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Travel with children: In today’s busy life, the biggest lesson for children is that happiness cannot be found in expensive things or gadgets, but in simplicity. While in cities the world of children has become limited to screens, shopping malls and online classes, a small village in Uttarakhand, Sarmoli, connects them with real life. Here children learn how to live in harmony with nature, how small things can bring great happiness and how ‘sustainable lifestyle’ is not just a word but a way of life. This village situated near Munsiyari is famous for its peaceful valleys, snow covered Panchachuli peaks and eco-homestays run by women. There is a new lesson hidden at every turn. From farming to wool weaving, from forest walks to bird watching, every day gives children a new experience of connecting with nature and living responsibly.
Day 1: Arrive at an eco-homestay and immerse yourself in local life
As soon as you reach Sarmoli, first stay in an eco-homestay run by women here. These houses are made of local materials like wood, stone and mud, which remain warm in winter and cool in summer. Here. You will get a taste of true Himalayan hospitality like Bhang ki Chutney, Madua ki Roti, Pahadi Rajma and Jhangora ki Kheer.
Here children are not just playing but also learning, they see why it is important not to spend unnecessarily on things like water, electricity and food. In many homestays, children see kitchen gardens, learn to make compost from organic waste and plant trees with their own hands.
Day 2: Forest Walk and Nature’s School
Next day, wake up early in the morning and go on a jungle tour with a local guide. On the way, children will see mulberry, birch and cedar trees. This experience teaches them more than books that trees not only provide oxygen, but are also important in maintaining the balance of the mountains.
If the family is into adventure, try a short trek to the nearby Milam Glacier or Nanda Devi National Park. Here children can learn to recognize animal tracks, identify birds by their calls and learn to roam responsibly in the forest.
Day 3: Field work and learning about sowing seeds
On the third day, spend a day with the local farmers of Sarmoli. Here children understand how hard it takes to grow every grain and why organic farming is more important than chemical fertilizers. Farmers tell them how to maintain soil health and why it is important to preserve seeds.
As a family activity, you can all plant a tree together. When children see it growing, they understand what the real meaning of taking care of nature is.
Day 4: Learn from artisans – Wool weaving and bamboo crafts
Many women and artisans in Sarmoli weave traditional wool and make bamboo products from their homes. On this day children get a chance to see and learn village handicrafts. They can learn to operate a spinning wheel, prepare dyes through natural methods and make small decorative items from bamboo.
This is not just art, it is a lesson of patience, concentration and hard work. Here they understand that ‘slow living’ does not mean laziness, but doing every work wholeheartedly.
Day 5: World of birds and morning of Panchachuli
On the last day, early morning, take a trail walk below the snowy peaks of Panchachuli. On the way you will see Himalayan Monal, Garuda, and various pheasants. As the sun rays fall on the peaks along with bird watching, the view looks so beautiful that children always remember it.
This walk is not just a ‘morning walk’, it is a soul soothing experience. Children here realize that true happiness can be found in sitting quietly and feeling the breeze.
How to reach Sarmoli village
-By air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (about 340 km). From there you can get a taxi or bus to Munsiyari.
-By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (about 280 km). From here also Munsiyari can be reached by taking a taxi or bus.
-by the road: Regular bus or taxi services are available from Almora, Bageshwar or Pithoragarh to Munsiyari. Sarmoli is just a few kilometers away from Munsiyari.
best time to visit
The best time to visit Sarmoli village is between March to June and September to February. During these months the weather is pleasant and the sky is clear.
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