The Trekker’s Guide

Trekking is a thing which every adventurous person in this world loves doing and something which a normal man wants to do one or the other day.  The visuals which strikes one’s mind while listening to the word ‘Trekking’ is  a rope, a big  trek bag, sports shoes, a man climbing a mountain, and most importantly a first aid kit etc.

Before we discuss further, let’s clear that trekking is different than mountaineering, it is a long journey undertaken on foot in areas where common means of transport is generally not available. So in case one is planning to hire cabs and reach to a place and start climbing a mountain it is not trekking.

Trekking sounds very adventurous and full of fun but it is very risky if not followed certain guidelines. It has to be conducted in an organized manner.

Some of the basic guidelines which one must follow while trekking is as follows

1. Never trek alone:

Never go trekking for trekking alone always have a registered guide with you. Because if you are not familiar with the areas, and most important of all, the cultures of different tribe groups around you, it can create a major issue.  Although many tribes welcome tourists, there are some tribes who will not entertain the strangers into their locality without the prior-permission of their leaders.

Do not use stuffs like matchbox or do not smoke during trekking, it must be prohibited. It may create problems like forest fire, health hazards etc.

3. Do not trek at night:

Always make sure that you reach your destination well before sunset. So for that leave your home early and reach nearest place to the destination early morning via renting a car and then start trekking early. Lack of light at night can create hurdles while trekking and can even be dangerous.

Always carry a torch, water bottle, rope, knife, whistle, wireless set, navigation equipment etc. These things will help you to protect yourself even in case you are lost.

5. Have a proper dress code:

Wear proper dress while trekking.

• Cotton shirts of dull color like forest-green or mud-brown.
• Comfortable cotton trousers /pants /salwar khameez of earthy color.
• Dhoti, Saree, etc are not allowed.
• Trekking shoes of good quality.
• Hat / cap to ward off sunlight. Sweaters in winter. Wind cheater / rain coat during the rainy season.

Last but not the least, always hire cabs to reach your home once the trekking has been completed. It is very much essential to rest your body once the whole journey is done. Hiring a cab is the most relaxing way to reach home.  Car rental services in cities like Mumbai and Delhi is easily available online.

Follow all the guidelines it will surely help you to have a safe and better trekking, because it is always important to be alert while having fun.