If you live in the UK and have been thinking about taking an adventure trip abroad, you’re not alone. Many people want to explore new countries, walk in nature, or experience a different culture, but they don’t always feel confident enough to start. I’ve seen this many times in my 15+ years leading and organising…
Many families in the UK are now choosing simple, nature-first holidays instead of busy, activity-packed trips. After years of fast-paced routines, more parents want time outdoors with their children — walking, exploring, and reconnecting with nature. The UK has plenty of places where families can get outside without long travel hours or complicated planning. With…
If you’re planning your first Himalayan trek from the UK, there’s a strong chance Nepal comes to mind first. But if you’re looking for a region that feels remote, culturally rich, and visually unlike anywhere else, then Ladakh deserves your attention. Located in northern India, Ladakh is a high-altitude desert sitting between the Karakoram and…
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most recognisable trekking routes in the world. For many people in the UK, reaching Base Camp is a once-in-a-lifetime goal — not because it’s the hardest trek, but because it combines stunning mountain scenery, Sherpa culture, and a sense of personal achievement that is hard to…
Trekking has become one of the most fulfilling ways for UK travellers to explore the world — it’s active, scenic, and deeply rewarding. But when planning your next trekking adventure, one question often comes up early: Should I go solo, or should I join a group? Over the years at High Places UK, we’ve guided…
When most people picture India, the image that often comes to mind is of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and world-famous trekking routes. But India’s heart lies beyond its trails. It’s in the rhythm of its villages, the colours of its markets, and the stories told by its monuments and people. At High Places UK, we’ve spent…
If there’s one country that effortlessly blends misty mountains with golden beaches, it’s Sri Lanka. This small island nation, sitting quietly in the Indian Ocean, is one of Asia’s most diverse adventure destinations. At High Places, we’ve trekked across its lush highlands, wandered through its ancient ruins, and cooled off along its serene coasts —…
When you’re just starting out with walking or hiking, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by choices — from routes and distances to terrain and equipment. But the truth is, you don’t need to be an expert trekker to experience the joy of outdoor adventure. With the right trail and preparation, anyone can begin discovering adventure…
If you’ve dreamt of trekking through the wild landscapes of Ladakh — where monasteries cling to cliffs and the Himalayas stretch endlessly ahead — the Markha Valley Trek should be at the top of your list. From the UK, it’s one of the most rewarding Himalayan adventures you can plan. I’ve guided and helped travellers…
If you’re based in the UK and planning your first trekking adventure abroad, you’re about to begin one of the most rewarding travel experiences of your life. At High Places UK, we’ve spent decades guiding small groups through some of the world’s most stunning mountain landscapes — from the Himalayan treks in Nepal and India…
Introduction The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most famous treks in the world, and for good reason. Stretching through Nepal’s Annapurna region, it offers high mountain passes, traditional villages, and unforgettable Himalayan views. If you’re reading this, you’re not just dreaming about the trek — you’re already considering how to make it happen. This…
Planning an adventure abroad is exciting, but the choices can quickly feel overwhelming. If you’re a UK traveller thinking about exploring Asia — whether that’s trekking in the Himalayas, joining India tours, or discovering the best places to visit in Sri Lanka — choosing the right tour operator UK is one of the most important…
Introduction Adventure travel is changing fast, and 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for UK travellers. More people are moving away from crowded tourist hotspots and choosing experiences that are personal, active, and meaningful. Whether you’re planning your very first trekking holiday or you’ve already walked mountain trails around the world, the…
Introduction: Why Look Beyond the Famous? Have you ever dreamed of visiting a world-famous destination, only to picture long queues, high prices, and busy crowds? I’ve seen this happen countless times in my 15+ years of leading and planning treks. Travellers set their hearts on a “must-see” spot, but when they finally arrive, they spend…
Introduction If you’re based in the UK and thinking about your next adventure trip, Bhutan should be on your radar. Known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” Bhutan blends dramatic Himalayan scenery with a deeply rooted culture that feels worlds apart from everyday life. One of the most accessible yet rewarding treks here is…
Introduction Over the years, I’ve seen one simple fact make or break a trek: how well you’ve packed. If you’re preparing for a high-altitude adventure, what you carry in your bag can be the difference between comfort and struggle. As a UK-based tour operator with decades of experience leading treks across Nepal, India, Bhutan, and…
Introduction If you live in the UK and dream about the Himalayas, you’re not alone. For many travellers, the word “Himalayas” brings up images of towering snow peaks and long, exhausting climbs. But here’s the truth: trekking in the Himalayas isn’t just for expert mountaineers. With the right planning and the right route, even beginners…
Choosing the right trek can feel overwhelming. With so many options across the Himalayas and beyond, how do you decide which one is right for you? The answer comes down to three key factors: your fitness, the altitude, and the duration of the trek. Getting this balance right means you’ll enjoy the journey instead of…
Introduction If you’re a UK traveller considering trekking in the Himalayas, sustainability should be part of your planning from the start. The Himalayas are not only home to some of the world’s most challenging and beautiful trekking routes, but also to fragile ecosystems and remote communities. As experienced tour operators, we’ve seen first-hand how responsible…
The Nubra Valley Trek in Ladakh is one of the most spectacular journeys in the Indian Himalaya. Known for its dramatic landscapes, ancient monasteries, and remote high-altitude passes, this trek offers a rare chance to explore one of the least-visited corners of India. For UK trekkers searching for a challenge that goes beyond the classic…
If you’re planning your next great adventure in the Himalayas, timing is everything. Whether you dream of the towering peaks of Nepal, the remote trails of Ladakh, or the untouched wilderness of Bhutan, knowing the best season to visit will help you make the most of your journey. As a tour operator with decades of…
With over 15 years in the travel industry, I’ve had the privilege of guiding travelers through some of the most breathtaking and culturally rich regions of the world. South Asia, in particular, stands out as a region that delivers unmatched diversity — whether you're chasing mountain air, ancient temples, or coastlines with soul. If you’re…
Introduction: What Makes Trekking the Ultimate Adventure If you're anything like the people I’ve guided over the last 15+ years, you’re not just looking for another holiday — you're looking for something real. Something you’ll remember long after you return home. That’s exactly what guided trekking offers. I’ve spent over a decade and a half…
From visiting a new country to hiking up the highest mountain in the world, the one thing in common is the desire to travel. You may already have a bucket list of things you want to do and places you want to see. You may be new to the travel community. Either way we hope…
There are currently over 1000 listed world heritage across the globe. We've managed to pick our favourite 10 that we believe everyone should visit at least once in their lives. Filled with biodiversity and culture, all of these heritage sites make for a great adventure. Ha Long Bay Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994,…
At High Places UK, we’ve spent decades helping travellers turn their dream adventures into real journeys. As a UK-based tour operator, we specialise in small-group adventure tours that connect you with landscapes, cultures, and people in ways that guidebooks can’t. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or planning your first overseas trip, the right destination can…