THE EVEREST BASE CAMP

Average number of days: 12; via Gokyo: 20; Highest point: 5,545m


The most widely-recognized of all, the biggest draw this trail has is perhaps the names associated with it. Needless to say, the highest mountain in the world commands a mammoth following by the sheer force of its fame. The path that was once treaded by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, and subsequently by the most celebrated mountaineers is now retraced by thousands of trekkers whose trek ends where the real quest for alpinists begins. The popular way to do it involves flying to Lukla, the world's highest airstrip, then walking to the first village, Phakding, right up to the last stop Gorak Shep over a course of approximately nine days. This journey uphill has many interesting stops en route and the small detours are worth the extra time devoted. The route is dotted with small tea houses, home to the sherpas, who welcome you into their hearth and hearts with equal ease. Stop at Namche, the capital of the Solukhumbu region where everyone halts to acclimatise themselves on their way up, and chill out on their way down. Do a day's trek to Khumjung and back as it's simply spectacular, just as much as the walk up to the Ama Dablam glacier lake from Dingboche. From Gorak Shep, you can also walk up to Kala Patthar, which is as much an attraction as the Everest Base Camp itself.

While some follow this trail from Lukla, the more determined (or stringent budget-holders) skip the flight and walk to Lukla from Jiri. It's not as picturesque and adds another week, so most people skip that leg. For the ones who do it, it's only a matter of more sunburns, resilience and greater pride. Another fantastic trail to take to the Everest Base Camp is the Gokyo trail. It's longer and more tedious, but that is compensated for by the stunning lakes and scenery that's sure to enthral you. Whatever the route, you're in for a visual treat. Be it a riot of colourful wild flowers or colossal white peaks, there's nothing here you won't get floored by.