Trekking
in India
For
those fascinated by the unexplored, the mountain ranges of India offer breathtaking,
enthralling trekking routes. In the vast amphitheatre of the Indian Himalayas
and Karakorams, there are limitless possibilities for trekking, mountaineering,
skiing, and river rafting. Within this alluring arena, the Garhwal and Kumaon
regions, occupy the central place, with special points of interest for the trekker.
Spectacular views apart, the Himalayan foothills are just ideal for trekking,
offering energetic out-door people a different and exciting option for a holiday.
The Garhwal and Kumaon regions of Uttaranchal are the most popular destinations
for trekkers, though Chamba and Manali in Himachal Pradesh, and Ladakh and Zanskar
in Jammu and Kashmir, have interesting trekking routes as well.
Darjeeling and Sikkim in the east also have some trekking routes. While trekking
as a sporting activity does not require prior training or practice, except that
the trekker should be in good physical condition, there are certain dos and
don'ts which should be adhered to. Routes should be carefully chosen, as some
treks may be more difficult, or may involve high altitude trekking. It is generally
advisable to be accompanied by a local guide. Ensure that the pace of the trek
is not too rapid, since this could result in exhaustion, and would in any case
not be enjoyable.
The
adventure season, which till recently, was confined to the summer months, now
covers almost the entire year, including winter. This has been made possible
by improved equipment and transportation, and the availability of year-round
bookings in areas, hitherto, considered inaccessible. Moreover, winter treks
are gaining popularity as a means of 'getting away' to relatively lower altitudes.
Precautions and Permits
Precautions:
It is advisable to be medically examined before starting a trek. The first aid
kit for the trek, should include basic medicines and bandages for cuts, burns,
headache, nausea, constipation, diarrhoea, and sore throat. Running water should
be used for washing, and washing should be done well downstream of campsites.
Keep a map handy, and set a comfortable pace. Allow for time to enjoy the panoramic
and magnificent sites of the awesome mountains, rivers, flora and fauna.
Permits: Indian nationals need no permission
for trekking in any area, outside the Inner Line. For routes inside the Inner
Line, the local District Magistrate's permission, or that of the Central Home
Ministry is necessary. For foreigners, crossing the Inner Line is not permitted.
Treks upto 4900 mts need no permission, and can be undertaken on tourist visas.
For treks above 4900 mts, prior permission is to be taken from the IMF. Camera
permits are also necessary.
Equipment
and Insurance
Equipment:
A firm rucksack with broad straps, sleeping bag, foam mattress, comfortable
walking shoes, raincoat, torch, matchboxes, umbrella, and water bottles are
essential. Personal clothing including woollen shirts, pullovers, T-shirts,
feather jacket, longjohns, toilet items, camera and film, should be included
to suit the duration and altitude of the trek, while keeping the overall weight
to the minimum.
Insurance:
This is possible through the standard insurance companies. The IMF, Indian Air
Force, and local authorities should, as far as possible, be kept informed of
the route.
Grading of TreksThe treks described have
been graded according to their level of difficulty.
Grade 1:: Soft trek, round the year
Grade 2: Seasonal / mild trek (April - November)
Grade 3: Tough, high altitude trek (seasonal)
Trekking Routes:
Some of the Popular Trekking Routes:
The Khatling
Sahasratal Trek (Grade Hard Trek)
The Kalsi Lakhmandal
Trek (Grade Soft Trek)
The Lata
Panwali Kedarnath Trek (Grade Mild Trek)
The Har-ki-Doon Trek
(Grade 1)
The Chandrashila
Winter Trek (Grade 1)
The Dehradun
- Kempty Falls Trek (Grade 1)
The Rishikesh
- Gopeshwar Trek (Grade 1)
The Gangotri
- Kedarnath Trek (Grade 2)
The Kedarnath
- Vasukital Trek (Grade 2)
The Kalindikhal Trek
(Grade 3)
The Pithoragarh
- Sinla Pass Trek (Grade 3)
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