Everyone should experience at least one in a lifetime the thrills of hiking the world’s highest and most challenging mountain peak. Ever since George Everest set foot for the very first time on Himalaya’s highest peak back in 1865, people around the world have started developing a passion for this sort of travel experience. Extreme trekking though, is not for everybody. Fortunately, there are many accessible paths you can explore and thus benefit from a memorable experience. Prior to venturing yourself into the wild, here are useful tips that will ensure that your journey exceeds expectations.
Himalaya sunrise (Mike Behnken)
Design an itinerary
Are you fond of centuries-old cultural sights or do your fancy abundant vegetation and surprising wildlife? The Himalayan territory is packed with exceptional attractions, so you will definitely find something to suit your tastes. Little Tibet and Ladakh are magnificent locations to check out if you want to admire ancient monasteries. For an unforgettable trekking adventure, the luxuriant forests of Sikkim should do the trick. Last but not least, if you’re hunting for the most spectacular mountain views, then you’d better stop by the little-trekked trails of Garhwal.
The Himalayan territory is spread on 4 countries: Tibet, India, Bhutan and Nepal. Each and every one of these countries is unique in its own way, so before making any plans, you should get to know them a little bit better. First-time trekkers should start with Nepal because it is more accessible; it features a solid infrastructure and it has ideal accommodation facilities.
India and Bhutan are more appropriate for experienced mountaineers. The treks are not that accessible, yet they’re absolutely spectacular. Last but not least, we have Tibet, which is probably the world’s most culturally rich county to explore. Unfortunately, it’s also unreachable due to a poor transportation network and weak infrastructure.
Kathmandu (ilker ender)
Experiences you can’t miss out on
For a genuine cultural experience, start your adventure withKathmandu and Durbar Square, which is listed on 1st place on UNESCO’s Top 8 World Heritage Sites. Durbar Square is an exquisite cluster of ancient palaces, temples, streets and courtyards from the 12th century. Make sure to stop by Pashupatinath, one of the world’s most significant Hindu temples.
For trekking adventurers, the Kathmandu Valley is a true eye opener. This beautiful wonder of nature lies on over 1,000m and it features mountain peaks broadening to more than 2,800m above the sea level. Another memorable spot you should include on your travel list to the Himalayas is the Annapurna Conservation Area, which features a wealth of treks you can choose from to get to the top.
A Himalayan trek (Mike Behnken)
Get properly equipped
Trekking the Himalayas can be extremely challenging. First of all, choose your season. In the summer, your gear should include a pair of boots, proper clothing, a backpack and weatherproof jackets. Wintertime is reserved to the most experienced. It involves a lot of professional mountain gear, so you are advised to choose the warm season for trekking.
As for surviving tips up on the mountain, just remember – climb high but sleep low! On top, your biggest threat will be altitude sickness. Find a way to spend your nights on lower altitudes, and thus your body will feel much better in the morning.
Best of Bhutan (Kyle Taylor)
Food & fitness
Trekking the world’s tallest and most challenging mountain is not that easy. Even on the most accessible paths, you must still be mentally and physically prepared. Proper food is an important part of the trip, especially since you’ll be trekking many remote areas with no food and drink outlets. Drinks lots of boiled water and tea to stay hydrated and stay away from tinned food. Have dry fruits in your backpack, chocolates, soup packets, coffee powder and sweets.
Safety first
Trekking the Great Himalaya Trail for example, which is the longest in the world, may pose a challenge. To avoid annoyances, your safety should come first. Every mountaineer should have a first-aid medical kit in his backpack. It should include wound disinfectants, a thermometer, band aids in various sizes, analgesics, and anti-inflammatories. Also, you are advised to consult with a physician before departure to be sure you are in perfect health.
Are you prepared for a memorable Himalaya holiday? The above mentioned tips should certainly help you make the right decisions. Pick your locations, decide on a season, settle on an itinerary and be safe. That should be enough to help you enjoy an incredible trekking adventure on top of the world’s highest mountain.
