necessary medications and a first-aid kit.

3. Packing Essentials: Pack light but include warm clothes, raincoats, sturdy shoes, a torch, and essential toiletries. Don’t forget to carry enough cash, as ATMs might be scarce.

Itinerary from Delhi

1. Delhi to Haridwar (206 km) Start your journey from Delhi to Haridwar, a drive of approximately 5 hours. Haridwar, a holy city on the banks of the Ganges, is an ideal stop for rest and spiritual preparation.

2. Haridwar to Barkot (220 km) The next stop is Barkot, which is a 7-8 hour drive. It’s a beautiful hill station serving as a base for the Yamunotri trek.

3. Barkot to Yamunotri and Back (36 km drive + 6 km trek) The actual pilgrimage begins with a trek to Yamunotri. The 6 km trek can be completed on foot or by pony/palanquin. After darshan, return to Barkot for an overnight stay.

4. Barkot to Uttarkashi (100 km) Drive to Uttarkashi, which is about 4 hours away. Visit the Vishwanath Temple here and prepare for the next leg to Gangotri.

5. Uttarkashi to Gangotri and Back (100 km each way) The drive to Gangotri takes about 4 hours. Perform darshan at the Gangotri temple and return to Uttarkashi for an overnight stay.

6. Uttarkashi to Guptkashi/Sitapur (230 km) The next destination is Guptkashi or Sitapur, a journey of about 9 hours, which is a base for Kedarnath.

7. Guptkashi/Sitapur to Kedarnath and Back (30 km drive + 16 km trek) Drive to Gaurikund, from where the 16 km trek to Kedarnath begins. You can trek, hire a pony, or opt for a helicopter service. After darshan, return to your base.

8. Guptkashi/Sitapur to Badrinath (190-240 km) The drive to Badrinath takes about 7-8 hours. Visit the Badrinath Temple and explore nearby attractions like Mana village.

9. Badrinath to Rudraprayag/Srinagar (160-190 km) After visiting Badrinath, head to Rudraprayag or Srinagar for an overnight stay, breaking the return journey to Delhi.

10. Rudraprayag/Srinagar to Haridwar (165-135 km) Return to Haridwar, visiting Devprayag on the way to witness the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers.

11. Haridwar to Delhi (206 km) The final leg of your journey will take you back to Delhi.

Accommodation and Food

Book your accommodations well in advance, especially during the peak season. Options range from budget lodges to luxury resorts. For meals, local eateries and restaurants serve simple vegetarian food, keeping in line with the spiritual nature of the journey.

Permits and Registrations

Ensure you register for the Yatra online or at designated centers. Carry valid ID proofs for permits, especially for the Kedarnath trek.

Travel Tips

Stay hydrated and acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness.

Respect local customs and the environment.

Stay updated on weather and road conditions.

Opt for a guide or a travel package if unsure about organizing the trip on your own.

Conclusion

The Chardham Yatra from Delhi is not just a religious pilgrimage but an expedition that brings you closer to nature and spirituality. With careful planning and preparation, this journey can be a life-changing experience, etching memories that will be cherished forever.

Remember, the journey is as important as the destination. Embrace every moment, and let the serenity of the Himalayas transform you. Safe travels!

[sacred-chardham-yatra]

Shiv Parivar Resort is a Luxury Hotel in Uttarkashi for Pilgrims and Non-pilgrims Travelers.

Visit our luxury Property Shiv Parivar Resort

We are also providing best modified Chardham Yatra packages of 2023

[dayararesort]

Every place in Uttarakhand has its special season to visit for its unique charms and one among them is Gangotri

[shikharnaturecamps-blog]

Top Luxury NAtuer Camp Resorts in Uttarkashi India  | Best Nature  Camp Uttarkashi

Shikhar nature offers the best nature resorts in uttarkashi. It located 05 kilometres from Uttarkashi city centre on the way to Gangotri Temple at an altitude of 1150 Mts. At Shikhar resort there are 18 Luxurious Deluxe Cottage Tents available with attached Baths. You can avail the facility as per your requirements.

Get More Details Visit :- https://www.naturecampsindia.com

[girirajresort-blog]

Hotels in Guptkashi, Accommodation in Chardham

Guptkashi is one of the amazing places in India. The freshness in air, reflection of the sunlight on the lofty mountains and astounding natural landscapes are some of the main attractions of this place.

Guptakshi is a small town which comes in the route of chardham yatra. It is a large town located at a distance of 47km from the Kedarnath. Kedarnath temple has a stupendous architecture. Foreign researchers come here to see and analyse the amazing design of this amazing temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Among many budgeted hotels in Guptkashi, Giriraj Resort is quite popular for quality of services that it provides to its customers. Travelers stay in the resort for rest. Kedar Camp resorts, adhvanta resort Guptkashi, Shivaay Camp, kedar Kashi cottage and Hotel Raj Palace are some of the popular hotels located in astonishing town Guptkashi.

Giriraj Resort provides spacious rooms with separate bathrooms. Each room has a splendid river view from the windows. Also, it gives a breathtaking view when you look at lofty mountains and attractive hill ranges. Giriraj is one of the popular budget as well as luxury hotels in the Guptkashi.

Here, every small need of the travelers is taken care of. Cleanliness of the resort is regularly checked and maintained by hotel authorities. Electricity is supplied to the each room of the hotel for round the clock. Also, there is a continuous supply of water in bathrooms. Facility of hot and cold water is made available in order to take care of all the necessities of the travelers in different seasons.

 Because of these world class facilities, Giriraj resort can be characterized as the best hotel in Guptakashi. Doing a little research on internet can help you to get the price rates of this famous hotel. Or you can contact a travel agent. Travel agents help you to plan your journey in an easier and comfortable manner.  

More information:-Giriraj Resort Guptkashi | Budget Hotels in Guptkashi

[newsreadersin]

Uttarakhand: Bulldozer will run at Hakam Singh Rawat resort

Uttarakhand: Bulldozer will run at Hakam Singh Rawat resort

Uttarkashi: Resort of Pulkit Arya, accused in Ankita murder case, was already demolished. Now UKSSSC is preparing for action against copying mafia Hakam Singh Rawat. It is told that, Hakam Singh Rawat is the main accused in UKSSSC paper leak case. Today, Dhami government’s bulldozer will run on luxurious resort of Hakam Singh Rawat. Rawat has illegally built a resort on land of Revenue Department…

[travelwithsmile]

3 BEST JUNGLE RESORTS IN INDIA

India is far more than holy cows and incredible architecture. Home to some of the densest and beautiful jungles in the world, there’s no better way to explore India’s interiors in the hope of meeting Shere Khan himself than on an Indian safari and stay at a jungle resort in India. From the tiger-rich parks of Madhya Pradesh in the north to the off-beat forests of Karnataka, here are some of our favourite jungle lodges in India.

Camp Hornbill, Uttarakhand

Bordering Jim Corbett National Park and at the feet of the Himalayas, Camp Hornbill was set up in 2010 by local residents from the nearest village, Kyari, and it is solely owned and managed by the local community. Many of the locals who run it are professionally qualified from the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttarkashi.

Svasara Jungle Lodge at Tadoba, Maharashtra

Located two hours away from Nagpur, Svasara Jungle Lodge is set right up against the edge of Tadoba Tiger Reserve. It’s part of Svasara group, a small chain of environmentally friendly hotels across many of India’s bio-diverse jungles, with the goal to provide high quality service and lodging, a truly memorable and special wildlife holiday, along with convenient safari planning (which can be a bit of a chore, trust us!).

Khem Villas, Ranthambore, Rajasthan

Khem Villas is a luxury jungle camp at Ranthambore, Rajasthan’s premier tiger reserve. The camp is designed to provide peace and tranquility within its luxurious and very personal atmosphere. Accommodation is high end, and you won’t want for anything at this jungle lodge.

[charekhresort]

5 Best Treks in Uttarakhand, Himalayas

In the event that you need to get away from the weariness of an inactive regular way of life and the uproar of city life during get-aways, flee to the murmuring deodars, enticing lakes, undulating glades, and the mountains. The high as can be mountain pinnacles of Uttarakhand and its flawless climate has a quieting impact on human hearts. Lansdowne hotel The sights from the culmination of the tops in the wake of traveling will brush you off and help you feel quiet, formed, invigorated, and persuaded. Uttarakhand, otherwise called the "Place that is known for Gods", is a heaven on Earth. It is the ideal spot for travelers, enthusiasts, nature sweethearts, and experience buffs. You can find this devout state in the west of Nepal. It is loaded with fables, fantasies, and extraterrestrial episodes. Uttarakhand opens its sources for a great many trips, outdoor exercises, and countless sanctuary visits. This state is a frequently visited journey spot for Hindu lovers and travelers. Uttarakhand is exceptionally well known for the wonderful Gangotri Glacier where the aficionados make journeys through trips, and the second tallest mountain range in India, Nanda Devi. While journeying, finding the boggling excellence of this state will have you in stunning wonderment. The beauteous breadth of valleys, thick green backwoods, blue-green blue skies, wandering streets with beguiling scenes, and quiet towns characterize the greatness of journeying in Uttarakhand. The best journeying places in Uttarakhand divulge probably the most heavenly and eye-getting areas in India. Here is a portion of the 5 best trips in Uttarakhand which are basic on the grounds that once you do them; you leave away from an alternate individual. 

Brahmatal Trek 

The amazing Brahmatal journey takes you to a height of 12,250 ft. It is situated in the Chamoli area, inverse the Roopkund journey. This journey flows through snow-shrouded trails and dazzling scenes. Brahmatal is an area of joy for snow sweethearts. All through this journey, you will locate an abundant measure of snow dissipated on the way. This journey takes you through the peaceful valleys, stirring streams, thick oak backwoods. Additionally, there are ways dabbed with varieties of lively rhododendrons and calm villas. The shining snowfields, the shadowy woods, the brilliant blossoms, the turquoise skies make this journey even more essential. Brahmatal is a traveler's heaven. It accompanies the absolute most lovely ridgelines and the Bugyals. The trip trails canvassed in a day off, high-elevation lakes, and the remarkable perspectives on the frigid grand mammoths accommodate a radiant encounter. This radiant trip is supportive of the inside and out perspectives on the Himalayan Mountains from the high-point. Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti tops are probably the most popular reaches that you will eat your eyes on. This current trip's significant fascination is the frozen blue Brahmatal Lake. The snow-covered pinnacles and thick backwoods encompass this beauteous Lake. The all-encompassing perspective circumnavigating this emerald lake is an unrivaled encounter. 

Bali Pass 

Bali Pass journey is a significant unexplored area. It is perhaps the most captivating journey that Uttarakhand can actually accommodate. Bali Pass takes you to a rise of 16,207 ft above ocean level. This Pass offers unhindered and wide all-encompassing perspectives on the stunning Himalayan pinnacles like Kala Nag, Swargarohini, and Bandarpoonch. The Bali Pass journey, generally, is reasonable for experienced adventurers. There are limited, steep climbs and testing landscapes up and down the way. 

The Bali Pass is a conjunction of the interesting Har Ki Dun valley and the wellspring of Yamuna River, Yamunotri. This pass likewise interfaces the Har Ki Doon valley and the Ruinsara valley. This glorious trip initiates from Sankri town and finishes at Janki Chatti. The significant fascination of this trip is the snow-capped glades of Dev Thatch and the Ruinsara Lake. The saintly excellence of the lake, the charming view of the Ruinsara timberland, and the knolls make this trip pure. 

Har Ki Doon Trek 

Har Ki Doon Valley is settled in the Garhwal Himalayas, in the Uttarkashi region. Har Ki Doon valley is viewed as the most pursued traveling objections of Uttarakhand. It is support formed hanging valley arranged at a rise of 3566 m above ocean level. It falls under the Govind Ballah National Park. The valley gives shocking remarkable perspectives on the rough and verdant excellence of the mountains. This valley is perhaps the most well known traveling spots in Uttarakhand. 

The trip trail wanders through the elevated glades and the charming pine backwoods. The uneven scene up and down the trip course is decorated with falling cascades, snow-covered mountains, devout waterways, and thick pine and oak woodlands. Har Ki Doon journey's way crosses through 2000 years of age crude towns. It gives an incredible understanding of town life. 

Chopta Chanrashila Trek 

Chandrashila, known as, "Moonrock", seats at high tallness of 4000 m above ocean level. The Chandrashila journey is perhaps the most well-known trip of Uttarakhand. This journey begins with a pleasant Thorpe, Chopta. Chopta is likewise portrayed as the "Scaled-down Switzerland of Uttarakhand". The Chopta Chandrashila Peak journey offers an all-encompassing perspective on the well known Himalayan pinnacles. These pinnacles incorporate Kedarnath Dome, Chaukamba, Nanda Devi, and Mt. Trishul. The journey goes through eye-getting glades, lush deodar backwoods, verdant fields, snow-covered pinnacles, and the bewitching rhododendrons. 

Dayara Bugyal Trek 

Dayara Bugyal is perhaps the most appealing elevated knolls in India. Dayara Bugyal seats at a height of 3408 m above ocean level. resorts in lansdowne In the Uttarkashi locale, Dayara Bugyal is one of the well-known knolls of Uttarakhand. This trip is quite possibly the most entrancing journey of Uttarakhand as a result of the wonderful magnificence of the good country glades, and the amazing perspectives on the Himalayas. The trip course experiences the thick maple and oak woodlands beginning from Barsu town. This trip gives you a definite knowledge of the very much kept up the green biological system of Uttarakhand. The wide stretches of green undulating pastures make the traveling experience even more cherishable.

resorts in lansdowne best place to stay in lansdowne lansdowne resorts uttarakhand resorts in lansdowne uttarakhand lansdowne uttarakhand resorts resorts at lansdowne uttarakhand resorts in lansdowne family resort in lansdowne resort in lansdowne luxury resort in lansdowne resorts near kotdwar

[hotelvishalbarkot]

Stay in Chardham Yatra- Hotels in Barkot

Barkot is a small and beautiful town in Uttarkashi region of Uttarakhand. It is popular for its scenic beauty. When you visit for Chardham, you may require hotels for accommodation purpose. Chardham yatra includes complete visit to all the famous pilgrimages like Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. Barkot is at various distances from Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. You can look at various hotels in Barkot in order to book a room for your stay while visiting Chardham.

There is a broad range of hotels present in Barkot. Here, you can find budget as well as luxury hotels. Contact with various travel agents in India and these people help you to know about all the tour packages that are available for you. Also, you can look for Budget hotels in Barkot in order to get a room at affordable rate.

 Also, there are various luxury hotels in Barkot where you can enjoy all the luxury facilities. Each room has a separate toilet and bathroom. Also, you have the facility of warm as well as cold water. Not only this, you can also go to a restaurant in hotel premises in order to enjoy the delicious dishes there.

 This is not the only thing about Barkot. There are various camping Resorts in Barkot where you can enjoy the various luxury facilities in this resort. Gangotri is a nice place to visit. It is quite popular for being a holy and scenic place. It is natural and has positive vibrations that increase happiness and positivity in your mind.

Yamunotri is a quite popular pilgrimage where you can visit in your holiday vacations. In this way, you can make your holidays memorable. Kedarnath is a place where tourists from several corners of the country come to get blessings of God.

 Source:- Hotel Vishal Residency in Barkot

[atithiniwas-blog]

The Hotel Atithi Niwas is the best hotel in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. Our hotel is the best resort near karshali temple in Yamunotri which offers the luxurious rooms like a deluxe room, super deluxe room, valley view cottage (Per room) with attached bathroom. Our hotel which provides the many facilities.

[travellingmantra]

Hotels and Resorts in Uttarkashi

Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Uttarkashi beckons travelers with its serene landscapes and spiritual sanctity. As you embark on a journey to this idyllic destination, the quest for comfortable accommodation becomes paramount. Fortunately, Uttarkashi boasts an array of hotels and resorts catering to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring a memorable and restful stay for every visitor.

At Travelling Mantra, we understand the significance of finding the perfect accommodation to complement your Uttarkashi experience. With our expertise in booking and arrangements, we ensure seamless transitions from exploration to relaxation, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the tranquil ambiance of this Himalayan retreat.

Luxurious Retreats Amidst Nature’s Embrace:

Uttarkashi offers a plethora of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious resorts to quaint lodges, each promising a unique blend of comfort and convenience. Indulge in the opulence of upscale resorts nestled amidst lush greenery, where panoramic views of the surrounding mountains greet you at every turn. With spacious rooms, modern amenities, and impeccable service, these retreats provide an oasis of tranquility amidst the rugged terrain.

Immerse Yourself in Spiritual Serenity:

For those seeking a deeper connection with Uttarkashi’s spiritual heritage, there are hotels and guesthouses located in close proximity to revered temples and pilgrimage sites. Wake up to the soothing chants of prayers and embark on a journey of self-discovery as you explore the sacred landmarks dotting the landscape. With comfortable accommodations offering a blend of traditional charm and modern comforts, these establishments provide the perfect setting for spiritual rejuvenation.

Adventure and Comfort Combined:

Uttarkashi’s hotels and resorts are not just places to rest your head; they are gateways to a world of adventure and exploration. From organizing thrilling outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, and river rafting to offering guided tours of nearby attractions, these establishments ensure that your Uttarkashi experience is as exhilarating as it is comfortable. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy amidst Uttarkashi’s pristine surroundings.

Personalized Service, Seamless Experience:

At Travelling Mantra, our commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond mere bookings. We strive to curate personalized experiences tailored to your preferences, ensuring that every aspect of your Uttarkashi journey is meticulously planned and executed. From arranging airport transfers to recommending must-visit attractions and dining options, our dedicated team is on hand to cater to your every need, allowing you to relax and unwind without a care in the world.

Booking with Travelling Mantra:

Booking your stay in Uttarkashi has never been easier, thanks to Travelling Mantra’s user-friendly platform and seamless booking process. Simply browse through our handpicked selection of hotels and resorts, filter your options based on your preferences and budget, and book your accommodation with just a few clicks. With secure payment options and instant confirmation, you can rest assured that your Uttarkashi getaway is in safe hands.

In conclusion, Uttarkashi’s hotels and resorts offer a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and adventure, making them the ideal choice for travelers seeking a memorable Himalayan retreat. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in spiritual serenity, embark on thrilling outdoor adventures, or simply unwind amidst nature’s embrace, Uttarkashi has something for everyone. And with Travelling Mantra as your trusted partner, you can rest assured that your Uttarkashi experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

[accuhunt]

Offbeat, Incredible and Sustainable – These Travel Companies are Changing the Way You Experience India.

There are many ways to experience India. You can stay in a generic hotel or backpacker hostel, hire a car for sightseeing, have casual interactions with people working in the hospitality industry, take some colourful photos and call it a trip.

The real India though – the India that inspires and humbles, the India that is artistic yet genuine, the India that is simultaneously incredible and heartbreaking – takes a little effort to find.

Inspiring and humbling – the lower Himalayas of Uttarakhand.

Although I grew up in this country, it’s only in the last five years of travelling that I’ve discovered a more unique way to experience it. Away from the chaotic tourist towns and pages of the usual guidebooks, I’ve interacted intimately with an India that has put everything I know about life in perspective.

And much of this India, I’ve found by travelling with – or seeking suggestions from – sustainable tourism companies across the country, run by inspiring individuals, in fair partnership with local communities and conscious of their impact on the local environment.

If you seek to experience India (and give back to it) meaningfully, consider travelling with these responsible travel companies:

Green People

Locations: Nag Tibba (near Mussoorie), Kanatal and Raithal (near Uttarkashi) in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand

Who knew that tiny obscure mountain villages in Uttarakhand, cradled by the snow-capped Garhwal Himalayas, are home to some of the world’s most expensive and wanted superfoods? Think amaranth, goji berries and foxtail millet, among others.

And yet mountain dwellers are abandoning their farmlands for basic jobs in cities – unaware of the value of these superfoods. Out of this tragic situation was born Green People, an organisation that aims to encourage the reverse migration of farmers – by creating supply chains for the superfoods they can grow, and more importantly, by instilling pride in them for their unique culture and way of life. To facilitate the latter, Green People has set up “Goat Villages” – rustic ecolodges – near Nag Tibba, Kanatal and Uttarkashi in the Uttarakhand Himalayas. They’ve hired locals, trained them in hospitality at luxury resorts and entrusted them with independently hosting travellers from around the world, in aesthetically built Garhwali-style houses.

I’ve spent a week each at the Goat Villages near Nag Tibba and Uttarkashi – blissfully away from civilisation, electricity and technology – for some of my most rejuvenating and inspiring escapes amid the wild beauty of these mountains. The locations are spectacular, the local interactions heartwarming and the food – amaranth porridge, mandava-tofu sandwiches, Hersil rajma, barnyard millet to name a few – will make you rethink your organic and local choices.

The superfoods grown in the Garhwal Himalayas are being sold by Green People under the brand name “Bakri Chaap” in supermarkets in big cities across India. Isn’t it ironic that while we’ve taken to consuming quinoa and couscous – which travel from halfway across the world – we’re mostly unaware of the delicious, nutritional food that grows in our own backyard?

Green People / Goat Village: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Also read: Awe-Inspiring Hideouts in Uttarakhand to Tune Out of Life and Tune Into the Mountains

Evolve Back

Locations: Kabini, Coorg and Hampi – Karnataka

Blown away by the eco-luxury at Evolve Back, Kabini.

I learnt early on in my travels that it is possible for an accommodation to be incredibly luxurious and environmentally responsible at the same time. But I didn’t realise to what extent, until I spent time at Evolve Back – a chain of eco-luxury resorts across Karnataka.

Evolve Back Coorg (previously called Orange County) was perhaps the first of its kind in India – a sprawling 300-acre coffee plantation, interspersed with grand silver oak trees and plantation-style bungalows – built in local red brick and thatched or tiled roofs – to pamper travellers yet immerse them in the wild ways of nature. Each bungalow is fitted with RO water filters, eliminating the need for plastic bottled water; in other ways too, the plantation (and other Evolve Back properties) are pretty much plastic-free zones.

Rainwater is harvested and its consumption in each cottage digitally monitored; wind electricity is generated at another site and fed into the state’s electricity grid; all waste is either composted or recycled; education in local schools is supported and monitored. And it is perhaps India’s only hotel chain to have an entire team dedicated to responsible travel.

Yet, these sustainability initiatives are not the only reason to indulge in an Evolve Back experience. In Kabini, I was enchanted by majestic sunsets and high tea under an old fig tree; river and forest safaris with passionate naturalists who made me fall in love with India’s fascinating forests; a meal selection dedicated to sumptuous organic and locally grown food; and night skies that shimmered endlessly with stars.

And although I haven’t personally travelled to Evolve Back Hampi yet, I hear it is styled after the royal extravagance of the ancient Vijayanagar Empire…

Evolve Back: Website | Facebook | Instagram

Also read: 6 Offbeat Experiences Near Hampi

Himalayan Ark

Locations: Kumaon, Uttarakhand

The locals of Munsiyari attend a yoga workshop during the Himal Kalasutra festival.

When I finally decided to travel to the remote Himalayan region of Munsiyari, eleven hours by road from the nearest train station and flanked by the spectacular snow-capped Panchachuli range, I had no idea how much it was going to change my perceptions of Indian women and the patriarchal culture that plagues our society.

Across the small mountain villages of Munsiyari tehsil, the social enterprise Himalayan Ark has aided local women to set up homestays, some in old and charming Kumaoni houses, others in aspirational homes with large glass windows overlooking the mountains. The warmth of the experience remains the same across the homestays though. Although most women in rural India seldom have land ownership rights or independent incomes to run their households, Himalayan Ark’s approach has enabled the women of Munsiyari to directly earn revenues from their homestays, and to step out of the kitchen to train as trekking and birdwatching guides.

Himalayan Ark also offers mountain treks and expeditions, employing local guides, sourcing local produce and offering eco-conscious insights into this relatively undiscovered region. In May every year, the unique Himal Kalasutra festival brings out a different side of this region – featuring high altitude marathons, yoga workshops, photography workshops, birdwatching, celebration of the indigenous cuisine and a traditional carnival. Unlike most fusion mountain festivals, it is organised by locals and attended by locals, but discerning travellers are welcome to join!

Himalayan Ark: Website | Community-run Instagram

Also read: A Himalayan Village Where Locals Run Marathons and Their Own Instagram Channel

Kipepeo

Locations: Across Northeast India

Celebrating Mopin with the Galo tribe of Arunachal Pradesh.

The northeastern states of India are full of fascinating, unexplored, uncharted territory, and while tourism is still in its nascent stage, it is incumbent upon us travellers to ensure that it isn’t spoiled the same way as India’s scenic but garbage-filled hill stations. Consider Kipepeo, an organisation that partners with local homestays to offer trips (and custom tours) in the most natural way possible.

On my first trip with them, our group wandered off the usual Arunachal Pradesh map and landed up in a village of the Galo tribe to celebrate their indigenous Mopin festival. Amid Shamanic chanting, hypnotic local dances and being offered rats for dinner at a village gathering (gulp), I felt like I had skipped a few decades and gone back to the India of yore – a most intriguing world!

Kipepeo: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Also read: In Photos: Majuli Island, Assam

Desia Ecotourism

Locations: Koraput, Odisha

A new friend in a tribal village in Odisha’s Koraput region.

The fascinating tribal world of Odisha is threatened by many challenges: interference by local authorities, pressure on the youth to ‘modernise’, decreasing forest cover, and most of all, insensitive tourists wanting to photograph local tribes without learning a thing about their culture or way of life.

I was happy to resolve my internal conflict – between discovering a fascinating culture and irresponsible travel – when I stumbled upon Desia Ecotourism, a company founded by a local of eastern Odisha with a keen interest in the tribal culture of the southern Koraput region. Our modes of exploration included cycling through mango orchards to nearby tribal villages and riding pillion on motorbikes to further ones; our interactions with local tribes at their weekly haats (tribal markets) felt genuine and unobtrusive; and living at Desia Ecolodge, run largely by a mix of local tribes, made me feel at home in such a different part of the world.

As a New York Times story recently expounded, sustainable travel is as much about environmental impact as it is about being inclusive and respectful of local communities.

Desia Ecotourism: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Also read: Mangalajodi, Odisha: How an Entire Village Transformed from Poaching Birds to Protecting Them

Grassroutes Journeys

Locations: Purushwadi, Dehna and Walvanda – Maharashtra

I remember wandering about the quiet streets of Purushwadi, a village in rural Maharashtra, on a dark moonless night, watching millions of fireflies communicate with potential partners through light beams, magically lighting up the earth in perfect symphony with thousands of stars in the skies above.

There was a time when locals, unaware of this beautiful phenomenon, didn’t hesitate to kill (or at best, ignore) fireflies that came to their village to mate every monsoon.

But using a unique business model where the local community is an equal partner in tourism, Grassroute Journeys has co-created the “Million Fireflies Festival” and other humbling travel experiences across rural Maharashtra. Besides playing an active role in protecting their luminescent visitors, the locals are now able to supplement their erratic agricultural incomes by hosting travellers in their homes (or in tents), and keep their traditional way of farming and life alive.

And travellers like you and me, wandering in search of unique customs, exotic natural phenomena and joyful countryside living, can rejoice in both, finding such experiences not far from chaotic Mumbai and supporting rural village communities in the process.

Grassroutes Journey: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Also read: Offbeat Getaway from Mumbai That’ll Inspire You to Rethink Life

Spiti Ecosphere

Locations: Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

The awe-inspiring cold mountain desert of Spiti.

Volunteer-travelling for a month with Spiti Ecosphere in the high altitude Spiti Valley, back in 2011, was my earliest introduction to responsible travel. It was the first time I learnt about community-run homestays and how tourism can supplement meagre farming incomes, how the money we spend on travel could be used to light up someone’s home with solar energy, and how different our travel experiences can be when we stay with locals and interact closely with their culture, food and way of life.

Spiti Ecosphere believes in an equal emphasis on the planet, people and profits – and after all these years, I’ve realised that this is the only way for a tourism organisation to be truly sustainable.

As for my experience – volunteering with them, exploring those stark barren mountains, lying under millions of stars at night, spending time with monks and nuns, it changed everything I thought I wanted from my own life. It made me quit my job at the Singapore Tourism Board, and gradually paved the way to this blog where I try to write about the joy of travelling meaningfully.

Spiti Ecosphere: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Also read: I Love Spiti: How Travellers Must Help Save India’s Surreal Himalayan Desert

The Blue Yonder

Locations: Kerala, Pondicherry

A solo Nangiar Koothu performance in central Kerala.

I thought I had already explored  pretty ‘offbeat’ parts of Kerala independently – until I went on a journey with The Blue Yonder, a social enterprise started by a Kerala local, to learn about how the River Nila has inspired life along its shores. We met local musicians and artisans – some of who are the last in a lost generation of artists keeping a dying tradition or craft alive; we ended up watching a soul-stirring, solo Nangiar Koothu performance alongside village locals; and even felt entranced by an Oracle, supposedly possessed by the local deity.

During my travels with The Blue Yonder, I began to perceive our impact on local communities differently. Many organisations only compensate the locals we meet along the way for the services they offer – mainly homestays and guides. But TBY professes a different philosophy – valuing (and hence compensating) the time that local artisans spend interacting with us as travellers, answering our many questions and being photographed by us. And if we really think about it, that is exactly how us urban creative people (aka freelancers) want to be treated too.

The Blue Yonder: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Also read: Offbeat Kerala: 11 Travel Experiences to Inspire the Artist in You

India Untravelled

Locations: Across India

“High tea” in the lower Himalayas of Uttarakhand.

I co-founded India Untravelled back in 2012, hoping to bridge the digital marketing gap between small-scale sustainable homestays and discerning travellers looking for authentic experiences within India. The two-year long journey taught me a lot about running a business (we sold in 2014), but also helped me appreciate a different way of exploring India – one that I have never  stopped swearing by.

The current owners of India Untravelled have strived to keep our original dream alive – and now offer curated homestay experiences across India, including Uttarakhand, Ladakh, Kerala and other states.

India Untravelled: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Also read: Simple Ways to Travel More Responsibly in Ladakh

Responsible tourism companies in India I’m eager to travel with:

Roots Ladakh (Kargil): In the valleys and mountains around Kargil, where tourism infrastructure is still pretty underdeveloped, Roots Ladakh – set up by locals – promises respectful interaction and understanding of local communities.

Health Nut (across India): As the vegan movement catches on in India, Health Nut, run by a health coach from my hometown Dehradun, offers eco-conscious retreats that focus on health, nutrition, reversing diseases and reconnecting with the great outdoors.

Native Folks (Goa): We’re all familiar with the tourist-infested beaches of Goa, but Native Folks promises a different experience, living with locals on the laidback Divar Island.

Rural Pleasure (Gujarat): While exploring Gujarat, I fell short of days to join Rural Pleasure to learn about the way of life of the fascinating Dang tribe.

Ladakhi Women’s Travel Company(Ladakh): In the Indian Himalayas, where its still taboo for local women to train as mountain guides, the Ladakhi Women’s Travel Company – started and run entirely by local Ladakhi women – is challenging cultural stereotypes. I’ve heard  great things about their trips in this spectacular region, which is being ruined by irresponsible tour operators.

Life in the Garhwal Himalayas.

And you, have you travelled with responsible travel companies within India – or elsewhere?

I’d love to grow this list and my own understanding of sustainable tourism.

Join me on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for more responsible travel ideas.

Offbeat, Incredible and Sustainable – These Travel Companies are Changing the Way You Experience India. published first on https://airriflelab.tumblr.com

[dayararesort]

Advantages of Direct Online Hotel Bookings | Hotel and Resort in Garhwal Himalayas

The internet has revolutionized the way of business from the last 2 decades. Computers and the internet are used in every business sector and we cannot imagine our work-life without a computer and internet connection. It has reduced the effort and the burden on humans and the businessmen have understood its need for easy work processes and have shifted to an online business model. The tourism and hospitality sector is also trending on the internet, hotels and resorts are open for online bookings through their websites. Imagine you are planning for a trek in the Himalayas and worried about your stay there, all is you need to do is search for Hotel and Resort in Garhwal Himalayas on the internet and you will get all the hotels that are listed on the internet relevant to the Hotel in Garhwal Himalayas, visit their website, check out features and proceed to book. All is done within a couple of minutes.

There are certain advantages for both hotel owners and the guests of direct online hotel bookings which is reliable for both. Below are the advantages of online hotel booking:

1. It saves time

The online hotel booking saves time for both the guests and the receptionist, it will eliminate call time as all the information will be already available on the website. The guest can also see the images of the hotel rooms and their reviews. The website can also let you take a virtual tour via short videos or 360 view. If you are planning to book a Hotel and Resort near Gangotri you can get 360 view of both interior as well as exterior of the hotel so that you won’t end up accommodating at some different place very far from gangotri.

2. It reduces the load on a receptionist

In the olden days, receptionists were getting tired of answering the call for enquiry about the bookings along with the language barrier as a problem, the online booking system has eliminated this headache by integrating language translator and inquiry form.

3. Hotel is visible to more people

Once the hotel is listed on the internet it will be visible to more guests searching on the internet and there are more bookings with the increase in revenue for the hotelier and the booking agents. The rates of the rooms can also be fixed and controlled easily.

4. Competitive prices for the guests

The guests will get a competitive price on the agent’s booking website including offers and discounts and will reduce the chances of cheating by middlemen.

5. Planning

It will help guests to plan their stay properly including their budget and spendings. They will get an easy option to extend their checkout time lying on their beds. Before booking the guest can also view the cancellation charges and policy.

6. No scams

The entire process will be genuine and no cheating by the middlemen over phone calls. The online receipts generated will be as per Government norms.

7. Facilities

You won’t get to learn about the facilities provided by a hotel over a phone call. For example if you are planning for a trip to Uttarakhand and if you are looking for a Luxury Hotel in Uttarkashi all you need to do is visit a hotel website check out for the facilities listed, compare their prices online and book the hotel

[dayararesort]

A day in the life of a staff member in a hotel |  Hotel and Resort in Garhwal Himalayas

The life of a hotel staff is challenging and disciplined. It requires a lot of patience as the staffs have to continuously work round the clock to provide seamless service to their guests. Dayara resort which is an age old Hotel and Resort in Garhwal Himalayas In the hospitality industry, usually, there are 4 main departments that is the front house, food operations, event planning, and hotel management and each department have their daily tasks to perform. The front house consists of a front desk/receptionist, Concierge to take care of the hotel property, Bellhop to help guests move in and move out with their luggage. Food department includes a team of chefs, cooks, and beverage managers. Dayara Resort Known as the luxury hotel in Uttarkashi have event planning department which consists of event planner team, wedding coordinator, and event manager. The hotel management department consists of the General manager, sales group, and the spa manager.

The functioning of a hotel and resort is a teamwork as all the departments have their own roles and responsibilities in order to make the visitor’s stay comfortable and enjoyable without any trouble. They ensure that the concerned staff is available at any moment to solve the problem faced by any guest during the stay. If the stay of a guest is comfortable and memorable they will surely book the hotel again in the future.

Hotel management job looks stressful and is sometimes restless during the peak days but the staffs are always to ready to tackle the situation. They have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills in their trainings and are adjusted to work in stress and under pressure.

My experience of interaction with most of the hotel and resort in Uttarkashi staff was great, they really love their jobs and are always smiling no matter how pressurized the situation is. They are the reason behind the happiness for the comfortable stay of the guests and the progress of the hospitality industry.

[dayararesort]