Trekking in India

Just a pair of strong legs and the spirit for adventure! This is all one needs to start on a trekking expedition. In India, you have the opportunity to walk in the interiors of the country, along ancient trails, through terraced fields, scenic hamlets and tiny mountain villages. An intrepid traveller may choose to penetrate deeper into the alpine valleys and get closer to ceaseless snow and sparking glaciers. An escape to the Himalayan massifs and meeting with some of the friendliest of people along the way will truly prove to be one of the nicest experiences of your life. Not only are there great options of eye feasting and reconnecting with nature but also an opportunity to feel the warmth of people’s traditional hospitality and be a part of their fascinating culture.

Gearing Up for an Indian trekking expedition
Always consider the climatic conditions before you actually set off for your trekking tour in India. What needs to be carried also depends on whether you are starting on a winter trek or you plan it during Indian summer. Basically, you need to keep in mind 5 specific climates in mind: travelling in Indian summer heat, fine weather trekking in hot high country, high country trekking, river crossings and cool high country evenings. Light weight trekking boots, sleeping bags, camp booties, fleece jackets, rain jacket, thermal shirts, trekking pants, sunglasses, fleece hats, torch, first aid kit and water purifiers are things one can never afford to miss during a trekking expedition. For river-crossing you would require trekking poles too. And don’t ever leave your video cameras behind.

Famous Trekking Sites in India
India offers a variety of trekking locales and in a variety of ranges. From elementary treks (below 3,000 m) and medium treks (below 4,500) to strenuous treks (up to 5,500 m), adventurers can choose a trekking route depending upon their stamina, spirit and physical fitness. A trekking adventure in the Himalayas must be planned either between March and May or September and November. Some famous trekking sites in India are as under:

• Garhwal and Kumaon regions in Uttarakhand
• Chamba in Himachal Pradesh
• Valleys of Lahaul and Spiti in Himachal Pradesh
• Valleys of Kullu and Kangra in Himachal Pradesh
• Gangatok/Pemanyangtse/Yoksum/Dzongri in Sikkim
• Singalila and Kalimpong in Darjeeling
• Zanskar and Suru Valley in Ladakh
  
• Nilgiri and Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu
  
• Annamali Hills in Tamil Nadu
  
• Annapurna and Mt. Everest regions in Nepal

Travellers have a number of other treks awaiting them in India. A trekking expedition can range from a few days to a number of weeks. You can choose from the range as per your preferences. Travel operators can also customise a trekking tour for you according to individual needs.

Trekking Facilities in India
You can just bring your personal gear with you. For, during your expedition, you’ll be provided with everything from tents and sleeping pads to good supplies of food. Ponies, fantastic staff and guides are also at your service as/when you need them. Sleeping bags and down jackets can also be rented from the travel operator. A variety of food including delectable Indian, Tibetan, Italian, Continental and Thai can be relished during the trip. To make your experiences even richer, travel agencies also organise cultural activities on request. You need not depend only on local food and accommodation during the trip. Camps are set up at pre-decided sites so as to leave you with plenty of leisure to explore the beauty and learn about the local culture.

Trekking Tips for Travellers
It is wise to get yourself equipped with some essential tips so you may enjoy your Indian trekking expedition to the maximum. Trekking doesn’t require you to be a mountaineer or an athlete. Anyone who is physically fit and willing to satisfy the adventure part in him/her can choose to trek. Given below are a few tips that can be of help.

• Travellers need to choose only one place or area at a time.
• In case of areas where you need an entry permit, you should strictly follow the route prescribed by the Department of Immigration.
• It is advisable to start on your trip with an authorised guide and porter along.
• While in a forested area, you are required to uphold the key principles of eco-tourism.
• In case of unavailability of toilet facilities, make sure you are at least 30 m away from any water source. Excreta and toilet papers need to be buried.
• Be careful with matches around wooded areas; grass fire can cause serious damage.
• Take necessary precautions to avoid frostbite , hypothermia and altitude sickness. If not detected in time, the results can be fatal.