Preparation for Trekking

Clothes:
During these treks travellers will encounter extremes of weather - the route pass through depths of valleys as low as 762 m and tops of mountains as high as 3640m. Therefore proper clothing is necessary. For treks at lower altitudes it is sufficient to have a light sweater, shirt and trousers. At higher altitudes a heavy pullover topped by a wind cheater is advisable. A down jacket is very useful in high altitudes. In case the trek is undertaken during the winter time then wollen caps, gloves and even a feather jacket are must. A muffler may be added advantage. A good plan is to start the trek in comfortable outfit and carry excess clothing in ruck sack.

Shoes:
In long treks the necessity of a good, durable, comfortable pair of shoes can hardly be over emphasised. Remember to carry a few extra pair of socks.

Raincoat:
Nomatter what time the trek is undertaken a light raincoat must form an essential part of the outfit. Weather may be unpredictable, particularly in higher altitudes.

Food:
Travellers must carry their own provisions unless the trek is undertaken by some travel agency. Broadly speaking the food should be such as can be easily carried and will keep in warmer climate. Advisable food to be carried - tinned food such as skinless sausages, packet or tin packed soup, cheese, peanut butter, baked beans etc. will be helpful. Hard boiled eggs and bread may be taken with advantage, rice and dal are excellent items (of course you have to cook it at the place where you decide to stop). It is also advisable to carry a packet of salt as this is a rare commodity at the higher altitudes. For hot drinks tea or instant coffee, condensed milk and sugar may also be carried. It is suggested to carry a packet of Glucose powder which help to give energy while on trek, rice, dal, eggs, chicken, onions and potatoes can be purchased enroute to Sandakphu, at places like Meghma, Gairibas, Kalpokhri, Gorkhey, Rammam, Shri Khola and Rimbick.

Water:
It is safe to drink spring water in the high altitude. However it is advisable to carry water purifying tablets. Some brand nams such as PINTAB and ZEOLIN 200 are easily available at Chemist Shops at Darjeeling. Do carry a water bottle.