It all started one fine morning when I found myself struggling to get up from a sitting position on the floor. My knees hurt. I had just crossed the big five-oh, and now this. I felt I had let life pass me by. So I decided to give trekking a try. Then began my quest for a suitable trek.
1. Choosing the right trekThe Western Ghats and the Himalayas are the two big destinations for most trekkers in India. I’d already done a couple of day hikes in the Ghats. Now, the Himalayas beckoned. I went through blogs and websites on trekking. I’d done plenty of day hikes and treks both in the U.S. and in India, but backpacking is in another league altogether. So, I decided to go with a trekking company.
2. Getting fitOne has to get used to walking uphill for six-eight hours a day for many consecutive days. Remember, oxygen is also lower at those heights. Running five km every day is said to be a good way to improve lung power for high altitude treks. Also, walking 10-15 km daily and doing yoga helps. I chose to run thrice a week for nine weeks. Remember to warm up before and cool down after the run.
3. Essential needsTrekking Shoes and Socks : These are the most important buys. Great soles and ankle support offer a good grip when crossing rocks on a raging mountain stream.
They also prevent injuries and lessen stress on the knees while going downhill. Buy a pair of shoes that is not too snug, as the feet tend to swell after a long day’s walk. Also, ensure that you break in the shoes before you set off. Wear normal thin socks for long treks, as it absorbs the sweat. Wear the woollen ones at night when the temperature drops.
Backpack: This has to feel comfortable and come with a back support. Buy a rain pouch or a raincoat for the backpack.
Water bottle: Two sturdy metal water bottles that fit snugly into the backpack’s side-pockets, since you may not always have access to drinking water.
Clothes: Three sets of quick-dry track pants and T-shirts. Avoid heavy winter wear; instead dress in layers: T-shirt, full-sleeve polo necks, full-sleeve shirt, light fleece jacket and, finally, a heavy-duty rain jacket if necessary. This protects from snow, rain, sun, wind and cold. You may need thermal underwear, waterproof gloves and woollen mittens, caps and mufflers, depending on the height and the time.
Trekking Pole: A trekking pole is useful on steep climbs and descents.
Medication: A medical check-up is mandatory in some trekking companies. In any case, it is better to undergo one, to avoid nasty and sudden surprises. Besides your regular meds, carry medication for diarrhoea, cold, headache, nausea and some general broad-spectrum antibiotics and antihistamines. Many carry medicines to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). But read up on how to prevent AMS. You’ll also need band aids, surgical tapes and duct tapes to treat blisters. At high altitudes, UV radiation is high, so SPF 40 or higher sun block lotion is a must.
Personal stuff : Rent a sleeping bag, since those rated for weather conditions expected at 12,000-18,000 ft are terribly expensive. Carry your personal fleece ‘inner’ if you are squeamish. You will also need a head-mounted reading lamp that doubles up as a torch at night; a tiffin box for lunch along with a non-breakable light plate, cup and spoon for dinner; and quick-dry towels. Wet wipes are helpful to maintain personal hygiene, although environmentally they are a strict no-no. If you are a photographer, carry extra batteries for the camera; although, with the advent of power banks, that may be unnecessary now.
Energy boosters : Peanut chikki works best. Make your own trail mix using raisins, almonds, peanuts, walnuts, dates, dried apricots, and jaggery.
4. PackingStart packing a couple of days before you depart. Stick to a maximum of nine kilos. Heavy stuff goes at the bottom, light ones toward the top, particularly provisions that one needs during trekking.
