Top 10 Tours and Trips In The Himalayas – 2018

Home to the highest peaks on the planet, the best trips in the Himalayas drags you to witness captivating mountain vistas passing through remote mountain trails, diverse cultural immersions, and vivid Himalayan flora and fauna. The trips and tours in the Himalayas will lead you to every trekker’s dream destination, the Everest Base Camp,  overstepping the flamboyant Namche Bazaar, the antique Tengboche monastery, and the emerald Gokyo Lakes. Kathmandu to Lhasa overland tour is yet another recommendation as one of the top tours in the Himalayas for 2018, taking you to beautiful Tibetan cities and breathtaking natural sceneries. Himalayan guided tour of Tibet and Nepal combined, lets you witness two vibrant cultures, historical places, and colorful festivals. The Chomolhari Trek in Bhutan and Ladakh tour with Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake would definitely deserve a spot in the top Himalayas trips in 2018 because of their extraordinary attractions, untouched wilderness and spectacular foothill vistas. In a nutshell, the below mentioned Himalayan escapades unarguably, are every globetrotters’ trips of a lifetime in the Himalayas.

1. Everest Base Camp trek

Everest Base Camp Trek hauls you atop the exquisite high-altitude Himalayas surpassing some elegant villages, picturesque landscapes and the friendly Sherpa people starting with an exhilarating flight to Lukla. Traversing through the culture of colorful prayer flags, the lively Namche Bazaar, the Sagarmatha National Park, numerous suspension bridges through hidden monasteries, and the exceptional views of Kala Patthar, one can savor the wonderful mountain scenery and environment of the Khumbu region. You can spy three of earth’s 10 tallest peaks besides Mt. Everest – Cho Oyu, Mt. Lhotse and Mt. Makalu. On completion of this adventurous quest, you may take a morning chartered helicopter flight back to Kathmandu, one of the most beguiling Heli-ride amidst the magnificent valleys and awe-inspiring high peaks in the Himalayas – a great experience of a lifetime to cherish forever.

2. Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular treks in the world, that kindles your appetite for mountain views right from the lake city of Pokhara. Possessing a stunning blend of majestic mountain scenery and a pristine culture unparalleled by any other trek in Nepal, the challenging trails of Annapurna will reward you with a stunning combination of towering peaks and dramatic valleys.

This motivating trek to Annapurna Base Camp passes through the valleys of rich, verdant forests of bamboo, oaks, rhododendrons, ferns and tall oak trees, sparkling mountain rivers, ancient settlements of the ethnic communities of Gurungs, Magars, and Thakalis. Panoramic views of Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Fang, Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Machhapuchhare greets you all through your journey. For those unwilling to walk or those in acute shortage of time but want to see the Annapurna Base Camp, an ideal Heli trip is the fastest way to fulfill their desires while enjoying the mountains in all its glory.

3. Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang trek takes you into the hidden world of the old Buddhist kingdom of Mustang, which used to be a part of the Tibetan empire. In many ways, a trek into Upper Mustang is similar to trekking in Tibet as it is geographically a part of the Tibetan plateau. Throughout the trekking trail, the features of the isolated and conspicuous landscapes are assisted by the cultural beauties as monasteries, whitewashed houses, barley fields, mani walls and chhortens festooned with prayer flags, thereby adding a splash of color to the landscape.

The frequent uneven trails and the red sandy cliffs with views of Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri mountain ranges are very heartwarming. It is worthwhile to pay a visit to the famous pilgrim destination of Muktinath before heading north into Upper Mustang. Experience the way of life of true mountain people, who were not much in touch with the rest of Nepal for hundreds of years. Returning partly by a different route via Dhakmar, you can find the oldest Tibetan monastery in the world, the Lo Gekar Monastery.

4. Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes

The Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes takes you to major Khumbu villages, where the unique and authentic Sherpa culture and their lifestyle can be observed very closely. The villages of Khumjung, Namche, Pangboche, and Tengboche are the major highlights where culture prevails over nature. Other highlights of this trek include the incredible flora and fauna of Sagarmatha National Park, the huge Ngozumpa Glacier, the sublime views of the Gokyo Lakes and the Gokyo Ri, the glacial walk over Khumbu Glacier that extends from Khumbu Icefall, the challenging hike across Cho La Pass and Kala Patthar for the full and scenic views of Mt. Everest.

The journey furthermore traverses through the highland monasteries, the sacred mani walls engraved with Buddhist prayers, colorful prayer flags portraying spirituality, the memorials, and the chhortens. This longer and more adventurous version of the classic Everest Base Camp Trek guarantees you of unspoiled mountain scenery making your journey, another trip of a lifetime.

5. Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is the most popular trekking route in Nepal, and also a world-classic trek around the Annapurna Himalayas, an unforgettable odyssey through amazing diversities of landscape with a blend of ethnicities. It follows the Marsyangdi Valley to the north, crossing the world’s highest Thorung La Pass to descend into the dramatic desert-like, Tibetan styled upper Kali Gandaki Valley.

Passing picturesque villages inhabited by the Gurungs, Manangis, and Thakalis, the trek offers dazzling mountain views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Fang and Nilgiri. Traversing through rhododendron forests, isolated hamlets and mountain villages encountering temples, monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes, you will be greeted by locals who offer a fascinating glimpse of traditional rural life and majestic views. You can also enjoy the breathtaking sunrise views from Poon Hill. Our best tip for this trek is to remember that the side trips and excursions from places like Manang, Muktinath and Jomsom rank as the highlights of the trek.

6. Everest Advanced Base Camp Trek from Tibet

The Everest Advanced Base Camp Trek from Tibet is one of the world’s greatest journeys combining Tibet’s awesome culture with the highest trekking route on earth. This trek takes you as close to the summit of Mt. Everest as any non-climber can go without any technical climbing gear and mountaineering skills. During this trip, you will witness the sights and sounds of Lhasa – Potala palace, Norbulingkha temple, Jokhang square, Sera and Drepung monasteries, Namtso Lake on the way to Gyantse and Tashi Lhunpo monastery in Shigatse. Driving overland past the Tibetan plateau to reach the base camp, you will stop over at the world’s highest Rongbuk monastery, which offers astounding views of Everest’s North face.

You will further encounter picturesque mosaic of Tibetan settlements, nomadic herdsmen, ancient monasteries, high mountain passes, wide arid plains, and awe-inspiring mountain views. The steady and achievable trek through stunning glaciers and peaks to Advanced Base Camp, where the sheer grandeur of the Kangshung North face of Everest stands just in front of you, is the ultimate goal of your trek.

7. Chomolari Trek

Chomolhari Trek, one of the most popular high altitude treks of Bhutan, endows you with a taste of the great variety of Bhutanese landscapes. It introduces you to the splendor of the range of classic Himalayan culture and people, the lushness of the foothills, old fortresses, villages, monasteries and terraced fields of paddy. On this trek, you will embrace an amazing opportunity to trek the hot spots of Bhutan and to feast on an incredible diversity of mountain and ecosystems. A hike to Taktsang monastery provides ample acclimatization for a delightful trek.

Along the way, you will follow the path of nomadic yak herders, hiking through forests of rhododendron, pine, juniper, bamboo, spruce, fir and alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, into pure Himalayan grandeur. The sky-piercing peaks of Jichu Drake, Chomolhari and Tshrim Khang, stunning views of cascading waterfalls, turquoise lakes, yak pastures, and trout-fishing sites provide the backdrop for this inspiring and challenging adventure trip in Bhutan.

8. Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour Via Everest Base Camp

Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour via Everest Base Camp is an adventurous journey starting by visiting beautiful Tibetan cities and towns such as Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, Tsedang, Sakya and Rongbuk. You will visit popular landmarks like the Potala and Norbulingka Palaces, the Jakhong square, Barkhor Bazaar, and Gyantse Dzong. The trip also includes visiting some infamous monasteries like Sera, Drepung, Samye, Tashi Lhunpo, Sakya and the world’s highest Rongbuk.

This tour also offers you magnificent opportunities to witness the breathtaking natural sceneries, heavenly turquoise lakes Yamdrok Tsho and Nam Tsho, high passes and winding roads. Arriving at the northern base camp of Mt. Everest, the major highlight of this tour, offers awe-inspiring views of the world’s highest peak. Driving into Nepal through Kyirong border, you will have glimpses of numerous waterfalls, rivers, gorges and lush forests with plenty of scenic views. The historical and culturally rich city of Kathmandu adds more memories to the already delightful journey from the roof of the world.

9. Ladakh Tour With Nubra Valley And Pangong Lake

Ladakh Tour with Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake takes you to the Nubra valley after traveling through the world’s highest pass from Leh, which is the major highlight of this tour. Ladakh is one of the least explored regions in the Himalayas, which makes it an attractive destination to explore the untouched wilderness. The Shanti stupa at Leh is fascinating and provides a peaceful environment and spectacular views of the city.

One can hear early morning prayers at the Thikse monastery in Leh, along with other monasteries like Shey and Hemis adding spiritual solace to the valley. Ladakh is the highest Indian plateau, where the rivers Indus and Zanskar meet. Passing by this mesmerizing natural scenery, you will arrive at some friendly markets surrounding the primeval temples in Alchi Choskor. You cannot simply pass through this valley without an enjoyable camel ride. The majestic mountains around the beautiful valley with the scenic Pangong Lake is a memorable destination for all kinds of tourists ranging from nature admirers, honeymooners and leisure travelers.

10. Tibet And Nepal Tour

Tibet and Nepal Tour involve traveling from the highest monastery Rongbuk in Tibet to the birthplace of Buddha in the plains of Nepal. The Potala Palace and the Norbulingka Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, are one of the major highlights on the Tibet tour. Similarly, a visit to the historical towns of Shigatse and Gyantse is worth a while, for its numerous historical monasteries.

Nepal boasts the important Hindu pilgrimage site, the Pashupatinath, along with various sacred temples, historical monuments, antediluvian towns, and palaces. In Nepal, you may visit the popular Buddhist pilgrimage destinations such as Swayambhunath, Bouddhanath, and Lumbini. You can take pleasure through the natural retreats like jungle safari and sightseeing of beautiful sceneries in Nepal. Thus, the combined Tibet and Nepal tour is the perfect holiday package to witness the two vibrant cultures with colorful festivals and numerous historical journeys.