Blog - The best travel insights and top travel tips
Welcome to the Mountain Kingdoms blog. We have been walking and trekking the world for over 36 years and here we share our holiday recommendations, travel pointers and favourite mountain views.
The Best Places to Visit in Bhutan
Bhutan, known fondly as the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’, is a travel destination unlike any other. Untouched by mass tourism, this Himalayan kingdom draws visitors in with its blend of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and deep spiritual traditions. But what makes this country truly beautiful isn’t just the spectacular scenery, it’s its commitment to the Gross National Happiness scale which prioritises the well-being of its people and environment over economic growth.... Read more
The Five Best Things to do in Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is a country brimming with rich history, vibrant cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes that range from majestic mountains to serene deserts. Known as the heart of the ancient Silk Road, Uzbekistan offers a unique blend of the past and present, making it a fascinating destination for travellers. ... Read more
The Best Things to Do in Nepal
Nepal is a place of breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage just waiting to be explored. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, this South Asian country boasts a diverse landscape that ranges from towering peaks to lush valleys and vast glaciers to serene lakes.... Read more
Best Places to Visit in Nepal
Since the first ascent of Everest in 1952 and the hippy invasion of the 1960s, Nepal has captured the imagination of travellers and adventurers alike. Whether in search of an exhilarating challenge or simply looking for a slice of Shangri La, Nepal continues to draw visitors with its incomparable Himalayan landscapes and living, sacred culture. ... Read more
Sue Lawty's Colours of India
Gujarat in western India is renowned for its sumptuous, dazzling textiles. They are produced by intricate techniques that are deeply rooted within the traditions of local communities or ethnic groups. We explore this fascinating region in our Colours of India tour led by textiles expert Sue Lawty.... Read more
A beginner's guide to Bhutan
Mountain Kingdoms have been organising cultural tours, walking holidays and trekking adventures to the Thunder Dragon Kingdom for more than 35 years, so we know this unique country inside out.... Read more
Win two places on a Silk Road tour
Entries to our prize draw closed on the 31st March and the winner was drawn at random on the 10th April. The lucky winner of two places on one of our Silk Road to Samarkand group tours is Ms S Taylor. Congratulations to Ms Taylor and a big thank you to everyone who entered. ... Read more
My trek to Annapurna North Base Camp
Earlier this year our MD, Steve Berry, was one of the first westerners to trek on a newly built trail that leads to the foot of Annapurna I - the highest peak in the Annapurna range in Nepal. Steve was following in the footsteps of an historic 1950 expedition that was the first to climb the mountain. Here he introduces the trek, explaining the significance of the route, the story behind the new trail, and why he believes it's such a superb Himalayan trek. ... Read more
Planning a trip to Bhutan?
Visiting the tiny Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan has long been considered beyond the reach of the ‘average’ traveller but those who venture into the Thunder Dragon Kingdom are rewarded by the enthralling culture and spellbinding scenery of a country which uniquely prioritises environmental sustainability and the gross happiness of its people over mass tourism.... Read more
A Guide to Trekking to Everest Base Camp: Training and Preparing
To visit Everest Base Camp is high on many people’s wish lists. Whether to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, savour the iconic history or simply say ‘I was there’, it remains one of the great objectives for every walking enthusiast.
However, it’s not without its challenges. The trek involves steep climbs, high altitudes, and long days of hiking. This makes training for Everest Base Camp essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Proper preparation, including physical and mental training, acclimatisation, and the right gear, can make all the difference.
So, if you’re thinking about going, but aren’t sure what it involves, this is part one of our comprehensive guide to the world’s greatest trek. Read on to discover how best to train and prepare, ensuring you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the challenges and fully enjoy the incredible adventure of reaching Everest Base Camp.... Read more