General Information About Trekking in India

Trekking in India isn't a piece of cake. It may allure you with its beauty but demands much in return. Therefore, here is a few general information that you want to consider.

Trekking in India gained popularity in around 1970s. But it was only confined to religious sites and shrines across the country. Currently, the trekking story has taken a leap. Many foreigners and even Indians are trekking in the mountains of Ladakh, Zanskar and of course, the Himalayas. You won’t find anybody who would say no to trekking in the Himalayas. But trekking in the Himalayas is a different experience altogether. Humongous panoramic views of the mountain peaks covered in snow, beautiful valleys and green meadows will surely mesmerize you, but will demand much more from you.

If you are planning for trekking in India into the mountains you must have the below information for a safe and distinguished experience.

• Description of treks

The treks in India are described as easy, moderate and hard that one can choose from.

An easy trek is described as 4-5 kilometers walk in a day that can be completed in 2-3 days with a night camping.

A moderate trek involves continuous walking of 5-6 hours in a day with crossing terrains with rough conditions. This type of trek needs a lot of stamina as well as strength.

On the other hand, a hard trek is walking for long hours on a steep inclined path or deep gorges every day. It demands a lot of physical and mental strength to complete a week or more trek. It is advisable that if you are trekking in India for the first time, you must start with an easy one.

• Warming up

Since you are going to trek to the Himalayas you must prepare yourself too which must start at least a month before trekking. The first thing you will have to do is work on your stamina. If you are gym going person, try more cardio exercises. If you are not, start brisk walks followed by jogging and then, running. Don’t forget to add weights while you will be preparing. This is because while on trek you will have to carry a backpack and trekking with a weight on your back is tougher. Hence, you must prepare your body accordingly.

If you smoke or drink, it’s better to get rid of these habits. The reason for the same when you smoke or drink your body doesn’t respond to any workout perfectly. Since you will be trekking in the Himalayas, as you climb up, the amount of oxygen will be reduce. A person whose lungs and organs are fully active will be able to complete the trek successfully.

• Contact a trekking agency

Now that you are all warmed up for the trek, you must connect with some trek agency. Do not just finalize in a go, do some research and go through reviews to finalize it. Most importantly, inform the trekking agency whether you are trekking in India for the first time or if this is the first every trek of your life. Consent from the agency is crucial as groups will be prepared accordingly.

If you do not wish to contact a trek agency, a local trek guide is also an economical option.

• Things to take along

You can't take everything with you on the trek as it will be difficult for you to carry the weight. But a list of essential things is needed that may include:

1. Backpack with good support, tents for sleepovers, sleeping bag
2. A pair of reliable trekking shoes and a pair of slippers, track pants, Knee caps/hat if you are on a moderate trek
3. Athletic rope, flashlight, knife, camera
4. Sunscreen, sunglasses, brush and toothpaste, plastic bags, tissue roll, old newspapers, sanitizers, deodorants, mosquito repellent
5. Water bottle, chalk, whistle, compass, hard cash

• Edibles

Since you will be trekking up the mountains, avoid foods that require heavy heating. It would be great to go for munchkins like chocolate wafers, energy bars, cakes, dry fruits, juices, Glucose, bread with spreads, biscuits and paper dishes.

• Pharmaceuticals

Yes, medication is also an important part of the trek. If you are on any medication don’t forget to keep it. Apart from that, carrying the below mentioned things will help you through the trek:

1. Band-aids, antiseptic liquids, and ointment
2. Paracetamol, cold and flu medicine, pain killers
3. A medication for trekking on high altitude

Follow these general tips for any sort of trekking in India. India has as many treks like trekking in Manali, Ladakh etc. you may choose which one you would like to go for.

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