Dave Stamboulis

Of all the trekking adventures on the planet, few are as challenging— but rewarding—as the demanding trails that weave through Oman’s Western Hajar range.

Close to Bangkok, but a world removed from Thailand’s crowded tourist hubs, the dramatic peaks of Kanchanaburi province offer prime opportunities for wilderness hiking.

With red tape constraining travel in Tibet, visitors can imbibe a heady swig of its vivid culture as well as breathtaking scenery in neighboring enclaves like Western Sichuan.

Rajasthan’s vivid cities offer some of India’s most vibrant palettes, making the region a rich seam for photographers to mine.

Dhaka during monsoon season is not every tourist’s idea of fun. But good-humored locals, colorful street life, and tasty cuisine all contribute to unique joie de vivre.

Remote Sukamade Beach in East Java is one of the world’s most important hatching grounds for endangered turtle species.

Removed from the most famous tourist destinations in The Philippines, Ilocos Norte in far north Luzon offers everything from pristine beaches and scenery to barely-frequented cul-tural treasures.

Secreted away in the far north of Laos, Phongsaly is home to a mosaic of minority cultures and some of the most spectacular scenery in Southeast Asia.

The fame of Nepal’s top trekking circuits precedes them. For something quieter, yet still spectacular, the Tsum Valley is heaven-sent.

Located near the border with Tajikistan, the Alai Valley in Kyrgyzstan offers wilderness trekking and inspiring vistas of the High Pamir

This highlight of the Pamir Highway features jagged peaks, a rushing river, and timeless Tajik culture

From the treacherous Khardung La Pass to the idyllic Pangong Tso, Dave Stamboulis explores the many worlds of the Nubra Valley in Ladakh.