Carpet Sahib’s Trail
Walk in the Footsteps of Jim Corbett through Kumaon
24 Nov – 1 Dec 2025
Step into the world of Jim Corbett, fondly remembered as Carpet Sahib, on an immersive 8-day Kumaon heritage trail. Journey through the forests, villages, and heritage sites that inspired his life and writings — from Mukteshwar and Kalagar to Champawat and his home at Kaladhungi.
Discover a Kumaon beyond the usual tourist routes, where conservation history, culture, and nature come alive through Corbett’s words, landscapes, and the people who still carry his legacy.
Key Highlights
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Step into Corbett’s Kumaon: Walk the actual trails described in his books — from Mukteshwar and Kalagar to Champawat and Kaladhungi.
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Expert Heritage Guides: Explore with specialists who bring alive Corbett’s writings, conservation work, and legacy.
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Stay & Connect Locally: Experience camps, village homes, and heritage settings, while meeting Kumaoni people and hearing their stories.
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Travel Sustainably: Support community-led tourism with eco-friendly stays and responsible travel practices.
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Beyond the Ordinary: From orchard hikes and forest walks to bonfires and storytelling, discover a Kumaon beyond tourist circuits.
Duration
8 Days (24 Nov – 1 Dec 2025), excluding travel to/from Kathgodam or Pant Nagar
Best Time to Visit
October to March; this departure runs in late November 2025 for ideal winter weather
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate - approx. 5 km/day walking, suited for families and small groups
Exploration Type
Guided, immersive, and flexible heritage trail experience
About the Carpet Sahib’s Trail
The Carpet Sahib’s Trail (24 Nov – 1 Dec 2025) is an 8-day immersive Kumaon heritage journey that retraces the life, writings, and legacy of Jim Corbett — hunter, pioneering conservationist, and beloved storyteller of Kumaon .
This trail is not just about Corbett’s hunts, but about experiencing the landscapes, villages, and heritage sites that shaped his transformation into one of India’s first voices for conservation. Guided by his words and stories, you’ll discover a Kumaon that remains largely untouched by tourist circuits.
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Mukteshwar: Explore Camp Purple and visit Badri’s historic orchard, still thriving a century later.
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Kalagar: Stay in a stone bungalow or village home, and walk the forests where Corbett tracked the Chowgarh tigress.
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Champawat: Follow the descriptions from Man-Eaters of Kumaon on riverside trails, temples, and tea gardens.
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Kaladhungi: Step inside Corbett’s childhood home, now a museum, and see where his legacy was written.
Each stop blends heritage storytelling, nature walks, and cultural exchange. Some routes match Corbett’s vivid accounts exactly, while others remain mysteries waiting to be pieced together. Encounters with Kumaoni villagers add depth to the journey — sharing stories and traditions that never made it into his books.
The Flexi-Trail Experience
This flexible Kumaon heritage journey is designed for families and individuals of all ages. Blending comfort and culture, it includes stays in heritage village homes, eco-friendly camps, or mountain lodges, with 24/7 jeep support ensuring smooth access across destinations. Travelers enjoy modern facilities such as warm water, comfortable beds, and freshly prepared Kumaoni meals. Designed as an adaptable experience, the trail works for both active trekkers seeking full-day walks and those who prefer a gentler pace — ensuring there is something for everyone.
Itinerary
This 8-day Carpet Sahib’s Trail takes you through the historic landscapes of Mukteshwar, Kalagar, Champawat, and Kaladhungi. Each day weaves together heritage, culture, and nature — retracing Jim Corbett’s footsteps along orchards, forest paths, and village trails. With expert-led walks, heritage stays, and evening storytelling, every moment reveals a Kumaon beyond the usual tourist routes.
Discover the full itinerary below.
Day 1
Magnificent Mukteshwar
Arrive at Camp Purple, Mukteshwar (approx. 2.5 hr drive). Explore Lingard House, the old Post Office, and Chauli ki Jaali cliffs for panoramic Himalayan views. Evening bonfire with Corbett’s stories sets the trail in motion. “People who have lived at Muktesar claim that it is the most beautiful spot in Kumaon, and that its climate has no equal.” — The Muktesar Man-Eater
Day 2
Badri’s Orchard Hike
Morning hike through Badri’s historic orchard, still flourishing a century later. Meet locals, enjoy a picnic en route, and spend the evening with options for birding or short forest walks. “This I was informed was Badri Sah’s apple orchard… Badri, son of an old friend of mine, had visited me in Naini Tal some months previously and had offered to put me up in his guest house.” — The Muktesar Man-Eater
Day 3
Into Unexplored Kumaon
Drive into Kalagar village through oak, pine, and rhododendron forests. Stay in a stone bungalow or village home, share lunch with locals, and visit Corbett’s Forest Bungalow. “The forest road from the Kala Agar bungalow runs for several miles due west through very beautiful forests of pine, oak and rhododendron…” — The Chowgarh Tigers
Day 4
The Kalagar Adventure
Guided hike through forests and hills, visiting the spot of Corbett’s final encounter with the Chowgarh tigress. Enjoy a picnic outdoors, followed by a traditional village dinner. “Standing on a commanding point… a man cooees to attract the attention of the people in a neighbouring village and when the cooee is answered, the message is shouted across in a high-pitched voice.” — The Chowgarh Tigers
Day 5
Drive Through Paradise
Depart early for Champawat, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way. In the evening, visit Baleshwar Temple and wander through the lively town market. “No one who has visited Dabidhura is ever likely to forget the view… ridge upon ridge until they merge into the eternal snows.” — The Temple Tiger
Day 6
Timeless Champawat
Follow the Champawat heritage trail, walking paths described in Corbett’s Man-Eaters of Kumaon. Meet villagers, explore temples, tea gardens, and the scenic countryside. “I was sitting on the south edge of a great amphitheatre of hills, without a habitation of any kind in sight…” — The Champawat Man-Eater
Day 7
Towards Corbett’s Forest
Drive via Tanakpur and Haldwani, stopping at Jim Corbett’s home in Kaladhungi, now a museum. Evening arrival at Camp Kyari, Syat, at the forest’s edge. “Our cottage was at a cross-roads at the foot of the hills and on the border line between the cultivated land and the forest. All who were sick or sorry… found their way to our cottage.” — The Brothers
Day 8
A Morning Walk to Remember
Enjoy an early morning nature and birding walk. After breakfast at camp, bid farewell to Kumaon and conclude the Carpet Sahib’s Trail — an offbeat heritage journey through Jim Corbett’s world. “Here as we sit in this beautiful and peaceful spot… with every current of wind bringing with it the sweet smell of flowers…” — Jungle Lore
Some memories from the trail
Trail Essentials: Stay, Travel & Safety
From who this trail is for, to accommodation, food, transportation, and safety — every detail is thoughtfully planned to ensure a comfortable and enriching experience. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a history enthusiast, or exploring with family, we’ve got you covered with heritage stays, local cuisine, reliable transport, and expert support every step of the way.
Who is this Trail For?
This trail is perfect for nature lovers, families, solo travelers, and anyone seeking an escape from the noise of modern life. - First-time trekkers looking for an easy, scenic Himalayan walk - Families wanting meaningful time together in nature without compromising comfort - Solo women travelers and women-only groups seeking a safe, guided experience - Senior travelers looking for an inclusive, slow-paced Himalayan journey - Nature lovers who want to experience the outdoors without camping - Birdwatchers and photographers drawn to Kumaon’s forests and villages - Travelers seeking an authentic, slow travel experience rooted in Kumaoni culture and heritage
Accommodation & Amenities
Enjoy comfortable stays in eco-camps, homestays, and hotels. Options range from American Safari tents and mountain lodges in Mukteshwar, to alpine tents in Kala Agar and cottages in Champawat.
Food on the Trail
Freshly cooked, hot meals using local ingredients, prepared by a skilled kitchen team or select local families. - No canned or processed food, with homemade jams, marmalades and juices. - Enjoy hot local dishes with fresh ingredients from nearby farms
Getting there
Delhi to Kathgodam/Pant Nagar: - Option 1 (Recommended): Early morning Shatabdi (reaching at noon) - Option 2: Flight to Pantnagar (reaching at noon) + 1 hour drive to Kathgodam. - Option 3: Overnight train – Ranikhet express (reaching early morning) - Option 4: Overnight Volvo bus (reaching early morning) - Option 5: Drive (6 hours to Kathgodam) Kathgodam/Pant Nagar to Delhi: - Option 1 (Recommended): Afternoon (3:30 p.m.) Shatabdi (reaching at 9:00 p.m.) - Option 2: 1 hour drive from Kathgodam to Pantnagar + Flight from Pantnagar - Option 3: Overnight train – Ranikhet express (reaching early morning) - Option 4: Overnight Volvo bus (reaching early morning) - Option 5: Drive (6 hours to Delhi) Our vehicle will be there at your point of arrival to take you to the starting point of the trail. We will also drop you back to the port of departure.
Transportation
We will arrange for transportation from the point of arrival to your departure. Our guests usually share vehicles to reduce costs. However exclusive vehicles for private groups can be arranged on request. Transportation will be charged on actuals. To ensure your comfort throughout your time with us, we ensure the following: - Comfortable vehicles (Innova, Ertiga, or similar) - 24x7 vehicle support from - Railhead/Airport - A backup/logistics vehicle travels with the party - We engage experienced drivers, who work with us throughout the year and undergo a refresher safety training annually
Safety & Support
- Trained team in basic first aid from NIM, and members are NOLS certified. - First aid kit available, and local medical facilities mapped along the route. - Backup vehicles on standby for emergencies. - Experienced drivers who undergo refresher safety training annually.
What our travellers say about us?
Hear from those who have travelled with us before—their experiences, stories, and unforgettable moments.
Read their testimonials and get inspired for your own adventure!
The best trekking and overall service experience I have ever had! Sameer and Suvrat, along with their entire support team, did a stupendous job. I am now a fan of this team!
Vinay Karnad
We (a group of 40-somethings) camped at Sattal, Shaama (Saama), Ram Ganga, and Mukteshwar. The camps were well-managed, and all our programs were well-organized. Scenic locations, clean and cozy accommodations, and a helpful, courteous staff—who were always prompt and responsible—made for a wonderful experience. A special shoutout to the teams at Sattal and Shaama, who put their heart into everything they do. The food at every camp was absolutely finger-licking delicious! We had a memorable time. Although we faced some issues at Ram Ganga, the management promptly stepped in with a solution that satisfied everyone.
Sukrit Nagraj
A very professional guide with amazing knowledge, who provided us with incredible information and insights and ensured we were well looked after. The driver was fantastic and always punctual. I couldn’t have asked for better service or a more enriching cultural experience!
Julie L
Contact Form
Have questions or ready to plan your adventure? Get in touch with us, and we’ll help curate the perfect journey for you. Fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you soon!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Information
What is the Carpet Sahib’s Trail?
The Carpet Sahib’s Trail is an 8-day immersive heritage journey through Kumaon, retracing the footsteps of Jim Corbett — hunter, conservationist, and storyteller. The trail spans Mukteshwar, Kalagar, Champawat, and Kaladhungi, blending forest walks, village life, and heritage exploration with expert-led storytelling and cultural experiences.
Who is this trip for?
This trail is ideal for: - Nature lovers & wildlife enthusiasts - History buffs & Jim Corbett fans - Families and small groups seeking meaningful travel - Solo women travelers and women-only groups - Senior citizens looking for a safe, guided adventure - Birdwatchers, photographers, and culture seekers - Anyone with basic fitness who can enjoy 4–6 km easy walks on hill paths
When is the trip scheduled?
The fixed departure is 24 November to 1 December 2025, planned for ideal winter weather in Kumaon.
How physically demanding is this trip?
The trail includes moderate walking (3-5 km per day) on hilly terrain and village paths. It does not require advanced trekking skills but does require basic fitness. If you can walk comfortably for an hour on uneven terrain, you should be fine.
Itinerary & Activities
Itinerary & Activities
- Mukteshwar: Visit the site where Corbett shot the Mukteshwar man-eater, explore Badri’s Orchard, and enjoy storytelling sessions around a bonfire. - Kala Agar: Engage with locals, hear real-life wildlife stories, and visit sites of Corbett’s famous encounters. - Champawat: Walk the paths where Corbett first made history, visit historical forts and temples, and learn about his conservation work. - Evening Discussions: Relive Corbett’s tales through fireside storytelling.
Will I see wild tigers?
This trail does not include a dedicated tiger safari. However, if you wish to add a safari in Corbett National Park, we can assist with arrangements before or after the trail.
How flexible is the itinerary?
While we follow a planned route, minor adjustments may be made based on weather, road conditions, or local factors. Our priority is safety and providing the best possible experience.
Accommodation & Food
Where will we stay?
- Mukteshwar: Cozy mountain lodge or safari-style tents with panoramic Himalayan views. - Kalagar Village: Eco-friendly alpine tents in a rustic village setting, close to forest trails. - Champawat: Heritage cottage on farmland, with attached bathrooms and home-style meals. - Kaladhungi: Stay near Corbett’s ancestral home, now a museum, with comfortable rooms and local cuisine.
What kind of food will be provided?
- Fresh, hot meals prepared by our skilled kitchen team. - Locally sourced ingredients, including fruits, vegetables, and dairy. - No canned or processed food; homemade jams, juices, and pickles. - We cater to vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary requirements if informed in advance.
Travel & Transportation
How do I reach the starting point?
The trip starts and ends at Kathgodam Railway Station. You can reach Kathgodam from Delhi via: - Train: Shatabdi Express (recommended) or Ranikhet Express (overnight train). - Flight: To Pantnagar Airport (1-hour drive to Kathgodam). - Bus: Overnight Volvo buses from Delhi.
Will transportation be provided during the trip?
Yes, all internal transportation is arranged. Guests usually share vehicles to reduce costs, but private vehicles can be arranged upon request.
Safety & Medical Support
What safety measures are in place?
- Our team is trained in first aid (NOLS-certified & NIM-trained). - A backup vehicle is always available for emergencies. - Nearest hospitals are mapped along the route.
Packing & Essentials
What should I pack?
A detailed packing list will be shared upon confirmation. Essentials include: - Comfortable hiking shoes - Warm layers (April nights can be chilly) - Personal toiletries & medications - A small backpack for daily walks
