Rural Traveller

Rural Traveller Explore India's wild wonders with Rural Traveller. Engage with local communities and conservation efforts for a truly enriching adventure.

Our expert guides lead intimate tours (4-8 guests), offering unique insights and responsible wildlife viewing. RURALTRAVELLER was created to fill the gap in responsible, community based tourism in the rural Uttarakhand area in the western Himalayas. Our target is the evolved traveller whose fun filled but low carbon footprint holiday directly contributes for conservation and social cause. We have

a handful of community run homestays and tourist lodges located amidst wilderness rich in wildlife and often far from road head. Since we cater to very small groups exclusivity and personal service is ensured. We cater for a range of tastes and travel needs, from the simple, humble village stay right through to the more luxurious wilderness lodge well suited for the elderly traveler, pensioners, gap year students, single women, essentially anyone in not jut wildlife viewing but its conservation as well. We firmly believe in maintain low volumes of tourists and to create destinations wherein one stays in longer, our programmes cover a week to 6 months. This process of slowing down will reward you by truly gaining an in depth understanding of this bio-diverse, scenic and culturally rich region of the western Himalayas. However if your time permits only a few days we’ll love to tailor make a program accordingly. At each location, guests have the opportunity to join in several of the conservation projects that are supported by RURALTRAVELLER or will have the pleasure of getting their hands dirty as they lend a hand on one of our organic farms or in oak forest restoration. Our strength and confidence is not just derived from over a decade of experience in handling special interest wildlife enthusiasts but a fine team of naturalists that we work with. And it is in our field expertise that makes us the simply the best.

14/08/2026

Celebrating India's 80th Independence Day

Every year on 15th August, India celebrates its Independence Day, marking the nation's freedom and the beginning of its journey as an independent country.

For us at Rural Traveller, it is also a moment to celebrate the incredible natural and cultural heritage that makes India truly extraordinary.

From the snow-capped Himalayas to ancient forests, from vast deserts and winding rivers to vibrant villages and remarkable wildlife, every landscape tells a story waiting to be discovered.

Every journey into a forest, every encounter with wildlife, every conversation with a local community, and every sunrise over an untamed landscape reminds us that travel is about far more than reaching a destination. It is about understanding the places we visit, respecting the people who call them home, and protecting the natural heritage that makes them so extraordinary.

As we celebrate 79 years of India's independence, let us also celebrate the freedom to explore this remarkable country with curiosity, humility, and responsibility—so that its landscapes, wildlife, and living traditions continue to inspire generations to come.

Happy 80th Independence Day! 🇮🇳

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+91 9719242939
+91 97611 66777

E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
Website:- ruraltraveller.in

07/08/2026

90 Years of India's First National Park.

On 8th August 1936, Hailey National Park was established as India's first national park, marking the beginning of the country's formal wildlife conservation journey. Renamed Ramganga National Park in 1955, it became Corbett National Park in 1956 in honour of the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett, whose vision continues to inspire generations of nature lovers.

In 1973, Corbett became the birthplace of Project Tiger, reinforcing its place at the heart of India's conservation story.

Today, Corbett is far more than a protected area. Its forests, rivers, grasslands, and mountains support an extraordinary diversity of life—from Bengal Tigers and Asian Elephants to Gharials, Golden Mahseer, and over 580 bird species. More importantly, it reminds us that conserving nature is not only about protecting wildlife, but also about safeguarding the ecosystems that sustain us all.

As we celebrate 90 years of India's first national park, we pay tribute to the forest personnel, conservationists, researchers, local communities, and everyone whose dedication has helped preserve this remarkable landscape.

Happy 90th Foundation Day to Jim Corbett National Park.

Nature doesn't need us. We need nature.

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+91 9719242939
+91 97611 66777

E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
Website:- ruraltraveller.in

WORLD RANGER DAY | 31 JULY 2026Across India’s forests, forest guards and rangers form the frontline of wildlife protecti...
31/07/2026

WORLD RANGER DAY | 31 JULY 2026

Across India’s forests, forest guards and rangers form the frontline of wildlife protection. From patrolling remote landscapes and preventing poaching to responding to forest fires and human–wildlife conflict, their work plays a vital role in keeping our forests and wildlife safe.

This photograph from Assam represents the people working on the ground in one of India’s richest wildlife regions. Assam is a stronghold for threatened species such as the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros, Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant and Wild Water Buffalo — and decades of dedicated protection by forest staff have contributed greatly to their survival.

On World Ranger Day, we honour rangers and forest guards across India for protecting our natural heritage, and remember those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The wildlife we celebrate survives because there are people who protect it every day.

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+91 9719242939
+91 97611 66777

E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
Website:- ruraltraveller.in

26/07/2026

More than a Sacred Lake—A Paradise for Birders and Nature Lovers.

Tucked away in the forests of West Sikkim, Khecheopalri Lake is revered as the legendary "Wishing Lake," where faith, folklore, and wilderness exist in perfect harmony.

But beyond its spiritual significance lies one of Sikkim's finest natural treasures.

Designated as a Ramsar Wetland, Khecheopalri and its surrounding broadleaf forests are home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife. With over 270 bird species recorded, the area is a delight for birdwatchers. From the vibrant Sultan Tit, Great Barbet, and Whiskered Yuhina to winter visitors like the Common Merganser and Tufted Pochard, every season offers something remarkable.

Local folklore tells us that birds never allow fallen leaves to remain on the lake's surface, keeping its waters pristine. Whether legend or nature at work, it beautifully reflects the close relationship between the lake and its avian inhabitants.

At Rural Traveller, we don't just visit Khecheopalri Lake—we explore the incredible landscapes that surround it. Our Sikkim journeys combine this sacred wetland with some of the region's finest birding destinations, including the forests of Pemayangtse & Rabdentse, the spectacular Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, and the moss-laden trails of Yuksom, creating an unforgettable experience for birders, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers.

Khecheopalri Lake, West Sikkim
270+ bird species recorded
Best for Birding: March–May & November–February

If you could spend one morning birding anywhere in the Himalayas, where would it be? Let us know in the comments!

WhatsApp/ Call:

+91 9719242939
+91 97611 66777

E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
Website:- ruraltraveller.in

Pallas's Cat & Ladakh BirdingThe high-altitude landscapes of Ladakh are home to the Pallas's Cat, one of the region's mo...
07/07/2026

Pallas's Cat & Ladakh Birding

The high-altitude landscapes of Ladakh are home to the Pallas's Cat, one of the region's most elusive wild felines. This tour takes you to Hanle, where the open grasslands, rocky slopes, and wetlands provide suitable habitat for this species as well as a rich diversity of Himalayan wildlife.

Along with searching for the Pallas's Cat, the tour offers excellent birding opportunities, with species such as the Black-necked Crane, Tibetan Snowcock, Tibetan Snowfinch, Brandt's Mountain Finch, and Great Rosefinch. There are also chances to observe Kiang (Tibetan Wild Ass), Blue Sheep, Tibetan Wolf, and Red Fox during the journey.

Route: Leh – Hanle – Leh
Duration: 7 Nights / 8 Days
Best Season: August – November

Join us to explore the wildlife and landscapes of Ladakh on a thoughtfully crafted wildlife journey.

For bookings and further details, get in touch with Rural Traveller.

📸 By: Haridutt Sanwal

WhatsApp/ Call:

+91 9719242939
+91 97611 66777

E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
Website:- ruraltraveller.in

The Voice of the Eastern Tropical ForestsHidden among the dense canopies of the Eastern Tropical Forests, the Tokay Geck...
01/07/2026

The Voice of the Eastern Tropical Forests

Hidden among the dense canopies of the Eastern Tropical Forests, the Tokay Gecko (Gekko gecko) is one of Asia's most extraordinary nocturnal reptiles. Long before it is seen, the male announces its presence with the unmistakable "to-kay... to-kay..." call that gives the species its name.

Its bluish-grey body, adorned with brilliant orange-red spots, makes it one of the world's most striking geckos. Millions of microscopic hairs on its toe pads allow it to cling effortlessly to tree trunks, rocky cliffs, and even smooth glass, while exceptional night vision and the ability to subtly change its skin tone make it a master of life after dark.

Fiercely territorial and fearless, the Tokay Gecko is renowned for its powerful bite and remarkable defence strategy of shedding its tail to escape predators before regenerating it. As a natural predator of insects and other small invertebrates, it also plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of forest ecosystems.

Poaching remains one of the greatest threats to the Tokay Gecko. Every year, countless individuals are illegally taken from the wild to supply the exotic pet trade and traditional medicine markets, where unproven medicinal claims continue to drive demand. Every gecko lost to this trade weakens wild populations and diminishes the biodiversity of the forests they help sustain.

The forests are their home—not the illegal wildlife trade. Protecting the Tokay Gecko means protecting the rich biodiversity of the Eastern Tropical Forests.

Next Season Bookings Now Open. Join us in the wild.

📸 By:- Gerard David

WhatsApp/ Call:

+91 9719242939
+91 97611 66777

E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
Website:- ruraltraveller.in

16/06/2026

The calls of this Silver-eared Mesia led us to the top of a tree along a busy street in Gangtok, where it remained perched long enough for a closer look. Sightings like this are a reminder that, despite being a growing Himalayan city, Gangtok continues to support a remarkable diversity of birdlife, with nature still very much a part of everyday life.

For a state that covers less than 0.25% of India's land area, Sikkim supports an extraordinary diversity of life. Positioned in the Eastern Himalayas, its dramatic elevational range creates a mosaic of habitats that harbour over 550 bird species, from colourful forest specialists to some of the Himalayas' most sought-after birds.

Whether birding around Gangtok, exploring the forests of Fambong Lho, or venturing into higher Himalayan habitats, every day in Sikkim offers a different set of species and experiences. It is this remarkable diversity packed into such a small region that makes Sikkim one of the most rewarding birding destinations in the Himalayas.

Gangtok, Sikkim

Bookings for our upcoming Sikkim Birding Tours are now open.

WhatsApp/ Call:

+91 9719242939
+91 97611 66777

E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
Website:- ruraltraveller.in

Some books become trusted companions in the field, helping us look closer and learn more from the natural world. Widely ...
28/05/2026

Some books become trusted companions in the field, helping us look closer and learn more from the natural world. Widely regarded as one of the finest bird guides in the world, Birds of the Indian Subcontinent continues to guide birders and naturalists across the region.

The second edition of the book by Richard Grimmett, Carol and Tim Inskipp is now here, bringing updated taxonomy, revised bird distribution maps, new plates and expanded species accounts in a more compact and field-friendly format.

For us at The Rural Traveller, this release feels especially meaningful. Carol and Tim Inskipp have travelled with us over many years, and their dedication to birds and ornithology continues to inspire learning, observation and curiosity. Congratulations to the authors on this valuable contribution to the birding community — a work that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Now available on Amazon with special offers — this remarkable second edition is a highly recommended addition to every birder’s field library. Get your copy soon.

📸 By:- Varun Mathur

WhatsApp/ Call:

+91 9719242939
+91 97611 66777

E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
Website:- ruraltraveller.in

The open grasslands of Rajasthan hold one of India’s rarest and most difficult birding experiences — the possibility of ...
15/05/2026

The open grasslands of Rajasthan hold one of India’s rarest and most difficult birding experiences — the possibility of encountering the Great Indian Bustard.
A bird once widespread across the Indian subcontinent, now surviving in fragmented landscapes where patience, silence, and timing become part of the journey itself.

Rajasthan’s desert ecosystem offers far more than dunes and forts. Early mornings across these grasslands reveal larks, coursers, wheatears, eagles, sandgrouse, vultures, and migratory surprises shaped by harsh climate and vast open spaces. For serious birders, this landscape remains one of India’s most unique habitats to explore slowly and carefully.

At The Rural Traveller, our Rajasthan birding journeys focus on meaningful field experiences, local knowledge, and time spent understanding the landscape beyond simple sightings.

For upcoming departures and customised birding programs, feel free to connect with us.

📸 By:- Aliyaar

WhatsApp/ Call:

+91 9719242939
+91 97611 66777

E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
Website:- ruraltraveller.in

Today, on her birthday, we remember Rosemary Fox — a woman whose life remained deeply connected to nature and wild lands...
10/05/2026

Today, on her birthday, we remember Rosemary Fox — a woman whose life remained deeply connected to nature and wild landscapes.

Born on 10 May 1930 in Lansdowne, in the Himalayan region of northern India, she spent her childhood surrounded by forests, rivers, and wildlife at a time when these landscapes looked very different from today.

Over the years, her life took her across many parts of the world, yet her connection with wilderness and conservation remained strong throughout her journey. Later in life, she even returned to the Himalayas, revisiting the landscapes that had shaped some of her earliest memories.

Her story reminds us how deeply nature can influence a person’s life and how certain places continue to stay within us no matter how far we travel.

At The Rural Traveller, we always value these deeper human connections with wilderness, memory, and landscape.

Remembering Rosemary Fox on her birthday.

📸 By:

WhatsApp/ Call:

+91 9719242939
+91 97611 66777

E-mail: [email protected] [email protected]
Website:- ruraltraveller.in

Address

Elephant Plough, Gaibua Khass , Kaladhungi, Fatepur Range
Ramnagar
244715

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