Hiking in the Himalayas is some of the most spectacular trekking in the world. Known for its iconic Everest and K2 basecamp treks and popular Annapurna Circuit, hiking in the Himalayas region has so much to offer. This is the world’s highest mountain range and unites five countries: India, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, and Pakistan. However, it’s not only strenuous basecamp hikes, you can find options that cater to all experience levels.
In Nepal, the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek is one of the most popular routes in the world, attracting thousands of hikers annually. This hike starts from Lukla and typically takes about 8-14 days, passing through key points such as Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery, Dingboche, and Lobuche before reaching the base camp at 5,364m. How long you take will depend on your guide, sherpas, and how you choose to adjust to the altitude along the way. This trek is highly customizable!
The Annapurna Circuit is another popular trek in Nepal, spanning approximately 160-230km depending on your starting and ending points. It will take you through a variety of terrains, from subtropical forests to alpine landscapes, and crosses the Thorong La Pass at 5,416m, the highest point on the trek.
The Indian Himalayas span across five Indian states: Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh. Each region offers a unique set of trekking and hiking experiences, ranging from easy day hikes to challenging high-altitude expeditions. One of the most beloved long-distance hikes in the Indian Himalayas is the Markha Valley Trek in Ladakh. Some people choose this as an alternative to the busier Nepalese circuits. The trek typically takes 6-8 days and starts from the village of Chilling, passing through the Markha Valley, and reaching the Kongmaru La Pass at 5,267m.
One of the hikes receiving the most acclaim in Bhutan right now is the Trans Bhutan Trail. However, the trail permits are still a bit expensive for most hikers, not including additional fees for the trail. Long-distance alternatives to the Trans Bhutan Trail are the Druk Path, which typically takes 5-6 days to complete. It connects the towns of Paro and Thimphu and passes through high mountain ridges, pristine lakes, and ancient monasteries. For an even more difficult challenge, you could try the Snowman Trek, which covers over 300km. This trek covers multiple high passes, some over 5,000m, and requires a high level of fitness and experience.
Tibet, often referred to as the “Roof of the World,” is home to some of the world’s most iconic mountains. One of the most popular treks in Tibet is the Mount Kailash Kora (“kora” means “to walk around” in English), a significant pilgrimage trek that circles the sacred Mount Kailash. This trek is about 52km long and typically takes 3 days to complete. It involves crossing the Drolma La Pass at 5,630m and holds great spiritual significance for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bonpos.
Hiking in the Himalayas of Pakistan is a wonder for hikers around the world. This is because the country is famously known for its K2 Base Camp trek, a highly demanding route that takes you to the base of the world’s second-highest peak. This trek usually takes 14-16 days, starting from Askole and passing through the Baltoro Glacier, Concordia, and finally reaching the base camp at approximately 5,150m.
The Fairy Meadows trek in Pakistan is a shorter, yet popular hike that offers stunning views of Nanga Parbat, the world’s ninth-highest mountain. This trek typically starts from the village of Tato and takes about 2-3 days to complete.
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