What is the best way to enjoy the monsoons? Carry your backpack and head to the lush green hills and landscapes to soak in some cool breeze. There is a plethora of monsoon trekking getaways; however, trekking during this season does come with some hurdles. We bring you a list of trekking does and don’ts, read these nuggets of information if you plan to trek in the rains.
Clothing is the key
Dark and bright coloured clothes are a complete no-no. Wear dull or green colour clothes when you go for a trek. Also, try and cover your legs and arms. Creepies and crawlies also love the greens and rains just the way you do. Beware of leeches; they are the scariest of all. Carry mustard oil and salt with you and apply it whenever you can. Mustard oil keeps leeches away and helps you enjoy a leech free trek !
Can’t do without the guides
Trekking in the rains can be tricky. Be careful while you are walking a steep slope, the grounds are murky and loose. Travel with people or guides who are well-versed with the routes and familiar with the area. If there is a hurdle on your path, your guide should be aware of an alternate route. You don’t want to get stuck somewhere in a hanging valley!
Shoe it on
Wear trekking shoes that have a good grip. Shoes covering the entire foot are always a good option. It is always advisable to carry an extra pair of shoes and two to three pairs of socks. You are trekking in the rains remember? All your shoes and socks tend to get wet. No, you can’t walk in wet shoes. It results in aching limbs and you won’t be able to freshen up those smelly shoes for a long time.
Proper travel gear
Travel gear makes a lot of difference. If you don’t carry a proper gear you are deemed to land up in trouble. A bag with many pockets is a trekking essential as you need lot of things that come handy during treks. Buy a bag with cushioned shoulder straps as it is comfortable. Carry sleeping bags, blankets, tents, a long rope (atleast 50 mtrs long), torch or flashlights, a first aid box with painkillers, knife and extra batteries if you plan to go for an overnight trek.
Don’t forget the food
Trekking without food...naah ..bad idea !! During a trek you might run low on energy. Carry food items that are rich in carbohydrates and proteins. Fruits are a great source of vitamins. Carry the ones that you can peel (bananas, oranges for instance), they come handy when your fellow trekkers find it difficult to fight those hunger pangs.