Lata, a small village nestled in the Dhauli Ganga valley, derives its name from Latu Devta, the revered brother of Nanda Devi, the main deity of the village. This picturesque village is situated within the Buffer zone of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, making it ecologically rich and delicate, serving as a habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna.
The village's historical significance is tied to its proximity to Reni village and its crucial role in the famous 'Chipko movement.' In this movement, brave women from Reni and nearby villages hugged the trees to protect them from being cut down. March 26, 2024, marks the 50th anniversary of this influential environmental movement.
Lata celebrates several major festivals, including the Bikhauti Mela in the month of Baisakhi and Sitoon, a wooden masked re-enactment of Lord Rama's 14-year exile. Additionally, Nandashtami is celebrated with grand festivities, offering devotion to Devi Nanda.
Apart from being a cultural hub, Lata is home to the Bhotiya tribe of Uttarakhand. In the past, they engaged in trade with Tibet through Neeti Pass until the 1962 war put an end to it. The Bhotiya tribe's primary occupation now involves rearing and collecting Keedajadi, a rare Himalayan medicinal herb that commands high prices in international markets, especially in China, through Nepal.
For trekkers and nature enthusiasts, Dharansi Pass, the last point in the buffer zone where access is allowed, is an enticing destination. Additionally, the Tapovan natural hot springs lie a short distance of 10 km away from Lata.
The strategic importance of Lata is evident due to its location on the border road leading all the way to Neeti Pass. Despite having good road connectivity due to its proximity to the Indo-China border, the village lacks basic education and healthcare facilities. The children have to travel to nearby Reni for schooling, and the major hospital is located 30 km away in Joshimath.
About the village
DAY 1:- RISHIKESH TO LATA
We have planned to meet up in Rishikesh at a predetermined location to begin our journey. Our route will take us along the Rishikesh-Badrinath highway, with the Ganga river flowing on our right until we reach Devprayag. There, we'll have breakfast and then follow the course of the Alaknanda river, passing through the towns of Srinagar, Gauchar, and Pipalkoti. Along this route, we will visit four important prayags (confluences) of Uttarakhand: Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Nandaprayag.
Our next destination is the cantonment town of Joshimath, and from here, we will drive parallel to the course of the Dhauli Ganga river until we reach Lata. By evening, we will arrive at the Lata road head. From there, we will leave our vehicle and trek for approximately 1.5 km to reach our homestay.
Upon arrival at the homestay, you will be warmly welcomed with a hot cup of tea and some snacks. After settling in and taking some rest, you may explore the nearby areas with a short walk. Later, a delicious local meal will be served at the homestay, and you can also choose to assist the host or simply relax and enjoy your time there.
DAY 2:- A DAY IN LATA
Our day begins with a delightful visit to the Nanda Devi temple, followed by a serene Yoga session in a beautiful setting surrounded by diverse flora and vibrant birdlife, with magnificent views of the Himalayan giants in the backdrop. The village's quaint charm and its limited accessibility offer the perfect opportunity to detox from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Afterwards, we will head back to the homestay for a hearty Pahaadi breakfast, featuring Mandua roti, a gluten-free flatbread made from local millets, and accompanied by delectable leafy vegetables, all topped off with a steaming cup of tea. The traditional houses in the village are made with mud-plastered walls and stone-covered roofs, often painted in white with carved wooden blue doors and window frames. We can explore the architecture and visit places of historical significance in the village.
Under the guidance of local craftsmen, you can try your hand at weaving and even purchase some ready-made garments made of pure wool, perfect for braving the bone-chilling winters as souvenirs. A delicious hot lunch will be served at the homestay.
In the evening, you have the opportunity to venture out and stroll around the village, immersing yourself in the local culture by engaging in conversations with the residents and listening to the fascinating stories shared by the elderly. We will return to the homestay for dinner, where you can choose to assist your host in preparing a meal or simply spend your time as you wish.
DAY 3:- LATA TO RISHIKESH
After enjoying a satisfying breakfast, it will be time to bid farewell to the picturesque village and its welcoming residents. We'll embark on a short 1.5 km hike to reach the road-head, where our vehicle awaits to take us back to Rishikesh. Along the way, we will stop for lunch at a convenient point. As the day comes to a close, we will arrive in the bustling town of Rishikesh in the evening, marking the conclusion of our tour.
From Rishikesh, each of us will head towards our respective destinations, leaving the lap of the Himalayas with a sense of longing to return. It is advisable to plan your further journey after 7 pm to avoid any potential traffic-related delays.
INCLUSIONS
-
All meals during the stay. ( General nutritious meal )
-
Accommodation in homestay.
-
Local sightseeing and experience.
-
Tour leader and support staff.
-
Transport from Rishikesh to Lata and back to Rishikesh.
EXCLUSIONS
-
Meals during road transit i.e. meals during travel from Rishikesh to Lata and vice versa.
-
Any kind of medical insurance.
-
Any personal expenses.
-
Any expense not specified in inclusions.
TREK USP
