How to plan your dream trip to the Himalayas

Bradley Mayhew

Jan 28, 2021 • 5 min read

Stunning view of the Himalaya mountains (Cholatse and Taboche to the left), Ngozumpa glacier, and Gokyo lakes (the world's highest freshwater lakes, sacred for both Hindus and Buddhists), as seen on top of Gokyo Ri (5,357 m), near the village of Gokyo, in Sagarmatha National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site in Khumbu region, Solukhumbu district, eastern Nepal, Asia.

Ngozumpa Glacier from Gokyo Ri, Nepal © Feng Wei Photography / Getty Images

For mountain lovers and the vertically inclined the Himalayas represent nothing less than the crowning apex of nature's grandeur. Here dramatic forested gorges rise to skylines of snow-capped glaciated peaks through a landscape that ranges from high-altitude desert to dripping rhododendron forest.

Home to some 50 million people, this is no alpine wilderness, but rather a vibrant mosaic of peoples, cultures and communities, criss-crossed by ancient trading and pilgrimage routes that offer their own unique inspiration. Test your mettle against some of the world's most audacious and dangerous roads, or set a more measured pace on a trek through yak pastures to prayer flag-strewn passes haunted by snow leopards and red pandas. Stretching in a 1550 mile-long arc (2500km) across Asia from Kashmir to Kathmandu , Lhasa to Ladakh , the Himalayan range is a big place. Focus your pilgrimage on one of these dream trips.

Brightly colored prayer flags flutter in the breeze beside a bright, clear lake surrounded by sandy colored hills

Ladakh – India's little Tibet

Hidden over high passes in an arid, largely treeless rain shadow, Ladakh is classic Trans Himalayan scenery: huge khaki-colored valleys and harsh rock walls brought alive by the occasional splash of irrigated green. Traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture remains intact here, with spectacularly located monasteries that burst into life during medieval masked dance festivals that have changed little in 500 years. Travelers should expect epic treks, sparkling high-altitude mountain lakes, and a well developed infrastructure with inexpensive guesthouses around the capital, Leh .

When to go: June to September.

Getting there: Daily flights from Delhi to Leh, or take the spectacular seasonal high roads over the Himalayas from Manali or Srinigar .

Suggested itinerary: Hire a jeep or an Enfield motorbike and drive out to ancient Hemis , Lamayuru and Thiksey monasteries, taking a side trip to the turquoise lake of Pangong Tso bordering Tibet ; afterwards, do a five-day homestay trek through the Markha Valley.

Off the beaten track alternative: Spiti , in neighboring Himachal Pradesh , has the same dramatic mountain scenery and monasteries but without the crowds. Trek from village to village with a local organization and overnight at the incredible monasteries of Dhankar and Tabo .

A woman visiting stupa is about to descend a staircase of a monastery

Tibet – roof of the world

The high Tibetan plateau is the rooftop of Asia, hidden from the Indian subcontinent behind the ramparts of the Great Himalaya. Despite Chinese-led modernization, Tibet 's great monasteries still hum with murmured mantras and the flicker of yak butter lamps. Sublime landscapes, ranging from rolling grasslands to high-altitude turquoise lakes, a vibrant Buddhist culture and the friendly and resilient Tibetan people are the highlights here, as are the views of Everest's North Face – miles better than anything you'll see in Nepal.

When to go: Mid-May to September.

Getting there: Flights to Lhasa from  Chengdu , Beijing and many other cities in China , or take the world's highest train from China to Lhasa.

Suggested itinerary: Join a tour for the seven- to ten-day overland trip from Lhasa to Kathmandu, stopping at the incredible multistory stupa (structure containing Buddhist relics) at Gyantse and the spectacular medieval monastery at Sakya.

Off the beaten track alternative:  Complete a rugged three-day trek around Asia's most sacred peak, Mt Kailash , in remote Western Tibet, and then visit the incredible Kashmiri-influenced art of Tsaparang and the Guge Kingdom, hidden deep in the weirdly eroded desert gorges of the Sutlej Valley. Paved roads and an airport outside Ali make the two-week trip much less arduous than it used to be, though you still have to hire transport and a guide through an agency in Lhasa or Kathmandu.

A series of yellow tents pitched on a rocky terrain at the foot of a snow-capped mountain

Nepal – a trekker's paradise

The best way to experience the mountains is on foot, and Himalayan treks just don't get any more spectacular or convenient than in Nepal . Follow mountain paths past lines of spinning prayer wheels and charming stone Sherpa or Tamang villages to the foot of jaw-dropping 8000m peaks like Annapurna or Everest, safe in the knowledge that at the end of the day you’re guaranteed a cozy bed and hot dinner. Add on a visit to the medieval cities of the Kathmandu Valley , once a Himalayan artistic powerhouse.

When to go: March, April, October, November.

Getting there: Fly to Kathmandu and hop on a domestic flight to Lukla for the Everest region. Pokhara is the launch pad for treks in the Annapurna region.

Suggested itinerary: To trek to Everest Base Camp you need a minimum of 14 days, but we recommend adding on a four day side visit to the stunning mountain lakes of the Gokyo valley. Factor in ample time to acclimatize.

Off the beaten track alternative: The 17-day walk around Manaslu is possibly Nepal's greatest teahouse trek (you stay in lodges along the way), or go camping expedition-style on an epic three-week trip to the Dolpo or Kanchenjunga regions.

Colorful prayer flags flutter in the breeze. A white monastery structure, built into the side of the mountain, is in the background

Bhutan – the last Shangri-la

As the last surviving great Himalayan kingdom, Bhutan has an otherworldly air that seems rooted in another age. Traditional dress is the norm everywhere, old-growth forest carpets the majority of the countryside and remote Himalayan peoples like the Layaps and Brokpas live a life largely untouched by the modern age. Simply put, Bhutan is like nowhere on earth. The catch? The fixed minimum daily rate of US$250 per person is mandatory, although this does include transport, meals, guide and accommodation.

When to go: March, April, September, October.

Getting there: Fly to Paro from Delhi or Bangkok, or drive overland from neighboring India.

Suggested itinerary: Explore the delightful Paro Valley and its iconic Tiger's Nest Hermitage  (Taktshang Goemba) before driving to the little-visited Haa Valley, the tiny capital of Thimphu and the sensual fortress-monastery of Punakha. Schedule your visit around one of Bhutan's colorful tsechus (monastic festivals).

Off the beaten track alternative: The tiny Himalayan kingdom of Mustang in Nepal also comes with a hefty daily permit cost (US$500 per person), though you'll get a chance to explore centuries-old Tibetan architecture and may even gain an audience with the king.

This article was first published April 2013 and updated January 2021

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Yaks resting at a campsite at the foot of snow-encrusted Ama Dablam, nine miles south of Mount Everest in Nepal’s Sagarmatha National Park.

A practical guide to hiking the Himalayas

It's possible to experience the majesty of the Himalayas without breaking a sweat: Uttarakhand's Kumaon Hills offer routes for beginners, bringing rare birdlife, high-altitude views and remote villages into reach. 

When should I go?

The peak hiking seasons in Nepal and Bhutan are February to March and October to November, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. In the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, March to April and September to October offer the best weather without excessive heat. In most areas, views vanish during the rainy monsoon season (June to September). Trekking in deep winter (December to February) can be a bitterly cold experience, best left to accustomed hikers.

What clothes should I bring?

Temperatures drop quickly as you gain altitude, but you’ll work up a sweat while hiking, so bring layers that you can take off and put on again, as needed. Thermal underwear, lightweight trousers, fleece tops and a down jacket for cold nights are core pieces of kit.  

What should I wear on my feet?

Some people trek in walking or trail-running shoes, but hiking boots will give your ankles more support. Use quick-drying socks and dry out your boots if they get wet to reduce the chance of blisters. Break in any new footwear before you hit the trails, too, and use hiking poles to reduce the impact on your knees.  

Do I have to carry all my own gear?  

Many trekkers do, but it’s easy to hire porters or yaks and packhorses at trailheads to carry your bags. Porter-guides (who guide trekkers and also help carry bags) charge from US$20 (£15) per day, and usually speak some English. On an organised trek, you may be able to hike with just your camera and water bottle or a light day pack.   Do I need a sleeping bag? Himalayan teahouses provide thin mattresses and blankets, but rooms are rarely heated, and a quality sleeping bag will help ensure a cosy night’s sleep. A ‘four season’ rating is best for high-altitude routes.

  Should I buy bottled water on the trails?

The Himalayas are strewn with empty plastic bottles, left behind by irresponsible trekkers. Instead, bring a water bottle and purification tablets, or a portable water filter, to purify water as you go from the rivers that snake between high passes. Is altitude sickness a problem? And if so, how can I counteract the effects? Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a risk on any route that climbs above 2,500m. To combat it, limit your rate of ascent, taking regular rest days to acclimatise. Diamox (Acetazolamide) tablets can also reduce mild symptoms such as headaches, but if you experience severe symptoms, including nausea, dizziness or confusion, descend immediately — AMS can be fatal.  

Will I need to get a trekking permit to hike in the Himalayas?

To visit Bhutan, you’ll need to arrange an organised tour through a licensed travel company; the overall price will include visa fees, obligatory daily tourist fees, and most of your costs, including for treks. In Nepal, you’ll need to arrange a guide through a local trekking agency and pay for a Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal card ( taan.org.np ). There are fees to enter conservation areas, including Sagarmatha National Park on the Everest Base Camp trail, and permits are needed to trek through border regions such as Mustang and Dolpo.

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Global Gallivanting

The best north india itinerary and backpacking route – the magic of the himalayas.

the himalayas mountain travel

Northern India and the Himalayas is one of my favourite places to visit in India. There’s something really magical about the Himalayas but this area often gets skipped as people travel around the more famous Golden Triangle which is a shame. So I want to share my North India itinerary and backpacking route to help you if you’re thinking of exploring this beautiful and fascinating part of India.

The Himalayas are the most diverse areas of the country in terms of landscape. It boasts lush green hill stations, the spectacular snow capped mountains of the Himalayas, tons of trekking opportunities in the Parvati Valley, spiritual mountain towns of Rishikesh and Dharamshala, and many important historical and religious sites in cities like Amritsar and Delhi.

You’ll love exploring northern India whether you’re an adventurer looking to trek through the mountains, someone who is seeking spiritual enlightenment, or a traveller in search of vibrant cities with tons of shopping opportunities, good food, and temples, forts, and palaces.

the himalayas mountain travel

Quick Essential Info for Traveling the Indian Mountains

Budget:  From $25/day. See more detail in the average costs for backpacking India .

When to go:  The best time to visit the majority of India is during the cool, winter months between November and March but during this time its very cold in the mountains. However, the Indian mountains and Himalayas are at their best during the summer months of May, June and July when the rest of the country is boiling hot the mountains make for a refreshing escape. Cities like Rishikesh, Amritsar, and Delhi can be very hot at this time but in the winter can actually get quite chilly so the best time to visit these cities are during October and November or February to early April when you’ll get warm days and pleasant weather without it being too hot or too cold.

Visas:   Nearly all visitors need a visa to visit India. For trips of less than 60 days you can get an E Visa ( see here for more info ) But there’s so much to see in India its better to get a 3 or 6 month visa. It can be a bit complicated so follow my  step by step guide to getting your Indian visa.

the himalayas mountain travel

Getting around:  Trains, buses, and flights in India connect to every part of the entire country. Trains are a cheap and fun way of getting around, and while they are not the fastest, can be the best bang for your buck. ( Click here for my ultimate guide to train travel in India ) Luxury buses are comfortable but can be on the more expensive side. It’s possible to find cheap flights around the country if you look early enough. When exploring the Indian mountains you’ll probably go to many destinations by bus as trains do not link all the destinations in the mountains – the luxury tourist buses are much more comfortable and convenient than the cheap and slow local buses. You can book trains and buses in India online easily at Bookaway. 

Accommodation:   You’ll find anything from tents and backpacker hostels to 5 star resorts in India. Hostels tend to cost $4-6/night, while hotels can cost anywhere from $50+. I’ve recommended accommodation for all budgets in this North India mountains and Himalayas itinerary. You can find accommodation, check photos and reviews and book on Booking.com

Tours:  Taking a trip planned by India Someday is one of the best ways to see the country without having to worry about booking accommodation or transport. They’ll handle all of the hassle, and you’ll have all of the freedom you want in each city! If you’d prefer to take a guided group tour I recommend the 13 days Mountains and Mystics tour by Intrepid Travel.

Read More:  I travel with the  Lonely Planet India Guidebook  – its really useful for practical info, maps, things to do, how to get around etc. Buy it before you go on Amazon to save money.

Read More: Where to travel in July and August to avoid monsoon in India 

the himalayas mountain travel

Traveling with India Someday Trip Planners

I’ve recently spent 12 days traveling around the mountains of India and my trip was planned and organised by an awesome company called India Someday . They organized a fun itinerary that took me from Manali, Dharamashala, Amritsar, Rishikesh, and Delhi. It was so nice being able to travel with India Someday and not having to worry about booking any accommodation or transportation, since they handled all of the hassle. I had an awesome combination of buses and trains, and loved staying in both spiritual mountain towns and bustling cities. I had ample time in each city and felt I was really able to explore each place as much as I wanted to.

They sent me an easy to read chart, which had all of the destinations, accommodation, and transportation laid out in front of me. If I ever needed to contact them via WhatsApp or email, they were quick to respond. Every went to smoothly and it was so nice having everything already booked and being able to enjoy each place without the hassle of planning.

Check out my review of traveling around the Indian mountains with India Someday and Anna’s review of traveling around North India and Madhya Pradesh with India Someday.

the himalayas mountain travel

My Perfect Indian Mountains and Himalayas Itinerary

The best starting point for a North Indian mountains and Himalayas itinerary is to fly into India’s capital Delhi. This will probably be the starting and finishing point for your Indian mountains itinerary.

the himalayas mountain travel

Delhi (3-4 days)

Delhi is the bustling, exciting capital city of India which is the best place to start this north India mountains and Himalayas itinerary. Delhi has a lot of history and interesting architecture to explore. There are tons of vibrant markets where you can buy some inexpensive souvenirs and trinkets. Some of the best places to visit are India Gate, Qutub Minar, the Red Fort, and the Hauz Khas ruins.

Read More: 6 Absolute best things to do in Delhi 

Where to stay: goStops Delhi was such a comfortable place to stay after the train ride, and is in a great location with a big buffet breakfast every morning. The dorm rooms are cosy and modern, with air conditioning and bathrooms . TG Tashkent Hotel has fast WiFi, a very helpful and friendly manager, and is in walking distance to the train station . Hotel City Star is in a central and quiet location in Delhi with friendly staff. Its in proximity to the New Delhi train station. If you’re looking for a bit of luxury, the Prime Balaji Deluxe @ New Delhi Railway Station with rooftop seating area, a good breakfast, and spacious and modern rooms.

Read More: 5 Best places to stay in Delhi 

How to get there: Delhi has a major airport with daily international and domestic flights connecting to every parts of the country and many major cities around the world. The train station connects to many destinations around the country and there are daily local and luxury buses going to various parts of India, like Haridwar, Amritsar, and Mumbai.

Shimla (2-3 days)

The hill station of Shimla, the former summer capital of the British Raj, has historic colonial buildings, snow capped Himalayan mountain peaks, cool breezes, lush greenery, and stunning lakes, making it one of the most beautiful places in northern India. Make sure you visit some of the vibrant markets in Shimla, like the Lakkar Bazaar market and the handicraft shops at the pedestrian avenue The Mall. For beautiful views of Shimla, make sure you visit The Ridge and Summer Hill. During the winter months, Shimla is a wonderland covered in snow. In the summer, you’ll see the snow covered mountain peaks in the distance but get to enjoy warm days and the surrounding nature without it being too cold.

Where to stay: Annadale View is a great option if you’re a backpacker on a budget. It’s family run and has a wonderful homey atmosphere with cosy beds and delicious food. Trimurti Pine Valley Resort is a budget option in a great location near Mall Road with a shared kitchen and free Wi-Fi. Snow Valley Resorts has rooms with beautiful views, courteous staff, and spacious rooms. Hotel Landmark Shimla is a clean, luxurious property with large rooms and a beautiful view of the valley.

How to get there: One of the most scenic and fun ways to reach Shimla is riding the famous toy train from Kalka . HRTC has several buses to Shimla from Manali, Chandigarh, and Delhi. The nearest airport is Jubarhati, 23 kilometres away with connecting flights to Delhi and Chandigarh. Click here to book buses and trains from Delhi to Shimla.

the himalayas mountain travel

Manali (3-4 days)

Manali is a gorgeous mountain town near the Parvati Valley that offers a refreshing break from some of the bustling cities of India and should not be missed on any Indian mountains and Himalayas itinerary. Its cooler climate makes an ideal setting to get cosy and sip on a chai while looking at the mountains. Some of the best things to see in Manali are Hadimba Devi Temple, Manali Nature Park, the Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art, Manu Temple, and Jogini Falls.

Where to stay:   Holiday BnB Manali is good backpacker accommodation in an amazing location with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. I stayed at the beautiful Rock Top Cottage, which offers budget accommodation in the cosy mountains overlooking Old Manali with large rooms and tasty breakfasts. Quality Inn River Country Resort is midrange accommodation with hot water, views of the snow capped mountain peaks, and courteous staff. For a little bit of luxury, La Ri Sa Resort offers a garden view, balcony, game room, and hiking nearby the resort.

Read More: 5 Best places to stay in Manali

How to get there: Many luxury buses reach Manali from destinations like Delhi, Shimla and Dharamshala, which is a 9-10 hour overnight from Dharamshala,  13-14 hours from Delhi and 11 hours from Shimla. Click here to book bus tickets. You can also take a 14-hour train ride from Delhi to Ambala Cantt, and then a state bus to Manali.

the himalayas mountain travel

Leh (5-6 days)

Leh is a city located at 3,500 meters above sea level which used to be the capital of the Himalayan kingdom of Ladakh and the surreal mountain scenery and Tibetan history and culture means it is regarded as one of the most beautiful and unique places to visit in all of India. Leh is surrounded by mountains and is a great starting base for your adventures in one of the most northern places in India. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a Royal Enfield and drive on the highest and second highest driveable road in the world. The best time to visit Leh is during the summer months of May to September, when the Leh to Manali highway is open and there isn’t any snow. You can also hire a car instead, to enjoy the trip without having to worry about driving yourself. You’ll also see Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake, a gorgeous light blue lake that sits at 4,200 meters that you can sleep next to in tents. Make sure you also visit Shanti Stupa, Thikse Monastery, and Shey Palace.

Where to stay: Gangs-Shun Homestay has big rooms; good home cooked food, and is in a good location in proximity to Shanti Stupa. If you’re looking for a budget option, Travellers House is close to the centre of Leh with a homey atmosphere and good showers with hot water. Hotel Lingzi is a gorgeous midrange option with clean and spacious rooms and is very close to the market. For a little bit of luxury, Ladakh Sarai Resort has attentive staff, excellent views, and mouth-watering food made with homegrown veggies.

Read More: 5 Best places to stay in Leh

How to get there: Getting to Leh is a bit of an adventure in itself! There are a few ways to reach this Himalayan city. There are daily domestic flights from Delhi that takes about 1 hour to reach Leh. The flight views are spectacular; make sure you grab a window seat! The Leh to Manali highway opens in May to September, when the roads are clear of snow. You can hire a shared jeep, take a tourist bus, or take the local bus, which is the cheapest option. They depart from Manali, and you will spend one night in Keylong to acclimatize to the altitude. Then, you will take the long journey to Leh. The entire journey takes about 25-30 hours.

Parvati Valley (4-5 days)

The Parvati Valley is a gorgeous area of northern India with tons of trekking opportunities. The cool mountain climate makes it an ideal place for camping and longer treks. You’ll want to base yourself in Kasol, and from there, can go on various treks in the area. A trek to Chalal is only 30 minutes away, and you can trek further to Rasol, which will take 3-4 hours. Tosh is another trek that will take around 1 hour from Barshani (a 1 hour bus ride from Kasol). From there, you can trek to the hot springs in Kheerganga, which is 12 kilometres one-way.

Where to stay: Nomads Hostel is a fun place to meet other travellers and potential trekking partners. There’s also a restaurant and a terrace, with some rooms boasting a balcony and mountain view. Memoir Homes & Café has a seating area and a calm and serene atmosphere, an ideal choice if you’re on a budget. Brick and Wood Cottages have a terrace, shared lounge, and shared kitchen, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Inwoods Café is a luxury accommodation next to the river with good rooms and even a children’s playground, perfect if you’re traveling with kids.

How to get there: Local buses run frequently from Manali. You may need to switch buses at Kullu, and then onwards to Kasol. The entire journey will take 5-6 hours.

the himalayas mountain travel

Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj (3-4 days)

This beautiful spiritual mountain town in the Himalayas is a highlight of any North India mountains and Himalayas itinerary. Mcleod Ganj is home to the Tibetan government in exhile and the Dalai Lama and the cute mountain villages surrounding it, like Bhagsu and Dharamkot especially, have tons of yoga and meditation classes, chakra readings, shops selling crystals and handmade clothing and jewellery, and tons of cosy cafes. You can take an overnight trek to Triund and camp in the mountains under the stars, visit Namgyal Monastery, and Tsuglagkhand Complex Dalai Lama Temple, where you’ll get to meet the Dalai Lama if you’re lucky! You can also visit Dal Lake or Kangra Fort, just outside of the town.

Where to stay:  I loved staying at HosteLavie. It’s a backpacker accommodation with free breakfast, a rooftop hangout area, comfortable beds, and showers with hot water. For budget accommodation, Green Hotel has balconies and views of the surrounding mountains, with a homey atmosphere and a very friendly receptionist. For midrange accommodation, Treebo Roshan House has well-mannered staff and a rooftop with open-air huts. Prakiti Aalay is beautiful luxurious accommodation next to a relaxing creek, gorgeous sunset views, and accommodating staff.

How to get there: There are many overnight buses from Manali to Dharamshala, which takes about 9-10 hours. You can book your bus ticket here. You can also grab a 5-hour local or luxury bus from Amritsar to Dharamshala.

Read More: Dharamkot and McCleod Ganj Travel Guide

the himalayas mountain travel

Amritsar (1-2 days)

Amritsar is a vibrant city with a powerful energy. It’s home to the Golden Temple, which is the most important pilgrimage site of Sikhism, where 100,000 mouths are fed every single day. You can also check out the entertaining nightly performance at the Wagah Border, where the guards have a dance off with the guards in Pakistan and the locals go wild with pride for their country. Khalsa College and Jallianwala Bagh are two nice places to have a leisurely stroll and also check out the bizarre and unique Mata Lal Devi temple.

Where to stay:  India Someday booked me into the awesome Jugaadus’ Hostel, which is a fun place to stay if you’re a solo traveller. The hostel arranges tours around Amritsar, has comfortable air-conditioned rooms, clean bathrooms, and good breakfast. For some backpacker accommodation, Osahan Paradise provides traditional rooms and is in proximity to the Golden Temple. For a centrally located midrange hotel, Golden Sarovar Portico has air-conditioned rooms, flat screen TVs. Best Western Marrion is luxurious accommodation with wood furnished rooms and décor, a rooftop poolside restaurant, and a coffee shop.

How to get there: You can take a 5-hour bus from Dharamshala that leaves at both 5 and 6:30 in the morning( book here. ) You can also take a train from Haridwar or Delhi to reach Amritsar, which takes around 8-9 hours.

the himalayas mountain travel

Rishikesh (3-4 days)

Rishikesh is one of the most spiritual places in India. Home to many ashrams and yoga and meditation schools, this is the place where you can come to do your yoga teacher training. It’s a wonderful place to relax at one of the many cafes along the River Ganga, visit the Beatle’s Ashram, or spend the evening watching the spiritual Ganga Aarti performance.

Read More: 5 Best yoga retreats in Rishikesh and 5 Top yoga teacher training courses in Rishikesh 

Where to stay: Shiv Shakti Guesthouse is one of my favourite hostels in India, and is a wonderful place to meet travellers and to socialize. They have a comfortable rooftop hangout area, family dinners on Thursday nights, free chai all day long, and events like Bollywood Dancing on Saturdays. Maa Ganga Guesthouse serves you breakfast and has a delicious onsite restaurant, and is in proximity to the beach.  Hill Top Swiss Cottage is only 5 minutes from the beach, and provides yoga and mediation classes, and even candle-lit dinners in the garden. The luxury hotel Treebo the Lily has free WiFi, buffet breakfast, and modern rooms with bright décor.

How to get there: The train station in Haridwar runs trains to and from Delhi, Amritsar, and Rishikesh. Click here to book tickets. Once in Haridwar, you have to take a shared rickshaw or a taxi to Rishikesh, which takes about 1 hour. You can also take an overnight bus from Dharamshala, which takes about 14 hours, or a bus from Delhi.

Read More: Rishikesh Travel Guide: Best places to visit, eat and stay

To finish your North India mountains and Himalayas itinerary head back to Delhi, a good base to explore more of India, ( check out my rest of India itinerary here ) or to take a flight home or to your next destination.

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It is lovely post about. I like all these area. I am also visited all places. Happiness Moments and memories. Thanks for sharing it with us.

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We all know that Himalayas, “Land of Gods”, but sometimes we always get confused with what to visit and when. At this moment, posts like these are always helpful to their readers. They are so helpful and make the plan easy as well. Great Post!!!

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North India is beautiful for traveling. You shared the Himalayas itinerary is awesome. I would like to visit the post once more of its valuable content. Thanks for sharing this blog.

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Wow!!! Very nice information for traveler. Thanks a lot for giving proper tourist knowledge. Your Blog all Post information is very unique and good. Superb and Interesting post.

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Himachal is a heaven on earth. It is a land of gods and goddesses . And you very beautifully described it’s beauty . Thank you . Keep up the good work. 💕

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Thank you! 🙂

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Thank you Anna enjoyed reading your post on Northern Indian mountains, the Himalayas. Hope to get there one day, very inspiring.

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The Himalayas Travel Guide

The Himalayas are a range of mountains in Asia . It stretches from the Indus river in Pakistan , through India , Nepal , Tibet , and Bhutan , and ends at the Brahmaputra River in North-Eastern India .

Eight of the 10 tallest mountains — including the highest of all, Mount Everest at 8848 m — are in the Himalayas region of Nepal .

For comparison, neither Western Europe nor the lower 48 US states have anything that reaches 5,000 m. In the Himalayas, some of the passes and inhabited plateau areas are around 5000 m.

On the climbers’ list of Seven Summits, the highest mountains on each continent, only two mountains besides Everest are over 6000 m — Denali in Alaska at just under 6200 m, and Aconcagua, the highest peak of the Andes and the tallest mountain outside the Himalayan region, at just under 7000 m.

Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus is Europe’s highest peak at just under 6000. In the Himalayas, peaks over 6000 m are commonplace and there are dozens over 7000 m.

How Is It Formed

The Indian subcontinent and the rest of Asia are on different continental plates that are colliding; the Himalayas and related ranges are along the boundary of the plates. The force of the collision creates the world’s highest mountains.

North of the Himalayas is the Tibetan Plateau, the world’s largest and highest (over 3000 m on average) plateau. It includes all of Tibet and the Chinese province of Qinghai plus parts of several other provinces.

Up until a few decades ago, Tibet was its own independent kingdom.

Culture and Langauge

The Himalayas are home to a diverse number of people, languages, and religions. Generally speaking, Islam is prevalent in the west, Hinduism along the southern edge, and Buddhism in the north.

While there are numerous languages spoken, Hindi or Urdu — the spoken languages are mutually intelligible, though the written forms are quite different — will take you very far, as it is understood by the majority in the Pakistani, and Indian Himalaya.

In Nepal, Hindi is not very useful, but due to its overlap with Nepali, it gives you a head start with that language.

Top Things To Do In The Himalayas

The Himalayas spread across several countries. All Himalayan regions offer similar attractions, but there are interesting differences as well.

In Pakistan

Gilgit-baltistan.

The Northern Areas of Pakistan offers some of the most visually stunning parts of the Himalayas. The trekking in Northern areas is arduous, seldom without glacier crossings, and not for the inexperienced, or unprepared.

The local law, and good sense, prohibit trekking without a local guide on most routes. As such it is one of the more costly parts of the Himalayas for trekking.

The people in this area, while being almost entirely Muslim, are diverse, with numerous languages, and different types of Islam followed–some highly conservative, some noticeably liberal.

The Karakoram Highway runs through the mountains to connect Pakistan with Western China.

Azad Kashmir

Azad Kashmir encompasses the lower part of the Himalayas which is considered one of the most beautiful parts of Himalayas due to lush green and scenic valleys. Parts of Azad Kashmir along the border (India-Pakistan line of control) with India are off-limits for foreigners.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Pashtun-dominated and conservative, much of which would be unwise for tourists to visit but the western and northern parts which encompass the lower part of the Himalayas are an exception which provides fascinating and scenic landscape and unusual beauty.

Jammu and Kashmir

With its mountains and lakes, this was a popular destination with travelers until the conflict escalation between Pakistan and India. While Srinagar is reasonably safe, much of the countryside is dangerous and some of it, especially along the border, is off-limits to tourists.

Ladhak was an independent kingdom for centuries with its own culture and is now a Federal Union Territory. Offering much in the way of sight-seeing, and trekking it’s not to be missed.

Himachal Pradesh

A pleasant, laid back, predominantly Hindu state, with a Tibetan Refugee population; popular with tourists.

Uttaranchal

Another state of India, the source of the Ganges, it has a number of pilgrimage sites.

Uttar Pradesh

A state that is mainly on the plains but borders the mountains, and includes some.

Wedged between, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and West Bengal, Sikkim has many Buddhist monasteries and related sights. Trekking here is limited due to the closeness of the border with China. You must take a guide and go as a group, and there are a very limited number of routes.

West Bengal

Most of the province is on the plains, a populous region of farming and industry, but the northern edge extends into the mountains. The area around Darjeeling is popular as a tourist destination.

Arunachal Pradesh

At the northeast extreme of India and seldom visited by tourists, this state is a fascinating mix with a large tribal population; people follow, Animist, Hindu, Buddhist, and Baptist Christian religious traditions.

A major tourist destination, with numerous sightseeing, trekking, and other adventure sports opportunities, Nepal has a level of tourist specific infrastructure far in advance of anywhere else in the region.

Here you can trek for a month and stay in guesthouses every night, and need not carry more than a change of clothes or two, and your sleeping bag.

  • Annapurna region
  • Mt. Everest region
  • Mustang Mustang District
  • The Great Himalaya Trail – a trekking route that crosses Nepal east-to-west and goes near many of the world’s highest mountains. It is a long-distance trek, 1700 km (over 1000 miles), and some of it is through difficult terrain.

A fascinating little kingdom, Bhutan only issues visas to tourists on expensive group tours or to individuals who benefit the country, i.e. NGO workers, or exchange students. You can explore the following regions:

  • Gasa district
  • Bumthang district
  • Lhuentse district 

The northern borders of India, Nepal, and Bhutan generally follow the Ganges-Brahmaputra watershed, however, the Himalaya extend north of this watershed.

There are also outlying ranges rising out of the plateau northward to the Brahmaputra (or the Yarlung Tsangpo as the river is called in Tibet) which are included with the Himalaya.

This part of the Himalaya is less explored, often difficult of access, and has numerous unclimbed peaks.

Southwest China

The old Tibetan province of Kham — now split up administratively between the two Chinese provinces 19 Yunnan and 20 Sichuan and China’s 21 Tibetan Autonomous Region — is closely related to Himalayan areas further west in both geography (large mountains created by the same tectonic plate collision) and people (predominantly Tibetan speakers).

See Yunnan tourist trail for an overview and Tiger Leaping Gorge or Three Parallel Rivers National Park for specific treks in the region.

How To Get Here

Most towns in the Himalayas can be reached by road, and some by train or plane, though many of the more rural areas require trekking and some of the trekking is quite difficult.

On the southern side, most of the range can be reached via India, but western parts are reached via Pakistan or Afghanistan. Two small countries, Nepal and Bhutan, are located within the Himalayas on that side. On the north side, all of the Himalaya proper is in Tibet.

February 18, 2020 3:12 pm Published by Salil Jha

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How to Trek the Himalayas for $30 a Day

Brian Biros

T he Points & Miles Backpacker is a weekly column appearing every Monday. TPG Contributor Brian Biros , who has backpacked the globe for the past 15 years, discusses how to fund this adventurous, budgeted and increasingly popular form of travel with points and miles. He'll also explore all things backpacking-related. Read his story here and his high-level approach here .

There are mountains, and then there are the Himalayas. No disrespect to the Rockies, Alps and Andes, but there's really no feeling that compares with being dwarfed by the towering, jagged peaks of Nepal. And you can get that sensation without breaking your back or your bank, because treks through the Everest and Annapurna regions of the south Asian nation can be surprisingly accessible and affordable.

the himalayas mountain travel

Of course, summiting Mount Everest is an accomplishment very few will ever attain. It's not only physically treacherous, but also prohibitively expensive. Climbers wishing to summit the highest mountain above sea level can dish out $20,000 to the Nepalese government in fees alone, and the cost of a full expedition starts at double that price, and can run well over $100,000.

But nontechnical trekking through the Himalayas is much, much more reasonable on the same lower altitude paths used by professional mountaineers. Nepal is a long way away, but it's reachable on points, too, putting it well within reach for savvy points travelers. Once there, it really is possible to live on $30 a day or less while trekking through the most magnificent mountain landscape on the planet.

Daily Budget

Lodging : $0 to $5 Food and Drink : $20 to $25

And that's about it. "Teahouses" provide lodging and cost nearly nothing because it's expected that you'll eat dinner and breakfast there during your stay. But food is plenty cheap around Nepal, too. I felt like a hobbit eating breakfast followed later by second breakfast. But even at four meals a day, I was rarely spending more than $25 total on food and tea. Just bring plenty of Nepalese rupees — no one takes credit cards and you'll find zero ATMs on these treks.

You can also skip the beers until the trek is over. Transportation costs drive the price of booze high, and it's a pain to dispose of the cans and bottles. Plus, you'll already be challenged to stay hydrated with the extreme elevation.

These hearty meals never ran more than a few dollars each.

Up front costs are also reasonable. Nepal's entry visa costs $40 and hiking permits are around $40 and $50. But you don't want to cut corners on the preparation. You'll definitely need traveler's health insurance with medical evacuation, and quality hiking shoes, clothes and gear.

Bring your own methods for treating water , and don't buy bottled water . Hiking is the main event, and the continuous 360-degree views are all free. Obviously, there are plenty of good opportunities to spend more than this budget, but the point is you can trek through the Himalayas for less than what it costs to stay at home.

How to Get to Nepal on Points

Round-trip economy award tickets to Kathmandu (KTM) cost about 80,000 American AAdvantage miles, 85,000 United MileagePlus miles or 90,000 Delta SkyMiles. The best value and availability may be found using AA miles on Etihad, Qatar or Cathay Pacific. Business class costs are roughly double, and availability is much more scarce.

However, cheap economy cash fares can be found, too, which you can pay for with points. The standard cost is $1,000 to $1,200 but can drop as low as $600 round-trip. Using Chase Ultimate Rewards points , that's only 40,000 points round-trip!

Consider a Guide

One of the most common questions about trekking the Himalayas is, "Do you need a guide?" But the better question is, "Do you want a guide?"

I trekked the Everest region with two friends, and we split a guide and a sherpa. Years later, I trekked the Annapurna Circuit with two friends, and we didn't have either. There are advantages to both. It's simply a matter of preference.

Hiking With a Guide

If you don't have trekking experience, a guide can ease a lot of the logistical burden. However, the main benefit of hiking with a guide is that he or she should have a deep knowledge of the area. Aside from textbook facts about tectonic plates, the culture of the local population is fascinating. If you have a curious mind, a skilled guide should have an answer to nearly every question that comes to mind. So don't be shy.

I learned enough from our guide Rishi, who now runs

Of course, hiring a guide and maybe a sherpa to help carry supplies will double the baseline daily cost or more, but that is still only $60 per day. And you're directly supporting the local population where the average monthly salary is roughly the cost of a nice dinner in the US.

Hiking Without a Guide

If you're content wandering through the mountains unsupervised and comfortable with the weight of your pack, you don't need to hire a guide to trek the Himalayas. Generally, the routes follow a valley or river, so it's hard to get too lost (save for the occasional wrong turn). Just make sure you have a reliable guidebook and a large, detailed map.

While guides are flexible and usually willing to adjust routes as you go, they may be less flexible with trip duration. You may find yourself in a village, for example, where you want to rest your feet and relax for a few days. Or you may want a multiday side trip. Or you may decide on the backside of the Annapurna Circuit you're over it and want to fly the rest of the way from Jomsom. You likely won't get money back if you decide to cut your trip short. And while guides are generally willing to extend treks to work longer, they may run into scheduling conflicts with the short trekking seasons, which only last from April to May and late September to early November.

the himalayas mountain travel

Get a Good Guide Book and Map

If you are trekking the Annapurna region, I highly recommend " Trekking the Annapurna Circuit & Trekking South of Annapurna: Along the New NATT Trails Which Avoid the Road ." Sure, it definitely loses some style points with that title, but it does clearly explain what makes the book so great.

Years ago, the trail along the first several days of the Annapurna Circuit was converted to a road. This was much more convenient for locals who previously had to hike to get anywhere and relied solely on sherpas for outside goods. For hikers, however, a walk on a road is much less appealing.

Fortunately, new trails have been created that, as the title mentions, avoid the roads and make the Annapurna Circuit a true trek once again. The German and Nepalese hikers that created and marked these new Natural Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT) also wrote the guide book. The fourth edition is available on Kindle in the US, otherwise some Amazon UK listings will ship internationally. You'll also want the map to accompany the book. Both the book and map can be bought locally in Nepal, but it's best to get them long before for planning.

The new NATT trails are the best way to see more temperate parts of the Himalayas.

For a great overall guide to trekking Nepal, including the Everest region, check out " Lonely Planet Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya ."

Even if you hire a guide, a good guide book and map is still highly recommended. Start reading, planning, shopping and prepping well beforehand.

I know no one ever says to "pack heavy" for a backpacking trip, but this suggestion is especially important when you are carrying the weight of your belongings on your back for weeks at elevation.

Halfway through day one of the Annapurna Circuit, I paid a local man $10 to carry a small bag of stuff I really didn't need back to my hotel. My friends also shed things along the way. Anything in the "maybe" pile should be left behind long before you begin. If you don't, you'll end up leaving it behind a week into your trek and never see it again.

If I hadn't depleted my pack on day one, this rough crossing of Thorong La pass would have been much rougher.

Save the Shower

Showers are available at some teahouses, but you usually have to pay for the wood or gas to heat the water. You'll quickly get used to not needing a shower every night. In general, don't worry too much about hygiene. Splash your face with water, wipe down with a wash cloth and save the shower for after your trek. You will get smelly, and no one will care.

At Tilicho Lake 10 days into the trek. It's a good thing you can't smell pictures.

Merino wool garments are lightweight and can hold up against odor for much longer, meaning you'll pack less and trek longer before you start to miss your shower.

Rent Equipment Locally

You'll need a warm sleeping bag (negative 10 degrees Celsius), but you can rent this in Kathmandu for about a dollar per day from many places including, most likely, your lodging. Even though you'll be wearing layers within the bag, a silk sleeping bag liner will provide a few extra degrees warmth (and peace of mind if you don't trust the cleanliness). I've mentioned my love for silk liners' usefulness and versatility before, and it's definitely a worthy piece to add to your travel arsenal.

I'm also a fan of trekking poles that can also be rented in Kathmandu for a dollar per day. They ease the impact on your knees and will help you up the long, steady inclines. They also saved me from falling on my face on more than one occasion.

There are several advantages to using trekking poles, one of which is peace of mind.

The one thing you don't want to rent on arrival? Boots. Make sure your hiking boots are well broken in before your trip, and always wear two pairs of socks — one inner liner pair and an outer pair for warmth (no cotton)! I got blisters a few days into the Annapurna Circuit and hiked in my friend's imitation Crocs for four days while wearing my other friend's liner socks. Please learn from my mistakes. Someone needs to make that experience worthwhile.

Those green Crocs on the my friend's pack would end up being my hiking shoes for the next four days.

Annapurna Circuit Tips

If you're trekking the Annapurna region, the Annapurna Circuit is rightfully the most popular option. Three weeks is suggested for the trek, but it's possible to cut out a week or more by making some tough sacrifices.

  • Don't Bypass the Beginning: Many trekkers will use the new roads to jump in a jeep and bypass the first few days of the circuit. But the hike from Besisahar to Chame is the greenest portion of the entire trek. Don't sacrifice these days in the jungle just because you can. Follow the NATT trails and you'll spend minimal time hiking the road.
  • Take the Side Trek to Tilicho Lake: This is arguably the most beautiful portion of the entire Annapurna Circuit, and a highlight you don't want to miss.
  • Explore the Mustang Territory: After you cross the Thorong La Pass, you'll want to relax for a couple nights in the next town of Muktinath. This is also the heart of Mustang territory. But you won't find any Ford vehicles here. A day trip to the Mustang villages is like stepping back 300 years.
  • Abbreviate the Backside: If you're short on time, you can always jump in a bus or jeep on the backside and get down to Pokhara quickly. Once you pass Thorong La and leave Muktinath, the trek becomes much less climactic.
  • Unwind in Pokhara: The circuit ends in Pokhara, an average-size town on a pretty lake, but a megalopolis compared to what you've seen on the circuit. Relax here with a few days on the lake, or even try some cheap adventure sports if you have the budget.

From left: Tyson, me and Chris at the top of Thorong La Pass - 17,769 ft.

Everest Region Tips

  • Don't Just Go to Base Camp: When I arrived in Kathmandu the first time, I had every intention of trekking to Everest Base Camp, but that's where people challenged me with the question, "Why?" Nepal's Everest Base Camp (not be confused with Tibet's Everest Base Camp which was recently closed to tourists ) isn't a pretty viewpoint of Mount Everest. In fact, you can't even see it from camp. It's a strategic acclimatization camp for climbers preparing to summit Mount Everest, and makes a great stop on a trek with multiple passes and peaks. But as a sole destination, there are better options.
  • Summit Gokyo Ri: The best alternate to the Everest Base Camp Trek is the trek to Gokyo. The path diverts away from Base Camp a few days before and arrives in the picturesque town of Gokyo and its famous lakes. The nearby summit of Gokyo Ri, which is the same elevation as Everest Base Camp, has a 360 degree view that includes four of the 14 highest peaks in the world — Mount Everest included. Like Everest Base Camp, this trek is roughly 12 days long.
  • Take the Three Passes Trek: This route wasn't well established when I trekked the area, but it looks like one of the best treks to see the highlights of the Everest region, including Everest Base Camp and Gokyo. Set aside at least 16 to 18 days for this trek, with three weeks or more being ideal.

From left: me, Aaron and Chris at the top of Gokyo Ri, 17,575 ft, with Mount Everest looming in the background.

The beauty of the Himalayas isn't reserved for the Sir Edmund Hillarys of the world. Logistics are easier than you'd expect and Kathmandu is definitely reachable on points. Be sure to look out for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which I discussed in an earlier article on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, but almost anyone can get into shape and save up the few bucks necessary to experience the world's mightiest mountains.

I f you're looking to back that pack up and get some guidance, send your questions to [email protected] !

All photos courtesy of the author.

Breathedreamgo

Breathedreamgo

The transformational travel guide

Top 10 reasons to visit the Himalayas

Table of Contents

Darjeeling, India is a top place to visit the Himalayas

The Himalaya mountains are a majestic mountain range in every way. There are many places to visit in the Himalayas, and many good reasons to take a trip to the Himalayas. The range stretches 1,500 miles (2,400 kilometres) along the northeastern part of India, passing through Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Bhutan, and Nepal. Along the way, there are many Himalaya tourist places

Facts about the Himalayan mountains

One of the youngest mountain ranges, the Himalayas is home to many of the highest mountains, including Everest. At 29,035 feet (8,850 metres), Everest is the highest mountain on earth and one of the most mystical. It seems to compel climbers to attempt a summit, even when knowing the immense risks.

The mystical quality of the Himalayas is intrinsic to the cultures it touches. To the people of these regions, the Himalayas is much more than an impressive geographical feature. The name Himalaya means the “abode of snow,” and it is also the abode of Lord Shiva – one of the primary gods in India – and many other deities as well.

There are many good reasons to visit this beautiful region – especially nowadays when so much of the world is over-touristed, or spoiled by pollution and over-development. These are just a few. You could try a guided hiking tour — there are tours available throughout the Himalayas, such as the Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal.

Stunning Himalayan mountain scenery

Nepal is a top place to visit the Himalayas

The Himalaya mountains present some of the most incredible landscapes and stunning scenery on the planet. Many photographers flock to this region for photographic reasons alone. As the sun rises or sets, the white peaks can be seen to light up in multi-colours — such as from Tiger Hill outside of Darjeeling. And there are places, such as the legendary Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand, India, that are so beautiful as to defy description.

READ: 5 Reasons to love Kumaon

Himalayan mountain culture

Mountain people are revered in India for their friendliness and simplicity. With all the concerns about travel safety, the Himalayas are probably one of the safer destinations in the region. Charming villages, spiritual pilgrimage centres, and adventure travel operators dot this region and provide a safe haven for travellers.

READ: Adventure to Himalayan villages in India

Hiking and trekking among the mountains of Himalayas

Tiger's Nest Bhutan Himalayas

The Himalayas run through Nepal, one of the world’s premier hiking destinations. There are incredible hiking opportunities in India, too, especially in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Many of them are unspoiled, and wind through regions of incomparable beauty. Options range from relatively easy day hikes to extremely arduous multi-day, high-altitude treks to some of the most remote places in the rooftop of the world.

READ: Beginners guide to trekking in Nepal

Birthplace of Yoga

Lord Shiva, who lives above Mount Kailash in the Himalayas, is considered the first Yoga teacher, as he taught this philosophy to his consort Parvati. In more recent times, Yoga teachers have been known to emerge as enlightened masters from caves in the Himalayas. And ever since The Beatles visited in 1968, Rishikesh has been known worldwide as a Yoga and meditation centre. Since the dawn of time, the Himalayas and the evolution of Yoga have been intrinsically linked – and an ideal place to undertake a serious study of this ancient art and science.

READ: Guide to Yoga in India

Spirituality and the gods

To the spiritually inclined, the Himalayas is a sacred region. There are sacred places, temples, ashrams, and pilgrimage routes from one end to the other, including the foothills. The Hindu god Lord Shiva is said to live above Mount Kailash, which is now in Tibet, China. The source of the Ganga (Ganges) River is high up in the Himalayas. One of the most revered and important pilgrimages in India, called the Char Dham, is an expedition to visit the source of The Ganga, undertaken by many devout Hindus. And the yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh, is in the foothills.

READ: Rishikesh and The Beatles Ashram

Home of Tibetan culture

ladakh Himalayas India

With the Chinese occupation of Tibet, the culture is more authentic and vibrant outside of the country – mostly in India. The Tibetan government-in-exile, including spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, is in Dharamsala in north India. And the culture of Ladakh is heavily influenced by Tibet. In fact, travelling in Ladakh, you can get the unmistakable impression that you’re actually in Tibet, rather than India. These regions are preserving the Tibetan culture, which is largely suppressed in China.

READ: Butterflies are free: Volunteering in Dharamsala and Guide to Dharamsala

Biodiversity and the preservation of nature

The Himalayan mountains are rugged, remote, and largely inaccessible. This has ensured that it’s retained an almost pristine environment and is a focus for both scientific research and nature lovers. Bird watchers, hikers, animal lovers, photographers – all kinds of people who love nature flock to the Himalayas. The Great Himalaya National Park in Himachal Pradesh, India is a healthy ecosystem of rich biodiversity – so important, it is a UNESCO protected site .

snow leopard in the himalayas

The Snow leopard

The Snow Leopard is one of the most sought-after and elusive animals in the world. These beautiful creatures are on many bucket lists, but for a number of reasons, are very difficult to spot. Reasons include the tough conditions of their difficult terrains in the mountains, the way they are almost completely camouflaged by their colouring, behaviour (they can travel very long distances), and solitary natures. They are also endangered: there are fears there are only 4,000 left in the wild.

READ: Favourite spiritual books

Rare and endangered animals

While the snow leopard may be the most charismatic Himalayan animal, it is certainly not the only threatened, rare, endangered, or unique animal to inhabit this rugged domain. In India, the Himalayas represent about 12% of the country’s landmass, but more than about 30 of its fauna. It is home to 280 species of mammals, 940 species of birds, 316 species of fishes, 200 species of reptiles and 80 species of amphibians, which altogether accounts for almost 28% of the total vertebrate diversity of the country. There are 163 threatened species found in the Himalayas including the Asian elephant, greater one-horned rhinoceros, wild water buffalo, wild yak, red panda, Himalayan black bear, and the largest carnivore, the tiger.

READ: Guide to the animals of India

Uttarakhand, India is a place to visit the Himalayas

Hill Stations of the Himalayas

When the British Raj occupied India, they found the heat on the plains – where the capital Delhi is located – unbearable in summer. As a result, they built hill stations in the Himalayas in places like Shimla, Mussoorie, Nainital, and Darjeeling. To this day, these charming towns retain a Raj-era flavor and are known as holiday destinations for middle class Indian families. Visiting a hill station in India – and especially if you take a toy train to Shimla or Darjeeling – is a must-do in India.

READ: Darjeeling, Queen of Hill Stations

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Himalayas in Darjeeling, India

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About Mariellen Ward

Professional travel writer Mariellen Ward is the founder of award-winning Breathedreamgo. Mariellen has a BA in Journalism and has been travel writing and blogging since 2005. She has won many awards, including a National Tourism Award from Incredible India Tourism, and writes for some of the world’s leading publications including BBC Travel and NatGeo Traveller India.

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Budget Tours & Trips to Himalaya Mountains

Explore a varied offer of budget adventures that will take you through some of the most famous destinations such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. Each affordable tour will provide you with memorable moments for some of the lowest prices on the market. Discover here how to go to Himalaya .

250+ Budget Himalaya Mountains tour packages with 1,631 reviews

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking
  • Active Adventure
  • Mountain Hikes
  • Christmas & New Year

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

This tour was great from start to finish and Nepal Trekking Routes assisted every step of the way. Even with some flight delays and cancelations getting to Lukla everything afterward was extremely well organized and I was able to make it to Everest Base Camp. Although I was the only traveler on the tour, I enjoyed being able to go at my own pace and had a great guide and porter for the journey. I am very happy I chose to return by helicopter as this allowed for many extra days to visit other places. I reached out in advance of this trip as I wanted so try getting to Chitwan, and sightseeing in and around Kathmandu. All of my questions were answered and I was able to do everything I wanted while in Nepal. I can't recommend it enough to travel with Nepal Trekking Routes!
  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

The wonderful trek to Annapurna Base Camp Tour

The wonderful trek to Annapurna Base Camp

Sehr, sehr, sehr, gut

Annapurna Circuit Trek Tour

Annapurna Circuit Trek

I went to Annapurna Circuit trek from 21st Sept to 4th Oct, as a solo trekker. To be honest, at first I was worried to hear that I was the only trekker who had booked this trek in between those dates, with Nepal Hiking Team. Once I had reassurance that everything was okie, went ahead. It was the right decision though. Every planning was meticulous, every accommodation perfect and obviously the tour guide knew his job and the circuit very well. Annapurna Circuit itself is a beauty in itself, and I would recommend this trek with Nepal Hiking Team to everyone!!

Everest Base Camp Standard Trek- 14 Days Tour

Everest Base Camp Standard Trek- 14 Days

Me and my wife booked this trip with our nephew. We were recommended Apex by a friend of ours and we were ecstatic with how good everything turned out! From the booking process to every other part of the trip they were 5 stars! Pramod was our guide and he was everything we were looking for and more! The trip was incredible, the most beautiful views we have ever seen and we were very well taken care of! We felt very safe and in very capable hands. We will definitely use Apex again if we decide to do another trek and will always recommend them to our friends and family. It was a trip of a lifetime!!

Annapurna Base Camp Trek (10 destinations) Tour

Annapurna Base Camp Trek (10 destinations)

It was my first time visit in Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal. We hired Nepal Hiking Team and he gives a experience Guide Rajendra is very good. He is helpful, sincere, well -known about Annapurna region culture & route. We have a fantastic time during the trek. I have positive impact with his positive behavior. He is very friendly and very knowledgeable. He also a great sense of humor.

Annapurna Circuit Trekking Tour

Annapurna Circuit Trekking

Our Annapurna Circuit trek with Sherpa Expedition was a journey that will forever hold a special place in our hearts. The communication with the company was smooth, and all commitments made were fulfilled. Additionally, locating their office was effortless, making the pre-trek arrangements convenient. Upon our arrival, we were greeted warmly and transported to our accommodations with great efficiency. Throughout the trek, our experienced guide ensured that we were always comfortable and enjoying ourselves. Their expertise and knowledge of the region added depth to the journey, making it an unforgettable experience. The entire team at Sherpa Expedition was highly professional, making our trip truly exceptional. From the prompt communication to the seamless organization of logistics, they left no stone unturned in ensuring our satisfaction. Their dedication to providing a memorable adventure was evident in every aspect of the trek. the Annapurna Circuit trek with Sherpa Expedition was a trek to remember. The company's communication was excellent, all promises were fulfilled, and the entire team's professionalism made the trip remarkable. We highly recommend Sherpa

Annapurna Circuit Trek Tour

We had a wonderful time doing the Annapurna circuit trek with our Himalaya Heart guide Hari. He was incredibly kind, helpful, and proactive, and made sure we had what we needed, while also protecting us from anything that could go wrong. I am so glad that we had him with us! The mountains were incredibly beautiful, and Himalaya Heart worked with us to let us not only do the Annapurna Circuit but to add on some additional hiking after. If you want anything specific or personalized, they will absolutely help you! It was airport-to-airport service, and truly eased our minds as we didn't have to worry about anything except getting our bodies up the hills. I believe that they also offer some great hike-free tour options too if that's more your speed!

10 Days Everest Base Camp Short Trek Tour

10 Days Everest Base Camp Short Trek

I can't thank Gyanu, Ramesh and the Apex team enough for their organisation and help on our recent trip to Nepal. We have used Apex on a number of occasions now and will be using them again in the future. Our entire trip was so well priced, much cheaper than the "big" tour companies, as they keep everything in house and by the locals. Right from my first message to our good friend Gyanu, he was responsive and helpful to all of our questions and requests. The benefit of using Apex, and in particular Gyanu as a guide, is his experience in the industry, and the network of contacts that he has available to him in all trekking regions. We were nearly stuck at Lulka with bad weather, but through Gyanu's network we were able to get out of the area in a helicopter. He was able to organise this at a much cheaper rate than others were paying, and with 30 or more people trying to leave, we were the first ones out thanks to Gyanu. Others weren't so lucky and had to stay over for another night while we made it back to Kathmandu. Apex were very punctual, always on time, or early, with vehicles and drivers for airport transfers and sight seeing around the city. We can't recommend the Apex team highly enough for anyone wanting fantastic service at the right price. Thanks again and we'll see you all again soon hopefully.

Langtang Valley and Tamang Heritage Trek Tour

  • Walking Adventure
  • Sightseeing

Langtang Valley and Tamang Heritage Trek

Nilam and all the employees at Asian Heritage were incredibly professional. They went above and beyond my expectations to give me one of the best experiences of my life. During my 12 day trek, I got a stomach bug in which my guide went out of his way to look after me. Nilam, the owner also sent messages to me to make sure that I was ok. There are not many companies, businesses or people that would show that level of compassion. The trek was tailored to my needs. I enjoyed personal relationships with the local Langtang people, I saw the most breathtaking views and landscapes and I was also exposed to the incredible sacred Buddhist monuments. This experience will be one I will tell to my grandkids.

Langtang Valley Trek Tour

Langtang Valley Trek

"An Unforgettable Trekking Experience in Nepal - The Langtang Valley Trek" I recently had the most astounding trekking experience in Nepal, and I cannot praise it enough. Guided by Rajendra Panta, a fantastic tour guide, I embarked on a journey that took us from Syabru Bensi to Lama Hotel, Mundu, Kyanjin Gompa, Tserko Ri, Langtang, and back to Syabru Bensi. Rajendra's expertise, knowledge, and friendly demeanour truly enhanced our trekking experience, and I warmly recommend him to anyone planning a trek in Nepal. The highlight of this adventure was the ever-changing landscape that surrounded us, creating breathtaking views at every turn. Our trek began through a tropical forest, where we were amazed by the abundance of hemp plants, especially near human settlements. As we continued, we found ourselves immersed in beautiful bamboo groves, occasionally catching glimpses of majestic white monkeys. We spent a night at the humble yet fantastic Lama Hotel, where my sister and I had a refreshing dip in the Langtang River, which accompanied us throughout our trek. The next day, we entered a forest adorned with blooming rhododendrons, pine, and holly trees. As we ascended above the tree line, resilient shrubs and herbs surrounded us. We encountered an emotional landmark, the remnants of the devastating 2015 Langtang avalanche, which left a lasting impression on us. Eventually, we arrived at Mundu, where we spent our second night on the trek. On the third day, the weather was not in our favour, and we found ourselves walking through thick fog for about two hours until we reached Kyanjin Gompa. Despite the snowy conditions that followed, we were delighted and surprised by a day of relaxation in Kyanjin Gompa, enjoying local espresso and pastries at a charming café/bakery. Although our itinerary had to be adjusted due to the weather, we decided that if we had a good night's sleep (as the previous night was challenging due to the high altitude) and favourable weather, we would attempt to conquer the highest accessible peak, Tserko Ri. Waking up on the fourth day to perfect weather, we knew we had to seize the opportunity, even if it meant descending to Langtang later that day to ensure we could complete the trek on the final day. With light packs, we set out towards the summit of the majestic snow-covered "hill." Despite the increasing difficulty in breathing and the scorching sun (which even managed to burn my neck through sunscreen), we persevered and conquered all the challenges. Despite the acclimatization day, altitude sickness affected us to some extent, with my sister facing a particularly demanding ascent and my second sister enduring a challenging descent. Nevertheless, we all agreed that the beauty and the experience of being at an elevation of 5,000 meters above sea level were absolutely worth it. On the fourth day, we ascended 1,200 meters and descended 1,500 meters. During our descent on the fourth day towards Langtang, we rediscovered the same layers of nature in reverse order, accompanied by perfect weather that lasted until our last day, the fifth day. It took us 12 hours from the morning ascent to reach Langtang, and the following day, we trekked for 10 hours and descended 1,900 meters to Syabru Bensi. We arrived utterly exhausted yet incredibly happy. I cannot thank Rajendra Panta and the organizers enough for ensuring our safety and making this trek an unforgettable experience. The stunning landscapes, the diverse flora, and the challenges we overcame have left a lasting impression on me. I highly recommend this trek to anyone seeking adventure.

Manaslu Circuit Trek Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

Manaslu Circuit Trek

My stop over the Manaslu was one of the best memorable and unforgettable adventure in my life. From the friendly staff to the service they provided, everything was perfect as compare to others. I was always looking forward to come this beautiful place for the new experience and I must say that I am really delightful after seeing all the things. I have always loved Nepal and it´s beauty. After experiencing, I can proudly say that Rana and the team are doing really a great job and helping to see such a beautiful place with all the difficulties.

Lumba Sumba Pass - 18 Days Tour

Lumba Sumba Pass - 18 Days

'' I had done the Lumba Sumba pass treks with Tashi sherpa as my Guide. The fact that Lumba Sumba is an incredible remote and isolated area, we spent 2 amazing weeks, amazing views of Kanchenjunga,Makalu and Lumba Sumba high pass. It was incredible organization and local knowledge of staff at Adventure Himalayan Travels and treks and their highly qualified and experienced guide and porters. I would recommend Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks to all and of my friends, family and anyone else considering traveling “Nepal”

Annapurna Panorama Trek Tour

Annapurna Panorama Trek

We spent two weeks in Nepal with Manakamana Treks, visiting Kathmandu, Pokhara and a 5 day trek in the Annapurna region. Every member of the team we came into contact with was so friendly and helpful, making our trip one to remember! Our itinerary was so varied with just the right amount of sightseeing and time to explore for ourselves and we felt so taken care of right from stepping off the plane. We were recommended this company from my parents and would not hesitate to continue to recommend them in the future. Thank you all for an amazing experience in such a wonderful country!

Annapurna Circuit Trek 15 Days Tour

Annapurna Circuit Trek 15 Days

thank you very much. we spent a good time with the group. A big thank for Pema Sherpa our guide … he made everything so that we spend a really good time

Druk Path - (PRIVATE TRIP) Tour

Druk Path - (PRIVATE TRIP)

Superlative in every way. Far exceeded all expectations. We thank everyone at One Seed and Bhutan Wilderness Adventures, especially Tshering, our expert guide, and his team in the trek. I could write a book here - instead, go and experience for yourself!

Reviews of Budget Tours in Himalaya Mountains

In the beginning, I signed up for a group but no one signed up for the same date with me so I ended up doing a solo trip to Everest base camp with my guide and also my porter, Mr.Santa. I was a bit worried at first but then I found lots of friends during the trek to EBC. Mr.Santa took great care of me, always walked behind me to check if everything was going well. Mr. Sheilesh came to the airport to welcome me and dropped me off at the airport at the end of the trip. He was also very kind and open to modifying the plan as I requested. I had a beautiful time in Nepal and wonderful experiences during my EBC trek.
Absolutely amazing... Our Experienced and humorous guide, Nawin Pokharel ensured that we explored the beauty of the mountains , walking in the footpaths of legendary mountaineers. Shailesh Pokharel of Nepal Trekking routes trekking and expeditions tailor made our package which allowed us to experience the natural and rich cultural wonders of Nepal. We were afforded the opportunity to live the authentic local life..
We booked our Annapurna circuit trek and Chitwan visit via Nepal hiking team and I must say everything was arranged perfectly! Very rapid and clear communication before we got to Nepal and great service once we arrived. Our guide Ramesh was terrific and thought us a lot about Nepal and the mountains! He had a lot of knowledge and good English level. Every evening we enjoyed his company together with the rest of the team (guides and porters) to play some Nepalese card games. Perfect trip for us so highly recommend to book your next Nepal holiday with them!

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  • Nepal and Himalayas: vaccinations, climbing permit, visa
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  • Deutsch: Günstige Reisen in Himalaya
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  • Everest Base Camp Trek- 12 days
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  • Everest Base Camp Trek with Gokyo Lake via Cho-la Pass – 16 days
  • Everest Panorama Trek- 5 days
  • Everest in Comfort- 10 days
  • Gokyo Valley Trek- 11 days
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  • Annapurna Base Camp- 9 days
  • Poonhill Ghorepani Trek- 6 days
  • Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake - 17 days
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Everest Base Camp Trekking package in Nepal

Everest Base Camp Trek

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Sherpa Village Trek

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Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Trek

Ebc & Gokyo Trek via Cho-la Pass

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

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Mountain Travel Nepal is one of the best travel and trekking company in Nepal offering wide range of best trekking packages in Nepal . We have grand legacy of conducting the exceptional trekking expeditions throughout the country. With continuous exploration of the Himalayas, we are always ready to create customized treks in Nepal. Our best trekking packages includes luxury camping, luxury tours, family camping treks, adventure treks and luxury camping to some remote areas or off-the-beaten paths areas in Nepal and to the highest peak of the world.

the himalayas mountain travel

Max-Altitude 8091 m /26545.28 ft

the himalayas mountain travel

Max-Altitude 8848m /29028.87 ft

the himalayas mountain travel

Max-Altitude 4135 m /13562.8 ft

the himalayas mountain travel

Max-Altitude 7132m /23398.95 ft

the himalayas mountain travel

  • Central Nepal

Max-Altitude 8163m /26781.5 ft

the himalayas mountain travel

Max-Altitude 8463m /27765.75 ft

the himalayas mountain travel

Max-Altitude 6883 m/22582.02 ft

Mountain Travel Nepal is one of the best  travel and trekking agency in Nepal offering wide range of tailormade trekking packages in Nepal. We have grand legacy of conducting the exceptional trekking expeditions  throughout the  country. With continuous exploration of the Himalayas, we are always ready to create customized treks in Nepal. Our  trekking packages includes the treks to some remote areas in Nepal and the highest peak of the world.

the himalayas mountain travel

The Annapurnas are the ideal starting point for first-time trekkers and families. It gives you breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks in the world.

the himalayas mountain travel

Home of Mount Everest, Khumbu is a must-visit for trekkers and climbers from around the world. From lush jungle to high alpine landscapes, the area offers stunning treks for the beginner as well as for the experienced trekker.

the himalayas mountain travel

This remote and restricted region is among the most fascinating in all of Nepal and the Himalayas. Fierce winds and a barren landscape await those who attempt to reach Mustang but the rewards are immense.

the himalayas mountain travel

The Humla and Mugu regions of Far West Nepal offer a combination of unspoiled trekking routes and traditional rural villages, where life unfolds in the way it has done for centuries.

the himalayas mountain travel

The unspoiled trekking circuit around Manaslu, the world's eighth highest peak, is a wonderful alternative to more famous but crowded treks such as the Annapurna Circuit.

the himalayas mountain travel

East Nepal is home to both the third and fifth highest peaks in the world, Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Makalu respectively. This remote and isolated area offers the ideal trekking experience for adventurers with time to spare for an epic quest into the high Himalayas.

the himalayas mountain travel

Upper and Lower Dolpo in Shey Phoksundo National Park are among the most difficult to reach but astoundingly beautiful areas in Nepal.

tailormade treks in Nepal by Mountain travel Nepal

Explore the Himalayas with

Mountain Travel Nepal

Pioneering the industry since 1964 as one of the most experienced travel and trekking company in Nepal, Mountain Travel Nepal has some of the most experienced trekking guides in the country. As one of the recommended trekking company in Nepal, we plan customized private tours and treks in Nepal for the adventurous traveler that ranges from Bhutan-The Land of Thunder Dragon , Tibet-Roof of the World , Nepal’s Far East region trek to the Everest Region Trek . Our signature full-service that includes camping adventure , family treks , spiritual treks , luxury treks , and adventurous jungle tours are curated to deliver on your dreams. Our destinations are truly off-the-beaten-track, and our team serves you with the utmost pride and professionalism.

Join us for an unparalleled Himalayan experience that allows for a deep connection with nature and authentic interactions with the world around you.

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Send us an e-mail or call us with any queries you may have. Alternatively click below on “Plan your adventure” to get started with your once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan journey.

We are ready to help you with any request you may have.

The Trek of a Lifetime (Milke Danda Trek - Makalu Region)-2023 We went on a 50th anniversary trek in the eastern region of Nepal's middle hills. The route was much discussed with Ashok Awal whose planning, pre-trek guidance and in-trek support was superb. He put together an excellent core team of Sherpas led by the excellent Chhong Kharma Sherpa supported by the tireless Rinji Sherpa and the utterly brilliant cook and cooks boy, Ongdi Sherpa and Mingma Sherpa (thanks to their efforts we reckon we may be the first trekkers to put on weight during our time in the hills). The weather turned against us so we made radical changes to the planned itinerary but the excellence of the preparation ensured this was accomplished with ease (at least for us) and some aplomb. This was trekking in a grand manner with considerable style, boundless care and as much comfort as its possible to achieve when camping in hot lower levels and damp cloudy middle levels. MTN's reputation preceded it but it was wonderful to see historic standards of excellence being maintained. Thank you for a trek of a lifetime.

James Humphery and Jayne Humphery United Kingdom of Great Britian and Northern Ireland

The Sherpa Village Trek (Everest Region)-2023 I recently returned to visit Nepal for a month in March/April 23 after a gap of about 40 years and used Mountain Travel Nepal again through Ashok Awal and his team to make ALL the arrangements. This included the Sherpa Village Trek in the Solukhumbu region in Sagamartha National Park, the Langtang Valley Trek in Langtang National Park and accommodation in Thamel, Shivapuri Heights and Bhaktapur while in the Kathmandu Valley. The whole month was a wonderful experience. Advice and communication was professional and I always felt safe and looked after. This was commented on by others I met along the way and I think a tribute to the experience of Mountain Travel Nepal. A big thank you to Sherpa Ngawang Namgel and Porter Pemba Nuru and the staff of the Mountain Lodges of Nepal in the Solukhumbu region for sharing their unique way of life. It was a privilege to have the Sherpas show me wild life and birds along the trails and for sharing their lives and experiences. Thank you.

Christine Silvester Australia

Everest Trek with Gokyo Valley – Everest 2 passes Trek- 2023 We arrived well back in Switzerland after the most exciting trek in the Khumbu Everest area. We would like to thank you again for the perfect organization. We had a great time with Nima and Kancha our guide and porter. They were most helpful and wonderful companions.

Mr. 'Marcel Hungerbuehler' and Mr. 'Jüerg Hugi' Switzerland

Khopra Danda Trek 2023 We enjoyed our trip a lot! And Surendra is a really professional and wonderful guide, and we would definitely recommend him to others! We are really happy about the route that you planned. The scenery was just incredible!

Freja and Anna Denmark

On arrival in Kathmandu, I knew from our very first meeting with Tamding Sherpa, our senior guide, that we were in good hands. Tamding paid attention in particular to a senior member of our group, and provided all the care needed for all of us to succeed. The service was second to none. The fact that he had worked with the company for so many years spoke volumes about his loyalty to the firm. Mountain Travel Nepal’s experience in the industry and the care they show their staff is in a class of its own. Happy staff makes for a happy trek – and ours certainly was!

Henrik Andersen Denmark

Langtang Valley Trek We used Mountain Travel Nepal on our most recent trip in April 2019 to organize a trek in the Langtang Valley and were so happy with the level of service they gave our group. The experienced staff add so much value to a trek, showing you secret spots along the trail, introducing you to cultural life in the mountains, and spotting elusive wildlife you might normally miss! I would thoroughly recommend Mountain Travel Nepal, particularly for families and others who have a commitment to ethical travel.

Craig Allen Australia

Everest Base Camp Trek If you are planning a trip to Nepal then "Mountain Travel Nepal" is your go-to agency. We had an amazing experience with the company and Mr. Ashok. We track the Everest Base Camp in 10 days. The team was very helpful in providing us with detail, adjusting the route accordingly before and after due to weather changes where needed, provide insights into the culture and the people, and supporting us in any way they could to achieve and successfully complete the trek. THANK YOU VERY MUCH. We will come back.. I'm sure of it. Special thanks to our guide Loken and our two porters Dipak Rai and Bibek Rai who took very good care of us providing a positive and family atmosphere.

Alessandro, Daniele, Claudio & Luca Italy & Germany

Sikles & Tara Hill Top Camping Our guides were amazing. We felt perfectly safe and looked after.

Janet Rodgers Italy & Germany

Mera Peak Climbing We want to say a big thank you Ashok and Sonam at Mountain Travel, for a wonderful and unforgettable trip to Mera Peak. Everything went very smooth and professional from planing the itinerary to the summit day. We first met both Sonam, our guide and Ashok, our agency contact and got a great feeling. Easy to talk to and discuss upon our trip details. All clear and great plan that fitted our thought of a Mera Peak expedition.

Mr. Andrei Andrianov Switzerland

The Langtang Valley Trek-2023 A big thank you to Sherpa Sonam Ngima and Porter Phure Lema in the Langtang Valley and to the staff in the Langtang Tea Houses for making me feel so welcome and for sharing their unique way of life. It was a privilege to have the Sherpas show me wild life and birds along the trails and for sharing their lives and experiences. The whole month was a wonderful experience. Advice and communication was professional and I always felt safe and looked after. This was commented on by others I met along the way and I think a tribute to the experience of Mountain Travel Nepal.

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All Facts about the Himalayas: In-depth Exploration of Himalayan Facts

As a marvelous gift from nature, the Himalayas and its surrounding regions attract countless tourists. While conquering the world's highest peak may be an impossible mission for most travelers, exploring the forests, villages, and mountains of the Himalayas promises an unforgettable journey.

Get to know some fascinating facts about the Himalayas before you take the lifetime adventure to this awe-inspiring mountain range.

the himalayas mountain travel

1. The Word Himalaya Means "Abode of Snow"

8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour

8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour

2. the himalayas have 10 peaks exceeding 8000 meters.

There are ten peaks exceeding 8000 meters in elevation in the Himalaya ranges, namely Mount Everest (8848 meters), Kangchenjunga (8586 meters), Lhotse (8516 meters), Makalu (8485 meters), Cho Oyu (8281 meters), Dhaulagiri (8167 meters), Manaslu (8163 meters), Nanga Parbat (8126 meters), Annapurna (8100 meters), Shishapangma (8064 meters).

Moreover, there are 40 mountains over 7000 meters above the sea level. That’s why the Himalayas is the highest mountain range on Earth.

Gawula Pass

3. The Himalayas are 2500-kilometer Long from West to East

Running from west-northwest to east-southeast, the Himalayan range is 2500 kilometers long, with the western anchor in Nanga Parbat and the eastern anchor in Namcha Barwa. The northern Himalaya is bordered by the Karakoram Mountains and the Hindu Kush Mountains.

To the north, it is separated from the Tibetan Plateau by the Indus-Tsangpo Suture, which is a 50 to 60 kilometers wide tectonic valley. To the south, the Himalayas is facing the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The width of the Himalayas is from 200 kilometers to 300 kilometers from north to south.

4. The Himalayas Region Used to Be an Ancient Ocean

As one of the youngest mountain ranges on Earth, the Himalayas were formed by the convergent boundary between the Eurasian Plate and the Indo-Australian Plate. Around 70 million years ago, the Indo-Australian Plate was moving northward and reached the Eurasian Plate about 50 million years ago.

Formation of the Himalayas

5. The Himalayas Shape the Climate of the Indian Plain and Tibetan Plateau

The Himalayas significantly shape the climate of the Indian Plain and Tibetan Plateau. Thanks to the Himalayas ranges, the monsoon rains can be kept on the Indian plain, ensuing fertile lands and diverse ecosystems thrive.

Conversely, the mountains block monsoons from penetrating deep into Tibet, resulting in limited rainfall and an arid climate on the plateau. This stark difference creates a rain shadow effect, with the southern slopes experiencing abundant rainfall, while the northern slopes and Tibetan Plateau remain dry.

6. The Himalayas are the Source of 19 Rivers in Asia

The Himalayas serve as the origin of 19 important rivers in Asia, including the Indus River, the Ganges River and the Yarlung Tsanpo River.

The Yarlung Tsanpo River

The vast glaciers and snowfields atop these majestic mountains act as the primary source, nourishing these significant waterways and sustaining the livelihoods of millions of people downstream.

As the lifeline of the region, these rivers play a vital role in supporting agriculture, providing water resources, and shaping the cultural and ecological diversity along their courses.

7. The Himalayas Experience Varied Weather from Lush Summers to Snowy Winters

The Himalayas have diverse climates, ranging from tropical to alpine, primarily influenced by the Indian monsoon from mid-June to the end of September.

Mount Everest in Tibet

The eastern to western Himalayas become drier due to reduced monsoonal effects. And the southern side of the mountain has a lush and moist climate while the northern side is warmer and dryer due to the lack of rain.

The climate of the Himalayas can be divided into summer and winter. On the southern side, the average temperature is around 20°C in summer, and 18°C in winter. As altitude increases, temperatures gradually decrease. At mid-range, summer drops to 15°C, and winter stays below freezing. Above 5000 meters, temperatures remain freezing year-round, with constant snow on mountain tops.

8. The Himalayas are Home to Over 50 Million People

There are over 50 million people living in the entire range of the Himalayas. The population of the Himalayas includes Aryans, Mongoloids, and Negroids.

Furthermore, there are about 600 million people living in the basins formed by the rivers rising in the Himalayas, such as the Indus, the Ganges, and the Tsangpo-Brahmaputra.

People living in the different regions of the Himalayas are influenced by various cultures and have their own faith and beliefs. On the north side of Mount Everest, Tibetans believe in Tibetan Buddhism. The culture of the middle Himalayan valleys is similar to that of Afghanis and Iranians. In Nepal, the culture is influenced by both Tibetan and Hindu traditions.

Sera Monastery

So it will be a lifetime experience to explore the different cultures that all originated from the great Himalayas when you visit India, Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet.

9. The Himalayas Harbor More than 300 Species of Animals

Though it is an awful living environment for human beings, the Himalayan Mountains is the home to some rare animals, like Snow Leopard, Himalaya Wild Yak, Musk Deer, Himalayan Tahr, and some other endangered species.

In total, there are over 300 mammal species and thousands of birds, fish, reptiles, and amphibians living harmoniously in the Himalayas. Due to the different climates in different regions of the Himalayan Mountains, such as the subtropical and alpine regions, the animals differ.

Tourists may have a chance to see the yaks and Himalayan Marmots in the lower areas of Mount Everest. The Himalayan Tahrs prefer to live on the mountain slopes and wooded hills at 3000-4000 meters above sea level on the southern side of Mount Everest, while the Himalayan blue sheep reside in the rocky hills at 4000 to 6000 meters.

Tibetan Yaks

There are also two kinds of bears living in the Himalayas, namely the Himalayan brown bear and the Himalayan black bear. One of the rarest species in the Himalaya Mountains is the Snow Leopard. Recently, there are just 3,920 and 6,390 wild snow leopards that have been found.

In order to keep away from the extremely cold atmosphere in the third pole on Earth, the animals living in the Himalayas mostly have thick skin and heavy bodies. Despite their bulky appearance, these animals in the Himalayas are very alert.

10. The Himalayas Are Totally Different from Mount Everest

Some people may mistakenly think that the Himalayas are the same as Mount Everest. Well, this is totally wrong. The Himalayas are a mountain range that encompasses many peaks located in the southern end of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau.

Mount Everest, on the other hand, is a part of the Himalayan mountain range and is the tallest peak in the world, located on the border of China and Nepal. Tourists can go to visit Mount Everest from either the Tibetan side or the Nepalese side.

Visit Mount Everest on Tibetan side

11. The Himalayas Do not Belong to Any Single Country

The Himalayas is located along the border of India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bhutan and China in southern Asia. As a part of the frontier, the Himalayas is southwest to China, north to Bhutan, and northeast to India and Nepal.

12. The Existence of the Yeti in the Himalayas is still Uncertain

What makes the Himalayas so attractive? Not only the wonders of Nature, the unique culture, and the mysterious religions but also some interesting folklores, such as the world-famous story of the Yeti.

According to the legend, the Yeti is a huge creature that inhabits the Himalayan regions in Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. It is taller than ordinary people and covered with thick hair. The story of the Yeti became known to the Western world in the 19th century, and reports of seeing odd creatures in the Himalayas increased during the 20th century.

In the past, supposed footprints and the scalp of the Yeti were found, but to this day, it remains uncertain whether Yetis truly exist in the Himalayan regions. Nevertheless, the legend of the Yeti continues to captivate people's attention to Everest, making the Himalayas a destination for curious explorers from all over the world.

After discovering these fascinating facts about the Himalayas, do you now have a more vivid image of this magnificent mountain range? I hope this article has inspired you and provided a fresh perspective on the Himalayas.

If the opportunity arises, consider visiting the Himalayas yourself; it's not as challenging as you might think. And if you have any further questions about traveling to the Himalayas, feel free to contact us . We are delighted to offer our professional travel services to assist you.

Kham Sang

About the Author - Kham Sang

Kham Sang is responsible and honest with more than six years of guide experience in Tibet.She has strong interpersonal skills and can communicate effectively with tourists.

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The Fascinating History Of The Himalayas

Posted: February 10, 2024 | Last updated: February 10, 2024

Humankind has been enthralled by the Himalayas for millennia. Home to some of the world’s tallest peaks, enormous glaciers and a rich array of plant and animal life, it’s no wonder these are some of the best-known mountains on the planet. Yet despite their stardom, the Himalayas are still shrouded in mystery. We peel back the layers to reveal the region’s fascinating history, unique climate and the challenges facing it today.

Awe-inspiring peaks

The Himalayas extend for around 1,550 miles (2,500km) between the peak of Nanga Parbat in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and the peak of Namjagbarwa (Namcha Barwa) in Tibet. With a total area of roughly 230,000 square miles (595,000sq km) they mostly lie in India, Nepal and Bhutan, with China and Pakistan occupying parts of them.

Where are they?

<p>At a dizzying <a href="https://www.britannica.com/place/Himalayas">29,032 feet (8,849m) above sea level</a>, Mount Everest is the highest mountain on Earth. But Everest is not its only name. Straddling the border between Nepal and Tibet, the mountain is known as Sagarmatha in Sanskrit, meaning “peak of heaven”, and Chomolungma in Tibetan, meaning “goddess of the valley”. It gained the name Everest in 1865 after the British surveyor general of India, Sir George Everest.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/loveexploringUK?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=front"><strong>Love this? Follow us on Facebook for more travel inspiration</strong></a></p>

The highest of them all

At a dizzying 29,032 feet above sea level , Mount Everest is the highest mountain on Earth. But Everest is not its only name. Straddling the border between Nepal and Tibet, the mountain is known as Sagarmatha in Sanskrit, meaning “peak of heaven,” and Chomolungma in Tibetan, meaning “goddess of the valley.” It gained the name Everest in 1865 after the British surveyor general of India, Sir George Everest.

<p>Kanchenjunga is the second-highest Himalayan peak and the third-highest on Earth at an eye-watering 28,169 feet (8,586m) tall. It’s located in the eastern part of the mountain range on the Nepal-India border. Although shorter than Everest, it’s considered a more treacherous climb since less is known about it – <a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-why-climbing-mount-kanchenjunga-is-still-a-challenge-for-those-who-have-scaled-everest-5734121/">just around 20-25 people attempt to summit each year</a> compared to the 300-350 that climb Everest. </p>

And in second place…

Kanchenjunga is the second-highest Himalayan peak and the third-highest on Earth at an eye-watering 28,169 feet tall. It’s located in the eastern part of the mountain range on the Nepal-India border. Although shorter than Everest, it’s considered a more treacherous climb since less is known about it – just around 20-25 people attempt to summit each year compared to the 300-350 that climb Everest. 

Lhotse, just south of Everest on the border between Tibet and Nepal, is the third-highest mountain in the Himalayas at 27,940 feet (8,516m). Since it’s joined to Everest by a 25,000-foot (7,600m) high ridge, it’s sometimes considered part of the Everest Massif, and mountaineers who scale it follow the same route for much of the way.

And in third…

<p>The Himalayas, along with the Hindu Kush and Karakoram mountain ranges, hold the <a href="https://www.futurelearn.com/info/futurelearn-international/causes-impacts-melting-himalayan-glaciers">third-largest deposit</a> of ice and snow on the planet. These gargantuan glaciers feed nearby rivers including the Indus, Ganges (pictured) and Brahmaputra which provide freshwater supply to more than <a href="http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2021/06/01/to-slow-himalayan-glacier-melt-curbing-air-pollution-is-key">750 million people</a>. However, they’re threatened by climate change, which is speeding up the rate at which they’re melting (as we’ll explore in more detail later). </p>

It’s not just mountains

The Himalayas, along with the Hindu Kush and Karakoram mountain ranges, hold the third-largest deposit of ice and snow on the planet. These gargantuan glaciers feed nearby rivers including the Indus, Ganges (pictured) and Brahmaputra which provide freshwater supply to more than 750 million people . However, they’re threatened by climate change, which is speeding up the rate at which they’re melting (as we’ll explore in more detail later). 

<p>Until recently, it was thought that the highest mountains of the Tibetan plateau were not inhabited until around 2,500. Yet <a href="https://www.livescience.com/57403-humans-inhabited-tibet-mountains-earlier-than-thought.html">recent analysis</a> of footprints on the site of Chusang (pictured), <a href="https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20170227-how-tibetans-survive-life-on-the-roof-of-the-world">14,100 feet (4,200m) above sea level</a>, has found that the earliest permanent residents have lived in this high-elevation region since between 7,400 and 12,600 years ago. </p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/65646/explore-an-ancient-city-early-civilisations-you-can-see-today"><strong>Check out the world's most beautiful ancient ruined cities</strong></a></p>

Early inhabitants

Until recently, it was thought that the highest mountains of the Tibetan plateau were not inhabited until around 2,500. Yet recent analysis of footprints on the site of Chusang (pictured), 14,100 feet (4,200m) above sea level , has found that the earliest permanent residents have lived in this high-elevation region since between 7,400 and 12,600 years ago. 

Nowadays, the mountain range is populated by a range of different groups. Broadly speaking, Tibetans and Tibeto-Burman speakers live in the northernmost section, Indo-European speakers are found in the central and southernmost sections. Pictured here are children from the Tamang group, whose population is thought to number 690,000.

Life in the Himalayas today

<p>With its remote location, dizzying altitude and almost completely inhospitable climate, Mount Everest has long represented the ultimate challenge to mountaineers. The earliest major attempt to scale the peak was made in 1921, by a group of British army officers, explorers and surveyors under the Mount Everest Committee. But, poorly equipped to deal with the altitude, one member of the group died of heart failure on the approach and the group turned back. Pictured are members of the British expedition in 1936, which was forced to retreat due to bad weather.</p>

Early attempts to climb Everest

With its remote location, dizzying altitude and almost completely inhospitable climate, Mount Everest has long represented the ultimate challenge to mountaineers. The earliest major attempt to scale the peak was made in 1921, by a group of British army officers, explorers and surveyors under the Mount Everest Committee. But, poorly equipped to deal with the altitude, one member of the group died of heart failure on the approach and the group turned back. Pictured are members of the British expedition in 1936, which was forced to retreat due to bad weather.

<p>By 1933, several further unsuccessful attempts had been made to climb Everest. But two Scottish pilots, Lieutenant David McIntyre and Sir Douglas Douglas-Hamilton, made history on 3 April that year when they were the first men to fly over the mystical mountain. <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/science-environment-40050594">Flying higher than anyone had before</a>, the two men captured important footage which was later <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/the-h-word/2013/apr/03/first-flight-over-everest-physiology">examined by Michael Ward</a>, mountaineer and doctor on the successful 1953 expedition. </p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/67325/incredible-stories-of-intrepid-explorers-through-the-centuries?page=1"><strong>Discover the incredible stories of intrepid explorers through the centuries</strong></a></p>

A historic flight

By 1933, several further unsuccessful attempts had been made to climb Everest. But two Scottish pilots, Lieutenant David McIntyre and Sir Douglas Douglas-Hamilton, made history on 3 April that year when they were the first men to fly over the mystical mountain. Flying higher than anyone had before , the two men captured important footage which was later examined by Michael Ward , mountaineer and doctor on the successful 1953 expedition. 

<p>On 29 May 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary, a New Zealand mountaineer, and Tenzing Norgay, a Nepali Sherpa, became the first explorers to reach Everest’s storied summit. The pair were part of a British expedition sponsored by the Royal Geographical Society. Two members of their group, Charles Evans and Tom Bourdillon, had made it within 300 feet (91m) of the summit a couple of days prior but had had to turn back because one of their oxygen tanks stopped working. The news of Hillary and Norgay’s achievement reverberated around the world on 2 June, the day of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation.</p>

A moment history will never forget

On 29 May 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary, a New Zealand mountaineer, and Tenzing Norgay, a Nepali Sherpa, became the first explorers to reach Everest’s storied summit. The pair were part of a British expedition sponsored by the Royal Geographical Society. Two members of their group, Charles Evans and Tom Bourdillon, had made it within 300 feet of the summit a couple of days prior but had had to turn back because one of their oxygen tanks stopped working. The news of Hillary and Norgay’s achievement reverberated around the world on 2 June, the day of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation.

<p>Following the successful ascent by the British team, the Swiss were the next to reach the summit of Everest on 23 May 1956. Then on 1 May 1963, James W. Whittaker and Nawang Gombu Sherpa (the nephew of Tenzing Norgay) reached the top as part of an American team (pictured). As well as scaling the peak, the purpose of the expedition was to research how climbers’ bodies responded to such high altitude and having a limited supply of oxygen. In 1965, India became the fourth country to reach the top, putting nine men on the summit of Everest. </p>

Three further expeditions

Following the successful ascent by the British team, the Swiss were the next to reach the summit of Everest on 23 May 1956. Then on 1 May 1963, James W. Whittaker and Nawang Gombu Sherpa (the nephew of Tenzing Norgay) reached the top as part of an American team (pictured). As well as scaling the peak, the purpose of the expedition was to research how climbers’ bodies responded to such high altitude and having a limited supply of oxygen. In 1965, India became the fourth country to reach the top, putting nine men on the summit of Everest. 

<p>Not content with the challenge of simply climbing the mountain, in 1987 Diana Penny-Sherpani created the first Everest Marathon. Despite concerns voiced by the medical community, the event was a success, with 45 athletes from five countries running between Gorak Shep at 17,100 feet (5,212m) elevation and Namche Bazaar at 11,300 feet (3,444m) elevation. The biennial event holds a <a href="https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/highest-marathon">Guinness World Record</a> for the highest marathon and you can still run it today. </p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleryextended/98727/amazing-places-saved-from-destruction?page=1"><strong>Discover the amazing places that were saved from destruction</strong></a></p>

You can even run a marathon up there…

Not content with the challenge of simply climbing the mountain, in 1987 Diana Penny-Sherpani created the first Everest Marathon. Despite concerns voiced by the medical community, the event was a success, with 45 athletes from five countries running between Gorak Shep at 17,100 feet elevation and Namche Bazaar at 11,300 feet elevation. The biennial event holds a Guinness World Record for the highest marathon and you can still run it today. 

<p>Nowadays, hundreds of people climb Everest each year. But they wouldn’t be able to make it without Sherpas. The name actually applies to a Tibetan indigenous group who live in the Himalayas, but since many Sherpas work as mountain guides, the term has become synonymous with this role. Sherpas are generally better at coping with high altitude than foreign explorers, since they’ve adapted to living in these conditions. They are the backbone of Everest expeditions, showing climbers the safest routes and carrying supplies including extra oxygen, food and water up the mountain.</p>

The best climbers of all?

Nowadays, hundreds of people climb Everest each year. But they wouldn’t be able to make it without Sherpas. The name actually applies to a Tibetan indigenous group who live in the Himalayas, but since many Sherpas work as mountain guides, the term has become synonymous with this role. Sherpas are generally better at coping with high altitude than foreign explorers, since they’ve adapted to living in these conditions. They are the backbone of Everest expeditions, showing climbers the safest routes and carrying supplies including extra oxygen, food and water up the mountain.

<p>As well as ensuring mountaineering expeditions run smoothly, Sherpas clear up trash left on the mountain afterwards – which can be a huge undertaking. In Tibetan, Everest is known as Chomolungma meaning goddess mother of the world, and the summit is believed to house the Buddhist goddess Miyolangsangma. In recent years, Sherpas have <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-48464030">voiced concerns about the sheer number of climbers that scale Everest each year</a>, which has increased the demands heaped on them.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/news/108161/every-step-counts-nimsdai-nims-purja-on-being-the-first-to-conquer-k2"><strong>Read our interview with Nims Purja, who conquered K2 in winter</strong></a></p>

Everest’s caretakers

As well as ensuring mountaineering expeditions run smoothly, Sherpas clear up rubbish left on the mountain afterwards – which can be a huge undertaking. In Tibetan, Everest is known as Chomolungma meaning goddess mother of the world, and the summit is believed to house the Buddhist goddess Miyolangsangma. In recent years, Sherpas have voiced concerns about the sheer number of climbers that scale Everest each year , which has increased the demands heaped on them.

<p>The most treacherous part of the route up Everest is the Khumbu icefall, a steep stretch of the mountain at the head of the Khumbu glacier where avalanches are common. The route is usually secured with ropes and ladders by Sherpas each year. But in April 2014, tragedy struck when 16 Sherpas were killed while preparing the icefall for climbers, after a 7.9 magnitude earthquake led to a deadly avalanche. The event prompted calls for greater rights for Sherpas, who represent one-third of deaths on Everest.</p>

A deadly climbing season

The most treacherous part of the route up Everest is the Khumbu icefall, a steep stretch of the mountain at the head of the Khumbu glacier where avalanches are common. The route is usually secured with ropes and ladders by Sherpas each year. But in April 2014, tragedy struck when 16 Sherpas were killed while preparing the icefall for climbers, after a 7.9 magnitude earthquake led to a deadly avalanche. The event prompted calls for greater rights for Sherpas, who represent one-third of deaths on Everest.

<p>The Himalayas are one of the most seismically active places on the planet, resting on the boundary between the Indo-Australian tectonic plate and the Eurasian plate. But earthquakes aren’t that common here, which made the events of 2015 all the more shocking. On 25 April, the region – along with most of east and central Nepal, and parts of India, Tibet, Bangladesh and Bhutan – was hit by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake. It killed 9,000 people, including at least 19 climbers at Everest after triggering an avalanche on the mountain. </p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/109810/the-most-destructive-earthquakes-in-the-last-decade?page=1"><strong>Read more about the most destructive earthquakes of the last decade</strong></a></p>

A devastating earthquake

The Himalayas are one of the most seismically active places on the planet, resting on the boundary between the Indo-Australian tectonic plate and the Eurasian plate. But earthquakes aren’t that common here, which made the events of 2015 all the more shocking. On 25 April, the region – along with most of east and central Nepal, and parts of India, Tibet, Bangladesh and Bhutan – was hit by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake. It killed 9,000 people, including at least 19 climbers at Everest after triggering an avalanche on the mountain. 

<p>The <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-53062484">2,100-mile (3,440km)-long border</a> between China and India which rests in the Himalayas has been the subject of an ongoing dispute. Since the 1950s, the two countries have fought over where the boundary should lie, with a war breaking out in 1952. Despite an agreement in 1996, which forbade use of explosives and firearms at the boundary, tensions reignited in January 2020 and a fatal clash took place in the Galwan Valley that June. <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/25/world/asia/india-china-border.html">A “minor face-off” occurred in January 2021</a>, according to the Indian Army, although officials from both sides gave away few details about it.</p>

Border tensions

The 2,100-mile long border between China and India which rests in the Himalayas has been the subject of an ongoing dispute. Since the 1950s, the two countries have fought over where the boundary should lie, with a war breaking out in 1952. Despite an agreement in 1996, which forbade use of explosives and firearms at the boundary, tensions reignited in January 2020 and a fatal clash took place in the Galwan Valley that June. A “minor face-off” occurred in January 2021 , according to the Indian Army, although officials from both sides gave away few details about it.

<p>At 22,943 feet (6,993m) tall, it’s not up there with the Himalayas’ big hitters, but Machhapuchhare could be its most elusive peak. Located in north-central Nepal, the stunning, fishtail-shaped mountain has never been summited. That’s due to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20210216-the-himalayan-peak-off-limits-to-climbers">British army officer Jimmy Roberts</a>, who attempted an expedition up Machhapuchhare in 1957, but had to turn back due to bad weather. Bizarrely, Roberts made the request to ban all climbing on the mountain and the Nepali government obliged. It’s also regarded as sacred by the Gurung people who live in the village of Chomrong nearby.</p>

One mountain can’t be climbed

At 22,943 feet  tall, it’s not up there with the Himalayas’ big hitters, but Machhapuchhare could be its most elusive peak. Located in north-central Nepal, the stunning, fishtail-shaped mountain has never been summited. That’s due to British army officer Jimmy Roberts , who attempted an expedition up Machhapuchhare in 1957, but had to turn back due to bad weather. Bizarrely, Roberts made the request to ban all climbing on the mountain and the Nepali government obliged. It’s also regarded as sacred by the Gurung people who live in the village of Chomrong nearby.

<p>The Himalayas’ enormous glaciers have long been prone to flash flooding, avalanches and landslides. Yet these events could become <a href="https://www.earthisland.org/journal/index.php/articles/entry/deadly-flash-floods-on-the-rise-in-the-himalayas/">more frequent and more deadly due to climate change</a>, which is accelerating the rate at which glaciers are melting. In February 2021, a glacier in Uttarakhand, on the southern slopes of the Indian Himalayas, detached, spurring a lethal flash flood which killed more than 70 people.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/92886/incredible-images-that-show-the-true-impact-of-climate-change?page=1"><strong>Check out these incredible images which show the true impact of climate change</strong></a></p>

Climate change is causing chaos

The Himalayas’ enormous glaciers have long been prone to flash flooding, avalanches and landslides. Yet these events could become more frequent and more deadly due to climate change , which is accelerating the rate at which glaciers are melting. In February 2021, a glacier in Uttarakhand, on the southern slopes of the Indian Himalayas, detached, spurring a lethal flash flood which killed more than 70 people.

<p>Flash flooding isn’t the only issue affecting the region. Ladakh, in the Indian Himalayas, is one of the driest places in the world, and has experienced particularly acute water shortages in April and May during recent years. In an attempt to solve the problem, <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-58691004">scientists have created a number of artificial glaciers known as stupas</a>, which store and release water to be used by nearby villages. They were invented by Indian engineer Sonam Wangchuk in 2013, and the project is being developed by researchers from the University of Aberdeen.</p>

Could fake glaciers solve the crisis?

Flash flooding isn’t the only issue affecting the region. Ladakh, in the Indian Himalayas, is one of the driest places in the world, and has experienced particularly acute water shortages in April and May during recent years. In an attempt to solve the problem, scientists have created a number of artificial glaciers known as stupas , which store and release water to be used by nearby villages. They were invented by Indian engineer Sonam Wangchuk in 2013, and the project is being developed by researchers from the University of Aberdeen.

<p>In May 2021, a Hong Kong teacher became the <a href="https://people.com/sports/hong-kong-teacher-fastest-woman-climb-mt-everest/#:~:text=Tsang%20Yin%2Dhung%20has%20become,%2C%20on%20Sunday%2C%20May%2023.">fastest woman ever to climb Everest</a> – and she beat the previous record by more than 13 hours. Tsang Yin-hung traveled the distance from base camp to the summit in just 25 hours and 50 minutes, only stopping twice along the way to change clothes. She wasn’t the only record-breaker in the 2021 climbing season: 75-year-old lawyer Arthur Muir became the oldest person to scale the peak, while Nepali Sherpa Kami Rita broke his own record for the most summits, completing his 25th climb.</p>

The fastest female climber

In May 2021, a Hong Kong teacher became the fastest woman ever to climb Everest – and she beat the previous record by more than 13 hours. Tsang Yin-hung traveled the distance from base camp to the summit in just 25 hours and 50 minutes, only stopping twice along the way to change clothes. She wasn’t the only record-breaker in the 2021 climbing season: 75-year-old lawyer Arthur Muir became the oldest person to scale the peak, while Nepali Sherpa Kami Rita broke his own record for the most summits, completing his 25th climb.

<p>Despite the fact the first American team reached the summit of Everest in 1963, it was more than 40 years before the first Black climber achieved the accolade. This reflects a broader trend of a <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/-black-team-will-climb-mount-everest-first-time-rcna2315">lack of diversity in mountaineering</a> – although an all-Black team is hoping to change that. In 2022, the <a href="https://fullcircleeverest.com/">Full Circle</a> expedition will see a team of nine climbers, led by mountaineer Phil Henderson, summit the legendary peak. It’s hoped that the expedition will encourage more Black Americans to join the outdoor movement.</p>

Diversity in mountaineering

Despite the fact the first American team reached the summit of Everest in 1963, it was more than 40 years before the first Black climber achieved the accolade. This reflects a broader trend of a lack of diversity in mountaineering – although an all-Black team has recently changed that. In 2022, the Full Circle expedition saw a team of nine climbers, led by mountaineer Phil Henderson, summit the legendary peak. It’s hoped that the expedition will encourage more Black Americans to join the outdoor movement.

<p>Unfortunately, the increased popularity of Everest expeditions has led to <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-48401491">overcrowding on the summit</a>. Lines are normal in climbing season, when weather conditions often mean there’s only a short window in which the summit can be reached, but these so-called traffic jams can also be worsened by inexperienced climbers holding up the line. Overcrowding can be extremely dangerous and many Sherpas have called for greater restrictions on tour operators, and a reduction in the number of climbers, to make it safer.</p>

A crowded summit

Unfortunately, the increased popularity of Everest expeditions has led to overcrowding on the summit . Queues are normal in climbing season, when weather conditions often mean there’s only a short window in which the summit can be reached, but these so-called traffic jams can also be worsened by inexperienced climbers holding up the line. Overcrowding can be extremely dangerous and many Sherpas have called for greater restrictions on tour operators, and a reduction in the number of climbers, to make it safer.

In June 2022, Nepal announced it would be moving Everest’s base camp to a lower-elevation location, as the current area is being destabilized by meltwater. The Khumbu glacier, on which the camp is located, is melting at a faster rate due to climate change, leading to crevasses opening up which are making the terrain unstable and unsafe. The landmark move will see the camp transferred from an elevation of 17,598 feet (5,364m) to an altitude around 656 feet to 1,312 feet (200-400m) lower, accordin

Everest base camp set to move due to melting glaciers

In June 2022,  Nepal announced it would be moving Everest’s base camp to a lower-elevation location , as the current area is being destabilized by meltwater. The Khumbu glacier, on which the camp is located, is melting at a faster rate due to climate change, leading to crevasses opening up which are making the terrain unstable and unsafe. The landmark move will see the camp transferred from an elevation of 17,598 feet to an altitude around 656 feet to 1,312 feet lower, according to government officials.

<p>With their legendary, time-honored beauty, the Himalayas grace the wish lists of travelers all over the world. But climate change and tourism represent two of the biggest challenges on the horizon. <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/himalaya-mountain-climate-change-report">A report published in 2019</a> highlighted the fact that the Himalayas are warming faster than the rest of the world, spurring the retreat of glaciers, melting of permafrost and more unpredictable weather conditions in future. Ensuring the safety of climbers and Sherpas on Everest – which may mean enforcing firmer restrictions on tour operators – is another issue that should be at the forefront. </p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/116528/spectacular-sights-weve-lost-in-2021?page=1"><strong>Discover the spectacular sights we've lost in 2021</strong></a></p>

Challenges ahead

With their legendary, time-honored beauty, the Himalayas grace the wish lists of travelers all over the world. But climate change and tourism represent two of the biggest challenges on the horizon. A report published in 2019 highlighted the fact that the Himalayas are warming faster than the rest of the world, spurring the retreat of glaciers, melting of permafrost and more unpredictable weather conditions in future. Ensuring the safety of climbers and Sherpas on Everest – which may mean enforcing firmer restrictions on tour operators – is another issue that should be at the forefront.

Now check out the most beautiful mountains in America

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Youtube channel Himalayan Roads filmed their journey from the Indian town of Shimla to the Pangi Valley. It's full of close calls, and at one point it even starts snowing—as if the drive wasn't hard enough.

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After a deadly summit season, Mount Everest hikers will need to be tagged

the himalayas mountain travel

Adventurers seeking to climb the world’s highest peak will now have to abide by a new safety requirement, according to Nepalese officials. 

This Spring, when summit season begins, all climbers ascending or descending Mount Everest will need to carry an electronic chip with GPS-tracking capability sewn into their jackets, Rakesh Gurung, director of Nepal’s Department of Tourism, told CNN . The tracking chip will make search and rescues easier, which can cost up to tens of thousands of dollars.

“Reputed companies were already using them, but now it’s been mandatory for all climbers,” Gurung said. 

Nepal's Department of Tourism did not respond to USA TODAY’s request for comment. 

The chips will cost hikers around $10 to $15 to borrow and return after hopefully accomplishing the challenging 29,032-foot mountain. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Nepal, home to eight of the world's tallest peaks, relies on mountaineering tourism to drive its Himalayan economy. Trekkers who attempt the summits help bring vital income to rural villages by hiring guides.

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Last year’s summit season was considered the mountain's second- deadliest season . Out of 677 trekkers in 2023, there were 18 deaths, according to the Himalayan Database , which tracks the summits of various Himalayan peaks. 

Rescues are treacherous on Mt. Everest, especially past the elevation of 27,200 feet, known as the “death zone,” where the temperatures are dangerously cold and oxygen is scarce. In May 2023, the rescue of a Malaysian hiker in the “death zone” took sherpas six hours by foot. The guide carried the man on his back until a helicopter could lift the hiker from Camp III, located about 23,497 feet high.

The Nepal government banned solo trekking to Mt. Everest last spring as part of its aim to make the summit safer. The country also increased the cost of the permit for non-locals by 36% to $15,000.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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U.S. Warns Spring Breakers Headed to Mexico, Jamaica or the Bahamas

In recent weeks, American travelers to some of the busiest international destinations during spring vacation have been urged by the State Department to exercise extra caution.

A sunset over a calm harbor turns the water and the ski into hues of dark blue and black.

By Vjosa Isai

Don’t wander off the resort after dark. Keep the flashy clothing and jewelry to a minimum. Stay aware of your surroundings. Those are some of the travel rules that Ginger Moore, a retired logistics analyst from Panama City, Fla., adheres to on her solo trips throughout the Caribbean.

Ms. Moore, 75, has always felt safe during her stays in Jamaica, where she’s returning for the fourth time on Wednesday. But this year, while she’s still happy to take a trip, a travel advisory for Jamaica, reissued in January by the U.S. State Department, has elevated her concerns.

“I’m sure there are parts, just like the United States, that you can go into that are not recommended,” said Ms. Moore. Nonetheless, she has taken new precautions for her upcoming trip, like packing additional health supplies and purchasing a security bar for the sliding balcony door of her hotel room.

In recent weeks, the State Department and U.S. Embassies have issued new and updated advisories urging travelers to Mexico, Jamaica and the Bahamas — some of the busiest international spring break destinations — to exercise extra caution after recent violent events, some in tourist areas. Security experts suggest that the advice is largely consistent with advisories of previous years.

Caroline Hammer, a global security analyst at the risk intelligence company RANE , said tourists should interpret the advisories as warnings to exercise caution and avoid specific hot spots for crime, but not as a blanket rule to restrict their travel anywhere in the region.

What do the travel warnings say?

Warnings about spring break travel to certain parts of Mexico came in recent days, while the security alerts and updated travel advisories for Jamaica and the Bahamas were issued in late January.

The State Department has classified Jamaica at Level 3 since 2022, recommending visitors “ reconsider travel ” because of episodes of violent crime. The agency reissued the travel advisory in January to also alert tourists about access to medical services, and warned that “sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.”

Kamina Johnson Smith, Jamaica’s foreign affairs and foreign trade minister, said in a statement published two days later that the country made “serious improvements” in responding to crime and in its health care infrastructure and disagreed with the scope of the advisory.

“The government of Jamaica is disappointed that the language used does not reflect our country’s significant progress,” she said.

Data from the Jamaican national police force shows that as of March 1, several crime categories, including murders, break-ins and rapes, had declined compared with the same period in 2023, though shootings and assault had risen.

In the Bahamas, gang violence and a number of murders prompted U.S. officials to urge tourists to “ exercise increased caution ,” especially in the cities of Nassau and Freeport. Recreational boat tours, jet ski rentals and other water activities are unevenly regulated, the advisory additionally notes, and have led to injuries and deaths.

In early February, two female travelers said their drinks had been spiked during a cruise stop in the Bahamas and accused resort staff of sexually assaulting them .

Last week, in a statement specifically discussing spring break travel, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico reiterated precautions outlined in a State Department travel advisory, last updated over the summer, issued because of crime and kidnappings. It reminded tourists to be cautious when visiting the downtown areas of Cancún, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, all in Quintana Roo State.

The advisory also recommends travel by toll road in daytime hours, and to remain near major cities, which have a heightened police presence and other emergency services.

What’s behind the warning in Mexico?

Organized crime groups in Mexico have largely kept violent activity outside resorts to avoid hurting the tourism industry, said Ms. Hammer, of RANE. The cartels, she said, depend on tourists themselves, by selling drugs to visitors and extorting local businesses, and it would generate a heightened response from the Mexican government.

In 2023, tourists spent close to $3.1 billion in Mexico, up 10 percent over 2022, according to data from the tourism ministry, with many travelers Cancún-bound.

A handful of violent episodes last year included the kidnappings of two Americans who had crossed the border near Brownsville, Texas, and were found dead, as well as heated disputes between rival taxi and Uber drivers in Cancún. The violence came on the heels of a number of gunfights and assassinations in late 2021 and early 2022 that rattled tourists along the Riviera Maya .

“The good news is that those incidents that have been reported inside of resorts are extremely, extremely rare,” Ms. Hammer said.

In its latest advisory, the State Department warns that shootings by rival gangs, “while not directed at tourists,” have caught some in the crossfire, even on resorts. Last month, an American woman was killed during a drug-related shooting in a beach club in Tulum. Prosecutors in Quintana Roo said she was a bystander.

Despite these incidents, the security picture in Mexico has generally remained unchanged, said Zachary Rabinor, the founder and president of Journey Mexico , a luxury travel company.

“A lot of this is kind of general, stereotypical fears,” he said, adding that tourists shouldn’t interpret violent episodes as sweeping events, especially in resort destinations most popular with visitors.

“There are definitely still areas that are troublesome, but in general, they are not where tourists are going,” Mr. Rabinor said.

What’s behind the warning for the Bahamas?

In January, the Bahamian prime minister, Philip Davis, shared his government’s plan to tamp down criminal activity after a spate of murders, mostly gang-related.

“If you choose crime, you will face the full weight and might of the law,” Mr. Davis said during a national address on Jan. 24. The admonishing tone was a sharp turn from a celebratory moment just a month earlier, when the Bahamian tourism ministry announced the country had hit a record of eight million travelers in 2023.

While the police grapple with crime off resorts, the Bahamian foreign affairs ministry said, in a statement published shortly after the U.S. Embassy alert, that the country does not believe that tourists are under any new “elevated or increased security risk.”

What can you do to stay safe?

Effective safety measures can be as simple as remaining vigilant, and planning ahead by purchasing travel insurance and updating emergency contact lists. Other general steps recommended in the advisories include avoiding walking or driving off the resort areas at night, avoiding public transit and heeding local laws.

High traveler volumes around spring break may make tourism police forces, in places where they have them, slower to respond to emergency calls, Ms. Hammer of RANE Network warned.

Arranging transportation through a travel company or a resort for excursions or trips to the airport is highly recommended, said Scott Stewart, the vice president for intelligence at the security firm TorchStone Global.

“A lot of times, there’s not a lot of a gap between criminals and taxi drivers in many countries, so using a trusted transportation provider is huge,” said Mr. Stewart.

He also recommends “traveling gray,” a term used in security circles for keeping a low profile, such as by not displaying luxury items that might draw the attention of criminals.

The State Department’s reissued warning raised concerns for Ms. Moore, the traveler heading to Jamaica, but it hasn’t deterred her from making the trip.

“In the tourist areas, I just feel very comfortable,” she said. “I’ve just never had any bad experiences, knock on wood, and I love Jamaica. That’s why I keep going back.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the title of Philip Davis. He is the prime minister of the Bahamas, not its president.

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Vjosa Isai is a reporter and researcher for The Times based in Toronto, where she covers news from across Canada. More about Vjosa Isai

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Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

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52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

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PM extends best wishes on Bijaya Dashami festival

From blue mountains, pepper eyes fastest no o2 ascent of 14 peaks, section officer arrested for granting citizenship to chinese nationals, resham chaudhary deemed ineligible to become party chair, ec rules.

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Himalayan News Service

the himalayas mountain travel

An Australian woman climber is all set to leave for Mt Annapurna in a bid to complete all 14 peaks above 8,000m without using supplemental oxygen.

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Icefall doctors leave for everest base camp to fix climbing route, renowned climber txikon aborts ambitious annapurna winter expedition due to bad weather.

Allie Pepper, 48, from the Blue Mountains in Sydney, is now in Kathmandu to prepare for her spring ascent on the world's 10th highest peak this spring season.

On her mission ''The Respect Above the Clouds 14 Peaks No O2'', Pepper says she is committed to achieving her goals through dedication and determination. Pepper is not a new name in mountain climbing. She has over two-decade of experience in which she has proven her adventure skills in different mountains.

"I aim to scale the world's 8000m mountains without supplemental oxygen in the next two years," she said, adding that she began her project from July 2023 by climbing Broad peak in Pakistan and later Mt Manaslu in September 2023.

"Now, I have to complete 12 remaining peaks by the end of July 2025," Pepper shared, adding that she will leave for Mt Annapurna in a few weeks aiming to complete the third peak of her list.

Seven Summit Treks is locally managing her expedition in Nepal while a small crew is also working hard to document her climb. Mikel Sherpa will be guiding her to the mountains, according to SST.

"I believe the biggest challenges offer the greatest rewards in life. It is during these challenges that we discover what we are truly capable of," she said.

Pepper wants to complete all 14 peaks without oxygen in the fastest time. "There are currently only two men in the world that have verified ascents of all 14 x 8000m peaks true summits without oxygen. They took 16 years to complete their projects," she noted. Pepper plans to complete Kanchenjunga and Makalu after Annapurna in the first phase.

Pepper grew up in Australia's largest climbing area, the Blue Mountains. However she didn't discover rock climbing until she was 23 when she signed up to an Outdoor Recreation course at a local TAFE College. "I found a career path that I enjoyed and was naturally quite good at, so I continued to study Outdoor Leadership. I completed a 10 day technical mountaineering course in New Zealand in December, 1999," she explained.

When she finished her leadership course she headed off to Aconcagua in Argentina to work as an assistant guide on her first high altitude mountain. "I felt very strong on the mountain as I was able to take care of others, not just myself, so I pursued high altitude mountaineering," she shared.

Since that first expedition, mountain climbing has changed the course of her life. She spent around 3 years climbing and guiding in the Andes before she decided she was ready for the Himalaya. "In 2007 I embarked on my first 8000m expedition to Cho Oyu 8188m in Tibet. In 8 days I climbed to the summit and back on my own without the use of supplemental oxygen. Only a handful of women in the world have achieved this," she added.

When menopause hit her in 2021, she thought her career was over due to the severity of the symptoms that hit her like a freight train. Once she was able to find the proper hormone replacement therapy, her life changed.

According to her, she then reached the summit of Mt Everest, the fore-summit of Manaslu and in April 2022 became the third Australian to achieve the summit of Annapurna 1, the most dangerous of all the fourteen 8000m peaks. "I have also attempted Everest, Lhotse and Makalu without the use of supplemental oxygen. In May 2023, I reached a height of 8450m on Everest without oxygen. This is the highest altitude that any Australian woman has been without using supplemental oxygen," she said.

It is her passion to continue doing what she loves on the world's highest peaks, as that is where her spirit is free. "In doing so, I aim to show that it is possible to live your dreams and achieve your goals no matter how big or challenging they may seem," Pepper added.

According to Mikel, Pepper is so strong and determined in achieving her goals. "Pepper is an exceptional climber, boasting 23 years of guiding experience. I first ascended with her on Manaslu in September. She surpasses the average climber in skill and knowledge with her adeptness in gear usage, mastery of ascent and descent techniques, and overall technical prowess, akin to a Sherpa in her capabilities."

Many individuals venture into the mountains ill-prepared, lacking the necessary knowledge and experience, often resulting in injuries or fatalities, endangering not only themselves but also local guides, Sherpas, and fellow climbers. I firmly believe that anyone aspiring to summit should possess a basic level of experience and understanding before tackling the challenges of the Himalayas, Pepper said.

"This project, "Respect Above the Clouds," embodies my reverence for the local communities and guides, such as the Sherpas in the Himalayas, Pakistan, and Tibet, who serve as the traditional custodians of the lands I climb upon. It's a tribute to their lives intertwined with the mountains, showcasing their real stories, their tireless efforts, and the strength they exhibit. As a fellow guide, I deeply resonate with their experiences and hold immense respect for their profession."

According to Pepper, what sets this project apart is her decision to climb without supplemental oxygen and its target audience. "Amidst my menopause, I battled severe depression and a midlife crisis, doubting my return to climbing. Thankfully, I recovered, and now I aspire to be an example for women facing similar challenges, showing them that recovery is possible."

The journey to this project has been fraught with financial constraints, lack of sponsorship, and uncertainty. For three years, I climbed 6000ers, guided, and saved diligently before summiting Mt. Everest in 2011. However, adverse weather conditions forced me to rely on oxygen mid-summit, thwarting my goal of an oxygen-free ascent. The fierce winds and bone-chilling temperatures made the climb exceedingly difficult.

Experience has taught me that success of this project hinges on seizing the right summit window and favorable weather. Timing is crucial, especially on peaks like Kanchenjunga and Makalu, where weather conditions typically improve by late May. Additionally, choosing a reliable logistic partner is equally critical. I've chosen Seven Summit for their expertise, coordination with weather patterns, and experience supporting climbers like Kristin Harila and Nims in their projects, she said.

"I've always placed my trust in local outfitters for my climbs, whether in Nepal, Pakistan, or Tibet. Their dedication goes beyond mere employment-it's a matter of pride. Entrusting them with my life underscores the significance of this bond, for a wrong decision on their part could have dire consequences."

"Now, it's a now-or-never moment, a time to pursue my desires wholeheartedly. I've poured everything into this endeavor-sold my home, left my job, halted my guiding business-and dedicated six days a week to rigorous training at home. I'm fully committed."

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Moscow Tours

The glorious capital of mother Russia

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Moscow Tours overview

Our private Moscow city tours allow travellers the benefit of an expert tour guide with you in every step. All you have to do is take it all in and enjoy. Explore a city born from an imperial past, yet an enduring symbol of Soviet Russia. This is a city between two worlds. When you visit Moscow , you will see how its art and architecture reflects a crossroad between Europe and Asia. Moscow revels in the centuries of comings and goings of great minds that have called this world-renowned metropolis home.

Moscow Travel Highlights:

  • Rich in history and culture, reveals some amazing stories. Our captivating Moscow tours have a way of bringing the past to life as you follow a Soviet trail through the city
  • Explore numerous world-class historical and contemporary art galleries and museums in Moscow , including the Tretyakov State Gallery, the Pushkin Museum, the Moscow Museum of Modern Art, and many more

Moscow holds the World's Best of Jaw-dropping Art

  • Be enthralled by the monumental architecture of famous churches and iconic buildings, such as the Kremlin, the Red Square, and Saint Basil’s Cathedral
  • Experience the magnificent Moscow Metro, whose grandiose architecture, intricate mosaics, and dramatic sculptures have made it a must-see attraction when travelling Russia
  • Indulge yourself in one of their many famous theatre art performances, whether it be an opera or ballet performance in the glamorous Bolshoi Theatre or a post-drama or comedy production in the Gogol Centre

Captivating Adventures to Experience in Moscow

  • Take a Moscow river cruise along the mighty Volga River for a unique perspective into exploring Russia’s hidden gems and treasures
  • Feast on exotic Russian cuisines while strolling through the street markets or at a fine dining restaurant, and enjoy countless specialty stores sampling vodka, caviar, and chocolate
  • Shop to your heart’s desire in Moscow’s two most lavished shopping centres, GUM and TSUM, where items range from the most glamorous high-end fashion brands, art, and jewellery to antiques and traditional handicrafts

Must-Visit Moscow Landmarks

The Red Square, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, and The Kremlin top every visitor’s list. These iconic buildings have defined Russia for centuries, but Moscow’s culture doesn’t stop there. Visit Izmailovsky Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world (six times larger than New York’s Central Park) or marvel at the Ostankino Tower, once the tallest structure on earth. Chase down real adventure and ride the Moscow Metro for a true taste of Russia in what visitors call part bomb shelter, part art gallery.

Moscow is an elite paradise with the highest concentration of billionaires on the planet, so nothing is off-limits. Moscow is full of history and possibility – both a political hub and billionaire playground. Visit Moscow and decide for yourself what this dynamic city means to you. Explore the expertly designed Moscow tour packages below for some more inspiration.

Explore Moscow Tours

Russia travel guide

Moscow Vibes – Three Day City Escape

This handcrafted Moscow tour is perfectly planned weekend exploration of Russia capital's most famous tourist attractions. You will enjoy a panoramic tour of this magnificent city, will explore mighty Kremlin and Red Square and indulge in world-famed Moscow metro and Arbat street.

Moscow tour

Classic Moscow - Art, History and Culture

Breathe in the history of Moscow, explore its Imperial and soviet past, dynamic contemporary culture and lifestyle. On this 5-day tour of Moscow, you'll visit the must-see sights with your private guide and explore the city at your own pace.

Moscow to St Petersburg Tour

Highlights of Moscow & St Petersburg

Immerse yourself in the art, history and culture of Russia and explore the contrasting styles of Moscow and St Petersburg in just one week. Experience the iconic landmarks of Moscow, then, take a fast train to Saint Petersburg, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

Moscow and St Petersburg tour

Moscow and St Petersburg in Style

This carefully crafted 9-day itinerary tells the tale of two cities – Moscow, the source of Eastern political, economic and spiritual influence, and St Petersburg – Russia’s cultural epicentre and window to Western Europe.

Moscow St Petersburg Golden Ring Tour Russia

Moscow, St Petersburg and Golden Ring Rendezvous

This tour of Moscow, St. Petersburg and the Golden Ring explores the places that shaped Russia’s history – past, present and future. Uncover Moscow’s ongoing revolutionary spirit, before journeying back in time to rural, medieval Russia. End in St Petersburg, a city of royal splendour and undeniable romance.

St Petersburg Moscow Russia winter tour Christmas New Years tour

Moscow & St Petersburg Winter Escapade

Experience the romantic, winter wonderland atmosphere and festive city lights of Russia’s two biggest cities and celebrate the New Year! You’ll discover some of the cities' most iconic attractions and lesser-known gems.

Northern lights in Russia tour Moscow Murmansk St Petersburg

Northern Lights in Russia: Arctic Winter Magic

Explore main sights of mighty Moscow and cultural capital of Russia - Saint Petersburg. Head to Karelia, where we’ll stop to admire the Ruskeala Mountain Park and historic Kizhi Island. Discover the customs of the indigenous Saami in Kola Peninsula and observe Aurora Borealis dancing in the sky.

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A custom tour made to order

We understand sometimes our set departure dates do not align with your ability to travel at that time, or you just want to travel bespoke. We got you covered.

Go custom — gives you the choice & flexibility of creating your own bespoke itinerary, using our tours for inspiration.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

when to visit moscow

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

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With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

where to stay in moscow

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

moscow itinerary

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

moscow itinerary

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

moscow itinerary

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

moscow itinerary

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

  • Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
  • Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
  • Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The Red Square

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

  • Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
  • Cost: USD $15.00
  • Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The Moscow Kremlin

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

  • Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
  • Cost: Free!
  • Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Lenins Mausoleum

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

  • Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
  • Cost: USD $8.00
  • Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

St. Basils Cathedral

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

  • Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
  • Cost: Free to enter
  • Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

GUM Department Store

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

  • Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
  • Cost: USD $5.00
  • Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Novodevichy Convent

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

  • Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
  • Cost: Free! 
  • Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

  • Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
  • Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The State Tretyakov Gallery

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

  • Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
  • Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

All Russian Exhibition Center

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

  • Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
  • Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
  • Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Bolshoi Theater

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

moscow itinerary

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

  • Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

  • Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
  • This museum is fun for both adults and children!
  • Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

  • A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
  • Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
  • The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

The Alexander Garden

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

  • Television and radio tower in Moscow
  • Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
  • Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

Ostankino Television Tower

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

  • The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
  • Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
  • Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Izmaylovo District

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

  • Closed on Mondays
  • Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
  • The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

Sergiev Posad Golden Ring

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

Trip to Kolomna - Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

Alya and Campbell

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Russian Tours and Cruises from Express to Russia

  • Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Moscow Kremlin, photo by Walkerssk on Pixabay

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

St. Basiils Cathedral, Moscow, Photo by vierro from Pexels

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Photo by Andrey Omelyanchuk on Unsplash

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

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Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

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Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

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Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

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Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

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Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

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Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

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Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

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Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

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Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

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Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

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Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Spasskaya Tower,Moscow Kremlin, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

Portrait of Leo Tolstoy by Ilya Repin (1887)

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy convent, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

St. Basil's Cathedral, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

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City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

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Moscow Metro walking tour

The Kremlin, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

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KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

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Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Girl with Peaches by Alexander Serov

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

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Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka, photo by Detonart at Pixabay

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Customer

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Novodevichy Convent, Moscow

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Kremlin in the times of Ivan III

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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French Journal of English Studies

Home Numéros 59 1 - Tisser les liens : voyager, e... 36 Views of Moscow Mountain: Teac...

36 Views of Moscow Mountain: Teaching Travel Writing and Mindfulness in the Tradition of Hokusai and Thoreau

L'auteur américain Henry David Thoreau est un écrivain du voyage qui a rarement quitté sa ville natale de Concorde, Massachusetts, où il a vécu de 1817 à 1862. Son approche du "voyage" consiste à accorder une profonde attention à son environnement ordinaire et à voir le monde à partir de perspectives multiples, comme il l'explique avec subtilité dans Walden (1854). Inspiré par Thoreau et par la célèbre série de gravures du peintre d'estampes japonais Katsushika Hokusai, intitulée 36 vues du Mt. Fuji (1830-32), j'ai fait un cours sur "L'écriture thoreauvienne du voyage" à l'Université de l'Idaho, que j'appelle 36 vues des montagnes de Moscow: ou, Faire un grand voyage — l'esprit et le carnet ouvert — dans un petit lieu . Cet article explore la philosophie et les stratégies pédagogiques de ce cours, qui tente de partager avec les étudiants les vertus d'un regard neuf sur le monde, avec les yeux vraiment ouverts, avec le regard d'un voyageur, en "faisant un grand voyage" à Moscow, Idaho. Les étudiants affinent aussi leurs compétences d'écriture et apprennent les traditions littéraires et artistiques associées au voyage et au sens du lieu.

Index terms

Keywords: , designing a writing class to foster engagement.

1 The signs at the edge of town say, "Entering Moscow, Idaho. Population 25,060." This is a small hamlet in the midst of a sea of rolling hills, where farmers grow varieties of wheat, lentils, peas, and garbanzo beans, irrigated by natural rainfall. Although the town of Moscow has a somewhat cosmopolitan feel because of the presence of the University of Idaho (with its 13,000 students and a few thousand faculty and staff members), elegant restaurants, several bookstores and music stores, and a patchwork of artsy coffee shops on Main Street, the entire mini-metropolis has only about a dozen traffic lights and a single high school. As a professor of creative writing and the environmental humanities at the university, I have long been interested in finding ways to give special focuses to my writing and literature classes that will help my students think about the circumstances of their own lives and find not only academic meaning but personal significance in our subjects. I have recently taught graduate writing workshops on such themes as "The Body" and "Crisis," but when I was given the opportunity recently to teach an undergraduate writing class on Personal and Exploratory Writing, I decided to choose a focus that would bring me—and my students—back to one of the writers who has long been of central interest to me: Henry David Thoreau.

2 One of the courses I have routinely taught during the past six years is Environmental Writing, an undergraduate class that I offer as part of the university's Semester in the Wild Program, a unique undergraduate opportunity that sends a small group of students to study five courses (Ecology, Environmental History, Environmental Writing, Outdoor Leadership and Wilderness Survival, and Wilderness Management and Policy) at a remote research station located in the middle of the largest wilderness area (the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness) in the United States south of Alaska. In "Teaching with Wolves," a recent article about the Semester in the Wild Program, I explained that my goal in the Environmental Writing class is to help the students "synthesize their experience in the wilderness with the content of the various classes" and "to think ahead to their professional lives and their lives as engaged citizens, for which critical thinking and communication skills are so important" (325). A foundational text for the Environmental Writing class is a selection from Thoreau's personal journal, specifically the entries he made October 1-20, 1853, which I collected in the 1993 writing textbook Being in the World: An Environmental Reader for Writers . I ask the students in the Semester in the Wild Program to deeply immerse themselves in Thoreau's precise and colorful descriptions of the physical world that is immediately present to him and, in turn, to engage with their immediate encounters with the world in their wilderness location. Thoreau's entries read like this:

Oct. 4. The maples are reddening, and birches yellowing. The mouse-ear in the shade in the middle of the day, so hoary, looks as if the frost still lay on it. Well it wears the frost. Bumblebees are on the Aster undulates , and gnats are dancing in the air. Oct. 5. The howling of the wind about the house just before a storm to-night sounds extremely like a loon on the pond. How fit! Oct. 6 and 7. Windy. Elms bare. (372)

3 In thinking ahead to my class on Personal and Exploratory Writing, which would be offered on the main campus of the University of Idaho in the fall semester of 2018, I wanted to find a topic that would instill in my students the Thoreauvian spirit of visceral engagement with the world, engagement on the physical, emotional, and philosophical levels, while still allowing my students to remain in the city and live their regular lives as students. It occurred to me that part of what makes Thoreau's journal, which he maintained almost daily from 1837 (when he was twenty years old) to 1861 (just a year before his death), such a rich and elegant work is his sense of being a traveler, even when not traveling geographically.

Traveling a Good Deal in Moscow

I have traveled a good deal in Concord…. --Henry David Thoreau, Walden (1854; 4)

4 For Thoreau, one did not need to travel a substantial physical distance in order to be a traveler, in order to bring a traveler's frame of mind to daily experience. His most famous book, Walden , is well known as an account of the author's ideas and daily experiments in simple living during the two years, two months, and two days (July 4, 1845, to September 6, 1847) he spent inhabiting a simple wooden house that he built on the shore of Walden Pond, a small lake to the west of Boston, Massachusetts. Walden Pond is not a remote location—it is not out in the wilderness. It is on the edge of a small village, much like Moscow, Idaho. The concept of "traveling a good deal in Concord" is a kind of philosophical and psychological riddle. What does it mean to travel extensively in such a small place? The answer to this question is meaningful not only to teachers hoping to design writing classes in the spirit of Thoreau but to all who are interested in travel as an experience and in the literary genre of travel writing.

5 Much of Walden is an exercise in deftly establishing a playful and intellectually challenging system of synonyms, an array of words—"economy," "deliberateness," "simplicity," "dawn," "awakening," "higher laws," etc.—that all add up to powerful probing of what it means to live a mindful and attentive life in the world. "Travel" serves as a key, if subtle, metaphor for the mindful life—it is a metaphor and also, in a sense, a clue: if we can achieve the traveler's perspective without going far afield, then we might accomplish a kind of enlightenment. Thoreau's interest in mindfulness becomes clear in chapter two of Walden , "Where I Lived, and What I Lived For," in which he writes, "Morning is when I am awake and there is a dawn in me. To be awake is to be alive. I have never yet met a man who was quite awake. How could I have looked him in the face?" The latter question implies the author's feeling that he is himself merely evolving as an awakened individual, not yet fully awake, or mindful, in his efforts to live "a poetic or divine life" (90). Thoreau proceeds to assert that "We must learn to reawaken and keep ourselves awake, not by mechanical aids, but by an infinite expectation of the dawn…. I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestionable ability of man to elevate his life by a conscious endeavor" (90). Just what this endeavor might be is not immediately spelled out in the text, but the author does quickly point out the value of focusing on only a few activities or ideas at a time, so as not to let our lives be "frittered away by detail." He writes: "Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity! I say, let your affairs be as two or three, and not a hundred or a thousand; … and keep your accounts on your thumb nail" (91). The strong emphasis in the crucial second chapter of Walden is on the importance of waking up and living deliberately through a conscious effort to engage in particular activities that support such awakening. It occurs to me that "travel," or simply making one's way through town with the mindset of a traveler, could be one of these activities.

6 It is in the final chapter of the book, titled "Conclusion," that Thoreau makes clear the relationship between travel and living an attentive life. He begins the chapter by cataloguing the various physical locales throughout North America or around the world to which one might travel—Canada, Ohio, Colorado, and even Tierra del Fuego. But Thoreau states: "Our voyaging is only great-circle sailing, and the doctors prescribe for diseases of the skin merely. One hastens to Southern Africa to chase the giraffe; but surely that is not the game he would be after." What comes next is brief quotation from the seventeenth-century English poet William Habbington (but presented anonymously in Thoreau's text), which might be one of the most significant passages in the entire book:

Direct your eye sight inward, and you'll find A thousand regions in your mind Yet undiscovered. Travel them, and be Expert in home-cosmography. (320)

7 This admonition to travel the mysterious territory of one's own mind and master the strange cosmos of the self is actually a challenge to the reader—and probably to the author himself—to focus on self-reflection and small-scale, local movement as if such activities were akin to exploration on a grand, planetary scale. What is really at issue here is not the physical distance of one's journey, but the mental flexibility of one's approach to the world, one's ability to look at the world with a fresh, estranged point of view. Soon after his discussion of the virtues of interior travel, Thoreau explains why he left his simple home at Walden Pond after a few years of experimental living there, writing, "It is remarkable how easily and insensibly we fall into a particular route, and make a beaten track for ourselves" (323). In other words, no matter what we're doing in life, we can fall into a "beaten track" if we're not careful, thus failing to stay "awake."

8 As I thought about my writing class at the University of Idaho, I wondered how I might design a series of readings and writing exercises for university students that would somehow emulate the Thoreauvian objective of achieving ultra-mindfulness in a local environment. One of the greatest challenges in designing such a class is the fact that it took Thoreau himself many years to develop an attentiveness to his environment and his own emotional rhythms and an efficiency of expression that would enable him to describe such travel-without-travel, and I would have only sixteen weeks to achieve this with my own students. The first task, I decided, was to invite my students into the essential philosophical stance of the class, and I did this by asking my students to read the opening chapter of Walden ("Economy") in which he talks about traveling "a good deal" in his small New England village as well as the second chapter and the conclusion, which reveal the author's enthusiasm (some might even say obsession ) for trying to achieve an awakened condition and which, in the end, suggest that waking up to the meaning of one's life in the world might be best accomplished by attempting the paradoxical feat of becoming "expert in home-cosmography." As I stated it among the objectives for my course titled 36 Views of Moscow Mountain: Or, Traveling a Good Deal—with Open Minds and Notebooks—in a Small Place , one of our goals together (along with practicing nonfiction writing skills and learning about the genre of travel writing) would be to "Cultivate a ‘Thoreauvian' way of appreciating the subtleties of the ordinary world."

Windy. Elms Bare.

9 For me, the elegance and heightened sensitivity of Thoreau's engagement with place is most movingly exemplified in his journal, especially in the 1850s after he's mastered the art of observation and nuanced, efficient description of specific natural phenomena and environmental conditions. His early entries in the journal are abstract mini-essays on such topics as truth, beauty, and "The Poet," but over time the journal notations become so immersed in the direct experience of the more-than-human world, in daily sensory experiences, that the pronoun "I" even drops out of many of these records. Lawrence Buell aptly describes this Thoreauvian mode of expression as "self-relinquishment" (156) in his 1995 book The Environmental Imagination , suggesting such writing "question[s] the authority of the superintending consciousness. As such, it opens up the prospect of a thoroughgoing perceptual breakthrough, suggesting the possibility of a more ecocentric state of being than most of us have dreamed of" (144-45). By the time Thoreau wrote "Windy. Elms bare" (372) as his single entry for October 6 and 7, 1853, he had entered what we might call an "ecocentric zone of consciousness" in his work, attaining the ability to channel his complex perceptions of season change (including meteorology and botany and even his own emotional state) into brief, evocative prose.

10 I certainly do not expect my students to be able to do such writing after only a brief introduction to the course and to Thoreau's own methods of journal writing, but after laying the foundation of the Thoreauvian philosophy of nearby travel and explaining to my students what I call the "building blocks of the personal essay" (description, narration, and exposition), I ask them to engage in a preliminary journal-writing exercise that involves preparing five journal entries, each "a paragraph or two in length," that offer detailed physical descriptions of ordinary phenomena from their lives (plants, birds, buildings, street signs, people, food, etc.), emphasizing shape, color, movement or change, shadow, and sometimes sound, smell, taste, and/or touch. The goal of the journal entries, I tell the students, is to begin to get them thinking about close observation, vivid descriptive language, and the potential to give their later essays in the class an effective texture by balancing more abstract information and ideas with evocative descriptive passages and storytelling.

11 I am currently teaching this class, and I am writing this article in early September, as we are entering the fourth week of the semester. The students have just completed the journal-writing exercise and are now preparing to write the first of five brief essays on different aspects of Moscow that will eventually be braided together, as discrete sections of the longer piece, into a full-scale literary essay about Moscow, Idaho, from the perspective of a traveler. For the journal exercise, my students wrote some rather remarkable descriptive statements, which I think bodes well for their upcoming work. One student, Elizabeth Isakson, wrote stunning journal descriptions of a cup of coffee, her own feet, a lemon, a basil leaf, and a patch of grass. For instance, she wrote:

Steaming hot liquid poured into a mug. No cream, just black. Yet it appears the same brown as excretion. The texture tells another story with meniscus that fades from clear to gold and again brown. The smell is intoxicating for those who are addicted. Sweetness fills the nostrils; bitterness rushes over the tongue. The contrast somehow complements itself. Earthy undertones flower up, yet this beverage is much more satisfying than dirt. When the mug runs dry, specks of dark grounds remain swimming in the sunken meniscus. Steam no longer rises because energy has found a new home.

12 For the grassy lawn, she wrote:

Calico with shades of green, the grass is yellowing. Once vibrant, it's now speckled with straw. Sticking out are tall, seeding dandelions. Still some dips in the ground have maintained thick, soft patches of green. The light dances along falling down from the trees above, creating a stained-glass appearance made from various green shades. The individual blades are stiff enough to stand erect, but they will yield to even slight forces of wind or pressure. Made from several long strands seemingly fused together, some blades fray at the end, appearing brittle. But they do not simply break off; they hold fast to the blade to which they belong.

13 The point of this journal writing is for the students to look closely enough at ordinary reality to feel estranged from it, as if they have never before encountered (or attempted to describe) a cup of coffee or a field of grass—or a lemon or a basil leaf or their own body. Thus, the Thoreauvian objective of practicing home-cosmography begins to take shape. The familiar becomes exotic, note-worthy, and strangely beautiful, just as it often does for the geographical travel writer, whose adventures occur far away from where she or he normally lives. Travel, in a sense, is an antidote to complacency, to over-familiarity. But the premise of my class in Thoreauvian travel writing is that a slight shift of perspective can overcome the complacency we might naturally feel in our home surroundings. To accomplish this we need a certain degree of disorientation. This is the next challenge for our class.

The Blessing of Being Lost

14 Most of us take great pains to "get oriented" and "know where we're going," whether this is while running our daily errands or when thinking about the essential trajectories of our lives. We're often instructed by anxious parents to develop a sense of purpose and a sense of direction, if only for the sake of basic safety. But the traveler operates according to a somewhat different set of priorities, perhaps, elevating adventure and insight above basic comfort and security, at least to some degree. This certainly seems to be the case for the Thoreauvian traveler, or for Thoreau himself. In Walden , he writes:

…not until we are completely lost, or turned round,--for a man needs only be turned round once with his eyes shut in this world to be lost,--do we appreciate the vastness and strangeness of Nature. Every man has to learn the points of compass again as often as he awakes, whether from sleep or any abstraction. Not till we are lost, in other words, not till we have lost the world, do we begin to find ourselves, and realize where we are and the infinite extent of our relations. (171)

15 I could explicate this passage at length, but that's not really my purpose here. I read this as a celebration of salutary disorientation, of the potential to be lost in such a way as to deepen one's ability to pay attention to oneself and one's surroundings, natural and otherwise. If travel is to a great degree an experience uniquely capable of triggering attentiveness to our own physical and psychological condition, to other cultures and the minds and needs of other people, and to a million small details of our environment that we might take for granted at home but that accrue special significance when we're away, I would argue that much of this attentiveness is owed to the sense of being lost, even the fear of being lost, that often happens when we leave our normal habitat.

16 So in my class I try to help my students "get lost" in a positive way. Here in Moscow, the major local landmark is a place called Moscow Mountain, a forested ridge of land just north of town, running approximately twenty kilometers to the east of the city. Moscow "Mountain" does not really have a single, distinctive peak like a typical mountain—it is, as I say, more of a ridge than a pinnacle. When I began contemplating this class on Thoreauvian travel writing, the central concepts I had in mind were Thoreau's notion of traveling a good deal in Concord and also the idea of looking at a specific place from many different angles. The latter idea is not only Thoreauvian, but perhaps well captured in the eighteen-century Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai's series of woodblock prints known as 36 Views of Mt. Fuji , which offers an array of different angles on the mountain itself and on other landscape features (lakes, the sea, forests, clouds, trees, wind) and human behavior which is represented in many of the prints, often with Mt. Fuji in the distant background or off to the side. In fact, I imagine Hokusai's approach to representing Mt. Fuji as so important to the concept of this travel writing class that I call the class "36 Views of Moscow Mountain," symbolizing the multiple approaches I'll be asking my students to take in contemplating and describing not only Moscow Mountain itself, but the culture and landscape and the essential experience of Moscow the town. The idea of using Hokusai's series of prints as a focal point of this class came to me, in part, from reading American studies scholar Cathy Davidson's 36 Views of Mount Fuji: On Finding Myself in Japan , a memoir that offers sixteen short essays about different facets of her life as a visiting professor in that island nation.

17 The first of five brief essays my students will prepare for the class is what I'm calling a "Moscow Mountain descriptive essay," building upon the small descriptive journal entries they've written recently. In this case, though, I am asking the students to describe the shapes and colors of the Moscow Mountain ridge, while also telling a brief story or two about their observations of the mountain, either by visiting the mountain itself to take a walk or a bike ride or by explaining how they glimpse portions of the darkly forested ridge in the distance while walking around the University of Idaho campus or doing things in town. In preparation for the Moscow Mountain essays, we read several essays or book chapters that emphasize "organizing principles" in writing, often the use of particular landscape features, such as trees or mountains, as a literary focal point. For instance, in David Gessner's "Soaring with Castro," from his 2007 book Soaring with Fidel: An Osprey Odyssey from Cape Cod to Cuba and Beyond , he not only refers to La Gran Piedra (a small mountain in southeastern Cuba) as a narrative focal point, but to the osprey, or fish eagle, itself and its migratory journey as an organizing principle for his literary project (203). Likewise, in his essay "I Climb a Tree and Become Dissatisfied with My Lot," Chicago author Leonard Dubkin writes about his decision, as a newly fired journalist, to climb up a tree in Chicago's Lincoln Park to observe and listen to the birds that gather in the green branches in the evening, despite the fact that most adults would consider this a strange and inappropriate activity. We also looked at several of Hokusai's woodblock prints and analyzed these together in class, trying to determine how the mountain served as an organizing principle for each print or whether there were other key features of the prints—clouds, ocean waves, hats and pieces of paper floating in the wind, humans bent over in labor—that dominate the images, with Fuji looking on in the distance.

18 I asked my students to think of Hokusai's representations of Mt. Fuji as aesthetic models, or metaphors, for what they might try to do in their brief (2-3 pages) literary essays about Moscow Mountain. What I soon discovered was that many of my students, even students who have spent their entire lives in Moscow, either were not aware of Moscow Mountain at all or had never actually set foot on the mountain. So we spent half an hour during one class session, walking to a vantage point on the university campus, where I could point out where the mountain is and we could discuss how one might begin to write about such a landscape feature in a literary essay. Although I had thought of the essay describing the mountain as a way of encouraging the students to think about a familiar landscape as an orienting device, I quickly learned that this will be a rather challenging exercise for many of the students, as it will force them to think about an object or a place that is easily visible during their ordinary lives, but that they typically ignore. Paying attention to the mountain, the ridge, will compel them to reorient themselves in this city and think about a background landscape feature that they've been taking for granted until now. I think of this as an act of disorientation or being lost—a process of rethinking their own presence in this town that has a nearby mountain that most of them seldom think about. I believe Thoreau would consider this a good, healthy experience, a way of being present anew in a familiar place.

36 Views—Or, When You Invert Your Head

19 Another key aspect of Hokusai's visual project and Thoreau's literary project is the idea of changing perspective. One can view Mt. Fuji from 36 different points of views, or from thousands of different perspectives, and it is never quite the same place—every perspective is original, fresh, mind-expanding. The impulse to shift perspective in pursuit of mindfulness is also ever-present in Thoreau's work, particularly in his personal journal and in Walden . This idea is particularly evident, to me, in the chapter of Walden titled "The Ponds," where he writes:

Standing on the smooth sandy beach at the east end of the pond, in a calm September afternoon, when a slight haze makes the opposite shore line indistinct, I have seen whence came the expression, "the glassy surface of a lake." When you invert your head, it looks like a thread of finest gossamer stretched across the valley, and gleaming against the distinct pine woods, separating one stratum of the atmosphere from another. (186)

20 Elsewhere in the chapter, Thoreau describes the view of the pond from the top of nearby hills and the shapes and colors of pebbles in the water when viewed from close up. He chances physical perspective again and again throughout the chapter, but it is in the act of looking upside down, actually suggesting that one might invert one's head, that he most vividly conveys the idea of looking at the world in different ways in order to be lost and awakened, just as the traveler to a distant land might feel lost and invigorated by such exposure to an unknown place.

21 After asking students to write their first essay about Moscow Mountain, I give them four additional short essays to write, each two to four pages long. We read short examples of place-based essays, some of them explicitly related to travel, and then the students work on their own essays on similar topics. The second short essay is about food—I call this the "Moscow Meal" essay. We read the final chapter of Michael Pollan's The Omnivore's Dilemma (2006), "The Perfect Meal," and Anthony Bourdain's chapter "Where Cooks Come From" in the book A Cook's Tour (2001) are two of the works we study in preparation for the food essay. The three remaining short essays including a "Moscow People" essay (exploring local characters are important facets of the place), a more philosophical essay about "the concept of Moscow," and a final "Moscow Encounter" essay that tells the story of a dramatic moment of interaction with a person, an animal, a memorable thing to eat or drink, a sunset, or something else. Along the way, we read the work of Wendell Berry, Joan Didion, Barbara Kingsolver, Kim Stafford, Paul Theroux, and other authors. Before each small essay is due, we spend a class session holding small-group workshops, allowing the students to discuss their essays-in-progress with each other and share portions of their manuscripts. The idea is that they will learn about writing even by talking with each other about their essays. In addition to writing about Moscow from various angles, they will learn about additional points of view by considering the angles of insight developed by their fellow students. All of this is the writerly equivalent of "inverting [their] heads."

Beneath the Smooth Skin of Place

22 Aside from Thoreau's writing and Hokusai's images, perhaps the most important writer to provide inspiration for this class is Indiana-based essayist Scott Russell Sanders. Shortly after introducing the students to Thoreau's key ideas in Walden and to the richness of his descriptive writing in the journal, I ask them to read his essay "Buckeye," which first appeared in Sanders's Writing from the Center (1995). "Buckeye" demonstrates the elegant braiding together of descriptive, narrative, and expository/reflective prose, and it also offers a strong argument about the importance of creating literature and art about place—what he refers to as "shared lore" (5)—as a way of articulating the meaning of a place and potentially saving places that would otherwise be exploited for resources, flooded behind dams, or otherwise neglected or damaged. The essay uses many of the essential literary devices, ranging from dialogue to narrative scenes, that I hope my students will practice in their own essays, while also offering a vivid argument in support of the kind of place-based writing the students are working on.

23 Another vital aspect of our work together in this class is the effort to capture the wonderful idiosyncrasies of this place, akin to the idiosyncrasies of any place that we examine closely enough to reveal its unique personality. Sanders's essay "Beneath the Smooth Skin of America," which we study together in Week 9 of the course, addresses this topic poignantly. The author challenges readers to learn the "durable realities" of the places where they live, the details of "watershed, biome, habitat, food-chain, climate, topography, ecosystem and the areas defined by these natural features they call bioregions" (17). "The earth," he writes, "needs fewer tourists and more inhabitants" (16). By Week 9 of the semester, the students have written about Moscow Mountain, about local food, and about local characters, and they are ready at this point to reflect on some of the more philosophical dimensions of living in a small academic village surrounded by farmland and beyond that surrounded by the Cascade mountain range to the West and the Rockies to the East. "We need a richer vocabulary of place" (18), urges Sanders. By this point in the semester, by reading various examples of place-based writing and by practicing their own powers of observation and expression, my students will, I hope, have developed a somewhat richer vocabulary to describe their own experiences in this specific place, a place they've been trying to explore with "open minds and notebooks." Sanders argues that

if we pay attention, we begin to notice patterns in the local landscape. Perceiving those patterns, acquiring names and theories and stories for them, we cease to be tourists and become inhabitants. The bioregional consciousness I am talking about means bearing your place in mind, keeping track of its condition and needs, committing yourself to its care. (18)

24 Many of my students will spend only four or five years in Moscow, long enough to earn a degree before moving back to their hometowns or journeying out into the world in pursuit of jobs or further education. Moscow will be a waystation for some of these student writers, not a permanent home. Yet I am hoping that this semester-long experiment in Thoreauvian attentiveness and place-based writing will infect these young people with both the bioregional consciousness Sanders describes and a broader fascination with place, including the cultural (yes, the human ) dimensions of this and any other place. I feel such a mindfulness will enrich the lives of my students, whether they remain here or move to any other location on the planet or many such locations in succession.

25 Toward the end of "Beneath the Smooth Skin of America," Sanders tells the story of encountering a father with two young daughters near a city park in Bloomington, Indiana, where he lives. Sanders is "grazing" on wild mulberries from a neighborhood tree, and the girls are keen to join him in savoring the local fruit. But their father pulls them away, stating, "Thank you very much, but we never eat anything that grows wild. Never ever." To this Sanders responds: "If you hold by that rule, you will not get sick from eating poison berries, but neither will you be nourished from eating sweet ones. Why not learn to distinguish one from the other? Why feed belly and mind only from packages?" (19-20). By looking at Moscow Mountain—and at Moscow, Idaho, more broadly—from numerous points of view, my students, I hope, will nourish their own bellies and minds with the wild fruit and ideas of this place. I say this while chewing a tart, juicy, and, yes, slightly sweet plum that I pulled from a feral tree in my own Moscow neighborhood yesterday, an emblem of engagement, of being here.

Bibliography

BUELL, Lawrence, The Environmental Imagination: Thoreau, Nature Writing, and the Formation of American Culture , Harvard University Press, 1995.

DAVIDSON, Cathy, 36 Views of Mount Fuji: On Finding Myself in Japan , Duke University Press, 2006.

DUBKIN, Leonard, "I Climb a Tree and Become Dissatisfied with My Lot." Enchanted Streets: The Unlikely Adventures of an Urban Nature Lover , Little, Brown and Company, 1947, 34-42.

GESSNER, David, Soaring with Fidel: An Osprey Odyssey from Cape Cod to Cuba and Beyond , Beacon, 2007.

ISAKSON, Elizabeth, "Journals." Assignment for 36 Views of Moscow Mountain (English 208), University of Idaho, Fall 2018.

SANDERS, Scott Russell, "Buckeye" and "Beneath the Smooth Skin of America." Writing from the Center , Indiana University Press, 1995, pp. 1-8, 9-21.

SLOVIC, Scott, "Teaching with Wolves", Western American Literature 52.3 (Fall 2017): 323-31.

THOREAU, Henry David, "October 1-20, 1853", Being in the World: An Environmental Reader for Writers , edited by Scott H. Slovic and Terrell F. Dixon, Macmillan, 1993, 371-75.

THOREAU, Henry David, Walden . 1854. Princeton University Press, 1971.

Bibliographical reference

Scott Slovic , “ 36 Views of Moscow Mountain: Teaching Travel Writing and Mindfulness in the Tradition of Hokusai and Thoreau ” ,  Caliban , 59 | 2018, 41-54.

Electronic reference

Scott Slovic , “ 36 Views of Moscow Mountain: Teaching Travel Writing and Mindfulness in the Tradition of Hokusai and Thoreau ” ,  Caliban [Online], 59 | 2018, Online since 01 June 2018 , connection on 08 March 2024 . URL : http://journals.openedition.org/caliban/3688; DOI : https://doi.org/10.4000/caliban.3688

About the author

Scott slovic.

University of Idaho Scott Slovic is University Distinguished Professor of Environmental Humanities at the University of Idaho, USA. The author and editor of many books and articles, he edited the journal ISLE: Interdisciplinary Studies in Literature and Environment from 1995 to 2020. His latest coedited book is The Routledge Handbook of Ecocriticism and Environmental Communication  (2019).

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  2. Top 10 Beautiful Himalayas Pictures

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  3. 84 Amazing Photos Captured in the Himalaya Mountains

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  4. Mountain flight over the Himalayas

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  5. Ways The Himalayas Influence Life In The Indian Subcontinent

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  6. The Himalayas scenery is among the most spectacular in the world

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  1. Himalayan Mountains

  2. Over the Himalayas

  3. Himalayas mountain #travel #reels

  4. beautiful location in the Himalayas mountain

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  6. Explore the incredible heights of the Himalayas #discoveryworldtrekking #treksinnepal #travel

COMMENTS

  1. How to plan your dream trip to the Himalayas

    Test your mettle against some of the world's most audacious and dangerous roads, or set a more measured pace on a trek through yak pastures to prayer flag-strewn passes haunted by snow leopards and red pandas. Stretching in a 1550 mile-long arc (2500km) across Asia from Kashmir to Kathmandu, Lhasa to Ladakh, the Himalayan range is a big place.

  2. 10 Best Himalaya Mountains Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Whole team at World Travel Experiences has exceeded the expections on adventure trekking to remote Himalayas. Destinations Kathmandu, Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, Thorong La, Muktinath, Jomsom, Pokhara +10 more Age Range 25 to 65 year olds Regions Himalaya Mountains, Mount Annapurna, Annapurna Circuit +2 more

  3. The Himalayas Mountain Travel

    At The himalayas mountain travel, we believe in creating fascinating memories for YOU! Our love for travel is deeply rooted in the way we have led our lives - exploring the beauty of the hills, serenity of the oceans and the scenic backwaters of Himachal God's own country.There is something about being out there - amidst nature, with a loved one, that drew our passion.

  4. 12 Most Beautiful Places in the Himalayas to Visit

    3. Haridwar. Haridwar is a pilgrimage site like no other. Situated on the banks of the holy Ganges River, this ancient city is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Himalayas for those on a spiritual quest. The city's name itself means "Gateway to God," and it lives up to this moniker in every sense.

  5. How to plan the ultimate adventure in the Himalayas, from beginners

    Intrepid has 15-day guided treks to Everest Base Camp in Nepal from £1,043 per person. Flights to Kathmandu not included. The Adventure People has 12-day treks along the Jhomolhari trek from £ ...

  6. Explore The Himalayas

    Travel The Himalayas offers the best Curated Trips and Experiential Travel in the Himalayas, from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh, offering an insight into the Culture, History and the Geography of this Mountain chain.

  7. A practical guide to hiking the Himalayas

    Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a risk on any route that climbs above 2,500m. To combat it, limit your rate of ascent, taking regular rest days to acclimatise. Diamox (Acetazolamide) tablets can ...

  8. The Best North India Itinerary and Backpacking Route

    Quick Essential Info for Traveling the Indian Mountains. Budget: From $25/day.See more detail in the average costs for backpacking India.. When to go: The best time to visit the majority of India is during the cool, winter months between November and March but during this time its very cold in the mountains.However, the Indian mountains and Himalayas are at their best during the summer months ...

  9. The Himalaya's hidden 'paradise valleys'

    The walking trail from Lawudo to Thame spiralled down cliff faces and crept along a canyon formed by mighty mountain peaks. Then, quite suddenly, the land peeled back to reveal a wide-open valley ...

  10. The Himalayas Travel Guide • The Art of Travel: Wander, Explore

    The Art of Travel Blog. The Himalayas are a range of mountains in Asia.It stretches from the Indus river in Pakistan, through India, Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan, and ends at the Brahmaputra River in North-Eastern India.. Eight of the 10 tallest mountains — including the highest of all, Mount Everest at 8848 m — are in the Himalayas region of Nepal. For comparison, neither Western Europe nor ...

  11. The Himalayan peak off limits to climbers

    The Himalayan peak off limits to climbers. Climbing Machhapuchhare is forbidden, a rarity in a country like Nepal that has embraced mountain tourism so enthusiastically that even the world's ...

  12. How to Trek the Himalayas for $30 a Day

    Business class costs are roughly double, and availability is much more scarce. However, cheap economy cash fares can be found, too, which you can pay for with points. The standard cost is $1,000 to $1,200 but can drop as low as $600 round-trip. Using Chase Ultimate Rewards points, that's only 40,000 points round-trip!

  13. Top 10 reasons to visit the Himalayas

    With all the concerns about travel safety, the Himalayas are probably one of the safer destinations in the region. Charming villages, spiritual pilgrimage centres, and adventure travel operators dot this region and provide a safe haven for travellers. READ: Adventure to Himalayan villages in India. Hiking and trekking among the mountains of ...

  14. Himalayas

    Himalayan mountain ranges. Himalayas, great mountain system of Asia forming a barrier between the Plateau of Tibet to the north and the alluvial plains of the Indian subcontinent to the south. The Himalayas include the highest mountains in the world, with more than 110 peaks rising to elevations of 24,000 feet (7,300 metres) or more above sea ...

  15. 10 Best Budget Himalaya Mountains Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Budget Tours & Trips to Himalaya Mountains. Explore a varied offer of budget adventures that will take you through some of the most famous destinations such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. Each affordable tour will provide you with memorable moments for some of the lowest prices on the market. Discover here how to go to Himalaya .

  16. The Himalayas Mountain Travel

    The Himalayas Mountain Travel, Shimla. 431 likes · 5 talking about this. please contact for you best trip for all India destinations 8219785937

  17. Best Trekking Company in Nepal

    Mountain Travel Nepal is one of the best travel and trekking agency in Nepal offering wide range of tailormade trekking packages in Nepal. We have grand legacy of conducting the exceptional trekking expeditions throughout the country. With continuous exploration of the Himalayas, we are always ready to create customized treks in Nepal.

  18. All Facts about the Himalayas: In-depth Exploration of Himalayan Facts

    7. The Himalayas Experience Varied Weather from Lush Summers to Snowy Winters. The Himalayas have diverse climates, ranging from tropical to alpine, primarily influenced by the Indian monsoon from mid-June to the end of September. Dressing in warm clothes when visiting Mount Everest on the Tibetan side.

  19. The Fascinating History Of The Himalayas

    Lhotse, just south of Everest on the border between Tibet and Nepal, is the third-highest mountain in the Himalayas at 27,940 feet. Since it's joined to Everest by a 25,000-foot high ridge, it ...

  20. This Journey on the World's Most Dangerous Road Is Terrifying

    Travel A winter drive through the Himalayas' most treacherous mountain pass is equally terrifying and exciting to watch. By Brian Silvestro Published: Mar 17, 2017

  21. Nepal's new safety requirement for Mount Everest hikers: GPS tracking

    The chips will cost hikers around $10 to $15 to borrow and return after hopefully accomplishing the challenging 29,032-foot mountain. Learn more: Best travel insurance Nepal, home to eight of the ...

  22. Why England have so much to prove in foothills of Himalayas

    The snow-capped mountains are awe-inspiring, providing stunning scenery for the thousands of England fans that have made the pilgrimage to the foothills of the Himalayas.

  23. Spring Break Travel Advisories Reissued for Mexico, Jamaica and the

    Warnings about spring break travel to certain ... a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains ... A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan ...

  24. From Blue Mountains, Pepper eyes fastest no O2 ascent of 14 peaks

    An Australian woman climber is all set to leave for Mt Annapurna in a bid to complete all 14 peaks above 8,000m without using supplemental oxygen. Allie Pepper, 48, from the Blue Mountains in ...

  25. Moscow Tours

    This tour of Moscow, St. Petersburg and the Golden Ring explores the places that shaped Russia's history - past, present and future. Uncover Moscow's ongoing revolutionary spirit, before journeying back in time to rural, medieval Russia. End in St Petersburg, a city of royal splendour and undeniable romance. 11 days From(USD) $2,655 View ...

  26. EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024 Guide)

    EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024) Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit! Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city ...

  27. The 20 Best Moscow Tours for 2022

    This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing. $ 941 From/Per person. Details.

  28. 36 Views of Moscow Mountain: Teaching Travel Writing and Mindfulness in

    BUELL, Lawrence, The Environmental Imagination: Thoreau, Nature Writing, and the Formation of American Culture, Harvard University Press, 1995. DAVIDSON, Cathy, 36 Views of Mount Fuji: On Finding Myself in Japan, Duke University Press, 2006. DUBKIN, Leonard, "I Climb a Tree and Become Dissatisfied with My Lot." Enchanted Streets: The Unlikely Adventures of an Urban Nature Lover, Little, Brown ...