In today’s world, conservation is a must, and learning about conservation is something that should not be restricted to scientists and conservation frontline champions. With a large population and a wealth of natural diversity, no place is better to see or put conservation into action than India. On this journey, you will spend a month in North India, learning about the rich wildlife and culture, and learning about conservation travel, ecotourism and sustainability with the help of experts. You will also have the chance to engage in a small conservation venture in Kaladhungi and explore the monuments and history of North India.

Pangot is a birding paradise. Nestled in the foothills of Himalayas, the entire region is covered in thick Deodar forests which prove to be an ideal hangout hotspot for birds. One can see a variety of Himalayan species such as Himalayan Vulture, Blue-winged Minla, Spotted & Slaty-backed Forktail, Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Kalij Pheasant, a variety of thrushes, and more. Almost 250 bird species have been recorded at Pangot and the surrounding areas.

Apart from being India’s oldest birding lodge, Jungle Lore Birding Lodge is also at the forefront of the Zero Waste Pangot project, a project that aims to reduce waste by adopting responsible waste and water management practices, and teaching them to other lodges in Pangot. Through village walks, Jungle Lore also showcases local rural village life, while activities like cooking classes help traditional practices endure and spread.

The small town of Jageshwar has long been a pilgrimage hotspot, and with the calming and revitalizing energy that emanates from the peaceful town and surroundings, it’s easy to see why. Apart from the ancient temples that draw many to Jageshwar, the surrounding lush deodar pine forests are home to a variety of birdlife, whose song livens up this place.

Amid the deodar pine forests of Jageshwar, and inspired by local Kumaoni architecture, Van Serai serves the purpose for those who want to be in the most peaceful surroundings. The lodge is between the two sets of ancient Shiva temples that render energy naturally. The quaint town of Jageshwar and the streams flowing through the dense deodar jungles make the ecosystem unique.

Through guided village and forest walks, short treks, and temple visits, Van Serai introduces visitors to, and teaches them about everyday life in Jageshwar, including its history, architecture, and cuisine. Traditional farm-fresh and Satvik Kumaoni food showcases the culinary history of Kumaon, and cooking classes help these traditional dishes endure. Van Serai also practices responsible waste and water management practices, while adopting as many local traditional practices as possible.

Established as the Hailey National Park in 1936, Corbett is India’s oldest national park and tiger reserve. In the western Himalayan foothills, Corbett is one of India’s premier wildlife destinations. Apart from a healthy population of tigers and elephants, Corbett is also home to a wide variety of birds. The park is also home to a wide variety of habitats, from riverine belts, marshlands, and lakes, to the forests and grasslands, adding to both its natural beauty and biodiversity.

Jaipur boasts of beautiful architecture, monuments, forts and palaces, a royal era or queens and kings, and delicious food. No trip to Jaipur is complete without visiting the famous Amer fort, the majestic fort, walled through and through, City Palace (where the royal family of Jaipur still lives), a beautiful palace with various rooms that used to serve different purposes to the royals back in the day, Hawa Mahal, the palace of windows and the local markets, as you walk around the pink city, you realise the heritage value of the monuments, forts, palaces and markets.

Home to one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal, Agra is also known as the city of love, heritage and history. It used to be the Mughal capital back in the day and was ruled from the Agra Fort, which is one of the most valued heritage sites in the city and was also declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No visit to Agra is complete without visiting the majestic Taj Mahal, the white tomb, the intricate carvings and the history behind it will leave you awestruck. Agra is also known for the beautiful white structure called Itimad-ud-daula’s Tomb. The Persian style gardens, state-of-the-art architecture and grandeur of the history makes it worth a visit. A heritage food walk in the narrow lanes of the local markets of Agra is a must do.