On the Hippie Trail Audiobook By Rick Steves cover art

On the Hippie Trail

Istanbul to Kathmandu and the Making of a Travel Writer

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On the Hippie Trail

By: Rick Steves
Narrated by: Rick Steves
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Stow away with Rick Steves for a glimpse into the unforgettable moments, misadventures, and memories of his 1978 journey on the legendary Hippie Trail.

In the 1970s, the ultimate trip for any backpacker was the storied “Hippie Trail” from Istanbul to Kathmandu. A 23-year old Rick Steves made the trek, and like a travel writer in training, he documented everything along the way: jumping off a moving train, making friends in Tehran, getting lost in Lahore, getting high for the first time in Herat, battling leeches in Pokhara, and much more. The experience ignited his love of travel and forever broadened his perspective on the world.

This book contains edited selections from Rick’s journal and travel photos with a 45-years-later preface and postscript reflecting on how the journey changed his life. Stow away with Rick Steves on the adventure of a lifetime through Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, and Nepal.

You know Rick Steves. Now discover the adventure that made him the travel writer he is today.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2025 Rick Steves (P)2025 Rick Steves Asia Editors Select Middle East Travel Writing & Commentary Nepal Feel-Good Iran

Editorial Review

The road no longer taken
A look at a world that is no more. That’s the gift contained in Rick Steves’s 1978 travel diary, which recounts his and pal Gene’s adventures on this countercultural rite of passage. There are days spent with party-hearty Tehran twentysomethings obsessed with American TV Westerns, mere months before the Islamic Revolution. And there's a Kabul trolley ride to the last stop—a standard Stevesian travel tip—where he falls into a robust debate with an Afghan professor as whispers of a Soviet invasion loom. Credit the elder Steves for not editing out some of the ignorant musings of his younger self, be they awkward, cringeworthy, or smacking of privilege. As the trip winds down, the self-awareness rises up, and we hear him grappling with the gulf and guilt of negotiating a good taxi price while surrounded by people struggling for sustenance. World events would soon put this popular bucket-list trek out of reach for most people. But the lessons are as indelible as a passport stamp: Go, lose the judgment at the border, be, and savor the time in the place you find yourself in. You may not have the chance to go that way again. —Maggie M., Audible Editor

Vivid Storytelling • Authentic Travel Experiences • Authentic Voice • Transformative Journey • Cultural Connections
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A wonderful look back at Rick Steves amazing young adventure! Nice to find out how he became the ultimate travel writer later in life. From Europe to Kathmandu bouncing around on trains and buses getting a feel for the hippie trail in the late 70’s. A great ride!

Rick Steves at his very best!

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I am a Rick Steves fan and this was the start of his travel life in a new challenge with his friend Gene. He honestly tells us about their many good and difficult moments including getting sick many times. Rick still loved the journey and helped me to enjoy it too. Thanks Rick!!

Honest and real enthusiasm as always

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Wonderfully young Rick Steves musings. I can hear his tour operator voice as he tells of his adventures on the Hippie Trail. Really loved his young take on Afganistan. A pre-USSR visit would have been a sight to behold.
I can say, even during my late teens and early twenties, I would not have liked to have done this overland trip. This evocative book with its wonderful travel pictures brought back a lot of memories of my youthful meanderings.

A fun and nostalgic travel log

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I thoroughly enjoyed Rick’s journey of his young along the Hippie Trail. Brought back memories of my own travels by train in Europe in the early 70ties.
So fun to hear what it was like going all the way to India. Don’t think I would have had the stomach for it, but wonderful to make the journey through Rick’s story telling! I highly recommend this book.

Wonderful Travel Story

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Great story telling and written in a way that brings you along for the journey. Inspired by his message to keep on traveling.

Rick Never Disappoints!!!

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I didn’t dislike anything. I loved the stories. Loved all the unique experiences and imagining a boy of 23 with his buddy that no longer exists

Cutting it up in Asia.

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Goodness. I loved hearing 23 year old Steve’s perspective of the world. I especially loved his narration AS that 23 year old!

Wonderful Journey

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This entertaining and interesting book was written by Rick S. years ago and read by the author. I loved getting to hear about his experiences traveling through India, Nepal and other countries in the area that I will likely never travel to. The photos included are amazing. 5 stars

Highly recommend

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I enjoyed the entire book. i have always enjoyed Rick Steves books, shows and talks. I loved hearing about the adventures, as well as, his insights and I appreciate his thought provoking views. I have traveled a lot, but not until a few years after the period in this book so wasn't able to do the Hippie Trail.
I know this will be a book listen to over and over.
As always...thank you Rick!

Rick Steeves storytelling is excellent

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Really enjoyed Rick's reflections as a young wide eyed traveller. The descriptions were wonderful and revealing as he embarks with his good friend, on a life changing journey, through countries most people have never experienced.

Great Read by Wel aknown Travel Writer!

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