Owing to the geographical distribution of hills and terrains, Nepal is considered as one of the best countries for hikers looking for long walks and adventure in the wilderness. Its is the most sought form of tourism activity in Nepal for travellers who enter for a short vacation.
Besides determination and sheer strength, there are many essential tips and tricks that hikers and trekkers must keep in mind before going out. The article below summarises hiking tips while travelling through Nepal and its benefits.
What is Hiking?
Commonly used in Canada and the United States, hiking is a term which means vigorous, long walks in the countryside. The word is also often used in the United Kingdom along with hillwalking, rambling, and fell walking.
Hiking Nature's Path Explored
It's a common experience of walks throughs hills and valley shared by people different from different nations in different tongues. In Australia, the word for hiking is bushwalking, adopted in 1927 by the Sydney Bush Walkers club. Similarly, in New Zealand, the word for a hike is trampling.
In countries like Nepal, India, Pakistan, and East Africa, people use the term trekking to describe multi-day hiking in the hilly mountainous regions. However, a walk that can be completed in a day is referred to as a day hike. A long-distance trail walking, from one end to another, is referred to as thru-hiking.
It sometimes involves bushwhacking, which means a hiker must push forward through the vegetation, dense forest, and bushes that are along the way. In extreme cases, travellers must carry a machete or long knife to make a pathway.
Tips and Tricks for Hiking in Nepal
Below are enlisted ten tips to keep in mind while hiking through difficult places while in Nepal:
10. Easy Boots
A journey of a thousand miles is determined by comfortable shoes
The first step is to have comfortable and right shoes for hiking. Never try new shoes for hiking and make sure you completed a few long strides before taking them for a walk.
Choose flexible, light shoes over heavy, stiff hiking boots. Reduce the weight of the shoe by going for a cross-trainer that provides ankle support or a trail-running shoe.
9. Remain Hydrated
Being Hydrated is a must while Hiking
Drinking water is an essential step to hiking. Hydration is an ongoing metabolism, and the body continuously craves for water as it gets weary from long walks and exercises.
There is no exact amount of how much water you should be carrying, and people don't bottle much because of their bigger backpacks. For such situations take a water purification tablet or a water purifier which allows you to drink water from streams and rivers along the trail.
8. Have the Right Gears
Essentials Gear while Hiking
Before a hike always remember to have all the essentials required for the walk. Have an organised backpack that allows you quick access to all the necessities along the road.
This includes carrying a first-aid kit, map, compass, headlamps, and extra batteries. Also, have a whistle or a signal mirror in case of mishaps in the wilderness. Carry insect repellents and sunscreens as well.
7. Hiking Socks
An extra pair of socks is a must while hiking
Previously there weren't many options for hikers and were usually out wearing regular tube socks. However, now there's a sock for every occasion, so pack yourself a pair or two of fresh hiking socks.
In case of regular socks, wear nylon sock liners which protect your from feet from irritation. Please stay away from cotton socks and pants as it retains moisture.
6. Cloth Layering
Every season is the best time for hiking in Nepal, but the weather is notoriously changeable. Temperatures can drop and rise depending on the month you are visiting so pack accordingly.
Carry warm clothes but wear them in layers so you can regulate your body temperature according to the weather. Cloth layering or Onion Layering gives control over the heat of your body while walking.
5. Eat Well
Hiking in Nepal usually involves walking long weary trails for 5km-10km a day for which energy is essential. Having energy for a long day walk is very important, so carry enough edibles in your backpack, usually Snickers or energy bars.
Start the day with a large breakfast of fruits and porridge, and keep away from fried and junk food. Other essential foods while making long trips are nuts, trail mix, and dried fruits.
4. Avoid Leaving Traces
While on the trail, a vital tip to remember is to leave no trail behind. It includes leaving no litter, carving on trees or damaging natural structures along the journey.
Remain on the centre of the trail and walk through the mud if required. Keep off the woods during the muddy spring season as it can cause erosion or minor landslides.
3. Have your Hiking Poles
Hiking poles are essential for hikers
Don't be a macho while travelling through the hiking trails of Nepal as the path can be very unpredictable along the way.
Always carry a pair of hiking poles that'll assist you in walking and also carry your weight. Using poles or trekking sticks also helps reduce the pain in the knees and joints, caused by the walk.
2. Always Check the Weather
Hiking: Weather's Changing Charms
Weather in Nepal is varied and may constantly change throughout day and night. Before travelling to any place always take a quick check at the day's climatic condition.
This helps you to pack accordingly and gives you options for carrying your clothes, which sometimes involves bringing a raincoat along, in case of drizzle along the path.
1. Inform Family and Friends
Last but not least, never forget to inform your close ones of the short trip you'll be talking. Provide them with specifics of the hike and the time you'll be gone for.
Always prepare yourself for the worst, so letting your family and friends know about the hiking will give them an idea about where to look for you in case of an accident or trouble.
For further information and bookings, visit hopnepal.com.