Because the Himalayan landscape is irresistible, reaching the heights and being a part of the landscape is an experience beyond
comparison. We have designed trips with you in mind- whether youClick here to Read More
are a novice with no trekking experience, but have a desire to trek or whether you are an experience mountain walker looking for wider options. Our treks range from easy adventures for the family to strenuous ones for the fit. We have very skilled and experienced staffs who will take care of you at each step.
A TYPICAL TREK DAY :
Wake up call is between 6am – 6.30am with bed tea after which a bowl each of hot water is given to wash. We give you an hour’s time till breakfast – consisting of porridge/cereals, bread,Click here to Read More
pancake, tea/coffee, eggs, jam/marmalade/honey and peanut butter – to finish packing your duffle bags and clearing the tent. The crew in the meantime dismantle the tents and begin loading the ponies/porters.
Leaving camp after breakfast, you carry your packed lunches. Hot lunch is served wherever possible (depending on the trekking region and distances). On arrival in camp, washing water is given to freshen up after which tea/coffee, and snacks are served. Dinner usually begins with soup at 7pm or earlier and is a full course menu of either continental, Chinese, local cuisine ending with dessert and tea/coffee/hot chocolate.
Our meals are wholesome and nutritious, but you could carry a bit of candy bars / bites to munch on the trail whenever needed. You need to carry in your rucksack/day pack, just your camera, reading/writing material – in case the ponies are a bit slow in getting into camp, a light jacket and your water bottles.
If you feel your daypack is a bit too heavy then must inform our guide who will arrange alternate to you on the spot. Water is thoroughly boiled and served in camp. It would be best to have 2 bottles as it can get very hot during the day and you need to drink. Water is boiled and given at all meal times and it would be best to fill your bottles at dinner so that the water is cold in the morning before you set out.
INSURANCE
It is imperative that you have travel insurance when on a holiday. You would need to buy this in your country. Insurance, especially if trekking and climbing, needs to beClick here to Read More
able to cover all emergencies including hospitalization, hotel bills, flights (If you have to return early), helicopter rescue.
Tashi Takgye Tours & Treks carry no type of liability insurance, personal medical insurance, emergency rescue or evacuation, or any type of insurance whatsoever for participants. However, we do have insurance coverage for all our trek crew and porters wherever applicable.
We strongly encourage each of you to purchase a travel insurance policy for the trip and to check with your homeowners and medical insurance policies to see that you are covered by them while abroad.
SAFETY
While on a trek in remote area if any clients suffers from altitude sickness or any other serious injury, the guide sends a runner to the nearest telephone / road head to ask for help.Click here to Read More
Emergency evacuation becomes necessary in the following cases :
High Altitude Sickness – If the client suffers from High Altitude Sickness, he/she needs to descend immediately.
Injury – In case the client is badly injured – broken bones/fractures or sickness like thrombolysis ( blood clotting), paralysis, loss of eyesight – in these cases as well he/she needs to be evacuated / descend immediately.
It is the leader’s decision if anyone is not well is sent back immediately with support staff. We cannot have satellite phones on our trips in India as these are legally not permissible by the Government of India. However we would expect the leader to have one to deal with emergencies. Some point local mobile might get network if weather is good.
CLOTHING :
Basics
This should be comfortable to protect you from cold (and possibly wet) weather. Synthetic clothing like polypropylene, capilene, pile are light in weight, wick away perspiration, dry quickly if wetClick here to Read More
and provide the best insulations against cold. Wool /synthetic blends are also suitable. Use of cotton in cold, wet mountain conditions is not recommended.
When layering in cold weather conditions, the innermost layer should be long thermals, the middle – layer can be synthetic wool, fleece, outer layer can be down/ synthetic jacket and in extreme conditions, good quality Gore-Tex wind / rain parkas over this.
Even though villagers in well trekked routes are used to seeing individual foreign trekkers in skimpy wear we would request our clients to be dress modestly. Women and men can both wear long, baggy hiking shorts, long trousers. Women should avoid “sports bra” tops.
Quantities for clothing are not included so you have to use your own judgement based on duration of trek, expected weather conditions and overall weight restrictions.
Sleeping bag
Medium weight, down or fiberfill rated from -5°C for Ladakh (July/August) and rated -15 °C for September groups in Ladakh, Sikkim, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet groups.
Sleeping bag liners – Lightweight fleece liners are great as to use in lower altitude treks and warm weather. Serves as an added layer for light weight sleeping bags.
Inner wear
Regular underwear. Synthetics are easier to wash and dry.
Thermal long underwear’s. Lightweight and medium weight tops and bottoms.
Trousers
Baggy hiking shorts.
Long baggy trekking trousers / sweat pants.
Lightweight / medium fleece pants to wear at higher camps.
Sweater / Jacket
Heavy Down for autumn groups going to Sikkim, Nepal , Bhutan and Tibet.
Medium weight fleece jacket, sweat shirt.
Medium weight / heavy weight down / synthetic filled jacket.
Shirts
Short sleeved T shirts ( synthetic is best).
Long sleeved synthetic T shirts (especially Sikkim, Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet, autumn trips where you have to walk through forests and shaded areas).
Hand wear
Polypro liner gloves.
Wool / fleece mittens ( for autumn in Ladakh, Sikkim and high altitude treks).
Foul Weather Gear
Gore-Tex rain / wind parka.
Gore – Tex rain / wind pants with full length side zipper to fit over pants.
Head Wear
Sun hat with wide brim (especially for Ladakh) and neck protection..
Wool hat ( autumn in Ladakh and Sikkim).
Bandanna – Multi purpose to cover nose, mouth (dust), around neck for protection against sun, handkerchief, hand towel.
Socks
We recommend 3 / 4 pairs of inner and outer socks.
Athletic running socks.
Synthetic inner socks.
Mid weight hiking socks.
Footwear
Sturdy, properly fitting footwear. If you are buying new boots, please break them in by wearing as much as possible before the trip.
Medium weight trekking boots (preferably water proof leather) with padded high ankle, good arch support. These should be good quality for prolonged walking on rocks, screes, boulders, snow.
Tennis shoes (serves as good spares) to be worn around camp – optional.
1 pair Tevas (for rafting and very useful for river crossings wear around camp on trek). Must for Ladakh groups. Can be used on monastery sightseeing day – easy to put on and off.
Sunglasses – dark especially for Ladakh where sunlight is very strong.
Chums / bands to hold glasses.
Body Care
Toiletries: biodegradable soap, toothbrush, paste. Women should bring any feminine products or buy them at the last city before trek.
Small towel / gym washcloth is light, folds small so more practical.
Body lotion.
Sunscreen – Min 25 SPF.
Lip Protection.
Duffle for Trek Gear
Sturdy and water proof duffle bag – large enough to hold sleeping bag plus trekking clothes and gear.
The bag can get dusty and can get tears as sometimes trails are narrow and pack animals, porters can scrape against cliffs hence the duffle should be sturdy.
Day Pack
Should have a capacity of 1500 to 2000 cubic inches to carry camera, water bottle, light jacket and packed lunch. Can double up as carry bag on flight.
Spare roll up duffel, you should consider bringing a small, roll up nylon duffle (lockable) to store city clothes while on trip.
MEDICAL :
Check list
Aspirin.
Antacids.
Band – Aids.Click here to Read More
Throat lozenges.
Moleskins.
Small hand towel.
Antiseptic cream.
Antihistamines.
Broad – spectrum antibiotic ( We normally use Ciprofloxacin, Azythromycin and these are readily available over the counter in India).
Painkillers.
Cetrizine (anti allergy).
Paracetamol.
Diamox ( if going above 3,000 metres).
Tiniba ( easily available in India).
Personal medication, if any.
Common Ailments
Diarrhoea, Constipation, cough, cold, stomach infections.
Medicines are easily available over the counter at all chemist shops in India.
Please check with your physician for the appropriate dosage.
OTHERS :
Other Essentials
Hiking sticks — very helpful for the steep descents and ascents.
Swimsuit for pool at hotel ( if there is one).Click here to Read More
Set of casual city clothes which can be stored while on trek.
Water bottle – 1.5 litre capacities x 2 (especially for Ladakh). Make sure these are leak proof, heavy duty plastic (Nalgene).
Personal medical kit.
Money belt or neck pouch to store cash / passport.
Spare reading glasses, prescription glasses. ( Contact lens not recommended for dusty trekking conditions ).
Headlamp / Flashlight with spare batteries.
Disposable towlettes / baby wipes / hand sanitizers.
Lighter ( to burn toilet paper / paper napkins).
Plastic bag / Zip lock bags of various sizes.
Heavy weight garbage bags to use as waterproof liner inside duffle.
Small padlocks.
Camera kit with needle, thread, safety pains.
Reading, writing material.
Swiss army pocket knife.
Powdered mixes such as Gatorade to flavour water.
Trail snacks.
FITNESS
On a trekking trip you will generally be hiking anywhere between four to eight hours a day, up and down mountain trails that are steep and rocky, and mostly at elevations above 10,000 feet.Click here to Read More
Exercise at high altitude compounds physiologic stress. In addition, high altitude may create discomfort and symptoms of illness that you do not experience while exercising at lower elevations, such as shortness of breath, restlessness or sleeplessness at night, and headaches. You need to be in excellent health and top physical conditions to enjoy such an experience, with adequate cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and excellent balance.
This level of fitness requires regular aerobic exercise for at least one hour 4-5 times a week. This may include aerobic fitness classes, power walking, jogging, and cycling on hills, swimming, and cross – country skiing. Additionally, you must be able to sustain exercise for prolonged periods. Finally, you must have some experience with exercise at altitude.
We recommend that you start a moderate training program several months before departure, then slowly build up to a more strenuous level. Since training is highly sport-specific, include some hiking or running in your program. Consult your physician if you have questions concerning required levels of fitness and health conditions at altitude. If you have concerns about your capacity to undertake a particular trip, we can suggest appropriate alternatives.
Here’s a recommended program that should help to get you in good shape. This is only a guideline and can be adapted to your preferences. Consult a physician before commencing any new workout program.
Begin by working out a minimum of three days per week. Strike a good balance between aerobic workout and muscle strengthening.
Outdoors, you can run, hike, or mountain bike on hilly terrain to best achieve the aerobic fitness component. Indoors at a gym, you can use the Stairmaster and treadmill wearing a backpack with some weight in it to substitute for the outdoor activities.
Work on muscle strengthening either by lifting weights or by doing push ups, sit-ups, and squats. Include a long hike on the weekend ( there’s no better way to train for a hiking trip than to hike).
After a few weeks increase your workouts to a minim of four days per week.
Remember, a India trek can be the trip of a lifetime and you really want to enjoy it, so please take your training program seriously – it will be worth.
Higher Altitudes :
If you have hiked at 10,000 feet before, you will probably find that hiking at altitudes higher than this simply an extension of your previous experience – you will walk more slowly, rest more frequently, have some restlessness at night, and be subject to headaches. If your previous reaction to altitude has been nausea or other unpleasant symptoms, trekking in the Ladakh and Zanskar Himalaya may not be for you.
We design each of our treks to maximize altitude conditioning in the early part of the trek. However, be forewarned that there are no guarantees that your body will acclimatize properly. Any trip member who, in the opinion of the trip leader or trip doctor (if there is one), shows signs of potential acute mountain sickness (such as HAPE – High altitude pulmonary edema) will have to no choice but descend and remain at comfortable altitudes. The decision of the trip leader or trip doctor is final.
Trekking at High Altitude :
Trekking at High altitude is very different from that at lower altitudes. If the trek is not well paced, or if the acclimatization is not complete, the trekker falls prey to high altitude sickness. High altitude sickness is not something related to one’s physical fitness. The main cause of altitude sickness is inability of persons to adapt to the reduction in the level of oxygen at high altitude.
Mild symptoms of high altitude sickness like lightheaded / headaches and breathlessness is common even among the locals of the area after a long stay in the plains. However, when accompanied with nausea, dizziness, severe cough, swelling of face / hands (due to water retention), and disorientation, medical treatment is sought.
Anyone with severe symptoms would be transferred to the hospital and kept under observation. The only cure for such cases is sending the patient on the next flight to the plains.
It is advisable for clients at high altitude to take it easy and rest for the first few days, which would help you in acclimatization. There is no medicine to cure High Altitude Sickness. Diamox has been used to help in acclimatization but it is advisable to consult your physician regarding it as side effects are there especially for those allergic to sulpha drugs. The best is to take plenty of water and fluids. Taking of alcohol is not advised at high altitude.
As long as one takes it easy and does not get too adventurous like trying to the reach the highest point on arrival , mild symptom as mentioned earlier are common and not a cause for worry Acclimatization is the best process.
POLICIES
RISK AND HAZARDS :
On booking a trek with us you must be able to understand the risks and hazards which are involved in adventure trips. You must be physically and mentally prepared Click here to Read More
for the same.Any existing medical problems should be mentioned at the time of enquiry so that we can give the necessary guidance for a suitable trip.
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES :
In the event of illness, accident, emergency medical evacuation either by foot, vehicle, helicopter or otherwise, the responsibility of for the payment of such costs lies with the client and should be paid directly.
UNFORSEEN EVENTS :
We will not be liable for consequences of weather conditions, flight cancellations, strikes, wars, riots or any untoward incidents. Any extra costs, such as hotel accommodation flights, that result will be your responsibility and must be paid for directly at that time.
CANCELLATION :
Should you wish to cancel, the following scale of charges will apply :
Cancellation 30 days to 2 months – 40 percent of trip cost.
Cancellation 15-30 days before departure – 60 percent of trip cost.
Cancellation 15 days before departure – 100 percent of trip cost.
For all the above any domestic airfares will be refundable depending on the type of ticket purchased as some are non-refundable tickets. Refundable tickets with a cancellation fee will be charged accordingly. For flights to Bhutan a “NO REFUND” policy applies.
CHANGE IN ITINERARY :
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the planned itinerary, it must be realized that last minute or on the spot changes could occur with any kind of adventure travel. The unexpected may happen and adventure holidays unlike regular holidays, cannot be taken for granted. Factors like weather, transport difficulty, political instability, changes in rules and policies may cause us to change the itinerary and the same will be informed to the clients should changes have to be made before trip departure. If changes occur once trip begins, the itinerary will be decided by the guide and will be in the best and safest interest of the clients.
Once a trip begins and should any one return early due to illness or any personal reason, no refund will be given for unutilized services and hotels. Any additional costs incurred due to deviation from the itinerary by the clients will be paid directly by them.
BOOKING :
On confirmation of travelling with us, you will need to complete the booking / registration form and send bank transfer for the amount USD- 150 or Euro 100 /- as non-refundable trip deposit. Bank details will be sent when trip is finalized. On receipt of the trip deposit, the detailed itinerary along with briefing notes and equipment checklist will be sent 50 % of trip cost and domestic airfares will need to be sent by bank transfer 45 day before tirp departure.
Balance of payment to be sent by bank transfer 3 weeks before arrival.
Please note that on payments made by bank transfer, bank charges will have to be borne by the clients.
RESTRICTED AREAS
Trekking in West Sikkim
Trekking permits are issued in Delhi (Sikkim Tourism) or Gangtok and takes 1 to 2 working days. (For people who have time, they can apply for trekking permit after arrival in Sikkim). However, for group travel, it is best to apply in advance as mentioned below.
Minimum no. of Pax – 2 persons.Click here to Read More
Maximum number of days: 16 which can be extended up to a month.
Restricted area permit application form to be filled, 2 passport photo, passport page, copy of India visa page OR E-Tourist Visa confirmation.
Information required: Name, D.O.B. Passport details, Visa details, address, and occupation.
Application to be submitted to Sikkim Tourism – processing time is 2-3 working days.
WEST SIKKIM RIDGE TREK VIA UTTAREY
Minimum no. of Pax –2 persons.
An Inner line permit as well as trek permit is required, 6 passport photos and 6 copies of passport and India visa / E-Tourist visa required for the Ridge trek beginning in Uttarey.
Personal information – Father Name, Address, occupation.
Sightseeing of Gangtok / Rumtek: Permission can be obtained at the Indian Embassy in the country of origin. Mentioned needs to be made that you wish to visit Gangtok, Rumtek, Pemayangtse and your India visa will have a stamp permitting this visit for 10 days.
Permit can also be obtained at point of entry into Sikkim at Rangpo, Melli or even at Bagdogra airport, Siliguri and Darjeeling. This is given immediately. 01 person can also apply.
NORTH SIKKIM :
Foreigners can visit Lachung, Lachen, Yumthang, and Chopta Valley but cannot visit Gurudongmar Lake.
Minimum no. of Pax – 2 persons.
Permit obtained for maximum 01 week from Gangtok.
Permit application along with 02 passport photos, copy of passport page and India visa page required.
HIMACHAL PRADESH
Spiti via Kinnaur
Minimum no. of Pax — 2 persons.
Days — Any number of days.Click here to Read More
Restricted area application form to be filled, 02 passport photos, copy of passport, India visa – regular OR E-Tourist Visa and 02 passport photos to be hand carried.
Permit can also be obtained at Rekong Peo but can be done in Shimla. Passport needs to be shown at the time of obtaining permit.
Spiti only No restrictions if going and returning via Manali.
For Kinnaur :Sarahan and Sangla valley requires no permit. Permit point from Rekong Peo only and again at Sumdo near Tabo.
Other parts of Himachal: No permits required.
DARJEELING / KALIMPONG :
No restricted area permit required.
ARUNACHAL PRADESH
Minimum 2 persons required for permit.
Application form needs to be sent 45 days in advance along withClick here to Read More
2 passport photos, copy of passport and India visa page.
Permit applied through the Resident Commissioner of Arunachal Pradesh in Delhi / Kolkatta / Itanagar.
Application forms for all permits would be sent by us and assistance given for the processing of the permit.
LADAKH
NUBRA VALLEY :
Foreigners need to obtain an Inner Line Permit to visit Nubra Valley. Almost all routes are open for trekking in Ladakh and Zanskar and no permits required except for the places mentioned below:-Click here to Read More
TSOMORIRI / DHA HANU / PANGON LAKE
For these areas, permits are obtained from Deputy Commissioner’s office in Leh. 01 Working day.
Online application will be processed, Photocopy of passport and India visa page required along with a passport photo.
Minimum — 2 persons,
Maximum period of stay at each place — 7 days.
Note: Foreign nationals who have origins in / are citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan need to apply in advance through the Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India to visit the restricted areas of Ladakh. This is also applicable to foreign diplomats and members of the United Nations and International Organisations holding diplomatic / official passport who need to apply in advance through the Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. of India.
UTTARKAHND (GARHWAL & KUMAON)
NANDA-DEVI, MILAM GLACIER
After crossing Bugdiar from Munsyiari to Milam Glacier – Restricted area.
Minimum 3 copies of passport and visa, 3 passport photos,Click here to Read More
Father name and contact number required. Presence of all persons needed at the District Magistrate’s office (SDM).
Garhwal region: Most sections remain open to Trekkers and no permits are required barring a few areas.
Crossing Kalindi pass from Gangotri to Badrinath or vice versa – Restricted area.
Minimum of 4 persons is required and presence of all persons needed at the District Magistrate’s office in Uttarkashi for permit. Medical certificate from your General Physician / Doctor is required.
Lamkhaga pass – Crossing into Himachal Pradesh from Jaundhar glacier into Baspa valley.
Minimum 4 person required and permit needs to be applied in advance. Presence required for permit issuance along with Photos, copies of passport page and India visa.