Top Literary Picks That Every Trekking Enthusiast Should Read

A lot of us have a penchant for adventure and exploration and for us, the mountains have a magnetic pull towards them. A pull to explore the unseen landscapes breathe in the fresh and untamed air. For all those individuals, trekking adventures offer a gateway to fulfilment, a chance to immerse oneself in nature's grandeur and uncover the mysteries of the great outdoors. Some books beautifully capture the essence of trekking and can be a great source of inspiration to make you venture into the outdoors. In this article, we bring the transformative power of literature and bring to you 5 books that every mountain lover should read once.

1. "Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail" by Cheryl Strayed
This is a memoir by Cheryl Strayed that chronicles her transformative journey along the Pacific Crest Trail. After experiencing profound personal loss and feeling adrift in life, Strayed embarks on a solo 1,100-mile trek through rugged terrain, confronting her inner demons and seeking solace in nature's vast beauty. Through vivid storytelling, Strayed recounts the physical challenges, emotional revelations, and moments of self-discovery she encounters along the trail. With raw honesty and introspection, "Wild" is an inspiring tale of resilience, redemption, and the healing power of wilderness.

2. "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer
"Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer is a gripping narrative that delves into the true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who forsakes his comfortable life to embark on a solitary journey into the Alaskan wilderness. Krakauer retraces McCandless's steps, exploring his motivations, unravelling his enigmatic character, and examining the circumstances that led to his tragic demise. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Krakauer paints a compelling portrait of McCandless's quest for meaning, freedom, and ultimate self-discovery, while also raising thought-provoking questions about the allure and dangers of living on the edge of society.

3. "A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail" by Bill Bryson
It is a humorous and insightful memoir recounting Bryson's attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail, one of America's most iconic long-distance trails. Alongside his comically out-of-shape friend, Stephen Katz, Bryson embarks on a journey filled with breathtaking scenery, encounters with eccentric characters, and unexpected challenges. As they navigate the rugged terrain and contemplate the trail's rich history, Bryson reflects on the beauty of nature, the quirks of American culture, and the complexities of friendship. With his trademark wit and engaging storytelling, Bryson offers readers a delightful exploration of the wilderness and the human spirit.

4. "Becoming The Mountain" by Stephen Alter
A gripping narrative that intertwines the author's personal journey with the exploration of the Himalayas. Alter, an experienced mountaineer and writer, delves into the world's highest peaks and the profound impact they have on those who seek to conquer them. Through vivid prose and introspective reflection, Alter recounts his own transformative experiences in the mountains, exploring themes of identity, endurance, and the human spirit's quest for transcendence. This captivating memoir invites readers to embark on a profound adventure into the heart of the Himalayas and the depths of the human soul.

5. Walking to The Gods: Retracing the Ancient Char Dham Yatra Trail

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Post completion of the Chardham Trail Project, we launched a book that chronicles the historic expedition led by our team retracing the ancient routes of the Char Dham Yatra trail in Uttarakhand. In partnership with Uttarakhand Tourism, Trek The Himalayas expertly brings to life the seemingly lost folklores intertwined with these mystical trails. Through vivid storytelling and breathtaking imagery, readers are transported to the enchanting landscapes of Devbhumi as it was when this ancient route was running in full swing. This professionally executed project offers an intimate glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region, making "Walking to The Gods" a must-read for adventure enthusiasts and explorers alike.

A special treat for you!

Five additional book recommendations handpicked straight from our founder's desk! Dive into these founder favourites and get immersed in the world of mountains.

1. “Touching the Void” by Joe Simpson
A riveting tale of survival against all odds in the treacherous Andes mountains. Simpson and his climbing partner, Simon Yates, embark on a daring expedition to conquer the unclimbed west face of Siula Grande. However, disaster strikes when Simpson suffers a devastating fall, breaking his leg and leaving him stranded in a crevasse. What follows is an epic struggle for survival as Simpson battles excruciating pain, extreme weather, and dwindling supplies. Meanwhile, Yates faces an agonizing decision whether to cut the rope that binds them to save his own life. Simpson's harrowing firsthand account takes readers on a visceral journey through the depths of despair and the triumph of the human spirit in one of mountaineering's most legendary tales.

2. “Into Thin Air” by Jon Krauker
Into Thin Air is a gripping firsthand account of the tragic 1996 Mount Everest disaster. Krakauer, a seasoned journalist and climber, joins an expedition to the summit of Everest, hoping to fulfill a lifelong dream. However, as he ascends the mountain, he finds himself in the midst of a harrowing ordeal. A sudden storm strikes the mountain, leading to a series of catastrophic events that result in the deaths of several climbers, including members of Krakauer's own team. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Krakauer chronicles the events leading up to the disaster, exploring the complex dynamics of high-altitude mountaineering and the human quest for adventure and accomplishment. "Into Thin Air" is a haunting and unforgettable exploration of the thin line between triumph and tragedy on the world's highest peak.

3. “Nanda Devi Exploration and Ascent” by Eric Shipton and H.W.Tilman
It is a classic mountaineering narrative that chronicles the pioneering exploration of the Nanda Devi region in the Indian Himalayas. Shipton and Tilman, two legendary British mountaineers, lead expeditions to uncover the secrets of this remote and formidable mountain. Their captivating accounts detail the challenges of navigating rugged terrain, confronting harsh weather conditions, and pushing the boundaries of human endurance. With evocative prose and stunning photography, the book captures the spirit of adventure and the allure of the Himalayas, making it a timeless masterpiece for both mountaineering enthusiasts and armchair adventurers alike.

4. “Seven Years in Tibet” by Heinrich Harrer
Another beautiful memoir that recounts the author's extraordinary experiences in Tibet during the tumultuous years leading up to World War II. Harrer, an Austrian mountaineer, finds himself interned in a prisoner-of-war camp in British India. Escaping with a fellow prisoner, he embarks on a daring journey through the Himalayas and eventually arrives in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. There, he immerses himself in the rich culture and spirituality of the Tibetan people, befriending the young Dalai Lama and becoming his tutor. Harrer's narrative is a captivating blend of adventure, cultural exploration, and personal transformation, offering readers a rare glimpse into a world that was largely closed off to outsiders. "Seven Years in Tibet" is a timeless tale of resilience, friendship, and the power of the human spirit to transcend even the most challenging of circumstances.