Our Story
We grew up in these valleys. Now we share them with the world.
Northern Trails was started by a small team of people from Dharchula who got tired of watching tourists pay city-based agencies for experiences that rarely reflected the real Himalaya.
How We Started
Dharchula has been a staging point for Himalayan pilgrimage for centuries. The routes to Adi Kailash, Om Parvat, and the border valleys of Darma and Byans have been walked by devotees long before the word “trekking” existed.
When organised tourism came to the region, most of the money flowed to agencies in Delhi, Haridwar and Kathgodam. Local guides were hired seasonally. Porters were paid minimally. Homestay families got a small cut. The valleys themselves got the footfall but not the income.
Northern Trails was built to change that. Every rupee you pay stays in the mountains you are visiting. Our guides are from here. Our porters are from here. Our homestay families are people we have known all our lives.
Our Values
Native by default
Every person on our team is from Dharchula or the surrounding valleys. This isn't a marketing claim — it shapes everything we do.
Conservation first
A fixed share of every booking goes directly into local conservation and livelihood work. We are accountable for that money.
Small groups, real attention
We cap group sizes deliberately. Every yatri is known by name, not by booking number.
No hidden costs
Our packages are all-inclusive and clearly defined. We will tell you exactly what is and isn't included before you book.
The Team
The people who will be with you on the trail.
Harish Panwar
Founder & Lead Guide
Born in Dharchula. Has been walking the routes to Adi Kailash and Om Parvat since he was 14. Holds a certificate in mountain rescue and wilderness first aid.
Deepa Mehra
Operations & Permits
Handles all ILP processing, group logistics, and homestay coordination. Has deep relationships with families across the Darma and Byans valleys.
Ratan Bisht
Trek Lead, High Routes
Veteran of over 60 Adi Kailash circuits and 40 Om Parvat darshans. Ratan has guided yatris of all ages and fitness levels across the border-area routes.
Ready to walk with us?
Get in touch and we’ll build a yatra around your dates and preferences.