OVERVIEW

Shakti Kumaon

OVERVIEW

Shakti Kumaon

OVERVIEW

Shakti Kumaon

OVERVIEW

Shakti Kumaon

OVERVIEW

Shakti Kumaon

from October through to the end of April

The stunning and lesser-known Kumaon region of northern India lies in Uttarakhand, known as the Abode of the Gods. It’s a world apart; a vertical land of hill stations and terraced alpine villages, rhododendron forests and Shiva shrines, all gathered under the watchful eye of Nanda Devi, India’s second highest peak.

Kumaon has attracted enlightenment seekers since Bob Dylan and Allan Ginsberg in the early 1960s. Today it offers the same magical blend of nature, wonder and spirituality, but with the added attraction of Shakti’s network of village houses and lodges threaded through the Himalayan foothills. Guided walks between these charming homestays bring the region alive and reveal the heart of the Himalayas.

New for 2025

The seven-suite, solar-powered Prana Lodge offers a remarkable stay in an architectural marvel of stone, glass, timber, and copper. With one two-bedroom suite and five one-bedroom suites, plus two dining areas and wellness facilities, Prana (meaning ‘Breath’ in Sanskrit) features breathtaking views of Nanda Devi from its 7,000-foot elevation. The lodge hosts occasional gastronomic programs with guest chefs and yoga retreats with visiting practitioners. Our treetop meditation platforms, yoga pavilion, and sauna enhance wellbeing at any time. Additionally, a new three-bedroom property at Panchachuli, chosen for its stunning views of the entire Nanda Devi range, can serve as an extension to the Kumaon village-house circuit or as a standalone retreat.

VIEW SAMPLE ITINERARIES

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TARIFFS

Various Packages available: 3 nights/4 days from $3,200 per person, twin-share, to 7 nights/8 days from $7,908 pp. Includes private accommodation in village houses with all meals and beverages, all activities, English-speaking guide, private chef, support guide and porters and car at disposal with transfers between Pantnagar airport or Kathgodam railway station and the village walks and stays. Flights/train fares not included. *Please note that prices may vary depending on the duration of your journey. Additional government taxes will apply.

SEASON

Early October to End of April The post-monsoon months of October and November offer lush scenery and clear views, with warm, sunny days and cooler nights. In the scenic winter months of December and January the mild, clear days offer the best views of the mountains. From February, days and nights start to get warmer; in March and April the mountains burst into bloom. Being an alpine region it is possible to experience a full span of weather in a single day – pack a high SPF and sunhat as well as a light waterproof jacket.

GETTING HERE

Kumaon Village Walk Journeys From/To Delhi - Overnight Train: 7 hours from Delhi to Kathgodam, followed by a 4 hour drive to Almora, where the village walks begin. - Day Train: 5 ½ hours from Delhi to Kathgodam, followed by a 4 hour drive to Almora, where the village walks begin. - Drive: 9 to 10 hours from Delhi to Almora. We do not recommend this option as the traffic in and out of Delhi can mean long delays and the route is not very scenic. - Flight: 1 hour from Delhi to Pantnagar, followed by a 4 ½ hour drive. - Private Charter Flight: 1 hour 15 minutes from Delhi to Pantnagar, followed by a 4 ½ hour drive. From/To Corbett National Park Drive: Approximately 4 hours from Corbett to Almora. From/To Rishikesh Drive: 9 to 10 hours from Delhi to Almora. We do not recommend this option as the traffic in and out of Delhi can mean long delays and the route is not very scenic. Prana: From/To Delhi - Overnight Train: 7 hours from Delhi to Kathgodam, followed by an 8-hour drive to Prana. - Private Charter Flight: 1 ½ hours from Delhi to Pithoragarh, followed by a 5-hour drive to Prana. Please check with us regarding this option as the Pithoragarh airstrip is not functional at the moment. - Helicopter/Chopper: 2 hours from Delhi to Kapkot, followed by a 2-hour drive to Prana From/To Almora/Village Walks Drive: Prana is around a 5-hour drive from Kana and Jwalabanj village houses and Panchachuli is around 4 hours away. There will then be a walk of around 45 minutes to the property.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Village walks

Curate your own journey with our flexible 3-8-night packages offering guided, village-to-village walks through the enchanting Almora region of Uttarakhand. Take your pick of our beautifully restored and reimagined village houses, the perfect tonic after days spent trekking the scenic Kumaon region. Discover an area celebrated for its welcoming people, lush surroundings, ancient temples and rhododendron forests, and the awe-inspiring presence of the Nanda Devi range.

‎‎‎‎VIEW ACTIVITIES

Village Walk Accommodation

The village houses in Kana and Jwalabanj offer a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern comfort. Immerse yourself in the serenity of these remote locations, ideal for relaxation. Experience authentic village life while enjoying all the comforts of home. Additionally, in 2025, our Panchachuli property, chosen for its breathtaking views of the entire Nanda Devi range, can also serve as an extension to the Kumaon village-house circuit.

VILLAGE HOUSES GALLERY

Prana & Panchachuli

Our new mountain-top lodge, Prana, is an unparalleled retreat where elegance meets nature’s pristine beauty and drama. This hidden sanctuary offers superb comfort surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, river valleys and serene landscapes. Indulge in exquisite regional and local cuisine, typically warm Himalayan hospitality and wonderful walks. Prana provides the ideal environment for relaxation. Reconnect with nature and find inner peace in mountain-top yoga and meditation sessions. Enjoy healthy, locally-sourced meals that nourish body and mind. Let the pristine mountain air invigorate your spirit. Prana Lodge has the power to transform.

VIEW PRANA & PANCHACHULI GALLERY

SAMPLE ITINERARIES

Tailored to You

Every journey is private and tailored to individual requirements, preferences and timings. These sample itineraries are intended to give you a taste of all you might see and do on one of our Shakti Kumaon holidays.