TREKKING

At a reflex level, trekking is a physical challenge: a simple desire to pick a path and measure up to the terrain and the elements. The adventure component adds the spice of uncertainty, raising the stakes for you to test yourself in unfamiliar territory.

On a deeper level, trekking is a bridge between ancient lifestyles: the fixed vision of a settler counterbalanced by the transient motion of a nomad. As an evolution from a simple walk into a more self sufficient venture, trekking requires simplification, a reduction to portable basics, and implicit trust in your ability to define what you need to live.

Season :
Because of the vastness of the terrain and altitude difference, trekking trips can be undertaken the whole year round. Treks range from low altitude treks in winter to the crossing of high passes in summer when the snowline recedes, It is also possible to combine all three-river running, trekking and mountaineering. The conventional trekking periods preferred are mid-April to May-June before monsoon and after the rains in the months of September-October-November.

Team Size & Precautions :
Trekking is best enjoyed in small groups not exceeding eight or ten. This also allows the hillside to regenerate. Larger parties create administrative problems and pollute the hillside. It is advisable to be medically examined before starting, hence narrowing down the possibility of altitude sickness. The first-aid kit should include basic medicines and bandages foe cuts and burns, headache, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, sore throat, eye lotion and diuretics. Cold Cream should be applied liberally before the day's walk. Running water from a stream should be used and washing done well downstream of camp-sites. Above all it is essential to acclimatize and keep one's own comfortable pace; allow for time to 'stand & stare' and heighten one's perception by some prior reading on the area.

Essential Equipments :
Personal clothing, including woolen shirts, pullovers, T-shirt, shorts, leather jacket, long-johns, socks, personal toilet items, camers and film, should be included to suit the duration and altitude bags to collect and carry away garbage.

Trip Grading (Grade Description) :

  • Low altitude excursion, with or without trekking is appropriate for anyone in good health.
  • Trekking below 5250m. upto six hours a day requires some trekking experience, through not essential. It would facilitate orientation.
  • Trekking routes going above 5250m. thereby require greater physical activity, including sustained periods above the tree line. So, previous trekking experience is preferable.
  • Good physical condition and basic mountaineering skills are essential.