The Himalaya is the highest mountain range in the world and is a popular location for visitors going to Nepal, India, Bhutan, China and Pakistan. Plus, it is home to Mount Everest, arguably the world’s most famous mountain.
Trekking the Himalayas is not easy and being well prepared is vitally important before embarking on a trek. The countries that span the Himalaya each have their own culture and are very different to countries in the west. Here are a few tips for trekking the Himalaya.
Planning Ahead
Being fit ensures a better trekking experience. Trekking the Himalaya will mean walking for days, at times, eight hours a day with distances of around 10km each day. Endurance is important and needs to be built up. About three to six months before start walking with a backpack so that you can build up endurance and fitness. Start slow and build up over the few months before.
Walking is the best way to remain fit for trekking and using a stepper is great for building muscles and endurance for difficult climbs. Having the correct walking shoes is probably one of the most important aspects of trekking.
Blisters and sore feet can spoil a trip and you’ll have to take some time out and play at River Belle casino on your mobile while you wait to heal up a bit. Make sure that you choose a comfortable pair of hiking boots and that they are walked in well before the time.
Packing light is essential. Keep items to a minimum and only take things you really need. The lighter your backpack, the easier it will be when trekking.
When trekking the Himalaya you will experience all of the mountain culture. Knowing something about the culture will help you to be prepared. Many of these communities are conservative and being informed will ensure that you do not do something unintentionally to offend. Learning a few phrases will also go a long way to getting to know the locals.
Tips While Trekking
- Staying hydrated is essential when trekking the Himalaya. When trekking at such high altitudes the body tends to dehydrate faster than closer to sea level. It is recommended that you drink about three to four litres of water each day. Not only does water help keep up energy levels but also minimises the effects of altitude sickness.
- Using a good quality water filter will enable you to make undrinkable water safe and will mean that you do not have to carry lots of bottles of water.
- Do not be fooled by the fresh, cold mountain air, the sun’s rays can be very powerful at this high altitude. Using sunscreen with at least an SPF 30 is advised as well as wearing a hat.
- The weather is unpredictable so layering is important. Not only is it difficult to know what the weather will do but also with all the exertion there will probably be much sweating and it is best to dress in light fabrics that use wicking to absorb moisture. A good base layer is merino wool because it absorbs moisture, but is also warm. It also remains odour free.
