Things To Do
in Darihat

A regional dish made with black soybeans (bhatt) cooked with local spices and served with rice; find it at homestays and during community meals.

Must-Try!

Spicy sautéed potatoes with cumin, coriander and chilies; a ubiquitous side dish available at dhabas and homes.

Simple lentil and leafy-green preparations that accompany rice or rotis; staple at most meals in homestays.

A famous Kumaoni sweet made from roasted khoya coated with sugar balls — available at sweet shops in nearby towns and sometimes in village markets.

A periodic open market where farmers sell seasonal vegetables, dairy and local homemade snacks — great for trying fresh regional produce and small street treats.

Small stalls serving chai, pakoras, samosas and simple thalis; best for a quick, authentic bite and to interact with locals.

Use a polite 'Namaste' (press palms together) when meeting locals; a warm smile and modest demeanor go a long way.

Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes, dress modestly and ask permission before taking photographs of people or private property.

Show deference to elders, accept food offered politely and avoid loud behavior or public displays that might be seen as disrespectful.

Carry out any trash you bring, avoid open-fire littering and respect agricultural land by not walking through active crop fields without permission.

Tipping is modest and discretionary: round up or leave 50–200 INR for helpful guides and drivers; for homestays, a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not obligatory.

Cash (Indian rupees) is preferred in the village; UPI and mobile payments are increasingly used in towns, while credit/debit cards are accepted mainly at larger hotels or shops in nearby towns — carry cash for daily expenses.

(April–June) Pleasant daytime temperatures and clear skies make this a comfortable season for hiking and village strolls; afternoons can be warm, so carry water and sun protection.

(July–September) Heavy rains can make dirt roads slippery and increase the risk of landslides; trails can be muddy and leeches may appear — travel with caution and check weather and road conditions.

(October–November) Clear skies, mild days and cool nights create excellent visibility of the distant Himalayan ranges — considered one of the best times to visit for views and trekking.

(December–February) Cold nights and possible frost or light snowfall at higher elevations; some services may be reduced, but the crisp air and quiet landscapes appeal to winter visitors.

A one-to-three-hour loop following the local ridge offering panoramic views of terraced fields and distant peaks; suitable for most fitness levels.

A cultural trail linking nearby settlements where you can experience local life, stop at homesteads and see traditional farming practices.

A short hike descending into a small stream valley through oak and pine; good for a cool respite, birdwatching and seasonal waterfalls.

A moderately strenuous ascent to a higher local summit or viewpoint providing broad vistas over the Kumaon Himalaya — allow a full day and bring water and sun protection.

The most popular sport among locals, with informal matches common in village fields and playgrounds.

Traditional and community-centered sport often played during festivals and local competitions.

Traditional forms of wrestling and strength sports are practiced in some communities and showcased at fairs or festivals.

Not a competitive sport locally but popular among visitors and youth as a recreational activity given the hilly terrain.

Vegetarian diets are easy to manage here — many homes are vegetarian or can prepare vegetable-forward meals; clarify any dairy use if fully vegan.

Vegan options exist but are less common; explain restrictions to hosts and ask for meals without ghee, butter or paneer — bring snacks if you have strict needs.

Rice-based dishes are widely available; wheat rotis are common too, so ask for rice preparations or vegetable sides to avoid gluten.

Inform hosts clearly about allergies — labeling and allergen awareness are limited, so carrying essential medications and some safe packaged food is wise.