It's Not Just Santiago: A Collection of Pilgrimage Trails Around the World

The most famous walking pilgrimage in the world leads to the tomb of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. There are several routes, including the French Way and the Portuguese Way, and if you walk a certain distance, you receive a pilgrim's certificate (Compostela).

Its rich history, well-established infrastructure, and the opportunity to interact with fellow pilgrims from around the world are major attractions. It has become a part of many people's bucket lists as a journey of self-discovery, regardless of religion.

This is a 1,200 km Buddhist pilgrimage route that visits 88 temples scattered throughout Shikoku Island, Japan. Pilgrims donning white robes are called 'Ohenro-san' and follow in the footsteps of Kobo Daishi (Kukai).

The entire walk takes over a month, but there are also options to travel by bus or car. Each temple offers a stamp (納經), allowing you to deeply experience the rural and coastal landscapes of Japan.

This ancient pilgrimage route connecting the Kumano Sanzan (Three Mountains) in the Kii Peninsula of Japan has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is also famous for being a sister route to the Santiago pilgrimage.

The lush cedar forests and moss-covered stone paths create a mystical atmosphere. Among the various courses, the Nakahechi route is the most popular and is often enjoyed alongside visits to hot spring towns.

This medieval pilgrimage route connects Canterbury, England, to Rome, Italy, traversing about 2,000 km over the Alps. Alongside Santiago, it is considered one of the main pilgrimage routes in Europe.

It passes through the diverse landscapes and cultures of four countries: England, France, Switzerland, and Italy. The entire route is quite lengthy, so people often walk it in segments, with the Italian Tuscany stretch being particularly loved.

This northern European pilgrimage path honors Saint Olaf of Norway and leads to the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim. The main route starts from Oslo and extends about 640 km, recognized as a European Cultural Route.

The pristine nature, featuring fjords, mountains, and forests, is its biggest charm, making it a great fit for those seeking a peaceful and contemplative walking experience.

This walking path in the Middle East follows the footsteps of Abraham, who is considered a common ancestor in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It is a trail of peace and harmony connecting Turkey, Jordan, and Palestine.

Amid the hospitality of local villages, pilgrims can encounter the roots of diverse cultures and religions. However, accessibility may vary due to local circumstances, so it's essential to check safety information before visiting.

A pilgrimage site in Ireland where Saint Patrick reportedly fasted for 40 days, this is Croagh Patrick (764 m). Every year, tens of thousands ascend to the small chapel at the summit, making it a representative pilgrimage site in Ireland.

The hike is a round-trip climb, and from the top, breathtaking views of Clew Bay unfold. The steep, gravelly sections suggest that it’s wise to be prepared with hiking boots and sticks.

This is a high-altitude pilgrimage route of about 52 km that circles Mount Kailash (6,638 m) in Tibet. It is revered by Buddhists, Hindus, Jains, and Bon practitioners as a sacred site, with 'kora' referring to the act of circumambulating a holy place.

Walking at altitudes between 4,000 and 5,600 m requires acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness, and the trek typically takes 2-3 days. Despite its harsh conditions, the overwhelming landscape of snow-capped mountains makes it a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage for many.