India
Trekking in the ancient kingdom of Sikkim
Réf : ISIKIMX
In summary
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Sports
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Duration22 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationAsia / India
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions3958.2 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
Imagine a land protected by mountain peaks, nestled between Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. Sikkim, a former Himalayan kingdom, is more than just a trekking destination: it's an immersion in an enclave of serenity where nature expresses itself with absolute power. Your adventure begins in the mythical mists of Darjeeling. Between tastings in the tea plantations, you prepare for the ascent to one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Himalayas: the Singalila ridge. Here, every step brings you closer to the immense south face of Kangchenjunga (8,586m). This summit is not just a challenge for mountaineers; it's the spiritual heart of the local people, a protective deity that you'll contemplate from isolated camps, nestled under a sky of rare purity. But the journey doesn't end at the ridgeline. Descending into the deep valleys, you enter the heart of Tibetan Buddhism. From the monasteries of Pemayangtse to Rumtek, the scent of incense and the sound of ritual horns accompany you. Welcomed by the smiles of the locals, you will discover a preserved culture, far from the beaten track. A challenging yet contemplative journey, allowing you to truly experience the soul of the Himalayas. Along the way, you will cross pastures where you may encounter shepherds with their herds of yaks, as well as various other wildlife.
The highlights
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Discover Darjeeling and its tea plantations
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High-altitude trekking with wild campsites and varied landscapes
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The balcony of Kangchenjunga: breathtaking panoramas of the world's third highest peak
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Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
For those wishing to undertake multi-day hikes involving over 6 hours of walking and an elevation gain of 700 to 1,200 meters, off-trail or over rugged terrain. High-altitude sections are possible. You engage in endurance sports several times a week, hike regularly, and are in excellent physical condition.
The expert's opinion
This trip is suitable for hikers in good physical condition who engage in regular physical activity (at least 2 to 3 times per week). The trek involves 12 consecutive days of walking, with stages of 5 to 8 hours per day.
The elevation gains vary between +100m and +1200m depending on the day, with some sections reaching altitudes of up to 4950m. The route alternates between gradual ascents, technical descents, ridge trails, and nights spent in tents in a sometimes isolated high-altitude environment.
A gradual acclimatization is integrated into the route, but it is essential to have good endurance , experience with multi-day hiking, and the ability to adapt to mountain conditions (cold, altitude, basic comfort).
This trek is accessible to any sporty, motivated and well-prepared person, without requiring any alpine experience.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 6h
- Average daily elevation gain: 310 m
- Maximum altitude: 4940 m
Management
During this stay, a supervisor will be present to guide and assist you.
Languages spoken:
French
English
French
English
Supervisor
Supervisor
Program
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Paris - Delhi
- Transportation Plane - 08h30 - 6500km
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Flight to Delhi.Day 1 -
Arrival in Delhi
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Arrival in Delhi late in the day. You will be met at the airport by our team and transferred to your hotel for a restful first night. The contrast is immediate: Delhi, with its vibrant energy, dense traffic, and spicy aromas, sets the tone. Check-in and overnight stay at the hotel.Day 2 -
Delhi - Bagdogra - Gangtok
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, transfer to the airport and flight to Bagdogra, at the foot of the Himalayas. We then travel by road to Gangtok. Located at an altitude of 1,750 meters, Gangtok became the state capital in the 19th century, its city center dominated by government buildings decorated with traditional Buddhist symbols. The city is also a rest stop for travelers heading to other districts of Sikkim. Surrounded by monasteries, it charms travelers with its pedestrianized city center, a pleasant place for a stroll. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore Gangtok. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.Day 3 -
Gangtok
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we set off to explore the city of Gangtok. We begin the day with a visit to Rumtek Monastery, located near the city. It is the seat of His Holiness, the Gyalwa Karmapa, head of the Kagyu order of Tibetan Buddhism. Rumtek Monastery is steeped in history and legend, and houses the Karmae Nalanda Institute for Buddhist Studies, which attracts students from all over the world. Our next stop is Do Drul Chorten, built to commemorate the victory of good over evil. This site also serves as a place of homage to Thrukshik Rinpoche, a great Buddhist master. It houses two giant statues of the Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of Sikkim. Afterward, we visit Enchey Monastery. Perched on a ridge above Gangtok, Enchey Monastery is surrounded by lush greenery and offers spectacular views of the city. Built in 1910 on the site of the hermitage of the great Tantric saint, Lama Drutop Karpo, renowned for his levitation abilities, this monastery houses monks of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism. Next, we discover Tahview Point, a picturesque viewpoint offering stunning views of Mount Sinilochu and Mount Kanchenjunga. After this magnificent viewpoint, we visit the Ganesh Temple, situated at an altitude of 6,500 meters, which provides a panoramic view of Gangtok. Finally, we conclude our day with a visit to Hanuman Tok Temple, one of the most important temples in the capital of Sikkim. The beauty of the surrounding landscapes, the tranquility and serenity that pervades it, make it an unmissable part of our visit. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.Day 4 -
Gangtok - Ravangla Buddha Park - Pelling
- Transportation Minibus - 04h30 - 125km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning we set off for Pelling. We pass through Ravangla Buddha Park, also known as Tathagata Tsal. Built between 2006 and 2013, it features a 40-meter-high Buddha statue. It is located here due to the vast religious complex of Rabong Monastery, a centuries-old pilgrimage site. On March 25, 2013, the statue was consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama and has become a major pilgrimage destination. The Buddha statue commemorates the 2550th anniversary of the birth of Gautama Buddha. We then reach the small town of Pelling, located in the West Sikkim region. Situated near the foothills of Kanchenjunga, we can admire exceptional mountain views, as well as many other scenic spots to discover in the area. We discover Pemayangtse Monastery, also known as "the Monastery of the Sublime Perfect Lotus," perched atop a wooded hill, offering the best possible view of Khangchendzonga. Built at the end of the 17th century, it is one of the oldest and most important monasteries of the Nyingma Buddhist order in Sikkim. The importance of this monastery grew over time, reaching its zenith when only its monks could bless the reigning ruler of Sikkim with holy water. To conclude this day of sightseeing, we depart to explore Rabdentse, the second capital of Sikkim, and its famous ruins. We take a winding path through the forest that leads us to a small group of city ruins and then to the palace ruins. Check-in, dinner, and overnight stay at the hotel.Day 5 -
Pelling - Sang Khila - Chongri
- Transportation Minibus - 02h30 - 100km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we depart for a two-hour drive to Sang Khola, located at an altitude of 1810m. From Sang Khola, we begin our first hike, approximately two hours long, to the hamlet of Chongri. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp.Day 6 -
Chongri - Chenzom Khola (2145m) - Doben (2327m) - Nayapatal
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast at the camp, we set off to explore the customs and traditions of the Sherpa, Bhutia, Limboo, and Rai groups in Chongri. We then continue towards Chenzom Khola (2145m), which we reach after breakfast, and proceed to the Doben SSB camp (2327m). Finally, we continue to our last stop in Nayapatal. Dinner and overnight at the camp.Day 7 -
Nayapatal - Yambong (3600m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h30
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We set off this morning for one of the most scenic sections of the trek. The trail climbs steadily through alpine forest and rhododendron groves, opening onto vast meadows as we approach Upper Yambong. Along the way, we catch glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance if the weather is clear. We finally arrive at the high grassland of Upper Yambong, often used as yak pasture in the summer. The campsite offers a wonderful mountain atmosphere. Dinner and overnight at the camp.Day 8 -
Yambong (3600m) - Dafey Bhir (4400m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Positive elevation gain 800 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning we leave our camp in Yambong and head towards Dafey Bhir. The day's trail is quite steep, climbing above the treeline through slightly rugged alpine terrain. Our route crosses glacial moraines and open ridges offering breathtaking views of the Sikkim Himalayas, including peaks like Kabru, Pandim, and Narsing (weather permitting). Finally, we reach Dafey Bhir, a spectacular high ridge often covered in patches of snow, where we set up camp for the night.Day 9 -
Dafey Bhir (4400m) - Yangshep (3600m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Positive elevation gain 800 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning we leave Dafey Bhir, descending along rocky slopes and alpine meadows. The trail winds through high-altitude rhododendron bushes, then gradually descends to Yangshep, a beautiful campsite surrounded by forest and grassy fields. These sections offer excellent opportunities for spectacular views of the surrounding area and a relaxed pace after yesterday's ascent. Arrival in Yangshep, dinner and overnight stay at the camp.Day 10 -
Yangshep (3600m) - Pangding (4000m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h30
- Positive elevation gain 400 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast at the camp, we set off on the day's trek, which climbs gradually through high-altitude pastures used by local herders. The trail offers magnificent panoramic views of the mountain ranges to the north and west. We may have the opportunity to see yaks grazing in the pastures and discover rare alpine flowers, depending on the season. We will spend the night at the Pangding camp, located at an altitude of 4,000 meters, on an open ridge offering sweeping views and an ideal setting for sunset and stargazing. Dinner and overnight at the camp.Day 11 -
Pangding (4000m) - Dzongri (4200m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h30
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After spending the night and having breakfast at 4,000 meters altitude in Pangding, we set off towards Dzongri. The trail begins with gentle undulations through alpine meadows. The landscape remains dominated by dwarf rhododendrons, junipers, and rocky outcrops. As the day progresses, the vegetation thins out, and the path opens up to breathtaking views of the Khangchendzonga mountain range (8,586m) and surrounding peaks such as Pandim, Kabru, Rathong, and Narsing. Depending on the weather, these snow-capped giants dominate the horizon, glowing a brilliant gold at sunrise and sunset. As we approach Dzongri (4,200m), the terrain transforms into rolling alpine meadows dotted with prayer flags and yak herders' huts. This is one of the most iconic camps in all of Sikkim. We are situated on a large grassy area offering 360° views of the mountains and a tranquil high-altitude environment. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp.Day 12 -
Dzongri (4200m)
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization. We enjoy the views of the mountain peaks as we climb to the summit of Dzongri. From there, we have a panoramic view of Kabru (7353m), Ratong (6678m), Kanchenjunga (8534m), Koktang (6147m), Pandim (6691m), and Narsing (5825m). Dinner and overnight at the camp.Day 13 -
Dzongri (4200m) - Thangsing - Lamuney (4130m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we set off across meadows and valleys, following the streams to the most beautiful valley of all, nestled at the foot of Jupono Peak. To reach the campsites in the valley, we cross a wooden bridge over the stream, under the watchful gaze of majestic Mount Pandim. We walk along the meadows towards Goechala, the path becoming more adventurous and rocky at times. We continue along the trail before arriving at our campsite. The trail leads to the lake, but we stop before reaching it as camping is not permitted on the lakeshore. Dinner and overnight at the camp.Day 14 -
Lamuney - Lake Samiti - Gochala (4940m) - Thangsing
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 8h
- Maximum altitude 4940 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning we hike from Lamuney to Lake Samiti, where we watch a magnificent sunrise. We can even continue climbing a little higher for an even better view. We hike to Goechala, at 4940m altitude; the path is rather narrow, so we stop at viewpoint 1 in Goechala. We then take the same trail back to Lamuney. Dinner and overnight at the camp.Day 15 -
Thangsing - Tshoka
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 7h30
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We set off towards Tshoka, passing through Kockchuring and Phedang along the way. We traverse from one mountain to another, maintaining an altitude of approximately 3600 meters. We also pass through a rhododendron forest, enjoying several magnificent viewpoints overlooking Mount Pandim. We arrive in Phedang and continue our trek until we descend back to Tshoka, where we set up camp. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp.Day 16 -
Tshoka - Yuksum – (1770 m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h30
- Positive elevation gain 1200 m
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The final leg of the trek is a descent through one of Sikkim's most beautiful forests. The trail winds its way between giant ferns, moss-covered tree trunks, and waterfalls, creating an almost tropical atmosphere. As you walk, the altitude decreases and the vegetation becomes more lush. You'll cross several small suspension bridges, and depending on the season, you might spot wild orchids or colorful butterflies. Arrival in Yuksum in the early afternoon. The former royal capital of Sikkim, this peaceful village still houses the stone throne of the kingdom's first king, as well as a small monastery and a white chorten. End of the trek. Return to the comfort of a proper accommodation and a well-deserved first hot shower. Overnight in Yuksum.Day 17 -
Yuksum – Kalimpong (1450m)
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h30
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast at the camp, we set off on a short hike to Dubdi Monastery. One of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, it sits atop a hill about a 30-minute walk from Yuksum. It is also known as the "Hermit's Cell" after its founder, Lhatsun Namkha. We then walk through lush forests above the village, enjoying panoramic mountain views. Ornithologists recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best birdwatching. Afterwards, we drive to Kalimpong. Situated at an altitude of 1250 meters, it's the perfect location for a relaxing getaway. The climate is renowned for its orchids and gladioli. Today, the town is a tranquil hill station and a haven for retirees. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.Day 18 -
Kalimpong - Darjeeling
- Transportation Minibus - 03h - 100km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we set off to explore the city of Kalimpong. We begin with a visit to Durpin Dara, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the snow-capped Himalayan ranges of western Sikkim, the Teesta River, and its valleys. Next, we discover the Zang Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery and the Tharpa Choling Monastery, located on Tirpai Hill, on the road to Dr. Graham's house. The latter belongs to the Gelugpa sect, to which the current Dalai Lama belongs. We also visit the Thoongsa Gumpa Monastery. Our final stop in Kalimpong is the flower nursery; the city is famous for its flowers, such as amaryllis, anthuriums, gerberas, dahlias, gladioli, and orchids. In the afternoon, we depart for Darjeeling, nestled in the Himalayas at an altitude of 2,134 meters. Known as "Dorje Ling" or "Place of Lightning," it offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, with Kachendzonga rising above them all. Often called the Queen of the Hills, it remains equally captivating with its tiny waterfalls, small villages, and narrow-gauge railway. Surrounded by world-renowned tea gardens and snow-capped mountains, Darjeeling remains one of the most exotic destinations. Check-in, dinner, and overnight stay at the hotel.Day 19 -
Darjeeling
- Transportation Minibus - 03h30 - 125km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we set off to explore Darjeeling with a visit to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. It was established in Darjeeling after Tenzing Norgay climbed Everest to provide training in mountaineering and other related adventure sports. Visitors can see the equipment used during Everest ascents. The Institute is located in the heart of the Himalayan Zoological Park, where you can see Himalayan animals such as snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and various bird species. However, the star of the zoo is the red panda, endemic to the region. Next, we visit the Tibetan Refugee Center. This center is run by Tibetan refugees to preserve their traditional crafts, and visitors can observe the making of Tibetan carpets, leatherwork, paintings, and woodwork. Finally, we discover one of the oldest monasteries in the region, Ghoom Gompa, built in 1875. There, we can see the giant statue of Maitreya, the Buddha of the future, which is over 4.5 meters tall. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.Day 20 -
Darjeeling - Bagdogra - Delhi
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, we depart for Bagdogra Airport for our flight to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, we have lunch at a local restaurant and then visit New Delhi, exploring the city's grand boulevards and Connaught Place. We'll visit India Gate, the triumphal arch on Rajpath, Janpath, government buildings, and the center of Delhi. Finally, we'll visit a Sikh temple and explore Delhi's largest kitchen, where approximately 15,000 people eat for free every day. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.Day 21 -
Return flight to Paris
- Transportation Plane - 08h30 - 6500km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast at the hotel, then transfer to the airport. Daytime return flight to Paris, arriving the same day.Day 22
Note
This itinerary is provided as a guide only: depending on weather and operational conditions, your tour guide may modify this itinerary for your safety and that of the group.
Accommodation
During this stay, you will sleep in several different accommodations.
🏨 2-star hotel - Days 2 to 5, 17 to 20
In the cities (Delhi, Darjeeling, Gangtok), you stay in comfortable and well-located hotels.
Some accommodations also offer additional amenities: air conditioning, on-site restaurant, laundry service, or even a garden or terrace conducive to relaxation.
⛺️ Bivouac / Tent - Days 6 to 16
Access
Departure
Delhi
Day 1
: 00h00
End of stay
Delhi
Day 22
- 00h00
TRAVEL WITHIN THE COUNTRY
Domestic flights:
You will take a local flight between Delhi and Bagdogra.
Vehicle :
From Bagdogra to the trek's starting point, ground transportation will be provided according to group size by Jeep, Tata Sumo, Toyota Quail, Scorpio, or Innova, and minibuses. These vehicles are comfortable and perform well on mountain roads. While not all are 4x4s, they will all handle these routes without difficulty. Over the past 10 years, roads have improved, and 4x4s are no longer essential and are even difficult to obtain for commercial purposes.
Routes:
The roads in this part of the Himalayas are improving significantly. Due to the late rains in the Sikkim-Darjeeling region, landslides are possible, but this is generally not the season for them. Indian roads are being widened, but driving times are not comparable to those in developed countries. In any case, the team will respond in the best possible way.
Go to the starting point
The nearest airport isDEL - Delhi - Aéroport international Delhi-Indira Gandhi
INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT:
For flights to India, we use scheduled flights departing from Paris (operating year-round at fixed times). Depending on availability at the time of your booking, we may also offer flights with other airlines than those mentioned above.
IMPORTANT: This information is for guidance only. Depending on availability at the time of your registration, airlines and flight times may differ from the information mentioned above.
Would you like to travel on other dates?
Create an alert and we'll notify you by email if new departures are added.
Price details
The price includes
- International flights departing from Paris
- Air taxes
- Local transfers
- Airport-Hotel and Hotel-Airport Transfers
- Domestic flights between Delhi-Bagdogara-Delhi
- Accommodation
- Full board except in Delhi on days 2 and 22 (only bed and breakfast)
- Supervision by a French-speaking guide
- The transport of your luggage during the trek by ponies, mules or porters,
- A foam mattress, a dining tent, a team of cooks with all the necessary equipment
- The environmental tax
- Trekking permits
- Group pharmacy with an oxygen cylinder
The price does not include
- Indian visa fees
- Entrance fees to cultural sites: temples, monasteries, museums…
- Meals in Delhi (expect to pay around €8-10 per meal in a mid-range restaurant)
- The sleeping bag (mandatory for the trek)
- Travel insurance, repatriation assistance, and tips
- Personal expenses
- Drinks
- Tips for local teams (see "Tips" section)
- The potential rights to use cameras or video cameras on certain sites
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Telescopic walking sticks
- Toiletries. Whenever possible, choose biodegradable products (Marseille soap and shampoo).
- Hand sanitizer
- Swimsuit (optional)
- Water bottle or hydration pack of 1.5 or 2 liters
- Water filter or tablet for treating water
- Sunglasses with a high protection rating
- Headlamp and spare batteries
- Waterproof plastic bags to keep your belongings dry in case of rain
- Card game, book...
Clothing to bring
Please bring light and comfortable clothing for the trip, as well as appropriate equipment for the days of hiking in the mountains (significant temperature difference between the heat during the day and the cold at night):
- Cap
- Cap or hat
- Scarf or neck warmer (buff)
- Gloves
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable jacket
- Compact down jacket for the evening
- Warm fleece jacket
- Thermal underwear (top and bottom)
- T-shirt made of synthetic material (quick-drying)
- Shorts (short shorts are forbidden in monasteries)
- Comfortable walking pants
- Walking socks
- Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes with a grippy sole
- Light shoes for the evening
Note: Feel free to donate your old hiking gear to your guide. Our local agency will then distribute it to our porters, in addition to the work equipment we provide them.
Decathlon Travel Partner
The Paulin team
4.4/5
(1436 reviews)
• 445 stays
For over 30 years, our local partner has been designing adventure walking trips around the world. Specializing in small-group treks, they cater to both casual hikers and seasoned trekkers seeking unspoiled natural environments and a return to the essentials. Their key strength? They own their own agencies in over 30 countries, guaranteeing complete trip creation from start to finish, without intermediaries. This direct, on-the-ground expertise ensures memorable active experiences and total freedom amidst breathtaking landscapes.
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