EXCELLENTBased on 17 reviews
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Jay B6 April 2024As I reflect on my journey, memories flood back of the breathtaking displays of the northern lights, the pristine glacier water, the magical allure of the ice caves, and the exhilarating gusts of wind that threatened to whisk me away. And let's not forget the incredible culinary delights that Iceland had to offer. Arun's expertise in selecting our accommodations and destinations ensured that we experienced the full spectrum of Iceland's wonders. Arun is also incredibly patient with any photography-related questions. Over the course of our 10-day journey, I learned a plethora of skills, particularly in night photography and framing, which was incredibly rewarding as a beginner. There was a sense of family with the entire group and am fortunate to have met such lovely people!!Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Madhura Mallya2 April 2024After returning from the Iceland trip, it feels as though I've returned from another world. Traveling with Arun was an incredible experience. He ensured we spent quality time at each destination during our 10-day journey, which seemed to pass in the blink of an eye. We encountered everything from extreme weather conditions like wind, sand, cold, and snow to delightful sunny days. Arun also introduced us to delicious Icelandic seafood at the best local restaurants. Alongside other photographers on the trip, Arun taught me valuable mobile photography techniques. Overall, my Iceland trip was immensely satisfying, made even better by Arun's guidance. I highly recommend!Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Anindya Das2 April 2024A group trip ends succesfully when there are right kind of people and appropriate planning for the trip. Arun has been able to pull both in our Iceland March 2024 trip. He has used his experience in planning the trip as perfectly as it can be possible. We had an amazing time of 5 days of aurora, crazy sunsets, road trips, extra ordinary waterfalls, glaciers and what not. The stays were chosen very wisely and we had very comfortable stays in the trip. Overall we have enjoyed to the fullest, created lifelong memories and saw the extra ordinary beauty of Iceland.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Vasanth Ramesh Nayak2 April 2024I learnt about this trip via word of mouth and then going through the list of places being covered. The list gave me a sense of feeling that we are covering most of the places and at the same time not hurrying through the places just to cover them! Once we started the trip, we came to know each other and it felt like a closely knit group and we enjoyed the same. Learnt a bit about photography being a part of this . The places which were chosen to stay were also nice which were carefully chosen with major locations in vicinity as well as had all the amenities needed. It was a very enjoyable trip which was curated with love and care and will stay in my memory for a long time to come.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
pallavi kotha24 January 2024Highly recommend! Perfectly planned. Handpicked home-stays. Warm fun people. 10/10 Experience.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
VIVEK PONNAPPA21 January 2024Post pandemic I was unable to make time for travel due to my shift in priorities, but Tales and Trails ensured that I did not have to plan a lot to have a break. The experience was quite what i needed and Arun ensured that the group was engaged creating lasting memories and friendships. Looking forward to my next time with this firm for my next expedition.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Kalyan Sabareeshan19 January 2024Did my first trip with Takes & Trails in Dec 2023 to Spiti. It was an epic experience - met some amazing people who became like family and had some authentic local experiences along the way. If you're someone with the spirit of a wanderer who likes to embrace all kinds of experiences, then do sign up for a trip with T&T. You'll definitely have a memorable one! Here are some pictures from my trip...Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Suraj Krishnan19 January 2024Have been part of Spiti Winter and Summer expeditions. Had been a life changing experience to see the same terrain in different seasons
Discover the untamed beauty of Spiti, where ancient monasteries perch on cliffs and rugged landscapes stretch endlessly. Experience the mystical charm of Kaza, the breathtaking views of Key Monastery at sunrise, wander through local villages, sip on sea buckthorn tea, and marvel at the starry night skies during our astrophotography sessions. This journey through Spiti is about truly immersing yourself in the tranquil, raw beauty of the Himalayas.
Jan 5 - 12 2025
Chandigarh
Boutique Hotels/ Homestays
8 nights, 9 days
Breakfast, Dinner
Not exceeding 15
After your pick-up from Chandigarh airport, we’ll head straight to Narkanda – a serene hill station nestled in the Himalayas. En route, enjoy a scenic drive through Shimla and Kufri—known for their stunning panoramic views. We will have our lunch there and explore the locality. We’ll arrive in Narkanda by evening, where you can relax, enjoy dinner by the campfire, and settle in for the night.
Drive time: 6 – 7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Narkanda
After breakfast, we’ll start our journey to Kalpa, experiencing the rugged beauty of the villages – Rampur, Wangtu, and Karcham. At Kalpa, get ready to be awed by the majestic Kinnaur Kailash range. If time permits, we can explore the lively Peo Market. Check into your stay, enjoy dinner, and settle in for the night.
Drive time: 6 – 7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel at Kalpa
After breakfast, we’ll visit Roghi Village and the famous Suicide Point (don’t worry, it’s just for the views!) and then set off for Tabo. We’ll break for lunch in Nako, the first village of the Spiti region, known for its serene lake. If the roads allow, we’ll detour to Gue village to visit the intriguing mummy of an ancient Buddhist monk which was discovered in 1975 after an earthquake caused the monastery to collapse. Check into your stay at Tabo, enjoy dinner, and rest for the night.
Drive time: 6 – 7 hours
Accommodation: Boutique Homestay
On Day 4, we’ll explore the ancient Tabo Caves during sunrise, once used by monks for meditation, followed by a visit to the historic Tabo Monastery, known for its incredible murals and spiritual ambiance. As the day winds down, we’ll head to Dhankar Monastery, perched high above the valley, to catch a mesmerizing sunset that paints the surrounding peaks in golden hues—an unforgettable way to end the day!
We’ll then continue to Lidang, at the heart of Spiti Valley. Upon arrival, check into your stay, enjoy dinner, and rest for the night.
Drive time: 5 – 6 hours
Accommodation: Homestay in Lidang/ Kaza
We’ll kick off the day with a visit to the bustling Kaza Market, where you can browse local crafts and souvenirs. Next, we’ll head to the jaw-dropping Chicham Bridge, the highest suspension bridge in Asia, for some incredible views. We’ll finish the day at the majestic Key Monastery, where you can soak in centuries of Buddhist history and the stunning landscape that surrounds this spiritual sanctuary.
Drive time: 4 – 5 hours
Accommodation: Homestay in Lidang/ Kaza
We’ll take it easy with a buffer and leisure day, offering flexibility in our plans—especially useful in winter when weather can be unpredictable. Relax in the peaceful surroundings of Kaza, explore the local area and delicacies (thupka momos are not to be missed!) at your own pace, or simply unwind at your accommodation. If the roads permit, we’ll also head out to visit the picturesque villages of Komic and Langza, known for their stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Drive time: 4 – 5 hours
Accommodation: Homestay in Lidang/ Kaza
We’ll start the day by exploring Pin Valley National Park and then we’ll make our way to Tabo. Upon arrival in Tabo, we’ll check into our accommodation and settle in for the day. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Feel free to explore the charming Tabo village once again. Whether you choose to wander through the local streets, visit nearby sites, or simply relax, you have the freedom to create your own experience. In the evening, we’ll gather for dinner and enjoy an overnight stay at Tabo.
Drive Time: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Boutique Homestay
After breakfast, we’ll embark on our drive to Narkanda. Along the way, if time and roads permit, we’ll pause once again to enjoy the stunning outer views of Nako village. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel and settle in for the evening. Enjoy dinner by the campfire and relax during your overnight stay in Narkanda as you bring your trip to a close.
Drive Time: 7 – 8 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Narkanda
We will bid adieu and drive from Narkanda. Our trip leader will drop you to Chandigarh. You can either stay overnight in Chandigarh (at your cost) and fly out the next day or choose to fly out later in the evening after the drop in Chandigarh.
Drive Time: 5 – 6 hours
Ps.: We may adjust the itinerary as needed for weather, road, or other surprises, which is likely to be expected during the winter season. If we do encounter such situations, we’ll find an alternate route and stay. Any extra costs in this regard will be your responsibility. Flexibility is key!
Arun will be your adventure leader in the Land of Lamas! A native of God’s own Country, Arun transitioned from an aerospace engineer to a full-time traveler and photographer, passionately showcasing his unique frames through elements of visual harmony. After refusing to settle for the mundane and quitting his corporate career, he biked through some of the most breathtaking trails in India and abroad, made innumerable friends along the way and captured well over 500,000 photographs. He has led more than 25 trips.
Arun adores it when people completely indulge in what they genuinely love. Tales and Trails was born from Arun’s profound love for photography and his desire to share the magic of his experiences with others.
Expedition Cost (Regular) | Details |
---|---|
Cost (Regular) | ₹42,000/- per person (inclusive of 5% GST) |
Advance Payment | ₹21,000/- per person required to secure your booking. |
Balance Payment | ₹21,000/- per person due on or before 60 days on or before the Trip. |
Request an invite to join this expedition. Once you receive an invite from us confirming your request, the advance and balance payments in respect of your expedition must be made in the account (or by way of UPI transfer) as specified by us in our email.
For your Spiti adventure, make sure you pack the following essential documents:
Need to Change Plans? You can transfer your spot to a friend if they’re excited to join the trip. Alternatively, you can keep your funds on hold with us for a future adventure.
Trip Cancellation or Postponement: If the trip is canceled or postponed at our end, you’ll receive a full refund. If the trip is cut short, you’ll receive a partial refund based on the days missed.
Ps. Refunds will be minus any cancellation charges for cars or accommodation or other such services and applicable taxes. Refunds will reach you within 7-10 business days.
You can read our Terms and Conditions for more details on cancellations, transfers and refunds.
We aim to make your adventure as smooth as possible, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance!
Request an invite to join this expedition. Once you receive an invite from us confirming your request, the advance and balance payments in respect of your expedition must be made in the account (or by way of UPI transfer) as specified by us in our email.
Travel Documents for Iceland: As an Indian citizen, you will need:
Note: Always verify current requirements, as policies may change.
Packing List: Once your spot in our adventure is confirmed, we will share a packing list with you.
Health and Safety: During our Iceland adventure we will explore some of the breathtaking landscapes on foot and a good level of fitness will go a long way! You’ll also need to carry your own luggage. Just keep in mind that offloading isn’t an option in Iceland. Pack wisely!
Need to Change Plans? You can transfer your spot to a friend if they’re excited to join the trip. Alternatively, you can keep your funds on hold with us for a future adventure.
Trip Cancellation or Postponement: If the trip is canceled or postponed at our end, you’ll receive a full refund. If the trip is cut short, you’ll receive a partial refund based on the days missed.
Ps. Refunds will be minus any cancellation charges for cars or accommodation or other such services and applicable taxes. Refunds will reach you within 7-10 business days.
You can read our Terms and Conditions for more details on cancellations, transfers and refunds.
We aim to make your adventure as smooth as possible, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance!
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