“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss
Do wanderlusty whispers fill your soul? Does the call of the unknown tug at your heart? Then pack your bags (metaphorically, for now) and delve into this treasure trove of travel tales!
From spine-tingling adventures that’ll ignite your wanderlust to tear-jerking memoirs that paint landscapes with words, this collection of travel books has something for every explorer, armchair adventure or otherwise.
Whether you seek companions for your next journey or stories to whisk you away on a literary voyage, these travel books hold the power to transform you, to make you yearn for distant horizons and the magic of new experiences. So, grab a cup of wanderlust tea, settle in, and prepare to have your travel dreams ignited!
1. Facing the Frozen Ocean: One Man’s Dream to Lead a Team Across the Treacherous North Atlantic by Bear Grylls
“Facing the Frozen Ocean” by Bear Grylls is an inspiring and gripping account of an audacious expedition across the North Atlantic.
Driven by a dream, Grylls assembles a team to navigate the dangerous and icy waters in an open rigid inflatable boat. Battling against freezing temperatures, towering waves, and severe storms, the journey tests their endurance, resilience, and camaraderie. Grylls vividly captures the raw power of nature and the intense physical and psychological challenges the team faces.
Through his compelling storytelling, readers experience the highs and lows of the journey, from moments of sheer terror to triumphant breakthroughs. This narrative is not just about survival against the odds but also about the strength of the human spirit, the importance of teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of a seemingly impossible goal. “Facing the Frozen Ocean” is a testament to courage and determination, making it a thrilling and motivational read.
2. Around the World in 80 Trains by Monisha Rajesh
“Around the World in 80 Trains” by Monisha Rajesh is an exhilarating travel memoir that chronicles the author’s ambitious journey of circumnavigating the globe by train. Inspired by Jules Verne’s classic, Rajesh embarks on an 80-train voyage spanning over 45,000 miles, covering diverse landscapes and cultures across Europe, Asia, North America, and beyond.
With a keen eye for detail and a flair for storytelling, she shares her experiences of the people she meets, the challenges she faces, and the breathtaking vistas she encounters. The book is a celebration of rail travel’s timeless allure and the profound connections forged through shared journeys. Rajesh’s narrative blends humor, insight, and adventure, making it a compelling read for anyone with a passion for travel and exploration.
3. “The Rings of Saturn” by W.G. Sebald
“The Rings of Saturn” by W.G. Sebald is a haunting and meditative journey through the landscapes and history of Suffolk, England. Blending travel narrative, memoir, and philosophical reflection, the book defies traditional genre classification. Sebald embarks on a walking tour along the East Anglian coast, and his observations of the natural environment prompt a series of digressions into various historical, cultural, and personal topics.
As he travels, Sebald reflects on themes of memory, loss, decay, and the passage of time. He delves into stories of past civilizations, such as the decline of the British Empire, the horrors of the two World Wars, and the melancholy fate of historical figures like Thomas Browne, Joseph Conrad, and Roger Casement. The book is richly interspersed with black-and-white photographs that enhance the narrative’s reflective and melancholic tone.
Sebald’s prose is lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into a world where the boundaries between past and present blur. “The Rings of Saturn” is not just a physical journey but an intellectual and emotional exploration of humanity’s impact on the world. It is a profound and contemplative work that leaves a lasting impression, urging readers to consider the intricate connections between history, nature, and the human experience.
4. “Aranyak” by Bhibhutibhushan Bandhopadhaya
“Aranyak” by Bhibhutibhushan Bandhopadhaya is a poignant exploration of the natural world and human experience set in the dense forests of Chotanagpur PLateau Region in Eastern India. The novel, written in the form of a memoir, recounts the protagonist Satyacharan’s experiences as he is sent to oversee a vast expanse of jungle land. Over time, Satyacharan forms a deep bond with the forest and its inhabitants, both human and animal.
Bandhopadhaya’s rich, descriptive prose brings to life the beauty and mystique of the wilderness, portraying the forest as a living, breathing entity. The novel delves into themes of isolation, the conflict between nature and human encroachment, and the inherent spirituality found in the natural world. Through his interactions with the diverse characters he meets, Satyacharan gains profound insights into life, survival, and the symbiotic relationship between man and nature. “Aranyak” is a lyrical ode to the forest, emphasizing the importance of preserving nature’s sanctity amidst modernization.
5. The Caliph’s House: A Year in Casablanca” by Tahir Shah
“The Caliph’s House: A Year in Casablanca” by Tahir Shah is a captivating memoir detailing Shah’s relocation from London to a crumbling mansion in Casablanca. Seeking adventure and a fresh start, he moves his family to the chaotic, vibrant city. The narrative follows Shah’s efforts to restore the house amidst local superstitions, dealing with jinns, and navigating the intricacies of Moroccan culture. Filled with humor and rich cultural insights, the book offers a heartfelt portrayal of adapting to a new life and finding beauty in the unexpected challenges of a foreign land.
6. Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel” by Rolf Potts
“Vagabonding” by Rolf Potts is an inspiring and practical guide to long-term travel. Potts offers a philosophy of life that encourages embracing travel as a means of personal growth and cultural exploration. The book covers practical aspects such as saving money, planning, and dealing with the unexpected on the road. Potts emphasizes the importance of time over money, encouraging readers to take extended journeys to truly experience and understand the world. Filled with anecdotes, tips, and insights, “Vagabonding” is a must-read for anyone dreaming of long-term adventure and immersion in diverse cultures.
7. The Great Railway Bazaar By Paul Theroux
“The Great Railway Bazaar” by Paul Theroux is a classic travel narrative chronicling the author’s four-month journey by train through Europe, the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia. Theroux captures the essence of travel with vivid descriptions and keen observations of the landscapes and cultures he encounters. The book is filled with engaging anecdotes and colorful characters, offering a unique perspective on the places he visits. Theroux’s wit and insightful commentary make this a compelling read, illustrating the joys and challenges of rail travel while exploring the complexities of the regions traversed.
8. “Pocket Atlas of Remote Islands: Fifty Islands I Have Not Visited and Never Will” by Judith Schalansky
“Pocket Atlas of Remote Islands” by Judith Schalansky is a beautifully crafted atlas that explores fifty of the world’s most remote and fascinating islands. Each entry combines Schalansky’s meticulous cartography with lyrical storytelling, offering historical anecdotes, myths, and personal reflections. Despite never having visited these isolated lands, Schalansky vividly brings them to life through detailed maps and evocative prose. The book is a celebration of the allure of the unknown and the beauty of places far from civilization, inviting readers to embark on an imaginative journey to distant corners of the globe.
9. Dark Star Safari: Overland from Cairo to Cape Town” by Paul Theroux
“Dark Star Safari: Overland from Cairo to Cape Town” by Paul Theroux is a compelling travel memoir that chronicles the author’s adventurous journey through the heart of Africa. Traveling predominantly by local transport—trains, buses, and hitchhiking—Theroux traverses a diverse landscape from Egypt to South Africa. Along the way, he encounters a myriad of cultures, landscapes, and challenges, offering sharp observations on the continent’s complexities. Reflecting on his earlier travels and the changes he witnesses, Theroux provides a critical and personal narrative that explores the joys and hardships of African life. His evocative storytelling brings to life the beauty, resilience, and spirit of the African people and their lands.
10. When the Road Beckons by Ravi Manoram
“When the Road Beckons” by Ravi Manoram is an inspiring travel memoir that follows the author’s transformative journey across the majestic landscapes of the Himalayas. Manoram sets out on an adventurous Royal Enfield trip, navigating through rugged terrains and remote villages. Throughout his journey, he encounters a variety of characters, each imparting unique wisdom and insights about life and spirituality. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions of the natural beauty and challenges faced on the road, making it a compelling tale of self-discovery and resilience. “When the Road Beckons” is a heartfelt exploration of pushing one’s limits and finding profound connections with the world and oneself.
11. Time Travelling with a Tortoise by Ross Welford
“Time Travelling with a Tortoise” by Ross Welford is an exciting new adventure perfect for children aged 9 and up. This thrilling time-travel tale follows the story of a young protagonist who discovers an extraordinary tortoise with the ability to travel through time. Together, they embark on a series of riveting adventures across different eras, meeting historical figures and encountering various challenges along the way. The book combines elements of history, science fiction, and heartwarming friendships, offering readers a blend of education and entertainment. Named a Sunday Times Book of the Week, Welford’s engaging storytelling and imaginative plot make this a must-read for young adventurers and time-travel enthusiasts.
12. Duchakay Duniya by Bimal Mukherjee
“Duchakay Duniya” by Bimal Mukherjee is a captivating colonial travelogue that chronicles the author’s remarkable journey around the world on a bicycle. Written in Bengali, this pioneering adventure narrative takes readers through an array of countries and diverse cultures, showcasing Mukherjee’s encounters with people and places far beyond the familiar confines of his native India. With vivid descriptions and insightful observations, Mukherjee details the challenges and triumphs of his extraordinary expedition, offering a unique perspective on global exploration during the early 20th century. “Duchakay Duniya” is celebrated for its spirit of adventure and the author’s indomitable will, making it an inspiring read for travel enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
13. “The Beach” by Alex Garland
“The Beach” by Alex Garland is a gripping novel that follows Richard, a young British backpacker in Thailand, who is given a map to a secluded and idyllic beach by a mysterious stranger. Eager for adventure, Richard, along with a French couple, embarks on a journey to find this paradise. They discover a hidden community of travelers living in harmony with nature, cut off from the rest of the world. Initially, the beach appears to be a utopian haven, but as time passes, underlying tensions and the dark side of human nature begin to surface. The group’s fragile paradise is threatened by internal conflicts, external dangers, and Richard’s growing obsession with maintaining their perfect world. Garland’s novel explores themes of escapism, the quest for utopia, and the inherent flaws of idealistic communities. “The Beach” is a thought-provoking and thrilling read, capturing the allure and peril of seeking paradise at any cost.
14. A History of the World in Twelve Maps by Jerry Brotton
“A History of the World in Twelve Maps” by Jerry Brotton is an enlightening exploration of how maps have shaped our understanding of the world throughout history. Brotton selects twelve pivotal maps, each representing a significant moment in the evolution of cartography and its impact on human perception. From the mystical maps of ancient civilizations to the scientific precision of modern cartography, Brotton delves into the stories behind these maps, revealing the cultural, political, and technological influences that shaped them.
Each map serves as a lens through which Brotton examines broader themes, such as power, religion, exploration, and the quest for knowledge. The book not only highlights the technical advancements in map-making but also underscores the biases and assumptions that have influenced how we depict the world. Richly illustrated and meticulously researched, “A History of the World in Twelve Maps” offers readers a fascinating journey through time, illustrating how maps are not merely tools for navigation but also reflections of human ambition and worldview.
15. Truck de India!: A Hitchhiker’s guide to Hindustan by Rajat Ubhaykar
In Truck De India!, journalist Rajat Ubhaykar sets off on an audacious 10,000 km hitchhiking adventure with India’s truckers. This unplanned odyssey unveils a vivid tapestry of life on the road, far from movie clichés of reckless drivers. Through heartwarming friendships and chilling ghost tales, Rajat discovers the vibrant truck art of Punjab, the resilience of Kashmir’s nomadic shepherds, and the grim realities of highway corruption. Battling the treacherous NH39 and the lurking dangers of overloading, he’s met with unending kindness from strangers. With humor, empathy, and historical insight, this travelogue captures the pulse of India’s highways and the soul of its people.
16. The Shooting Star: A Girl, Her Backpack and the World by Shivya Nath
In The Shooting Star, Shivya Nath chronicles her transformative journey from corporate life to global nomadism. At twenty-three, she leaves behind her home and possessions, embracing a life of adventure. From remote Himalayan villages to the Amazon rainforest, Shivya’s travels take her to the heart of indigenous Mayan communities in Guatemala and solitary hikes in the Ecuadorian Andes. She faces trials, including a mugging in Costa Rica and swimming across its border to Panama. Amid meteor showers in Gujarat’s salt desert, she conquers her deepest fears. This memoir, rich with vivid descriptions and moving encounters, celebrates the boundless human spirit and the beauty of the world.
17. Eat Pray Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything by Elizabeth Gilbert
Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert is a soul-searching memoir of one woman’s quest for self-discovery. After a painful divorce, Gilbert sets out on a year-long journey to find balance and fulfillment. In Italy, she indulges in the pleasures of food and learns the art of enjoyment. In India, she immerses herself in spiritual practices, seeking inner peace and divine connection. In Bali, she finds love and a sense of harmony. With honesty and wit, Gilbert’s journey is a transformative exploration of pleasure, devotion, and balance, capturing the essence of what it means to rebuild and rediscover oneself.
18. Into the Wild (Picador Collection) by Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer delves into the tragic true story of Chris McCandless, a young idealist who ventured into the unforgiving Alaskan wilderness in April 1992. Renouncing material possessions, he donated his savings, abandoned his car, and burned his remaining cash, seeking profound independence and a deeper connection with nature. Four months later, his emaciated body was discovered, alongside an SOS note taped to an abandoned bus that served as his shelter. Through meticulous research and gripping narrative, Krakauer reconstructs McCandless’s final journey, exploring the allure and peril of the wild, and examining the profound human desire for adventure and self-discovery.
19. Slow Train to Switzerland: One Tour, Two Trips, 150 Years and a World of Change Apart by Diccon Bewes
Slow Train to Switzerland by Diccon Bewes intertwines the tales of two journeys separated by 150 years. In 1863, Miss Jemima Morrell embarked on Thomas Cook’s first guided tour of Switzerland, documenting her adventures and the transformative power of travel. A century and a half later, Diccon Bewes retraces her steps, exploring the profound changes in the landscape, culture, and tourism. With engaging storytelling, Bewes contrasts the Victorian and modern Swiss experiences, revealing a country’s evolution through the eyes of two travelers. This captivating narrative blends historical travelogue with contemporary exploration, showcasing the enduring allure and dramatic transformation of Switzerland.
20. Aimless in Banaras: Wanderings in India’s Holiest City by Bishwanath Ghosh
In “Aimless in Banaras,” Bishwanath Ghosh uses grief as a springboard to explore the heart of India’s holiest city. Banaras, with its ancient ghats, bustling streets, and ever-present cremations, becomes a sensory feast – a place of both life and death. Ghosh, a reluctant chronicler at first, finds himself drawn into conversations with a colorful cast of characters – holy men with unusual talents, women with curious destinies, and intellectuals grappling with faith. Through these encounters, the city reveals its soul, challenging Ghosh’s own beliefs and ultimately leading him to a deeper understanding of himself and the human condition.
Imagine a bookshelf overflowing with portals to hidden corners of the Earth, each promising a unique adventure. That’s the magic of a well-chosen travel book! These literary companions aren’t just chronicles of faraway lands; they’re soul-stirring tales that can make you laugh until your sides ache, shed tears for the beauty of the world, or ponder the mysteries of life itself. Whether you crave timeless classics or the latest adventures, this collection holds the key to igniting your wanderlust. So, pack your bags (metaphorically for now) and crack open one of these treasures. Let the words paint vivid landscapes, introduce you to captivating cultures, and whisper secrets of faraway destinations. They might just be the push you need to embark on your own unforgettable journey.
Image Credit: Pixabay and Amazon