LIVING WITH THE FORESTS

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Overview

  • Duration:6 days 4 nights
  • Tour Type:Group
  • Language:English, Hindi
Living with the Forests is a community-based initiative that bridges people and forest communities through immersive learning journeys. Rooted in the Eastern Himalayas, it preserves and shares the ecological knowledge, oral histories, and sustainable practices of those living along vital biodiversity zones.

The 6th edition takes place in Todey-Tangta, a remote settlement on the Indo-Bhutan border situated on the fringes of Neora Valley National Park. This region is known for its rich biodiversity and traditional forest-dependent communities. By fostering dialogue, documentation, and deep engagement, the program supports cultural continuity and reimagines responsible tourism as a path to conservation and collaboration.

What makes it special: This is more than a program—it's a growing ecosystem of shared learning, cultural preservation, and ecological stewardship. Learn directly from Knowledge Keepers—community elders, artisans, healers, and environmental stewards who have preserved ancestral knowledge for generations.
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DATES

  • April 13-19, 2026 (Todey-Tangta, Kalimpong)

KEY PROGRAM COMPONENTS

Reconnecting with Nature Deep dive into nature through immersive activities in the forest and amongst the forest communities will reinvigorate a connection with nature.

Ecology & Biodiversity Understanding of natural ecosystems through story-telling and knowledge-sharing facilitated by local resource persons and experts from the communities.

Sustainable Livelihoods Learn how communities have sustained and evolved their livelihood patterns through continued adaptations with nature. Witness powerful examples of sustainability and ecological balance.

Narratives Document varied perspectives of local communities and participants through diverse means of story-telling and capturing silent narratives.

Community Immersion Engage with the people, places, and practices. Experience their authentic culture and traditions to better understand the rural landscape and context.

Cost

  • 35000 + 5% GST per person

Highlights

  • Community-Led Forest Immersion Experience
  • Stay in Authentic Local Homestays
  • Guided Forest Walks with Local Naturalists
  • Storytelling with Knowledge Keepers
  • Hands-On Learning with Artisans & Healers
  • Village Heritage & Cultural Walks
  • Forest-Based Meals with Local Hosts
  • Deep Dive into Ecology & Biodiversity
  • Participation in Sustainable Livelihood Practices
  • Evening Reflection & Story Documentation
  • Indo-Bhutan Border Landscape Experience
  • Slow, Responsible & Regenerative Travel

Itinerary

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Days 1-6

Guided forest walks and nature trails with local naturalists
Village heritage walks exploring traditional homes, crafts, agricultural practices
Storytelling sessions with knowledge keepers and cultural practitioners
Hands-on learning experiences with local artisans, healers, farmers
Participation in community activities and sustainable livelihood projects
Meals prepared by local hosts featuring forest ingredients
Evening gatherings for reflection and documentation
Lodging in local homestays integrated within community settings

Includes/Excludes

  • Accommodation in local homestays with community members
  • All meals sourced from local ingredients (reflecting forest-based cuisine)
  • Guided forest walks and nature trails with local naturalists and experts
  • Village heritage walks and cultural immersion sessions
  • Storytelling and knowledge-sharing sessions with Knowledge Keepers
  • Local guides and community facilitators
  • Activities and site access in Todey-Tangta area
  • Documentation support for capturing narratives
  • Transportation to/from Todey-Tangta
  • Personal travel and medical insurance
  • Activities outside planned itinerary
  • Meals during transit travel
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Premium accommodation upgrades

Have a question before booking? Message us to learn more.

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