Matholi Village Experience | Women-Led Tourism in Uttarakhand

Matholi, Uttarakhand

Immerse yourself in the women-led village of Matholi in the heart of Uttarakhand's Himalayan region.
This 4-day experience offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, nature exploration, and community engagement. Trek through stunning mountain landscapes, learn traditional crafts and cooking, participate in sustainable tourism initiatives, and connect with the inspiring women entrepreneurs who manage the entire village. Enjoy organic farm-to-table meals, evening bonfires with storytelling, and the warm hospitality of the Garhwali community.

Location:

Matholi

Pick Up:

Dehradun | Rishikesh | Haridwar

Days:

4 Days

Nights:

3 Nights

Capacity:

2-25 Participants

Best Time:

March - June | Sep - Nov

Highlights Of Experience

🏡 Authentic Himalayan Village Stay

Choose between eco-friendly village homestays or tent accommodations with organic, locally sourced meals.

🏔️ Himalayan Nature Exploration

Trek to Kandak Top with stunning Himalayan views
Sunrise trek to hidden waterfalls
Morning meditation & yoga sessions with mountain views

👩‍🌾 Women-Led Community Engagement

Interact with women entrepreneurs managing tourism, farming, and crafts
Participate in women-led community projects
Learn traditional Garhwali cooking
Experience milk & dairy farming
Craft Garhwali wool-based handicrafts with local artisans

🔥 Cultural Immersion

Evening cultural exchange & storytelling by the bonfire
Local folk music performances
Traditional Garhwali welcome ceremony
Farewell community gathering with cultural performances

What's Included

🏠 Accommodation

Eco-friendly village homestays or tents (based on your package selection)

🍽️ Meals

All organic meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + Evening Tea/Snacks)

🚶‍♀️ Guided Experiences

Guided village immersion & cultural interactions

Trekking & nature explorations

Hands-on community activities (farming, cooking, handicrafts, etc.)

Evening bonfire & storytelling sessions

👥 Support

Local guide & facilitators throughout your stay

Women community hosts

What’s Excluded

🚗 Transport to & from Matholi Village (can be arranged upon request at additional cost)

🧶 Additional hands-on project materials beyond the basic workshop supplies

💼 Personal expenses, insurance, or extra activities not mentioned in the inclusions

🍺 Alcoholic beverages

📱 Phone and internet charges (network connectivity is limited in the village)

Experience Best For

🏔️ Nature lovers seeking authentic Himalayan experiences

👩‍🌾 Travelers interested in women-led tourism and community development

🌱 Eco-conscious visitors who value sustainable tourism practices

🧘‍♀️ Those looking for a mindful retreat with cultural immersion

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families wanting to expose children to rural life and different cultures

🏢 Corporate teams seeking meaningful team-building experiences

Things to Carry

🥾 Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots

🧥 Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)

🧴 Sunscreen and insect repellent

🧢 Hat and sunglasses

🔦 Flashlight or headlamp

💊 Personal medications

🎒 Small daypack for treks

🧣 Light jacket or sweater (even in summer, evenings can be cool)

📓 Journal for reflection (optional)

📷 Camera (optional)

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Village Immersion

Arrival at Matholi Village

Scenic drive through the lush green Himalayan terrain (if arriving from Dehradun/Rishikesh/Haridwar)

Warm traditional Garhwali welcome by the women's community

Eco-friendly homestay check-in & farm-to-table welcome meal

Afternoon Experiences

Guided village tour to understand the sustainable lifestyle & local initiatives
Interaction with women entrepreneurs managing tourism, farming, and crafts
Organic farm visit & hands-on experience in traditional farming techniques

Evening

Cultural exchange & storytelling by the bonfire
Local folk music performance
Dinner featuring traditional Garhwali cuisine

Day 2: Nature Exploration & Community Engagement

Morning

Early morning meditation & yoga session with a local instructor
Traditional Garhwali breakfast
Trek to Kandak Top (Moderate, 2-3 hours) with stunning Himalayan views
Picnic-style lunch amidst nature

Afternoon

Participate in a women-led community project (options include: eco-tourism initiatives, handicrafts, sustainable farming workshops)
Cooking session: Learn to prepare a traditional Garhwali meal

Evening

Local storytelling session around the bonfire with herbal tea
Night under the stars: Optional camping experience in the village

Day 3: Adventure & Local Economy Engagement

Morning

Sunrise trek to hidden waterfalls (optional)
Breakfast at a scenic spot
Hands-on village activities: milk & dairy farming, crafting Garhwali wool-based handicrafts, eco-sustainable waste management

Afternoon

Visit local markets and explore handmade crafts
Relaxing afternoon at the village with self-exploration time

Evening

Farewell community gathering with cultural performances
Bonfire and reflection session on key takeaways from the experience

Day 4: Departure

Morning

Morning village walk & meditation
Breakfast & packing up
Goodbye ceremony with the community
Departure back to Dehradun / Rishikesh / Haridwar with fond memories

Local Hosts

Women of Matholi

The women of Matholi Village have pioneered a unique initiative in sustainable tourism and community development. The entire village is managed by local women, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience rural entrepreneurship, sustainable tourism, and agro-tourism. These women have transformed their traditional roles into a powerful economic and social force, creating a model for women-led tourism in the Himalayan region. Visitors consistently praise the warmth, knowledge, and entrepreneurial spirit of these women, who share not just their homes and food, but their wisdom, traditions, and vision for a sustainable future.

Cancellation Policy

🗓️ Cancellation 30 days or more before departure

Full Refund

🗓️ Cancellation 15-29 days before departure

50% Refund

❌ Cancellation less than 15 days before departure

No Refund

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I reach Matholi Village?

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the nearest railway stations are in Rishikesh and Haridwar. From there, it's approximately a 4.5-hour drive to Matholi Village. We can help arrange transportation upon request at an additional cost.

What is the difference between the tent/camps stay and homestay options?

The tent/camps option (₹15,000) provides a more adventurous experience with comfortable tents set up in scenic locations around the village. The homestay option (₹25,000) offers accommodation in local homes that have been enhanced for visitor comfort while maintaining their authentic character. Both options include the same activities and meals.

Is this experience suitable for children?

Yes, this experience is suitable for children above 8 years of age. The activities can be adjusted to accommodate families with children.

What is the best time to visit Matholi?

The best time to visit is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant. July and August may experience monsoon rains, and December to February can be quite cold.

Is there internet connectivity in the village?

Internet connectivity is limited in the village. This experience is designed to help you disconnect from digital distractions and immerse yourself in the local environment and community.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes, we can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and most dietary restrictions with advance notice. Please inform us of any dietary requirements when booking.

How physically demanding are the activities?

Most activities are moderate in intensity and can be adjusted based on participants' comfort levels. The trek to Kandak Top is moderate (2-3 hours) but can be optional for those who prefer less strenuous activities.