Travel: Beginners' guide to climb the Himalayas

How many of you out there get exasperated by the very thought of the Himalayas? How many have always wanted to walk or climb the Himalayan Mountains. I am sure, these thoughts would have crossed most of your minds at some point in time but, you have been scared or don't know how to go about it. Himalayas- literally meaning the 'Abode of the Snow', have intrigued and attracted many from across the world. The call of these highest mountain ranges in the world is simply too great to ignore. According to most trained mountaineers and high altitude trekkers, trekking in the Himalayas is an adventure that every person should experience at least once in their life time.

Anyone can do it. One does not necessarily need to be a trained mountaineer to enjoy walking in the heavenly Himalayas. The Indian and Nepal Himalayas offer even the most novice trekker a limitless choice of safe mountain routes, with views to die for, and memories that will last a life time.

Hiking or Trekking? There is a vast difference between hiking and trekking. Hiking applies to shorter route and plain walks while trekking applies to more rigorous walking along different terrains and altitudes. But trekking is not tough as one thinks it to be. If you know to walk then you can trek as well. Walking along a trail with a backpack doesn't require exceptional skill or conditioning, but it does require planning, the right clothes, shoes and above all old common sense.

Camping beside the river in Nubra Valley

Bipasha, Majumbdar, a freelance communication specialist for the social sector did her first Himalayan trek in Sikkim in 2000. It was a trek from Yuksum to DZongri. Completely unprepared and physically unfit then she says, "I expected nothing. I just went with the notion of trekking." But, within a day of walking she realized the strain and difficulty she faced because of not being physically and mentally fit.

Trekking through Nubra Valley. Pics/Anusha Subramanian

Majumbdar's learning from her first trip was never to embark on a Himalayan trek without a bit of Physical fitness. "Yes basic physical fitness is required but, most importantly one should remember that anything above 10000 ft should not be taken lightly and one needs to take cognizance of reality," says Majumbdar, Further she adds, "along with basic fitness what's equally important is being mentally fit. Once should also read up on high altitude sickness and about the place and terrain. And, ask questions"

Himalayan treks where the altitude is over 8000 feet and can extend up to 18,000 to 19,000 feet needs mental conditioning and good physical fitness. In short, all that one needs to keep in mind is that going for any trek is more about mind over body affair. If you are fairly fit and mentally strong and prepared, you can aspire to view the Himalayas up close and in person rather than from the vantage pint of your couch. However, going for a Himalayan trek also requires prior planning and preparation.

Here is a novice guide to planning a Himalayan trek.

Prepare yourself physically and mentally:
If you are not into regular fitness regime then slight effort towards building your physical fitness (Six to one year) before your trek is good. If you do have a regular fitness regime then 3-4 months of extra rigorous training prior to your trek is enough. You can just build a few physical activities within your daily routine. Like initially start with walking for about 1-2 hours on flat surface for a week then boost your stamina gradually increasing it to about 3 hours with walks on inclines say four or five days a week with a backpack with about 5 kgs in it is good enough exercise..

Walking on Chandrakheni pass

If you regularly work out in the gym then walking on the treadmill with a backpack at a 2-5 per cent incline will enhance your endurance and also strengthen some of your trekking muscles namely legs, back and abs.

Remember that when you walk uphill the maximum pressure is on your thighs and when you walk downhill all the pressure is on your knees. Stretching and even yoga will help in loosening those muscles and getting a bit flexible before the trek.

One must also work on their breathing. Try and increase the lung capacity. This is essential to prevent the panicky wheezing after 5 minutes of climbing. Practice belly breathing for high altitudes where the air is scanty.

If you have a medical condition like Asthma you need not worry about going to high altitudes. There are many asthmatics who are very good mountaineers. So if you have no such medical conditions then you don't need to worry at all. For asthmatics who have not ventured into any adventure activities you should start with light trekking.

Valley of Flowers. Pic/Guneet Puri

Most professional outfits organizing Himalayan treks can assess your fitness levels. If in doubt, be conservative, especially when it comes to the dizziness and shortness of breath associated with high altitudes. At high altitudes, altitude sickness is one of the first and foremost things that one needs to take care of. One should also contact the organizers and ask all the questions and clear all doubts before going on a long trek.

Trekking in the Himalayas is a different ball game. It's not like a walk in the park. It's raw nature and one should not go with high expectations. One should be prepared for nature's adversities such as weather turning etc… Also given the fact that the Himalayas are eco sensitive region, trekkers should make sure they take care of the environment and not be callous in the mountains. Every trekker's first rule is to respect the mountains.

Selection of the Place and Planning the trip:
Trekking activities in Himalayas is done in 2 seasons pre-monsoon which is between May - July and post-monsoon between August - November, Skiing activities are between February - April. Weather conditions in the mountains can change drastically hence choosing the right season is the most important aspect of any trips in the Himalayas.

One should read a lot about the place and other aspects of trekking. Talk to people who have done the trek before and gather their experience. The next step after this is to make sure that you have done your research well on where you want to go and also select the right Adventure Company to go with First priority should be getting information on the adventure tour operator. Make sure the company you choose to go with has certified guides, who are aware of the routes and the terrains, can handle medical emergencies and who adhere to ultimate safety standards.

People should make sure to ask their adventure operator the necessary questions on the place, safety standards, medical related issues, high altitude sickness etc.

Some Trekking Essentials
Preferably you should also have a route map with you
Skills needed for trekking apply to any outdoor sport. A course in basic first aid wouldn't hurt, but at least know how to bandage a wound and detect the signs of dehydration, heatstroke and frost bite. Learn to understand the weather conditions of the day. You can read up to know about these aspects
'' Altitude Sickness: The symptoms of altitude sickness are headaches, nausea, and loss of appetite. The cause: Insufficient oxygen levels in the blood due to lower atmospheric pressure in the higher reaches. If not attended to, altitude sickness could lead to Pulmonary Edema (where water gets collected in the lungs) or cerebral edema (where water gets collected in your brain ). Altitiude sickness is highly unpredictable. You may hit 13000 ft and not demonstrate any symptoms till the next day.

How to avoid Altitude Sickness: Follow the "golden rule" - climb high, sleep low. Once you've made your way up past 3,000 metres (10,000 feet), do not ascend more than 300 metres (1,000 feet) per day to sleep. You can climb as high as you want, just make sure that you come back to a base camp that's no more than 300 m (1,000ft) higher than your previous night's sleeping elevation.

Resting at the altitude at which you became ill is often the most effective remedy for altitude sickness (other than descent). You'll usually feel better in 1-2 (or up to 4) days.

Avoid tobacco, alcohol and other depressant drugs as these further decreases the respiratory drive during sleep resulting in a worsening of symptoms. Hydrate yourself by drink plenty of water. What you might think is altitude sickness might actually be dehydration, caused by the higher rate of water vapor lost from the lungs at higher altitudes. Eat a high calorie diet while at altitude

Gear Up:
Back pack and Day packs: This is the basic that an individual should understand while trekking. The right backpack or day pack is a must. Have a backpack which fits well on your back and does not 'hang'. Therefore choose a backpack with multiple pockets, padded shoulder straps, and large zipper closure. And make sure it's the right size: When properly adjusted, the base should sit on your hips and the top should be at least one hand-width below the base of your neck. A fit backpack on your back is half the battle won while trekking.

Also don't pack too much. For a more comfortable trek (and to help the porters) luggage should be kept to a maximum of 15kg. The day pack you carry will have your essentials like your camera, jackets, water bottle etc.

Clothes: The rest half of the battle is won with the right clothes and shoes. Wear loose clothes like tracks or cotton slacks or trousers with a loose T-Shirt. Having a multipurpose jacket which can take the cold as well as the wind is a must.

While on a Himalayan trek it is recommended that you wear woollen or synthetic blend socks designed to wick moisture away from the feet, as wet feet is the primary cause of blisters.

Shoes: Footwear designed specifically for trekking offers better support and traction. Choose a pair that's a half-size larger than your street shoes to allow for some swelling as you walk and to accommodate slightly heavy hiking or woollen socks if need be. If your shoes are new break into them while you are in the city training. It's also good to carry a floater along so you can relieve your legs from the trekking shoes when at the campsite.

That little tingle of friction you feel on your foot before you get a blister. Don't ignore the feeling: Take off your boot and wrap your foot with a light cloth before that tingling evolves into a full-fledged blister.
Benefits of Trekking:

Himalayan treks can be very rewarding. Apart from just offering spectacular views and adrenalin rush, it gives one-self assessment time. Having completed one high altitude trek it helps you understand your potential and strengths and weaknesses.

Many first times have come back rejuvenated and taken up exercising seriously and be fit. Since their first Himalayan trek have been climbing and going for high altitude treks regularly.
That's the beauty of the Himalayas - an addiction that seldom can be cured.

Lastly, whether you are alone with strangers on a trek or with your own friends, treks have the capacity to cement some long lasting friendships. Everything in the mountains is a community affair such as putting up a tent, cooking, walking. Remember nothing happens in isolation in the mountains. So go decide where you want to go and enjoy your trip !

Where you can start from: The various Himalayan ranges
The Himalayas offers treks both for beginners as well as for professional climbers. There are several destinations where you can walk for long hours and not demonstrate any rock climbing or mountaineering skills.

You could go for treks in Uttarakhand, Himalachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Kashmir Himalayas, Ladakh and Zanskar ranges. First timers should look to go to mountains that range in the height of 6000 ft to 14000 ft.

One needs to choose their destination well. Some witness torrential rains in certain seasons such as in Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand (Garhwal and Kumaon) Himachal Pradesh (Kullu and Spiti) and some are snowbound in winter, others densely forested and require seasoned guides to lead. The most difficult region among all this is Ladakh as it calls for extra preparation both physically and mentally.

Then you have the Nepal Himalayas situated on the eastern side of Himalaya where one can do many treks. It is a popular trekking destination and very commercialised

Here are some beginner's treks to choose from Uttarakhand:
Valley of Flowers: 3600 mts/ 11880 ft
Best Month: Mid July to 1st week of October
Declared as one of the Natural Heritage sites in the World by UNESCO in 1988, Valley of Flowers has been on the "been there seen that" list for most adventure and nature enthusiasts. It is one of the most famous treks in Uttarakhand. At an altitude of 3,600 meters above sea-level, it is protected by snowy mountains. The valley is home to many celebrated flowers like the Brahmakamal, the Blue Poppy and the Cobra Lily. It is a much sought after haunt for flower-lovers, botanists and of coure trekkers. If you go before July you might hardly find any flowers. However, you will be able to see melting glaciers. After mid-August, the color of the Valley changes quite dramatically from greenish to yellowish, and the flowers slowly die.

Dodital-Darwa Top:
Altitude: 4150 mts/ 13695 ft:
Best Time to do the trek: April-May and September to January
Dodital is a picturesque lake in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The lake is fed from natural springs and is the source of the river 'Asi Ganga'. Legend has it that the pristine shores of this lake are the birthplace of Lord Ganesha. Dodital is also called Dhundhital, Ganesha's Lake. The lake derives its name from the word Dodi (Trout in the local language). As can be imagined the lake provides a home to this particular fresh water fish. Nestled under the cool shade of the Deodar trees at the bank of the lake is a quaint little temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Religious or not, no trek to the lake is complete without at least a quick look in this ancient temple. The path after Dodital winds through a forest for a while and then opens up into a high altitude meadow to Darwa Top. When on Darwa Top offers a panoramic view of the Gharwal Himalayas which more than makes up for the strained muscles. This can be done in Winter during December-January when the lake is frozen.

Dayara Bugyal:
Altitude: 3048 mts/10,058 ft September onwards till
Located in Uttarkashi district, Dayara Bugyal is one of the easiest destinations to reach through trekking. Bugyal in Gadhwali is Meadow. After trekking for just 9 kms from Barsu Village you will reach this lush green high altitude meadow and there is a lake in the lower altitude called Barnala Tal situated around Oak trees. One also gets a panoramic view of the Himalayan Range. The trek starts from Barsu village to Barnala Tal which is an easy hike for about 4 kms with gradual ascending altitude. The region is rich in Rhododendron trees. Dayara Bugyal is situated 5 km from Barnala Tal. The shepherd huts are located 1 km away from the Bugyal. During summer, one can go up to Bakra Top and come back.
This trek can also be done in December-February. One will have to camp in tents close to Shepherd huts. The higher reaches off the Bugyal is covered with 2-3 ft snow and skiing is also possible in winter.

Gaumukh and Tapovan:
Altitude: 4463 mts/14638 ft
Best Time: Mid April-June and August-Mid October
Gaumukh is where waters of Ganga trickles down from the glaciers. The sages called it 'Gaumukh' because in the distant past, it probably appeared like a cow's mouth, though today it no longer appears so. From Gangotri you move along the beaten track towards Chirbasa, which is on the tree line. From here you can have a clear view of Bhagirathi peak. Beyond Chirbasa the terrain becomes really desolate and barren. In fact it has been referred to as the Arctic Tundra by many trekkers. From Chirbasa you reach Bhojwasa and from here Gaumukh is only 4 Kms ahead.

Nandadevi Inner Sanctuary Trek and Dharansi Pass
Altitude: Max. 4250 m/13940 ft
Best Time: March to November

The Nanda Devi Sanctuary in the Garhwal Himalayas of India is a unique geographical feature. A ring of peaks connected by massive rock walls which dip no lower than 17,000ft/ 5200 metres forming an impenetrable santuary. The only exception is the point where the river Rishi Ganga which drains this great basin emerges to the west in one of the most spectacular gorges in the world. The trek starts from Lata to Lata Kharakh which is a hard climb A Kharak is a summer pasture and often an area of grazing just above the tree line. The stiff climb takes us one through Rhododendron, Oak and "Chir" pine forest, emerging onto the grassland at just under 13,000 ft/ 4000 metres. However, an early start and a slow steady pace will make it an enjoyable climb through Himalayan forests and one's first opportunity to observe its diverse flora and fauna.

After day's acclamatisation one heads to Dharansi Pass ( 4250 mts) The spectacular panoramas of peaks encircling the Sanctuary leaves you in a dizzy. There are at least twelve peaks over 21,500 ft/ 6500 metres including several famous names such as Changabang and Dunagiri to the North and Trishuli and Nanda Kot to the West and South. In the centre is the towering- Nanda Devi. At 25,643 ft/ 7816 metres -the highest peak in India. The beautiful surroundings with abundant flora and fauna like Brahma-Kamal and Bharal (blue mountain goat) make this a sanctuary of nature. In 1982 access to trekkers into the Nanda Devi Sanctuary was banned to protect its biodiversity. The Nanda Devi Sanctuary, which has been declared a world heritage site, has been partially opened recently for restricted number of tourist.

Himachal Pradesh :
Chanderkhani Pass and MalanaTrek :
Altitude: 3660 mts/ 12000 ft
Best Time: May-June and September-October
This is a beautiful trek that takes you to a height of 12000 ft. It's a trekking route that is steeped in legend and offers great views of Deo Tibba and Pin Parvati range of mountains. Legend has it that years ago Jamlu (the presiding diety of Malana) was carrying a basket of all the Gods of Kullu. On the top of the pass when he opened the basket all the Gods blew away all over the Kullu valley. Since then the valley is known as the Valley of Gods. You cross the pass and continue the trek to Malana village. Malana is a culture in itself where the old ways are still adhered. But, in the last couple of years modernity has set in. This trek provides a great insight to some of the traditions of this valley as well as some stunning views.

Hamta Pass:
Altitude: 5100 mts / 16830 ft
Best time: May-June and August- October
May-June and August to October .This is a trek that has a little bit of everything. Of moderate difficulty the trek starts in Manali and ends in Lahaul valley. It is a popular trek. The trek takes you to a height of approximately 14000 ft (4260 mts).
Triund and Indrahar Pass:
Altitude: 4342 mts/14329 ft
Best Time: May-June and September-October
Indrahar Pass trek starts from Mcleodganj (Dharamshala), the home of Dalai Lama, right in Kangra Valley. It pass over the snowbound Dhauladhar range and ends in Chamba. Before one embarks on this trek, one can do a short trek to Triund Snowline and experience the most spectacular view of the snow covered peaks of Dhauladhar on one side and Kangra valley on the other. You have got different view at different time of the day-Sunset, moonrise, sunrise all present a different picture of the place. One can continue to Indrahar Pass from here. Indrahar Pass trek offers a close view of the beautiful Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal mountain ranges. The trek takes you through green pastures, dense Deodhar and Rhododendron forests. One will get to visit the Lahesh cave, which is located at the Indrahara Pass base. Some snow bridges are crossed along the way as you reach Kuarsi Valley.
Kuarsi is a very interesting shepherd village. The tracks that you will be on were used for centuries by the Gaddi. Chambha is also included in the trek, located on Ravi river banks.

Ladakh :
Markha Valley Trek:
Altitude: 5200 m/17160ft
Best Time: June to September
This is one of the most popular and beautiful trek in ladakh.This trek start from Spituk village around 7 km from Leh and resume at Hemis. This trek pass through high pasture land of Nimaling 4700m and Kongmarula 5100m and the area is home to endangered wild lives. This trek also gives you an opportunity to interact with local people.
Nubra Valley and Laser Mo La (pass):

Altitude: 5400/17820
Best Season: June to August
The Nubra valley lies to the north of Leh. Nubra Valley is altitude of 3200m/1000 ft. Nubra valley means Ldumra - the valley of flowers The main attraction in this valley is sand dunes, double hump bactarian camel, monasteries and driving from highest motorable road in the world -Khardungla at 18380 ft. Nubra was part of the old central Asian trade route known as silk route along which trade from Yarkhand in central Asia and Mongolia was carried out in ancient times. It is often referred as the orchard of Ladakh. In the middle of the trek you will have the opportunity to meet with local people who are staying with their group of sheeps, goats and yaks. Lasermo Pass Passan altitude of 5400m/17820. At pass you get excellent view of Karakoram Mountains as well as Ladakh and Zanskar mountain ranges. It also offers a panaromic view of Shayok valley and Indus valley Excellent views all round.
Pls Note: for Nubra Valley you need a inner line permit that can be got in Leh.

Sikkim:
Goechala Trek
Altitude: 4909 mts/16200 ft
Best season: April-May
Trekking in Sikkim is very different from trekking in any other part of the Indian Himalayas. The mountains, the trails, the people and the culture is in such sharp contrast to the rest of the country. The Goechala trek takes you through an enchanting walk through the Tshoka Rhododenderon forests, the vast Dzongri and Thansing meadows, the startling blue waters of Samiti lake, the looming presence of Kanchejunga and Pandim. Thus, the icy trail to Goechala make this trek a want to do trek. April sees the season of rhododendron and magnolias when a large part of the trail is covered with colors, yellow, red, pink, white. The smell of junipers wears you into the trek

Dzongri trek
Best Time: October -May
For all those who wish to see Kanchanjunga up-close, DZongri trek offers the perfect option. From the meadows of Dzongri one can get grand views of Kanchanjunga, Simvo, Pandim, Kabru and Rathong. The train runs through moss-laden forests of Oak, chestnut, pine, maple, magnolia and Rhdodenron. This diverse forest gives us the opportunity to enjoy many birds like the Redbilled Leothrix, Rufous-vented Yuhina, Fire-breasted Flowerpecker, Silver-eared Mesia and many more. Equally impressive si the variety of Orchids which throng the tree barks. On the way one will cross small Tibetan hamlets at Bakhim and Tshoka, offering a peek into their way of life.

Arunachal Pradesh:
Pls Note: For trekking in Arunachal one needs to apply for an Inner Line permit. This can be got in Delhi or Kolkata. But, the trekking agency or Tour Company with whom you book your trip should organize the same for you.

'' Monpa Trail Trek:
Best Time: October|
Arunachal Pradesh is a beautiful state of India and is every explorer's dream. Remote villages covered in lush green forests can only be reached on foot, snow-capped mountains glistening under the sun, gushing rivers carving deep gorges are breathtaking and spectacular. West Arunachal Pradesh is mainly dominated by the Monpas, a benevolent Buddish tribe, residing in one of the most spectacular mountain landscapes. From trekking through dense forests and admiring the views of Gorichen peak, Arunachal's highest peak, this trek is an ideal mix of adventure and culture set in the most scenic landscape of Eastern Himalayas.

Namdhapha Trek:
Best Time: January
Have you ever dreamt of walking in a rainforest? Then this trek to Mamdapha National Park, the most bio diverse forest in India is a must do trek. Trekking in an ecosystem that is home to over 100 mammals, 300 birds and a thousand other life forms is something unimaginable. In this trek you will experience the pleasure of crossing streams on rickety foot bridges and gentle climb that dot the path.