Venturing out to off-the-beaten-path destinations and exploring relatively unspoiled lands is a great way to feel invigorated and refreshed and to return with a lifetime of memorable experiences. Though it is wonderful to simply be here and be in tune with nature, for more ‘spirited’ visitors there are many activities for all age groups at Dunagiri.

Soft Adventure:
There are several soft adventure activities that are planned to complement the lifestyle you will be experiencing at the retreat. These are activities that require a moderate level of physical involvement by participants and are less physically challenging than hard activities. These include – walking tours of local villages with interactions, nature treks, mountain bicycling (planned), camping, orienteering, walking tours built around local folklore (caves, specific trees, temples), wildlife spotting, bird watching, jungle walks with identification of medicinal plants and trees…

Treks:
There are several charming and enjoyable treks that one can undertake. Ranging in their levels of difficulty and duration, one can choose from treks of 1 hour duration to longer ones that can span 3-4 days. Since Dunagiri is set amidst many peaks of Kumaon, and is surrounded by forests on all sides, there are numerous trekking destinations in every direction. If you do decide to venture on a trek, our request to you is: “take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints”.

Sukhadevi is just above our estate within a 20 min walk. It offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. On a clear day, one can see Nanda Devi in one direction and Badrinath peak in the other. Just to be here is to meditate. The trek to Dunagiri temple takes about an hour and goes through an enchanting oak forest with some gigantic trees that are over 500 years old. Traveling on a mountain ridge, there are stunning views of valley on both sides. Pandukholi at 9,200 feet offers yet another fascinating destination which take 2-3 hours each way. The trek is through forest replete with interesting trees and medicinal herbs. The unforgettable views and panoramic vistas are truly mesmerizing; you are bound to treasure the memories for a lifetime. The town of Dwarahat is a nice 2-3 hour downhill trek (you can always take a transport on the way up!). Slightly further away is the charming peak of Mansadevi, which can be reached via a 5-6 hour trek (each way), again through interesting mountain paths and various forests. For those interested in more vigorous treks, on prior notice overnight treks can be arranged. These can lead you to Bhatkot (about 10,000 feet), Pinath and Kausani. These treks take anywhere from 2 to 5 days depending on what you choose.

Or you can well be content to commune with nature from the comfort of the retreat.  In the words of Marcel Proust, The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

Village Walks:
The area around Dunagiri comprises of a group of villages. Close to our estate are the three villages of Chari, Kholiabanjh and Ratkhal. Walk through lush forests and terraced fields to visit some of them, and spend some time interacting with the villagers. Interacting with and observing a unique culture is the focus of this walk.  See how one’s perspective can be broadened by learning from cultures different to our own. A housewife showing you how to paint a mural, cook an interesting recipe or kids tending to farm animals in between their homework can be a fascinating experience.  Buy fresh produce such as ghee, forest honey, local pulses and grains Not only do you get an interesting excursion, you gain by getting an insight into their very way of life. Dunagiri, variously known as Doonagiri, Drongiri and Dronagiri has a rich past and is a treasure trove of mystifying folk tales, fascinating village lore and bundles earthy wisdom acquired over the millennia.