Tips For First Time Trekking In Himalayas

Do you yearn to undertake trekking in Himalayas, getting up close and personal with some of the greatest scenery in the world? If this is the first time you have visited the region or the first time you have tried your hand at trekking, we are fully aware that it can be a bit of a culture shock. These expert tips for planning and during your trip should come in handy!

Planning your Trek
It is important to remember that planning (or a lack of it) can make or break your trip. We have compiled this list of tips to help ensure that your planning goes as smoothly as possible.

• Design an itinerary – Think about where your particular interests lie, as trekking in Himalayas can take you to remote mountain passes or ancient monasteries. Design an itinerary around your interests.

• Set a budget – If you plan on trekking independently, remember that you will have to book everything yourself. We definitely recommend finding room in your budget for a guide.

• Time of year – Whilst the peak trekking season is considered to be March until June, it is important to remember that the Himalayas are subject to complex weather conditions at all times of year.

• Consider safety first – Make sure that you and your party will be safe from beginning to end. Familiarise yourself with acclimatisation and make sure you take it easy to avoid altitude sickness.

• Check your gear – You need to make sure that your gear is sturdy enough to withstand changeable mountain weather. Much of your gear can actually be picked up when you arrive in the Himalayas.

During your Trek
Once you have made it to the mountains, it is important that you take into account these tips to ensure that your gear is protected and your journey goes as smoothly as possible.

• Positive and pace – It is important to make sure you are in the right frame of mind when trekking in Himalayas, as this will prevent panicking or stressing. Keep ‘short steps, deep breaths’ in mind.

• Protect your gear – Make sure that your gear is kept in a sturdy kitbag, as they are not overly expensive (meaning they can be easily replaced) and will protect expensive items (like cameras) from damage.

• Essentials at hand – You must always carry water, a windproof jacket, a dry pair of socks and a spare sunhat whilst trekking. These items should be easily reachable at all times.

• Courteous and polite – Try to get into the habit of saying Salam, Julay or Namaste whilst meandering along trails. And don’t assume that you can take photos of/with the locals – it can be offensive.

• Respect the environment – Never start a fire or pollute water sources, as this can be incredibly damaging to the Himalayas. Make sure your site is cleaned up and take all rubbish with you.

• Medical needs matter – Make sure you have any essential medication but be wary of carrying medicines you don’t really need (many of these can be purchased in the Himalayas).

Your first time trekking in Himalayas is sure to be an exciting yet nerve-wracking time, so it can be easy for the simplest of things to be forgotten. Make sure that you heed these tips when planning your trip and whilst the trip is underway to ensure that you have a thoroughly enjoyable time and it all goes as smoothly as possible. And never be afraid to ask for help if you need it.