Across continents and through centuries, pilgrimage trails have guided seekers of faith, culture, and self-discovery. These ancient routes weave together breathtaking landscapes, historic monuments, and the footsteps of countless travelers who came before. In this guide, we explore seven of the world’s oldest pilgrimage pathways, uncovering their origins, must-see highlights, and practical tips to plan your own transformative journey.
1. Camino de Santiago, Spain
The Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, has drawn pilgrims from medieval times to modern backpackers alike. Stretching over 800 kilometers across northern Spain, the most popular Camino Francés begins in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and culminates at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Along the way, you’ll traverse rolling vineyards, medieval bridges, and Romanesque churches, meeting fellow walkers in albergues (pilgrim hostels) each evening.
- Distance: ~800 km (500 miles)
- Duration: 4–6 weeks
- Best time: May–September for mild weather
2. Kumano Kodo, Japan
Deep in Japan’s Kii Peninsula, the Kumano Kodo network of trails connects three grand shrines—Kumano Hongū, Hayatama, and Nachi Taisha—collectively known as Kumano Sanzan. Pilgrims originally walked these dusty footpaths to seek purification and divine blessings. Today, cedar-lined forest tracks, wooden bridges over mountain streams, and ocean vistas await modern travelers, offering a profoundly serene spiritual experience.
- Distance: 38–70 km depending on route
- Duration: 3–5 days
- Tip: Reserve ryokan with onsen (hot spring) for post-hike recovery
3. Via Francigena, Western Europe
Once a major medieval pilgrimage from Canterbury to Rome, the Via Francigena traces the footsteps of Sigeric the Serious in the 10th century. Crossing England, France, Switzerland, and Italy, the full route spans over 1,800 kilometers. Highlights include the chalk hills of southern England, vineyards of Burgundy, the Great St. Bernard Pass in the Alps, and the Tuscan countryside leading into Rome’s Eternal City.
- Distance: ~1,800 km (1,120 miles)
- Duration: 2–3 months (sections can be done individually)
- Must-see: Abbey of San Galgano, Great St. Bernard Hospice
4. Shikoku Pilgrimage, Japan
Encircling Japan’s Shikoku Island, this circular route visits 88 temples associated with the Buddhist monk Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi). Spanning roughly 1,200 kilometers, the pilgrimage blends coastal walks, mountain ascents, and rural roads. Many pilgrims don the signature white jacket and conical hat, collecting temple stamps in a specialized book as they honor centuries of religious tradition.
- Distance: ~1,200 km (750 miles)
- Duration: 5–8 weeks
- Highlight: Temple No. 75 Zentsū-ji, birth site of Kūkai
5. St. Olav’s Way, Norway
Tracing the medieval route taken by King Olav Haraldsson in the 11th century, St. Olav’s Way winds from Oslo and Trondheim, culminating at the Nidaros Cathedral. Rolling hills, dense pine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rustic cabins define this 500-kilometer Norwegian trek. Hikers encounter an authentic blend of Viking history and Christian pilgrimage, with cozy DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) lodges en route.
- Distance: ~500 km (310 miles)
- Duration: 3–4 weeks
- Advice: Pack waterproof gear for unpredictable weather
6. Lhasa to Kathmandu, Tibet & Nepal
This historic pilgrimage links two of the Himalayas’ most sacred cities. Starting at the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet, travelers follow ancient trade caravans over high mountain passes, glacial valleys, and yak pastures, before descending into Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley. Expect breathtaking vistas of Everest, spiritual encounters at remote monasteries, and a profound sense of crossing cultural frontiers.
- Distance: ~1,200 km (750 miles)
- Duration: 6–8 weeks
- Permit: Chinese and Nepalese trekking permits required
7. Annapurna Circuit to Muktinath, Nepal
Combining natural grandeur with Hindu and Buddhist spirituality, the Annapurna Circuit culminates at the Muktinath Temple (3,800 m). Pilgrims perform the sacred parikrama (circumambulation) of the temple, believing in cleansing powers of the 108 water spouts. Along the route, terraced fields, hot springs, and the formidable Thorong La Pass (5,416 m) challenge both body and spirit.
- Distance: ~300 km (190 miles)
- Duration: 3–4 weeks
- Essential: Altitude acclimatization days to prevent sickness
Conclusion
Whether you seek solitude in the misty forests of Japan, the alpine air of Norway, or the ancient cathedrals of Europe, pilgrimage trails offer more than a physical journey—they guide you through history, culture, and inner reflection. Prepare with proper gear, respect local customs, and open your heart to the stories etched along these timeworn paths. Your sacred journey awaits; take the first step toward an unforgettable spiritual adventure.
