Asia is a vast continent, full of contrasts and varied landscapes, which means there are numerous locations that are perfect for trekking travel. From the world’s tallest mountains to some of the greatest feats of human engineering, there’s plenty to see if you go walking here.
- Great Wall, ChinafrankartculinaryÂ
Here are three top suggestions for trekking trips in Asia.
China
What could be more spectacular than walking along the famous Great Wall of China? This amazing structure is vast – over 8,800 km long – which is all the more impressive given that it was constructed more than 2,000 years ago. It also holds the title of being the world’s biggest military structure and the only way to fully appreciate its majesty is on foot.
Book a tour of the Great Wall with Explore Worldwide, which starts from £741 without flights, and you’ll get to trek along some of its most breathtaking sections, including Old Dragon’s Head – where the structure meets the sea – and Panjiakou, a piece of the wall that cuts through a lake.
One of the most stunning sections of the wall can be found at its eastern end, near the ancient city of Shanhaigun. It is known as the Jiaoshan part of the Great Wall and is named after Jiaoshan Mountain, which is the first peak the structure climbs up. A walk here will lead you past several watchtowers – including one located on the summit of the mountain – as well as the Qixian Temple, which housed important Chinese scholars in years gone by.
Depending on how long you are planning your visit, you should try and make time to book a hotel in Hong Kong for a few nights. This vast and busy city has so much to offer tourists from around the world. You can visit Hong Kong Disney Land, the Ocean Park, HSBC Building and Kowloon Park for starters. If you want to see something a little more historic, you can head over to Ten Thousand Buddha’s Monastery. You can either take the train or hire a taxi to travel around
Nepal
As the tallest mountain in the world sits within Nepal’s borders, it would be tricky to compile a list of the top trekking destinations in Asia without mentioning the nation. Although Everest Base Camp is the aim for many hikers in the country, there are numerous other trails that are equally beautiful and challenging, among them the Annapurna Circuit.
The trek to Everest Base Camp is certainly the most famous, however, with the ascent of Kala Pattar – and subsequent views over the highest peak in the globe – a real highlight. En route to the base camp, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Sherpa culture with acclimatisation days in places like Namche Bazaar – which is home to the Museum of Sherpa Life – as well as stops at important monuments like the Thyangboche (or Tengboche) monastery.
Vietnam
Although perhaps not as well known as a trekking destination as places like Nepal or China, Vietnam offers plenty of exciting walking opportunities for intrepid travellers. The landscape in the north of the country is characterised by mountains and verdant valleys, dotted with small villages that are inhabited by hill tribes.
For a trip that really allows you to discover a different culture, trek between these remote settlements to see how people have lived in this region of south-east Asia for hundreds of years. Paddy fields cover the fertile land, while terraces of rice fields and vegetable gardens are cut into the mountains’ slopes.
One of the best things about a guided walking holiday here is the chance to experience traditional Vietnamese culture. You’ll be treated to a performance of local music and dancing in one of the villages inhabited by the minority White Thai people, while you may also get to watch a demonstration of the weaving techniques used by the villagers.
Do you have any other suggestions for top trekking destinations in Asia? Where have you been and what would you recommend?
