A CONCISE GUIDE TO FIRST TIME TREKKERS

“When everything feels like an uphill struggle, think about the view from the top.”

The term trek, according to Oxford’s learner’s dictionary, means – to make a long and difficult journey, especially on foot. Given the treacherous terrains of trekking trials and vagaries of weather you may find trekking a daunting task. Surprisingly, it is not as difficult as it seems. Know that it is just a physical walk beyond your comfort zone. Wouldn’t standing atop a snow-capped peak in the Himalayas with clouds whispering from below become a biggest landmark in your life afterall?

Know a little secret. You can trek the tallest mountains and conquer the mightiest peaks with basically the 2 Ps – Physical fitness and Planning!

Where to begin?

Physical Fitness

Begin by building your body to endure the rigors of trekking. It is advisable to get your body into shape 12 months before the actual trek. Look into these two aspects…

• Cardio Vascular Endurance

Oxygen levels dip as you ascend higher altitudes. Your heart may not work effectively in such a situation. The best solution is to train beforehand for the occasion.

You can start by jogging. Begin at the speed you are capable of. Increase your jogging speed day by day depending on your age and endurance level. At the end of your training you should be able to achieve a jogging target of 7-8 kilometers per hour. Likewise you can enroll in a gym for some cardio exercises.

• Strength Training

Trekking is mostly done by foot. Naturally your legs should withstand rough terrain, steep inclines and slippery snow. Check with professionals as to the best exercises for trekking specially on the treks like Kedarkantha, Brahmatal, Dayara Bugyal, Kheerganga, Hampta Pass, Valley of Flowers, etc. Few popular ones are:

Squats can help improve muscle strength of your legs
Step-ups is another exercise you should take up.
Downhill lunges will ensure that you do not end up with sore thighs after descent.
Breathing exercises, back and shoulder exercises can be added to the list.

Planning

Once you are confident that your body can take the rigors of trekking, start planning for the actual trip.

Choose a travel guide or travel buddies

As a first-timer, it is better to go with a guide. If you are trekking in India, there are some professional trekking companies like Kashti adventures whose expertise will make your trip a memorable one.

type of treks

Next finalize the place and duration of trip. There are 4 types of treks

Easy – It is just right for beginners. The terrain on such trails are not rough, the climbing is milder. You will discover more color due to vegetation cover at the low altitudes.
Moderate trekking – The altitudes are higher than the first one.
Strenuous – This type is the tougher than first two options – the climbing is steep and one needs to have the skills to face tough situations. Physical fitness is paramount here.
Difficult trek – This type of treks can be undertaken by only the most experienced. Physical fitness, grittiness to face any type of weather and knowledge and experience acquired over years conquering other peaks have to be put into action to complete a difficult trek.

Chose a summer or winter trek based on your calendar and interests.

Some trails in India for beginners

There are many trekking trails around the world. Himalayas is the highest mountain range in the world and is a favorite with both Indian and international trekkers. This range has many options for both the beginners as well as the professional trekker. Summer and winter mean a different challenge here.

There are also some best beginner treks options further south on the Sahayadris and the Nilgiri ranges.

Here we check out some beginner level treks on the Himalayas:

a. Dayara Bugyal trek

This is 8 km hike to a beautiful meadow in North-west Uttaranchal. It is 3408 meters above sea level. The 4 days and 3 nights trek passes through forests and grasslands. You can trek here anytime of the year. The snow cover in January and February makes it a favorite spot for ski-lovers. Enjoy views of Himalayan peaks such as Mt. Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, Jaonali, Srikanth, and the Gangotri group of Peaks at the summit.

b. Kedarkantha trek

Kedarkanth trek is located in Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.This trek is open from November to April and is an amazing winter treks for beginners. It is at an altitude of 3812 metres above the sea level. Pass through Rhondendron and Oak forests, a frozen lake and through a snowy path to reach the summit. Some visible Himalayan peaks from the summit are Bandarpoonch, Kalanag and Swargarohini. Listen to some local mythology and folklore to make the trip more interesting.

KEDARKANTHA TREK

c. Brahmatal Trek

This is Lake Trail located in Chamoli district Uttarkhand. Though standing 12250 feet above the sea level, it is rated as a moderately easy trip for beginners. Hear mythological tales of Hindu Gods and Goddesses while passing through colourful Rhodoendron, woody oak forests and waterways. Don’t miss the sunrise for anything in the world! Peaks visible at the top are Mt. Nanda Ghuti, Chaukhambha, Nilgiri, Trishul peak. You also get to see two pristine and frozen lakes Bhrahmatal and Bekaltal if you prefer this trek.

BRAHMATAL TREK

d. Har ki Dun trek

It is located in Garhwal Himalayas inside Govind Wildlife Sanctuary National Park at the height is 3600 meters. The beautiful trek passes through quaint villages like Dhatmir, Osla and Gangad. It gives you access to other Himalayan trials frequented by many all through the year.

https://kashtiadventures.com/har-ki-dun/

e. Kuari Pass trek

One of the oldest treks, it is also called Lord Curzon Trail. This summit is located in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. You can view Mt Nanda Devi and Mt.Kamet the 2^nd and 3rd highest peaks on the top. You can also view other peaks such as Mt.Dronagiri, Lampak I & II, Mt.Neelkanth, Mt. Hathi Ghoda. The trek of 34 kms through villages, grasslands, forests and snow laden peaks is as enchanting as the destination.

Before the Trip

Once you have chosen your destination start packing.

Packing

Travel light, you cannot carry a mountain when climbing another! Here are some essentials in your backpack

GPS or compass,
Communication device with batteries, portable charger,
Phone or even a whistle if there is no phone coverage in the area you are travelling,
Identity proof,
toiletry, mask, cash, raincoat, umbrella, sanitizer,
extra cash,
Flash lights,
first aid kit,
multi purposes repair tool kits,
some matches or lighter for starting a fire,
camping kit if you are travelling solo,
sturdy stick for balance,
winter gear may be given by the guide’s company,
Hat for summer, Sun screen, glasses,
Warm clothing – gloves, jacket etc. for cold weather. Wearing layers is better as you remove or wear an extra layer of clothing as per the climatic conditions. Quick drying clothes are extremely useful,
Footwear – Give utmost importance to the footwear you will be wearing as the terrain is rugged and you experience injuries. There are few options you can choose from based on the trek you will be opting…
1. Hiking boots with high ankle collar – for long distances and tough terrains
2. Hiking shoes are for warmer hiking trails.
3. Trail runners are lighter still and more breathable. Best when you are running on trials. But they wear-away faster than the other 2 type of shoes.

Choose a good one from the numerous brands available in the market. Wear them down slightly before the actual use as you a shoe bite is the last thing you want while trekking.

Food during the trip – Trekking companies will mostly take care of your meals. You can meanwhile carry some energy bars, juices, candies, lozenges and dry food to keep you hydrated and energetic.

Carry at least 2 litres of water for a day trek as you may get dehydrated quickly.

Hints to make your journey comfortable

Inform someone of your ensuing trip. This person can get help in case you are lost or need support due to climate vagaries.
Travel light
If you are going with a trekking group follow instructions judiciously to avoid any pitfalls. You can clarify doubts if you have any.
Play board games or card games at camps to keep up the team spirit. Avoid alcohol at any cost.
Get your headphones or books to read when you camp or resting
Remember; never rush to the finish line. Enjoy all the beautiful visuals enroute.
Leave nature unblemished. If you have some trash, brings it back with you.

As the pandemic restrictions are decreasing, the time is ripe to give it a try. Call the nearest trek operator and get ready for the most exhilarating travel trip ever!