About the Place
Escape the touristy trap and find peace in Suryagaon, a hidden gem near Sattal’s pristine lakes. This village isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a thriving example of sustainable, community-driven tourism.
Stay in a traditional, lake facing boutique homestay, savor home-cooked Kumaoni meals, wake up to the chirping of rare species of birds, kayak across serene lakes, and engage with the local community who have made this village a true haven for conscious travelers.
Here, every experience is a step towards preserving nature and embracing the simple joys of life.
Day 1 - Arrival & Adventure Begins
- Welcome to Suryagaon, Sattal : Arrive at MLD Home - Vanantara Eco Retreat, where a local family greets you with warmth. Settle into your cozy and earthy rooms and enjoy a hearty home-cooked breakfast.
- Forest Walk to the Lake (1.5 km) : Take a guided trail through pine & oak forests, with stories of Sattal’s flora and fauna.
- Kayaking : Paddle in double-seater kayaks with stunning Himalayan backdrops — a perfect blend of teamwork and fun.
- Zipline Over the Lake : Feel the rush as you soar across the waters and test your willpower.
- Picnic Lunch & Waterfall Exploration : Trek to a hidden forest waterfall for a refreshing dip, then enjoy a hot picnic meal by the lake.
- Evening Bonfire & Dinner : Return to the homestay for evening tea, a cozy bonfire under the stars, and a wholesome dinner.
Day 2 - Nature & Community Immersion
- Forest Walk to meet the Butterfly Man of Uttarakhand (7 kms of moderate trek) : After the breakfast, start your day with a guided trek through dense forests, ending at the Butterfly Museum — a peek into Sattal’s unique biodiversity led by the “Butterfly Man of Uttarakhand" - Peter Smetacek
- Village Lunch Hunt : Will drive back to the homestay and get ready for an immersive cultural experience of Suryagaon. Split into groups and step into local homes. Learn traditional cooking, work in the fields, and share an authentic Garhwali meal with village families. A soulful connection with rural life.
- Evening at Leisure : Unwind back at the homestay with conversations, music, and starlit skies.
Day 3 - Creativity & Culture Before Departure
- Morning Birdwatching Walk : Sattal is birder’s paradise where we would spot Sattal’s feathered treasures - from vibrant magpies and minivets to doves and barbets.
- Craft & Creativity Workshop : Try your hand at carpentry basics, pebble painting, woodcraft, or handmade cards — taking home more than just memories.
- Heartfelt Farewell Lunch : Enjoy one last community meal before departure, carrying stories, skills, and soulful connections back with you.
Inclusions & Pricing
Accommodation
2 Nights stay on double sharing at MLD Exclusive Home - Vanantara.
- Guided lake activities - kayaking, swimming, zip-lining, waterfall trek.
- Guided Bird-watching trek and learning of flora and fauna.
- Guided Local Cultural immersion with the community and trek to the Butterfly Museum.
- Transportation from museum to the homestay.
- Evening bonfire with traditional dance and music.
- uided Creative workshop.
- All meals, including hi-tea, starting from Breakfast on Day 1 to lunch on Day 3.
- Any purchase or transportation services not mentioned in the inclusions.
- 12-14 September 2025.
- 19-21 September 2025.
- Pick any weekend.
- Carry Reusable Water Bottles : Say no to single-use plastic; let’s keep Sattal clean.
- No Music Systems : The forest has its own soundtrack; enjoy the melodies of nature.
- Travel Light : Prefer a backpack over a suitcase for easy mobility.
- Trekking Essentials : Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a torch & mosquito repellent.
- Eco-conscious Packing : Avoid plastic items; opt for biodegradable or reusable alternatives.
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Why Sattal
This unique journey to Surya Gaon, Sattal isn’t just a getaway—it’s a meaningful experience that blends adventure, culture, and sustainability. Here's why:
- An Offbeat Paradise – Escape the crowded tourist trails of Nainital and experience the untouched beauty of Sattal, a hidden gem nestled in the Kumaon hills, offering pristine nature, tranquility, and raw Himalayan charm.
- Authentic Community Connection – Immerse yourself in the local way of life—walk through traditional villages, dine with the community, and engage in meaningful cultural exchanges that make your journey more than just a trip.
- Thrill & Tranquility in One – From kayaking, swimming, and ziplining at Sattal Lake to moonlit treks and stargazing, this experience blends adrenaline-pumping adventure with serene, mindful moments in nature.
- A 360° Immersive Experience – Over just three days, dive deep into adventure, culture, creativity, and spirituality—ensuring every important aspect of a human’s life is covered with rich with discovery, self-exploration, and meaningful connections.
The MylocalDost Home - Vanantara
A boutique homestay in Suryagaon is run by Santosh's family and the local community of the village. Their hospitality is the highlight of this place. Such warm people with a smiling face who go beyond to make you feel at home. The entire local community fuel the local economy with vibrant tourism pursuits—birdwatching, guided nature walks, and offering local produce and handicraft. Santy (Santosh), the adventure enthusiast, orchestrates soft adventure activities, while the community elevates local immersion with exciting local stories, treasure hunts, offering guests an authentic peek into mountain life. From savoring Kumaoni meals cooked on a traditional chulha to exploring village homes, every aspect adds a deliciously authentic touch to your retreat.
Sustainable Travel - Why this Journey is Sustainable?
At MylocalDost, sustainability is not just a principle - it’s a way of exploring the world responsibly.
Empowering Local Communities
Your visit directly supports the livelihoods of the local community of Suryagaon fostering self-sufficiency and empowerment.
Eco-Friendly Practices
From meals prepared with locally-sourced, organic ingredients to living in a mud and stone architecture supported with renewable source of energy - every experience is designed to minimize our ecological footprint.
Promoting Conscious Travel
Activities like forest and butterfly museum tours and treks prioritize deeper connections with the ecosystem over hurried sightseeing and ticking boxes, reducing environmental strain and embracing the place in its purest form.
Green Trails
We will ensure to leave nothing behind and rather pick plastic waste during the trek.