This without a doubt our favourite Himalayan journey. During what is normally an 11-day trip, great vistas of Everest, a decent path, lovely tea houses to stay in, and virtually continuous views of some of the world's tallest peaks will hold your interest. The path terminates at Everest Base Camp, where you may gaze directly up the Khumbu Glacier's ice fall towards Everest's peak, which is still 3500 metres above you. Along the journey, you'll pass through three of the world's ten highest peaks, including Cho Oyu (8201m/26,906ft) and Lhotse (8,516m/27,940ft), in addition to Everest. The ice-laden cliffs of Pumori (7,161m/23,494ft) and Ama Dablam (6,812m/22,349ft) are equally impressive, albeit not as tall. Trekking is feasible from September to June, and while December and January are chilly, it is perhaps the only time of year when you may find solitude.
This is really a combination of two treks that may be done individually or simultaneously. This trip, like the Everest Base Camp trek, has a fantastic path and fantastic tea house accomodation for those seeking a little comfort. If you only have four or five days to spare, the trip to Poon Hill is one of the greatest short hikes in the Himalayas, with spectacular vistas of Annapurna. If you have a little more time, go to Annapurna Base Camp, which is located in the famous Annapurna Sanctuary and offers a spectacular view of the south face of Annapurna I (8,091 m/26,538 ft), the world's 10th highest mountain.
The trek to the base camp offers spectacular views of the hanging glaciers and steep rock face of Machapuchare (6,993m/22,943ft), dubbed the "Matterhorn of Asia" by locals. Climbers are not allowed on Fish Tail because it is holy to the people.
The Manaslu Trip is a 14 to 16 day tea-house trek that circumnavigates the world's eighth highest peak. Tea houses and the path have both been upgraded in recent years, and the trip is fast becoming a popular alternative to the Annapurna Circuit. Around recent years, the overall number of tourists has been around 2000, with the majority arriving in October. This is one of Nepal's best hikes, and it also takes you away from the throng. Because the trip is still in a restricted region, hikers must pay a $50 per week fee.
It takes 16 days to reach the base camp of Makalu (8463m), the world's fifth tallest peak. This trip, unlike the others thus far, is not a tea house walk and will need camping preparations. Starting at 435 meters, the trip ascends the Barun Valley to Makalu base camp, passing through a variety of ecosystems. It's a true wilderness experience, with some of the few surviving virgin woodlands and stunning alpine meadows.
This 6-day (pilgrimage) trip brings you to the source of India's most sacred river, the Ganges. The walk begins at the end of the road at Gangotri's temple village and continues for 18 kilometers to Gomukh, which is considered the Ganges' source at the glacier's base. The scenery is breathtaking, with views of Mount Shivling and the Bhagirathi mountain range. This is an excellent walk for seeing magnificent peaks and one of the central Himalaya's biggest glaciers.
Prashar Lake is a lovely little location in Kullu's region that provides one of the best Himalayan treks, encircled on all sides by the Dhauladhar range. Even though it is a little blue-water lake, its location is critical. The overall location seems to be stunning, especially in the winter!
Price ranges from INR 3,000 to INR 5,000 per person.
Height: 9,000 feet above sea level.
Trek: 2 day duration
Best Time: December to mid-March is the best time to go trekking.
Malana is an interesting place in India. This little village is off limits to the general public. It is not authorized to take pictures or films of the people or their houses, nor is it permitted to touch them. The journey to Malana begins at Bhuntar and is an exciting one.
Price ranges from INR 7850 to INR 7850 per person.
17,457 feet above sea level
1 hour in length
Trekking Season: October through January
