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ST427 Bankya - Sofia vs ST506 khiza Mechit - Rila Monastery

A side-by-side look at distance, elevation, difficulty and the best time to hike each — so you can pick the right route.

ST427 Bankya - Sofia ST506 khiza Mechit - Rila Monastery
Distance 18 km 22 km
Elevation gain 232 m 972 m
Typical duration — —
Difficulty Expert Moderate
Route type Point-to-point Point-to-point
Network International International
Country Bulgaria Bulgaria
Best time to hike Best months: April, June, September Best from June to August
map Route & GPX map Route & GPX

ST427 Bankya - Sofia vs ST506 khiza Mechit - Rila Monastery: which should you hike?

At 22 km, ST506 khiza Mechit - Rila Monastery is the longer route — roughly 4 km more than ST427 Bankya - Sofia (18 km). If you want the bigger challenge or a longer trip, that's the one; for a shorter or first multi-day hike, ST427 Bankya - Sofia is the gentler pick. Check the elevation and best-season rows above, then open each route for the full guide and a free GPX download.