Epic Hikes of the World ( PDFDrive )

around Yuksom that are, perhaps ironically, less touristy than the far more difficult
Gochala.
Start/End // Yuksom, Sikkim
Distance // 54 miles (87km)
More info // www.trekkinginsikkims.com
© LOOK-foto | Superstock
crossing a suspension bridge on the Himalaya-bound Gochala Trek
SPITI HOMESTAY TREK
Huge and varied, Himachal Pradesh is one of India’s most fascinating states. And
it’s at its most appealing in the inaccessible folds of the Spiti Valley. While many of
the gem sites here are semi-accessible by jeep roads, traffic is very sparse and a
great way to visit is on a multiday homestay trek short-cutting across panoramic
hillsides between traditional villages. The classic route takes in ancient Buddhist
monasteries at 11th-century Langza, 10th-century Lhalung and 12th-century
Dhankar, along with occasional yak pastures and a wonderful range of mountain
panoramas. No permits are required and you’ll generally be able to find your way
with a basic map, but though days are short (generally less than five hours of
walking), beware that virtually the whole route is above 13,100ft (4000m) so, to
avoid altitude sickness, you’ll need to have a considerable acclimatisation period