Himalayan Haven - A Responsible Travel Project

Text by: Poonam Rawat-Hahne, Images supplied by: Poonam Rawat-Hahne

In association with Fernweh Fair Travel Uplifting Communities, Curious Journeys is introducing culturally immersive and adventure travel experiences ranging from eco-friendly home-stay / forest cabins / permaculture eco retreat. Tours through vibrant markets and treks along the Indian Himalayan trails.

80% of profit generated through this Responsible Travel Project is reinvested into the social, educational and environmental projects of the Bachan Charitable Trust, strengthening this NGO and furthering its mission of uplifting local communities and support underprivileged families.

Himalayan Haven Experience Summary

In practicing responsible travel with, guests are invited to indulge in a sensory banquet consisting of an authentic Himalayan culinary sojourn, cultural immersion and adventurous treks through quaint mountain villages, majestic mountain capes and breathtaking river valleys. These unforgettable experiences serve to uplift the local communities, supporting social and economic development, while helping to preserve the natural environment

Village Handicrafts Program

Learn the ancient art of basket weaving using bamboo in stunning surroundings

Indulge in a home-cooked meal in a traditional village home

Community Immersion Program

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Experiencing an authentic Himalayan village life in these remote communities. Trekking through remote villages and enchanting, photogenic terrains. Discovering century old houses and understanding Himalayan architecture. Traditionally cooked meals using locally grown ingredients in the village. An understanding of women’s roles in society and the opportunity to support them through sustainable income

Culinary Experiences

First, we eat, then we do everything else… The food of the Himalayas is by far an imperative aspect of our cultural experiences. We provide guests with the utmost authentic culinary experiences consisting of locally-grown, organic, home-cooked meals.

Walks in organic gardens to introduce the herbs

Fresh, organic vegetables, herbs, spices and grains grown in the local garden/farms

A visit to the markets of Gopeshwar to experience buying and understanding the local produce

A culinary Himalayan cooking class with the lady of the home-stay

Adventure Trekking & Camping

No trip to the Himalayas would be complete without some adrenaline-inducing adventure trekking. Guests are invited to trek to hidden waterfalls, caves, hilltop temples, and snow-capped mountaintops.

Guests can expect:

A connection to nature as you ascend up to the deeper and higher grounds of Himalayas

• Catch a glimpse of the rich biodiversity that inhabits the region, including wild langurs, native birds, Himalayan deer and even the chance to spot a leopard

• Visit a 6th-century temple situated deep in the Kedarnath century at 4000mts and trek to various ancient temples

• Camping in middle of the wilderness, next to the waterfalls, meadows, flower filled forests etc

• Trek underneath natural waterfalls and through cave formations

• High altitude treks

School Program

We are invited into a school in a local village to witness a traditional dance performance and support education programs in the region. Fernweh has been supporting 7 of these rural schools since the immersion program started

Himalayan Haven Special for 2019 - Diwali Celebration in the Himalaya

No better place in India to celebrate Diwali other than a remote village in the Himalaya, amongst villagers in a cultural setting.

More information about the program

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KJWrJYoDpI&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR34Ucq7BR_faLKGi02U0f--HKrENtcQwaUuaUau88e3tsI9Z9uedYiZTxk

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