Take a hike! Book onto the world's most expensive trek

Serious adventurers can be part of the launch of the long-awaited Great Himalaya Trail when they book a place on a Nepal Traverse tour, exclusively available through specialist operator World Expeditions.

The Great Himalaya Trail – an ongoing project that officially launches on 15 February – will eventually stretch 4,500 km, connecting Bhutan, China, India, Nepal and Pakistan.

The idea for what will be the longest and highest alpine walking track in the world was conceived five years ago by two non-governmental organisations with the aim of focusing on sustainable tourism in the region.

It hopes to attract enthusiasts away from over-busy trekking areas such as Everest and open up wild and more inaccessible parts of the Himalaya, benefiting the 1.8 million people who live in these mountain communities.

For now, though, intrepid explorers can cough up more than £20,000 and put aside five months to complete the whole of the 1,700 km Great Himalaya Trail Nepal Traverse, which is the first part to have been thoroughly walked and mapped.

Using trails that reach 6,190 metres above sea level, with views of all of Nepal's 8,000-metre peaks, trekkers will be introduced to the more authentic, remote cultures in previously hidden parts of the country.

And you'll be in good hands: some of the most experienced and celebrated experts will be guiding the different sections – including author and adventurer Robin Boustead and Everest summiteers Stephen Venables, Greg Mortimer and Carlos Buhler.

But, if the full Nepal Traverse is too hard on your pocket – and your feet – it can also be tackled in one of seven smaller stages lasting 18-34 days, each of which can be joined independently.

There's a challenge to suit everyone – so what are you waiting for? Dust off those walking boots.

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