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BY  Sibashree Mar 21, 2025

Whether you’re from the West or someone in South Asia, you’ll always think of Nepal when the word ‘trekking heaven’ comes to mind.  Nepal is the home to the best trekking destinations in the entire world. It has beautiful trekking routes winding around the sides of mountains and beautiful hills and plateaus. But what are some of the best Trekking Destinations in Nepal?  Thorugh this blog entry, we’re going to explore the five most iconic destinations in Nepal for every trekking enthusiasts to enjoy.  Yes, we are talking about the classical adventure like Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek to less travelers routes like Langtang Valley Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek. So, if you want an adventurous trekk, read on.  5 Trekking Destinations in Nepal You Must Try Travel enthusiasts who enjoy trekking, have Nepal in their bucket list for ultimate trekking experience. Nepal is rich with beautiful places you can go to.  It has towering peaks, tall mountains, and most importantly, the Mount Everest. If you’re looking for some high altitude challenge for trekking experience, Nepal has wonders awaiting your trekking boots. Everest Base Camp Trek Trek Duration: 12 to 14 days Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging Best Time: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) Let’s talk about a dream trekking destinations in Nepal every trekking enthusiast would love to take at some point. Everest Base Camp Trek  — legendary trekking trail in the eastern Himalayas gives you an adventurous tour through the heart of the Khumbu region with mesmerizing views of Mount Everest (8,848m/ 29,029ft) and different other peaks.  This thrilling journey begins from Lukla (2,800m/ 9,186ft) and take the travellers across the beautiful Sherpa villages, high suspension bridges, glaciers and high-altitude landscapes.  On your journey, you’ll admire the highlights you find on the way and find yourself standing at the foothills of the tallest peak (snow-clad) in the world. Yes, we are talking about the one and only Mount Everest. Remember 1953, when Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary conquered Everest? You’ll tread just in their footsteps.  Annapurna Circuit Trek Trek Duration: 10 to 14 days Difficulty Level: Moderate Best Time: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) Done with the Everest Base Camp Trek? Then, here’s another Himalayan delight in the form of a trekking adventure. Annapurna Circuit Trek – the one trekking experience that’s here to take you through the most scenic experiences in the world.  This trek takes you around the Mount Annapurna (8,091m/ 26,545ft) and you get to visit throug the lush green forests, deep gorges, and high altitude arid landscape, beautiful settlements of Gurung, Magar, Thakali, Tamang, and Manangi groups.  This trek usually starts after you take adrive to Ngadi, and slowly ascend through the Marsyangdhi Valley. This is where you get to see a drastic change in the landscape. In Himalayas, you see linear paths. But, this one is a loop giving you a varied trekking experience in the entire country.  Langtang Valley Trek Trek Duration: 7 to 10 days  Difficulty Level: Relatively Easy to Moderate  Maximum Elevation: Tsergo Ri (4,985m/ 16,354ft) Best Time: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) Go for Lnagtang Valley Trek if what you want is a less crowded trekking experience compared to the Himalay. It’s nestled in the Langtan National Park, and this trek offers great view of the Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Naya Kangri, Dorje Lakpa and other surrounding peaks. If you are starting from Kathmandu, this trek starts shortly after a few hours of drive from the capital of Nepal. It’s unlike the major trekking routes like Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Treks. Those treks require a long journey before you can start off with your journey. Yes, it’s a shorter trek. But the experience you gather with this one is beyond what anyone can imagine.  You’ll start the trek from Syabrubesi (2,380m/ 7,808ft), and you will travel across alpine meadows, beautiful valleys, adn ancient monasteries, and yak pasture peaking at Kyanjin Gompa.  Manaslu Circuit Trek Trek Duration: 8 to 12 days  Difficulty Level: Moderate Level Best Time: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) If you want to check out an offbeat or less commercialized trek, then Manaslu Circuit Trek is the best option to start with. At the same time, most travelers prefer popular names like the Annapurna Circuit Trek or the Langtang Valley Trek. However, this one takes you on a thrilling adventure around the west-central part of the country. As a traveller you’ll enjoy the opportunity to admire and experience the raw beuty and culture of the Himalayas. It offers a perfect blend of thrill and solitude with a strong cultural experience. However, if you are interested in the raw and authentic trek, this experience is relatively untouched part of the Himalayas in an excellent choice. Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Trek Duration: 5 to 7 days Difficulty Level: Relatively Easy Best Time: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) When you want a short and beautiful journey in the Annapurna Region in Nepal, try going on a trek to Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. This is a trek good for travelers of all ages. Whether you want to experience the fresh mountain air or get a panoramic view of the mountainscape, this is a good destination to aim for if you’re going to Nepal.  On the other hand, if you take any of the other trekking locations we have added examples to, you’ll notice that most of them require extensive physical effort. Most of those aren’t short and brief travel experiences. But if you’re up for a simple and easier trekking option, try visiting the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek to experience the breathtaking view of the landscape.  Conclusion Whether you want a more raw experience of the Himalayas or want to enjoy a group trekking experience, select from the five names we have mentioned in this article. From the trek of the Himalayan camp to Annapurna Circuit and Manaslu Circuit Trek, there are plenty of options you can try and travel to your heart’s content.  Let us know which one of the trekking routes you have gone through or are planning to visit in your next visit to Nepal. Happy trekking! YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Is San Juan Safe for Solo Women Travelers? View of the Mountains and Green Fields During the Kerry Way Visit Joshua Tree National Park To Hike And Explore The Best Trails

BY  Sibashree May 17, 2025

Japan will have already exceeded the 10 million visitor mark by April 2025. The number is 10.54 million, specifically, as the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) data states.  JNTO had also stated earlier that 2024 was the year of the highest tourist footfall, with the number shooting up to 36.8 million.  Now, Tokyo, as the cultural, economic, and commercial epicentre of Japan, is, of course, experiencing the most tourism boom.  However, around 1300 km apart, Hokkaido also contributes to the country's tourism growth.  So, this time, we decided to make a Tokyo to Hokkaido journey, and our Tour and Travel blog has all the details as always! What Is The Tokyo To Hokkaido Distance? The distance between Tokyo and Hokkaido is 1,281.5 km. Traveling this distance by car takes around 20 hours.  However, taking a flight or a bullet train is the best option for traveling between these two destinations.  What Is A Good Month To Visit Hokkaido? Hokkaido is a year-round travel destination. However, the best times to visit are March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). Mild weather conditions and moderate rainfall make these months ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the nearby attractions.  Further, Spring or Sakura is the cherry blossom season in Hokkaido and all parts of Japan. Similarly, Koyo, or the autumn foliage in yellow, orange, and red, makes Hokkaido look like a painting.  Again, the summer season in Hokkaido is pleasant and cooler than Japan's main island, and it is ideal for hiking and exploring the scenic flower fields. Also, in winter, Hokkaido has a lot of visitors for skiing and snowboarding.  Nevertheless, the table below provides a detailed idea of the weather conditions of Hokkaido by month.  MonthAverage Temperature (Degree Celsius)Rainfall (Inches)Hours of SunJanuary-958February-849March-3410April5212May121.915June181.715July20316August22514September165.812October94.811November34.610December-54.99 How Do I Go From Tokyo To Hokkaido? There are four ways to travel from Hokkaido to Tokyo. You can take a flight, Shinkansen bullet train, ferry or car.  Take A Tokyo To Hokkaido Flight Duration: 1.2-1.5 Hours Cost: 5500 Japanese Yen (One Way) Route: Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo to Sapporo Chitose Airport Best for: Quick Traveling If you want to reach Hokkaido from Tokyo in the blink of an eye, you can take a flight to Sapporo from Narita or Haneda Airport. These two airports are close to Tokyo Station.  Traveling In Tokyo To Hokkaido Bullet Train Duration: 7-7.5 Hours Cost: 26990 - 35860 Japanese Yen (for Adults) Route: Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station to Sapporo Station Best for: Exploring the Scenic View and Food Scene Taking the Tokyo to Hokkaido train is the way to cover the distance. The Shinkansen bullet train journey is long and expensive.  However, it is the best way to explore the attractions on the route.  Further, the train journey is divided into two stages.  Bullet train or Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Limited express train from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to Sapporo The first stage of the journey takes around 4-4.5 hours, and the second stage of the journey will take close to 3.5 hours.  Moreover, if you have plans to explore various parts of Japan by train, you can buy a JR or Japan Rail Pass for 50000 Japanese Yen. It remains valid for 7 days.  Ferry Ride From Tokyo To Hokkaido Duration: 20-22 Hours Cost: 26990 - 12000 Japanese Yen Route: Tokyo to Oarai Port to Tomakomai Port to Sapporo Best for: Patrons of Slow Traveling Evening Ferry Timing: Departure - 7:45 PM, Arrival - 1:45 PM Next Day Night Ferry Timing: Departure - 1:45 AM, Arrival: 7:35 PM Next Day The journey from Tokyo to Hokkaido is divided into three stages.  First, you have to travel to Oarai Port from Tokyo Station after a train journey of 1 hour and 45 minutes.  Then, you will have to take the Sunflower Ferry from Oarai Port to Tomakomai Port. Finally, you will need to take a train ride or ride a car to reach Sapporo from Tomakomai Port. Road Trip From Tokyo To Hokkaido Duration: 20-23 Hours Cost: 15000 Japanese Yen for Tolls, 15000-26000 Japanese Yen for Ferries, and Car Rental Route: Tokyo, Aomori City, Hakodate, Sapporo Best for: Travelers Willing to Explore the Tohoku Region and other Areas A car trip from Tokyo to Hokkaido is a lifetime experience. However, the journey also consists of various stages. Driving from Tokyo to Aomori City Ferry Ride from Aomori to Hakodate or Tomakomai Driving to Sapporo Tokyo To Hokkaido Journey: Places To Visit There are multiple places to visit during the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey. Let me briefly introduce these stopovers to you.  • Otaru Otaru basks in its unique charm as a port city. You will see historical canals and old warehouses here.  It also has many sushi bars if you want to try the best of Japanese flavors.  • Sapporo Sapporo has a palpable urban energy as the capital of the Hokkaido region. However, it is also the gateway to the Northeastern mountains.  • Hakodate It is a coastal city located at Hokkaido’s southwestern tip. It is often referred to as the gateway between Hokkaido and Honshu.  • Tohoku Region The Tohoku Region has historical attractions like Sendai. The Aomori prefecture is a cultural hub of the region.  However, for me, Kakunodate is the most fascinating place here. It is well-preserved, and this feudal town is home to Samurai residences.  • Shiretoko National Park Shiretoko National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its colorful wildlife and pristine ambiance.  • Daisetsuzan National Park It is the largest national park in Hokkaido. With its diverse landscape and trails, it is a favorite of hikers.  Lake Toya, Nikko, Furano and Biei, and Lake Akan are other popular places to visit on the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey. Tokyo To Hokkaido: Where To Eat?  If you love ramen and soup curries, the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey will be the ultimate gastronomic delight. You cannot miss the seafood, grilled lamb, or Jingisukan.  Further, Aomori and Sendai will be your stopovers on the route. These cities in the Tohoku region are known for their regional delicacies such as Kiritanpo Hot Pot, Hachinohe Senbei Soup, and Kitakata Ramen.  See why we all prefer bullet train rides over flights! 😋😋😋😋😋😋 Further, once you reach Sapporo in Hokkaido, your choices will be as vivid as they can get.  Sapporo DelicaciesWhy So Special?Sapporo RamenThick noodlesRich brothDiverse in toppingsJingisukanSignature-style grilled lambTastes amazing with beerSoup CurryA flavor bomb with a fusion of Indian and Japanese flavors. Fresh SeafoodSushiNemuro Hanamaru and other crab delicaciesSteak or YakinikuSignature Hokkaido-style grilled beefSweetsYogurts ParfaitMango Parfait Is Hokkaido Worth Visiting? Yes, Hokkaido is a place worth visiting. It is a melting pot of unique cultures, outdoor activities, and natural wonders. Also, Hokkaido has some real surprises for Murakami fans, and I will spill the beans if you are not already aware! First, have a look at the table below for a sneak peek into why Hokkaido is so popular among tourists. Reasons Why You Must Visit HokkaidoThe HighlightsCultural and Historical Experiences• Hakodate Historical Town• Onsen culture or hot spring experiences in Noboribetsu• Exploring the indigenous Ainu Culture at Lake AkanGastronomic delight• Fresh seafood at the Sapporo fish market• Trying Sapporo ramen, soup, and dairy products**• Exploring Ramen Alley or Ganso Ramen Yokocho in the Susukino nightlife area(It is the birthplace of miso ramen.)Exploring Wildlife• A visit to the Shiretoko National Park• Spotting bears, deer, and foxesDiverse Landscapes• Mountains such as Asahi-dake, Mount Rausu, etc. • Forest areas such as Mt. Daisetsu and the Hidaka Mountains• Hokkaido is home to 22% of the entire forest land in Japan. • Beaches in Hokkaido, such as Otsu Beach, Shimamui Beach and Aso Beach Ishikari• Volcanic areas such as the Akan Volcanic Complex, Shikotsu-Toya National Park, and Daisetsuzan Volcanic GroupWinter Sports• Skiing• SnowboardingSummer Outdoor Activities• Biking• Hiking• Cycling ** Hokkaido is world-famous for its milk and dairy products. Hokkaido milk is creamy, rich, and full-bodied. It has been a favorite among chefs and connoisseurs since the 19th century after the western farming technique became popular in Japan.** Why Is Hokkaido A Murakami Lover’s Dream Destination? Have you heard of the Matsuyama Farm, located in the remote north of Hokkaido? It is an annual meeting ground for Murakami lovers from all corners of the world.  Further, Hokkaido is THE LOCATION of the Oscar-winning film Drive My Car. It was based on Haruki Murakami's stories.  Also, be it the Men Without Women story collection or the surreal novel A Wild Sheep Chase, Hokkaido has been an important element in Murakami’s work.  Moreover, prominent places mentioned in Murakami’s work are: Keio Plaza Hotel in Sapporo (the inspiration behind the Dolphin Hotel in Dance Dance Dance) Nakatonbetsu (the hometown of the young chauffeur in Drive My Car) Bifuka (the inspiration behind the town of Junitaki in A Wild Sheep Chase.  Also, Lake Shikotsu, despite not being directly related to the work of Murakami, is a place you cannot miss in Hokkaido. Is 3 Days Enough In Hokkaido? The second-largest island in Japan, Hokkaido, cannot be explored in three days. However, here, we have tried making a compressed itinerary if you are staying here for three days.  On the first day, you can tour Sapporo and visit places such as the Sapporo TV Tower, Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, and Moerenuma Park.  Further, on day 2, you can explore the history of Hokkaido by visiting coastal cities such as Otaru (known for its historic canals) and Otoyama Sake Brewery Museum. Also, don’t forget to try the seafood here. On day 3, you can enjoy the best of Hokkaido’s natural wonders such as Nopporo Forest Park, Lake Shikotsu, and Mount Tarumae.  Mount Tarumae is an active volcano and a popular hiking spot. On the other hand, Lake Shikotsu is the second-deepest lake in Japan.  Are you tired of exploring all the outdoor attractions in Hokkaido? Relax at hot springs such as Jozankei, Noboritbetsu, and Asahidake and enjoy the ultimate Japanese experience.  Tokyo To Hokkaido Distance Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Tokyo to Hokkaido distance. How Long Is The Bullet Train From Tokyo To Hokkaido? The Hayabusa Shinkansen is the fastest bullet train running from Tokyo to Hokkaido. This journey from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto takes around 3 hours and 57 minutes. You can book a reserved seat at 26990 Japanese Yen or a Green Seat for 35860 Japanese Yen (for adults). Is It Better To Fly Or Train From Tokyo To Sapporo? If you want to travel quickly, you must take a Tokyo to Sapporo flight, which will take around 1 hour and 35 minutes. New Chitose Airport near Sapporo serves as the key entry point. On the other hand, if you want a more scenic experience, you can take a two-stage train journey.Bullet train or Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-HokutoLimited express train from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to SapporoThe total journey will take around 7.5 hours. How Long Is A Flight From Tokyo to Hokkaido? The flight from Tokyo to Sapporo in Hokkaido takes from 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes. It is one of the busiest air routes in the world, and hence, you will get many flight options. 

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 22, 2023

Scotland's second city, long eclipsed by sophisticated, tourist-heavy Edinburgh, has been quietly demonstrating that it's anything but second best. Glasgow has won many accolades for its culture. From the street art-filled east end to Rennie Mackintosh's architectural achievements (except for the tragically destroyed School of Art). Are you eager to visit the hippest city in Scotland? Everything you need to know is right here. Here are the mandatory things to do in Glasgow. Things To Do In Glasgow Glasgow in Gaelic stands for “dear green place.” And to no surprise, Glasgow is as green as it gets. It houses more than 90 parks and gardens that are woven through the city’s landscape. The Glasgow Botanical Garden is home to the largest plant collection in the UK. Here are some of the best things to do in Glasgow. Don’t miss out on your next trip. George Square George Square awaits everyone landing at Queen Street Station. It aids in the orientation of newcomers in the city center and is a constant site of protest and joy. George III is absent from the square. Enraged cotton and tobacco lords had monuments of him pulled down one after another. It happened ever since he lost their lands in the American War of Independence. Instead, the adjacent area known as Merchant City is booming these days, offering a ton of Glasgow activities. It also has a vibrant nightlife and boutique shopping. From that point on, Sauchiehall, Buchanan, and Argyle streets come together to form the Style Mile, a retail district. West End The city's famed West End houses opulent parks, incredibly elaborate Glasgow University buildings, and the ever-popular Kelvingrove Museum. It has everything from Salvador Dali's artwork to Glasgow's master architect and polymath Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The artwork feels like it belongs in a different universe. River Clyde It is difficult to visit Glasgow without spending some time on the banks of the River Clyde. It is where the superb Riverside Museum and the restored Tall Ship Glenlee are located. The SSE Hydro is close, but you can check out King Tut's Wah Wah Hut or the storied Barrowlands Ballroom. It is where Oasis first appeared. Art Museums The legacy of Rennie Mackintosh, Glasgow's poster child, is deeply ingrained in the city. You might spend an entire vacation simply strolling down a path of his creations. Many additional Mackintosh artifacts can still be seen. However, the beloved Glasgow School of Art is now recuperating from a series of devastating fires. Visit the House for an Art Lover, have tea at Mackintosh at the Willow, or go to The Lighthouse. The Mackintosh Interpretation Centre honors the life and career of the architect. Don't miss the opportunity to see the expansive city views from the observatory of the Water Tower from The Lighthouse. When the tower was first constructed, it had a functional dovecot. The carrier pigeons were employed to bring the Glasgow Herald journalists the afternoon sports scores. If you can escape Mackintosh's hold, there are still a lot of other cultural boxes to check. Behind an outstanding neo-classical façade, the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) houses works by Andy Warhol and David Hockney. Of particular note is the statue of the Duke of Wellington outside the entrance, posing with an orange traffic cone happily placed on his head. Explore the east end's mural trail for a gritty perspective on art, where enormous pieces of art loom around corners and look down from office buildings. Bars And Restaurants The Merchant City offers a variety of cuisines. Highlights include the amazing, enduring Café Gandolfi fish bar, Obsession of India, and the insanely popular Paesano Pizza. The bars are extremely busy, even though they are a little forgettable. Head to the freshly reopened Babbity Bowster for a more sedate pint. In the West End, things are, maybe unsurprisingly, considerably more upscale. A longtime favorite in the area near Glasgow University is Stravaigin. Glasgow's 17-year drought for a Michelin star was just ended when Cail Bruich was included in the 2021 guide. It is located nearby on Great Western Road. Ashton Lane, a short stroll south, offers a night out unto itself with its jam-packed bar and restaurant scene. The cobblestone includes the always-popular Ubiquitous Chip. Are you thinking of going south of Clyde? Admirers of Malaysian cuisine are gushing about Julie's Kopitiam. In the much-maligned Govanhill neighborhood, Nanika is a fantastic tiny Asian fusion restaurant. Over a hundred different rums are available at the nearby Rum Shack, but if you'd rather keep things classy, stop by the Gnom café, which is next to Queen's Park. The Necropolis The Necropolis, an exquisitely decaying cemetery with a spectacular location, is located in Glasgow's east as well. Paths wind among a variety of tall-spired mausoleums and weathered burial stones stacked up on a hill behind the historic cathedral in the heart of the city. When you reach the top of the trail, you'll be treated to breathtaking views over the city. Food & Cuisine Glasgow is a city that truly knows how to feed you; forget stories of deep-fried Mar Bars coupled with Irn Bru, and discover one of Scotland's most lively culinary scenes instead. Glasgow has an abundance of excellent places to stay, a thriving entertainment scene, and everything you could possibly need for a weekend getaway. Good cuisine, in fact, is a source of pride for the city's residents and a constant topic of conversation. Ask a Glaswegian where to eat, and you'll never receive a straight answer. But one thing you'll hear a lot is that the city's culinary center is located in Finnieston. The neighborhood that’s been named the hippest place to live in the UK. Of all the options, Crabshakk is unquestionably a must-see. This wonderful restaurant specializes in delicious Scottish seafood offering a rotating menu of specials and some amazing house specialties. The sizzling pan of scallops with caramelized anchovy sauce is a must-try. In addition to supporting Scottish food, The West End's enduringly well-liked Ubiquitous Chip has been setting the standard. It has been offering upscale, contemporary Scottish cuisine since 1971. One of Glasgow's most exciting culinary endeavors, Dockyard Social, is located in Finnieston as well. It is a street food market housed in a large industrial warehouse with three inspiring goals. It aims to highlight the best of the city's culinary scene, assist start-up food businesses, and support the neighborhood. This provides the most impoverished residents with professional culinary training. There are still foods to try throughout the entire city if you venture outside of Finnieston. A'Challtainn is located east of BAaD (Barras Art and Design), a hip urban area in the Barras Market. With a focus on sustainably sourced seafood from Scotland, this stunning restaurant has already won a few accolades in its brief existence. It won Best Rookie to the Glasgow culinary scene. While you're in the center, make sure to check out Paesano for their exceptional pizzas. They are masterfully charred in wood-fired ovens built in Naples using only the finest Italian ingredients. Wrapping Up Glasgow is home to the third-oldest underground train system in the world. The majority of the city's attractions, however, are easily accessible on foot. One single loop that revolves around the inner or outer line makes it impossible to misunderstand. When Celtic and Rangers, the city's Old Firm rivals, play, it's advisable to stay away from Celtic Park. It is located in the east of the city and Ibrox in the south. Almost 130 years later, one of the most bitter rivalries in sports is still incredibly bitter. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Glasgow, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Historic City, Timeless Charm: Exploring The Best Things To Do In Bath UK City Hidden Gems: Things To Do In Manchester Coastal Bliss: Top Things To Do In Bournemouth