Limitless adventure with ease: deserts, glaciers, and the polar circle

Written/Compiled by Li Xinyi | Source: Monocle Editorial Department | Photos provided by Jungfrau Tourism Board, Zoe Lee

Are desert journeys, mountain treks, or glacier tours atop Europe’s rooftop just distant dreams? We’ve selected once-daunting travel experiences from around the world—actually requiring no special skills—that are accessible to all. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at Europe’s alpine glaciers and the majestic Himalayas, immerse yourself in the surreal life of the desert, ride a reindeer sleigh through the icy polar expanse, or even dance with sharks. These unforgettable adventures are ready whenever you are. Just pack your bags and go.

1. Adventure in India’s Border Desert

The Indian city of Jaisalmer, known as the “Golden City,” is famed for its buildings crafted from locally quarried golden sandstone. At dusk, under the setting sun, every house glows brilliantly. Located just 100 kilometers from the Pakistan border, it also serves as a key military outpost for India.

Riding a camel through the desert near Jaisalmer is a major draw for visitors. Camel safari tours range from one day to two weeks, mainly involving desert treks by camel with overnight stays. Accommodation options vary by price—from luxury tents with toilets to traditional Rajasthani round huts, or even sleeping directly under the stars on the desert sands.

Near Jaisalmer, there are several dunes where travelers can ride camels along beautiful sand patterns, soaking in the desolate atmosphere. You can enjoy breathtaking desert sunsets, stargaze at night in the tranquil wilderness, or start the day sipping chai and eating traditional breakfast in the desert.

Camel safaris are led by guides who take you through various desert villages. Locals often invite travelers in for visits and photos—and may expect a tip. Some villages are abandoned ruins that were once attacked by Pakistan. Sleep under the open sky on the border between India and Pakistan, with summer temperatures soaring above 40°C and the desert heat even more extreme. It's truly an extreme adventure. But don’t worry—the guides supply ample food and water, find shade during midday breaks, though you should bring sunscreen and book tours only through reputable agencies recommended in guidebooks.

2. Trekking the Annapurna Range in Nepal

Pokhara, located in central Nepal, is the most famous tourist destination outside the Kathmandu Valley. Situated at an altitude of 800–900 meters, the area features three main lakes, including Phewa Lake, and is surrounded by the peaks of the Annapurna mountain range. Trekking in Pokhara is an unmissable part of any Nepal trip. The Annapurna range, part of the Himalayas, offers both accessibility and awe-inspiring mountain views.

Backpackers in Pokhara can book treks ranging from four to 30 days. A classic four-night, five-day route reaches Poon Hill, whose viewpoint offers sweeping views of the Annapurna range. At 3,193 meters, it’s ideal for those wanting to experience high-altitude trekking without worrying too much about altitude sickness.

Trek packages typically include guides, porters, meals, accommodation, and even afternoon tea. Along the way, you’ll encounter ethnic groups like Tibetans, Sherpas, and Gurkhas. The easiest way to tell them apart is by the prayer flags hanging from their homes—Tibetan and Sherpa houses usually display them. Sherpas are famed mountaineers, while Gurkhas are legendary warriors, their curved kukri knives being their symbol.