Discover your creative side – paint, write, try photography or just snuggle under a tree with a book. Himalayan Village Sonapani brings out the artist in you – hardly surprising considering its gorgeous surroundings and the fact that it’s miles away from civilisation. Himalayan Village Sonapani is flanked by pine forests on one side and rhododendron and oak woods on the other. In between are twelve cottages, connected by stone pathways and separated by vegetable gardens and flower beds, giving the area a village like feel. There are no televisions or ‘phones in the rooms, only birdsong and leaves rustling in the wind. So breathe in that fresh air, stroll amongst the apple trees, stare at the snow peaks changing colour, and fly kites. Yes, that’s one of the pastimes here!

USP: Organic farming, forest regeneration, sustainable tourism and local community development. Also unsullied, untouched beauty, retreat from civilisation.

Himalayan Village Sonapani is located at village Satoli, near Nathuakhan.

Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar, 123 km away, but flights are not operational at present.

Rail: The nearest railhead is Kathgodam, 91 km away. Daily overnight train ‘Ranikhet Express’ connects Delhi to Kathgodam.

Road: Regular buses ply from Delhi (395 km), Kathgodam (95 km) and Nainital (71 km) to Almora and Ramgarh. If driving from Delhi, please note that the drive takes about ten and a half hours so it’s advisable to leave at dawn. The route is via Noida, Hapur, Muradabad, Rudrapur, Haldwani and Kathgoadam. Kathgodam is at the foothills and this is where your hill journey will start. Cover 69 km of these winding roads, driving through Bhimtal, Bhowali, Ramgarh and Nathuakhan to reach village Satoli. Park our vehicle at Mr. Govind Ram's house in Satoli and walk for about half an hour through the village road flanked by orchards, fields and village houses. The walk is pleasant and not strenuous. The staff takes care of your luggage and provides pony rides for kids.

Go rock climbing, rappelling, and river crossing with experts. Also on offer are jungle walks and village walks which can lead to interaction with the villagers and even a game of cricket with the village kids! With the management’s stress on sustainable tourism, you come back not only relaxed but also feeling worthwhile.