About us
Rural Traveller is a field-based wildlife tour company, leading guided bird watching and mammal watching holidays for individuals and small groups. We are based in the Western Himalayan region of Kumaon in the beautiful and heavily forested state of Uttarakhand, Northern India.
Our wildlife operations are spread over some 26 of India’s protected areas, tiger reserves, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation, and biosphere reserves. Based on our many years of experience operating tours in these sensitive and valuable environments, we are confident that we provide excellent opportunities for bird and mammal viewing.
Our promoters
Christopher Mills
Chris Mills, founder of Norfolk Birding, is a seasoned naturalist and photographer with over 40 years of experience in birding.Specializing in birdlife, he leads tours across diverse habitats in India, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for wildlife while forging connections with fellow enthusiasts and naturalists in the region.With annual visits since 2002, Chris offers unforgettable wildlife experiences, bringing groups to explore India's rich biodiversity under his expert guidance.
Gerard David
Gerard David, a distinguished French photographer and mentor, is renowned for his expertise in wildlife photography and extensive global travels. From teaching physics in Cameroon to capturing stunning images in Gabon's forests, Gerard's journey led him to India in 2002, where his passion for photographing iconic species like the Bengal Tiger and Snow Leopard flourished. With a wealth of experience and leadership in wildlife photography, Gerard enriches the field through his contributions, including establishing The Nikon School in France and leading workshops for nature enthusiasts.
James Champion
James Champion, grandson of renowned conservationist F W Champion, inherits a rich legacy of wildlife passion and exploration. Influenced by his family's deep connection to nature, he continues the tradition, combining his fascination with wildlife nurtured from a young age with his grandfather's pioneering work in wildlife photography, particularly in India. James leads expeditions to both iconic and lesser-known wilderness areas, broadening the scope of wildlife exploration beyond conventional boundaries.
Sumantha Ghosh
Sumantha Ghosh is a seasoned naturalist and conservationist with over two decades of experience in wildlife preservation, notably in Uttarakhand's Corbett National Park. Recognized for his leadership in initiatives such as Mahseer Conservation and the Corbett Vulture Campaign, Ghosh's efforts have earned him a nomination for the Green Hero Award by NDTV.
Social And Conservation Support
Here at Rural Traveller we take our social and conservation responsibility extremely seriously. We believe supportingscientific, social and environmental organisations is vital to truly make achange in the world today. For this reason, your journeys with us will directlyhelp in supporting 3 key organisations doing extremely important and brilliantfield work around India, specifically northern India where we are based.