With some of the most varied scenery in the world, wonderful wildlife and a vibrant culture rich in religion and history, India is an incredibly rewarding destination. So why not join us on this stunning trip where you'll have the chance to experience trekking in the spectacular and breathtaking Himalaya, meet His Holyness the Dalai Lama and work on a project helping improve the lives of the local community.
Day 1: LONDON - Depart London for Delhi on an overnight flight.
Day 2: DELHI - Upon arrival, transfer to a central hotel to freshen up. After lunch, visit the project for an introductory visit and briefing. Welcome dinner.
Day 3: DELHI - Spend the day assisting on a range of projects at the chosen project. Packed lunch and dinner included.
Day 4: DELHI - PATHANKOT- Spend a final day working on the project before taking the overnight sleeper train to Pathankot (departs 21.20). Overnight on train (Air conditioned sleeper class). Packed lunch and dinner provided.
Day 5: PATHANKOT - DHARAMSHALA - Arrive in Pathankot in the morning and transfer to Dharamshala. On arrival in this Himalayan hill resort, the abode of the Dalai Lama, check in at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. We suggest you may enjoy a walk along to mall road, where Tibetan refugees display and sell traditional handicrafts. Overnight stay at hotel in Dharamshala.
Day 6: DHARAMSHALA - VOH VILLAGE - KANOL VILLAGE (1800m) This morning we drive for approximately 1 hour to Boh, from where we start the trek. Start off today with a gentle 3 hour trek to Kanol village, trekking through thick oak and pine forests, where Himalayan languor monkeys are abundant. There is a chance for further trekking this afternoon before setting up camp for the night.
Day 7: KANOL VILLAGE – KARERI LAKE (3250m) – GUNA DEVI After breakfast, set off for Kareri Lake, a duration of approximately 5-6 hours trekking. After lunch at this peaceful spot, surrounded by open meadows and pine forests, continue to Guna Devi where we camp overnight. Along the track many types of bird will be seen, and there is also the chance of spotting wild goats, pigs and perhaps even a black bear and leopard!
Day 8: GUNA DEVI – TRIUND (2827m) – MCLEODGANJ - PATHANKOT. A total of around 7 hours trekking today. Triund is located in the foothills of the mighty Dhauladhar range, above which the soaring peaks rise in icy splendour. Its crisp air, breath-taking beauty and sense of peace sum up the Himachal Pradesh area perfectly. Continue to Mcleodganj, from where the bus will take you back to Pathankot for the overnight train to Delhi.
Day 9: Morning arrival in Delhi. After freshening up at a hotel, either visit the project for your final farewells, or travel to Agra to visit the world-famous Taj Mahal before transferring to the airport this evening for your overnight flight home.
Day 10: Early morning arrival in London.
Please contact Paul on 01372 220016 or email Paul.Kwatia@rainbowtrust.org.uk for more information.
