INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. - Myths and Mountains is known for voyages that allow guests to become enriched by truly experiencing the people and culture of their destinations. Two trips that explore the Himalayas, Three Stars over Everest and The Lake Guardians and the Potato Farmers, exemplify this unique way to travel in typical Myths and Mountains fashion. Both venture as far as possible from the traditional tourist paths to visit unspoiled and beautiful places, and the people who live there, that are normally closed to outsiders.

The Everest journey in Nepal treks to Kalapatar, Goyko Ri and the rarely-traveled Tawache Towers for three of the best angles for viewing the “Mother Goddess of the World.” Camping in sites away from the well-trodden, the trip ventures from the mountain to the Everest base camp and across to the Hilary Meadows and rarely visited Ama Dablam base camp. Along the way, visits to the homes and shops in the villages, such as Thami, the home of Tenzing Norgay, offer the opportunity to meet the Sherpas and mountaineers. A variety of monasteries are also visited to pray with the monks, the largest of which is Tengboche. Myths is legendary in Nepal for its READ Global program that develops sustainable libraries and there will be a visit to the new READ library in Namche to meet those involved in the program which has been largely financed by the operator. Stops are also made at the Hilary Clinic in Syangboche and the high-altitude clinic in Pheriche to meet with the doctors. The 25-day trip is $2795 per person, double, based on a group of 10-14. Departures in 2009 are May 13-June 6 and Oct. 14-Nov. 7, with custom dates available.

The Lake Guardians voyage starts in Paro, the largest city in Bhutan, before beginning a six-day trek along the seldom-traveled Dagala trail through forests, across tundra and along mountain lakes and ridges with views of the Himalayan peaks. Again, the trip travels away from the Snowman Trek, Chomolhari, the Royal Trek. There may even be the chance to see some of the country’s famous wildlife on the way. The culmination of the trek is the tiny potato-growing community of Shelmakha, home to the operator’s local director. This relationship offers access to a unique village that had only been visited by 11 foreigners before this trip began. A full day will be spent here with the local people, learning about their lives. The fall trip may even coincide with a local festival. The trip then heads to the capital city of Thimpu to visit the Traditional Indigenous Hospital and the farmers’ market. This journey is offered Apr. 19-29 and Oct. 11-21 for $3850 per person double, based on 3-10 participants.

Myths and Mountains offers more than 100 itineraries, carefully designed to delve beneath the surface of places visited. They offer scheduled departures, but are particularly known for customizing itineraries to match each traveler’s tastes and interests. The company is also a member of Trusted Adventures, a consortium of award-winning companies matching active travelers with over 350 unique trips walking, rafting, cycling and trekking in over 85 destinations worldwide. Contact them at 800-670-MYTHS (6984) or http://www.mythsandmountains.com.

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Media Contact: Allie Almario, 800-670-6984; allie@mythsandmountains.com