Tag Archives: Trek

4 Day-Treks worth adding to your Nainital Trip

“The best views come after the hardest climb”

Nainital is the most famous tourist destination in Uttrakhand and it offers a lot to its visitors. Every traveler is aware of Naini Lake, Ropeway, Snow point, Tibetan market, Nainital Zoo etc.  But have you heard about the treks from Nainital? Yes, there are few of day treks which are unexplored and unexploited. Treks rush your adrenaline and pump up blood in the body. They let you see what others have not seen. How beautiful nature is? So, here I am listing the 4 adventurous treks which you can add to your Nainital trip.

  1. Trek to China Peak/ Cheena Peak /Naina Peak

The Naina or the China Peak is the highest point of Nainital. It is located at an altitude of 2612 meters above sea level. And one can trek, go by ponies or cabs to this point. The path for trek passes through thick pine, cypresses and deodar forests. On the way, rhododendron strewn path looks fantastic and is a delight to the trekkers. You also get to see waterfalls, water springs, natural beauty, various animals, and birds. The top offers the panoramic view of the Nainital town, the Himalayas, and the Kumaon region.

Naini Peak, China peak - Day Treks in Nainital trip

Difficulty Level: Easy

Distance – 6 km from Mallital

Timings for Visit – 9:00am – 5:00pm

Time to complete trek – 3-4 hrs

Must Carry – Do carry food and water along as there are no restaurants on the way or on the top.

  1. Hike to Land’s End

Land’s end, as the name says itself is the dead end of the land.  It is located at an altitude of 2118 meters above sea level and the point can be reached by trekking or through ponies. The trek path first ascents and then descents. It passes through beautiful shaped cliffs and mountains slopes. The place offers you magnificent views of Khurpatal, nearby villages, and forests. You can also see plantation and fields over terraced fields giving the place its own charm.

Khurpatal View from Lands end - Day treks in nainital trip
Source – nainitalbuzz.com

Difficulty Level: Easy

Distance – 5 km from Nainital Town and 1 km from Barapathar

Timings for Visit – 5:30am – 6:00pm

Time to complete trek – 1-2 hrs 

  1. Trek to Guano Hills

The Guano hills are situated in the Pangot village of scenic Nainital at an altitude of 1985 km. The place is away from the hustle bustle of city and offers a calm, relaxing and serene environment. The Guano hills can be reached by trekking, cab or auto rickshaw. The craggy and rocky hiking trail passes through dense forests of oak, bamboo, and deodar. The place offers you lush green spectacular views and can spot rare birds like gray woodpeckers.

Guano hills - Day treks in Nainital trip
Source -groupouting.com

Difficulty Level: Easy

Distance – Pangot Village lies at a distance of 17-18 km from Nainital

Timings for Visit – 8:00 am – 6:00pm

Time to complete trek –2 – 3 hrs

Must Carry – Water and camera

  1. Trek to Tiffins Top (Dorothy’s Seat)

Tiffin Top also known as Dorothy’s seat is a stone bench built in the memory of English artist Dorothy Kellet on the hill top. The passage to the Tiffins top is a bit tricky and make sure to climb up and down with some local guy instead of getting lost in the jungle. The roads are cobbled so the trek is a bit tough than the others mentioned. The other option to reach can be through horses. The hilltop gives you the breathtaking spectacular views of Nainital town and Naini Lake. You will be counting the buildings and spending hours viewing the nature’s beauty. So it is worth adding to the Nainital trip.

Tiffin Top - Day treks in Naiinital trip
Source -holidfy.com

Difficulty Level: Moderate (as compared to others in Nainital)

Distance –4 km from Nainital Town

Timings for Visit – 9:00 am – 5:00pm

Time to complete trek –2 – 3 hrs

Must Carry – Water, camera, sunscreen and good walking shoes

The beauty of Uttarakhand state is unimaginable. The Himalayan ecology is well conserved and these treks offer a great retreat for nature lovers and bird watchers. So, add these treks too, when you plan your next Nainital trip.

Leave a comment to let us know which one you added to your Nainital Trip.

List of Trekking Gears for the Himalayas

In addition to the list of trekking accessories, there are some trekking gears which are essential and must carry while you hike the great Himalayas.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas
Source -makaluadventure.com

So, here is the Trekking Gears List

  1. Head Lamp, Torch & some extra batteries

The place where you usually plan or go for a trek doesn’t have a regular power supply. So for regular walk and use of toilet you need a torch or headlamp. Headlamps are better than torch as they light your way and simultaneously keep your hands free. So, it is a must carry trekking gear in your backpack.

  1. Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are essential for uphill as well as downhill climb. They not only provide you extra support but only protect your knees from bruising. Most people don’t prefer using them but I am a big fan of trekking poles as a trekking gear. If you are not carrying one, no worries- you can rent a trekking or walking stick from the local markets.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas

  1. Travel Towel

Tents and guest house doesn’t provide you towels for bathing or hand wiping. So, carry your own travel towel which can dry quickly, preferably microfiber type.

  1. Backpack

You will be carrying the whole of the stuff on your shoulders while climbing up and down. So, the size and comfort of the backpack are very important as a trekking gear.  I always recommend a backpack bigger than your essentials (not bigger than #45) but not that big which makes you uncomfortable and pushes you down. Always include a backpack rain cover to protect your backpack from getting wet, if it rains.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas

Also, check the list of Backpack for a weekend getaway.

  1. Sleeping Bag

To experience camping, you need a sleeping bag in your tent. Sleeping bags will keep you warm and cozy at high altitudes. If you don’t want to increase your load, you can rent the same but at the same time, we recommend you to take your own sleeping bag liner. It will be more hygienic and will add extra layer to the bag. I like Wildcraft sleeping bag which is comfortable till 5degree Celsius temperature dip.

  1. Hydration Bladder

Hydration bladder works better than the water bottles as they are kept in the backpack and they supply water through hose even when your hands are preoccupied. I personally avoid buying disposable water bottles in the Himalayas to decrease undue pollution. Camelbak hydration packs are really a wonder.

  1. Sunglasses, Sunscreens, and Hats

In mountains, the sun is brighter and rays are highly powerful. So, always wear hats and good sunscreen with high SPF to protect yourself from harmful UV rays and sunburns. The Sun’s reflection off the snow can also cause permanent damage to eyes, so protect your eyes with good sunglasses. There are categories for sunglasses for different altitudes.  Categories 1-2 are good for sea and 3-5 for bright sun at higher altitudes.

Trekking Gears for the Hiamalayas
Source -www.antarcticaxxi.com
  1. Camera

Don’t forget to carry the camera, if you really want to fulfil your photography passion. You will get to see unexplored, undamaged landscape and scenic beauty. This will help you to document your trip into words with photographs. Also, carry extra battery packs and recharge them wherever you get a chance.

  1. Basic necessities

The basic necessities include toilet roll, soap, wet wipes and certain medicines like painkillers, lozenges, crepe bandage, antiemetic (vomit) and band-aids. You might not need these medicines but if required you will not get anywhere. So, always carry them as a precautionary measure.

10.Snacks

Carry and keep handy, some snacks like nuts, granola bars, and chocolate to munch in between the trek. These snacks will help you replenish your lost energy levels immediately.

So, plan your next trek with a list of these trekking gears and accessories and share your pictures for us to experience more.

 

5 essential trekking accessories for The Himalayas

For some a break from their busy and mundane routine means spending the whole time in their bed, for others, it will be going for a trip to the scenic place where they can relax and chill. But there are few for which the break means adventure, the action – like a trek to the Himalayas. For Himalayan trek apart from physical and mental fitness, you need to backpack with proper trekking accessories and gear to make it a success.

trekking accessories for the himalayas
Source – www.nepal-uncovered.com

So, here we have shortlisted 5 essential trekking accessories to expedite the Himalayas.

  1. Trekking Clothes

In mountains, the weather is notorious. Temperature changes drastically during the course of the day, especially at high altitudes. Suddenly it gets windy and chilly even after being sunny. So, it is better to be equipped and clothed than to get sick. We recommend having certain layers while hiking the Himalayas.

The base layer is which you wear next to your skin. Choose a lightweight thermal “wicking” apparel means those apparels which can wick the sweat and moisture away from your body. In layman terms, these wicking apparels won’t let your clothes get wet, even though you may be sweating. This clothing also keeps you warm during the cold and cools during hot. Avoid cotton clothing as they cling to skin when wet and doesn’t dry out easily.

Mid Layer is one which keeps you warm. Choose fleece tops, vests, %CODE2% and keep them handy so they can be worn whenever required while trekking. Look for the vents in fleece jackets as they help to regulate body temperature. Also, add trekking trousers with pockets to your trekking accessories lots. These trousers act as wind cheaters and they dry quickly when wet. Avoid wearing jeans while trekking as they become heavy and give side rashes when wet.

Trekking Clothes - Trekking Accessories

Top Layer keeps you dry when it rain, and snow. The outer layer is just like a shell that protects you from all the harsh elements. Wear Gore-Tex, jackets/ membranes that are water resistant, dry easily, and breathable. You can choose from brands like North face , Roxy snow etc. Also, make sure that top layer fits well over base and mid layer.

  1. Trekking Shoes & Boots

Shoes are the most important part of your hiking essentials. They either make your trip easy or tough. Long hikes can also result in sore feet and blisters if shoes are uncomfortable. Choose shoes which are waterproof, and dry easily. I personally favour Garmont Nagevi shoes. Preferably one can also look for mid-ankle or high ankle boot as they will support ankle too. Do carry a pair of sandals or flip-flops to wear in the evenings or when you need a break from your shoes.

Trekking Shoes & Boots - Trekking accessories

For Blister prevention

  • Make sure your shoes fit properly
  • Wear double layer of socks and inner layer should be one which wicks moisture from the feet
  1. Trekking Socks

Inner Layer – Invest in good liner socks. Liner socks are thin socks made up of wool, silk or synthetic. Say complete no to cotton socks as they retain moisture rather than wicking and doesn’t dry completely.

Outer layer – Wear thick socks (woollen or synthetic) that provide insulation and cushion. For summer hikes, wear thin hiking socks; thicker when your feet need more cushion and super thick mountaineering socks when its snow mountain hiking.

Trekking Accessories

  1. Headband or Cap

Wear headband or cap to protect your face and neck from scorching sun heat. Also, carry a woollen cap to protect yourself from the cold.

  1. Gloves

Carry a pair of gloves which can keep you warm in dipped temperatures and which too act as wind cheaters when it’s windy and chilly.

Read ahead my next post for Trekking Gears.

7 life lessons Himalayan trek taught me

For the first time in my life, I tried doing something which I thought was not achievable by me. Yes! I did a 2-day trek each 6-7 hrs without the porter and with my soul mate to reach the hot water spring of Kheerganga . It was a simple adventure when I started walking through zigzag roads seeing waterfalls and clouds kissing mountains. Just 6 km ahead and it was no more adventure for me- the slopes turned to climbing mountains and crossing landslides. This Himalayan trek changed my vision towards life. It brought the best and worst out of me. It taught me how you need to push yourself when the destination is away and when your inner self- keeps on telling you that the Himalayas are calling you.

7 life lessons which Himalayan Trek taught me

Here are the 7 life lessons Himalayan trek taught me.

  1. Keep moving till you reach your destination

No matter how slow or fast you are from your fellow members; you all have the same destination. Remember it is not a sprint or race. Slow and steady always win. So, just keep moving. If you feel exhausted take rest and enjoy the vistas you have just seen in others pictures.

Keep moving till you reach your destination - Himalayan trek

If the thought of going back comes in your mind, remember all the ups and downs you crossed to reach this point. Going back is as demanding as going up. So, be slow and calm and head patiently towards your destination. There is no looking back in life, similarly, there is no looking back while trekking.

  1. Believe in power of self-motivation and optimism

Optimism is a key to success. There is nothing impossible. The strong determination and desire help you achieve your goals. Himalayan Trek, an adventure chosen by you needs a lot of self-motivation. So, keep tricking your brain that something great, unexplored and untouched is waiting for you at the top. You will definitely get a push to step ahead and explore the unexplored Himalayan sagas.

  1. A single tough day doesn’t mean the end of world

    Single tough day doesn't mean end of the world - Himalayan Trek

While trekking the Himalayas, you cross rough surfaces, boulders, stones, waterfalls, gravel, and grass. You need to concentrate at every point. The moment you think something else, you might slip, fall and get hurt. In those tough times, you need to get up, balance and make your own way to reach the final destination. So, a single bad moment or tough day in your life shouldn’t stop you from attaining your goals.

  1. There is a bigger world outside where you can connect with yourself

7 life lessons Himalayan trek taught me

In our fast-paced urban lives, we hardly have any time for ourselves. We have forgotten that there are outdoor games which are better than games on tablets and laptops. Going for a Himalayan trek gives you fresh air, natural earthy smell, sunlight. No mobile networks give you more time to connect with yourself and your hiking mates.

Also Read: 24 treks for 12 months of the year

  1. Single turn can change your life

 Sometimes while hiking the Himalayas, curiosity in you may push to chose less trodden path instead of properly marked trail even before knowing what you may be venturing too. Choosing unexplored path may land you to slippery road, lying among grazing mountain goats or somewhere near Buddhist monasteries. The lesson is – take risks and turns only when you are prepared for both expected and unexpected situations.

  1. Love and Humanity still exists

    7 life lesson which Himalayan trek taught me

While Himalayan trek you will find people who hold your hand and make you cross bridges, steps, and landslides; without knowing your name and caste. When the most experienced and prepared trekkers get lost during harsh weather conditions, it’s the kindness and gratitude of locals which offer them the roof and the warm meal to comfort.

  1. Success doesn’t come overnight

Snowy peaks, clear skies can’t be seen by walking just a few miles. You need to walk for a day/ days to get those fascinating views. Similarly, in life, you need to get your hands dirty every day. You may have to climb multiple stairs each moment to reach mountain top and accomplish your goals.

7 life lessons which Himalayan trek taught me

Himalayan trek was a life changing the experience for me. You realize how beautiful life is. Problems are artificial and they are just for a matter of time. How humanity and kindness makes someone smile. Most importantly accomplishing steep slopes and mountains is like rewarding yourself and learning lessons.