When is the best time of the year to go hiking? In Sri Lanka it is usually January to March.
Are you an avid adventurer who adores trekking through rainforests and climbing up hilly mountains, or simply enjoy taking in beautiful scenery? Hiking opens up the doorways to enjoy some of the world’s most stunning wonders. Choosing the right season to hike is not simply about the weather, it’s about your safety, comfort and also the view.
Here are 5 destinations around the world that are perfect for hikers along with the best time of the year to experience them at their peak.
Top 5 Hiking Destinations Around the World
1. Sri Lanka | Best time to Hike: January to March
Top Trails:
- Pekoe Trail: Winding through the central highlands of Sri Lanka, Pekoe trail is a 300km path that travels through lush tea landscapes, misty mountains, cascading streams and a diverse ecosystem that can be witnessed all throughout.
- Horton Plains & World’s End: World’s End is one of the most dramatic and stunning escarpments in the world, plunging 880m at the edge of a cliff. The hike involves a journey passing Baker’s Falls, where one can view captivating streams of water cascading down and immerse in its tranquility.
- Pitawala Patana Mini World’s End: Located near Riverston, the Pitawala Patana Mini World’s End is an overhanging cliff at the grassy plains of the Knuckles range. Known as “Punchi Lokanthaya” in Sinhala, the hike is only a short 800m and you can find many endemic flora and fauna that thrive in this environment.
2. Nepal | Best Time to Hike: March to May and October to November
Top Trails:
- Everest Base Camp Trek: Approximately 9 km long, this hike is one of the most humbling experiences about the grandeur of the world. With the vivid Sherpa culture, the breathtaking scenery of the misty mountains and the thrill of being close to the world’s highest peak, the Everest Base Camp trek is an experience to remember.
- Annapurna Circuit: Ideal for seasoned hikers, the Annapurna Circuit trek will let you experience diverse climates from tropical warmth to chilly snow. To hike in this region, you must be accompanied by a licensed guide, whether solo or group.
- Poon Hill Trek: A short, exhilarating hike, the Poon Hill Trek will let you bask in the rich culture of traditional Nepali villages and embrace the beauty of the Annapurna region whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker.
3. Switzerland | Best Time to Hike: June to September
Top Trails:
- Eiger Trail: Right beneath the famed Eiger North Face, the Eiger Trail with its scenic beauty and alpine trails is accessible and thrilling. Enjoy the breathtaking view over Wetterhorn and the Grosse Scheidegg whether you’re a beginner or an experienced traveller.
- Matterhorn Glacier: With a high altitude and an experience perfect for thrill seekers, the Zermatt to Matterhorn Glacier trek allows you to witness a panorama of icy glaciers that sparkle in the soft sunlight.
- Five Lakes Walk: True to its name, the Five Lakes Walk is a path that connects 5 crystal clear lakes in Switzerland with unique experiences from picnics to swimming available at different locations.
4. New Zealand | Best time to hike: December to April
Top Trails:
- Milford Track: Sweeping through the heart of Fiordland and dubbed the “finest walk in the world”, the Milford Track allows you to take in the diverse scenery of cascading waterfalls, icy glaciers and fjords.
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing: A world renowned one day trek, this journey leads you through the dramatic path of active volcanic craters and emerald lakes and is full of cultural identity.
- Routeburn Track: Rich in scenic alpine beauty, this is an advanced trek that takes you through the meadows of Fiordland and stunning mountain views. Travelling from May to October can be extremely challenging and is not advised.
5. Canada | Best Time to Hike: June to October
Top Trails:
- Lake Agnes Tea House Trail (Banff): A charming, short trail that ends with a quaint tea house, this journey lets you witness the turquoise, glacial waters of Lake Louise that is suitable for everyone, especially during peak season.
- Plain of Six Glaciers Trail: An iconic Banff trail, this trek is a path through dramatic valleys, rocky traverses, and towering cliffs. With a teahouse to greet you at the end of your journey, this is one of the most classic hikes in Canada.
From strolling down Sri Lanka’s tea-scented hills to exploring the base of the Himalayan peaks, hiking offers you a glimpse of nature at its best and is the most rewarding when you move along the rhythm of nature. With safety, eco-consious travel and the right timing, you can witness the magic of the world in every trail.
