Trekking in India

What is Trekking?

Trekking is all about enjoying a great walking holiday. You can choose whichever type of trek suits you. It could be just a day trip. You could also work out a holiday where you go trekking during the day, but return every night to a lodge for a hot meal and a comfortable bed. The hills and the mountains are alluring and you will soon find yourself addicted to them. Trekking is not a risky affair as far as your health is concerned, but it does demand a certain level of fitness that will enable you to enjoy a good day’s walking, uphill and down. The best preparation for trekking is cycling, swimming, jogging, and long walks.

Where to go?

The well-known trekking destinations in India are Ladakh & Zanskar in Jammu & Kashmir, the Sahyadri ranges near Pune in Maharashtra, and the Western Ghats in Chikmagalur in Karnataka.

Top Slip in Tamil Nadu, Aagumbe, and Bannerghatta in Karnataka are trekking destinations emerging in popularity. February and March are the best months for low-altitude trekking in the Himalayas, while April and May are good for high-altitude trekking.

Do not venture out in July and August unless you like trekking in the rain. December to April are the best months for trekking in the Western Ghats when the weather is clear and the hills are bathed in green. If you plan your trekking vacation well in advance, then you can enjoy cultural delights like the Ladakh festival in September.

What do you need to know?

Trekking routes are graded on levels of difficulty. A basic course in first aid will stand you in good stead. Learn how to deal with frostbite and sunburn.

What must you carry?

Buy a backpack that has multiple pockets, padded shoulder straps, and a large zipper closure. Get shoes, made especially for hikers, to give you good support. Buy a pair that is a half-size larger than street shoes because your feet may swell as you walk. Your socks should be thick wool or synthetic blend, which prevents your feet from getting wet or blistering. Your backpack must have a first-aid kit, water bottle, Swiss army knife, topography map, compass, blanket, and sweater.