Island camping trek on the backwaters of Hirakud Dam 

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Odisha has always been famous for its food, culture, and spectacular scenery. However, trekking in the region has always remained an elusive opportunity for all. And that is about to change. 

Debrigarh, more than a wildlife sanctuary, is a natural wonder. Never before have we seen such diverse ecosystems in a single place. The Mahanadi River, also known as the holy Ganga, serves as the lifeline of this region. 

The Hirakud reservoir has given rise to numerous islands here. Each island has a delicate ecosystem of its own. But here’s where the magic unfolds: During winter and summer, as the water level recedes, newer islands come to life, setting up a perfect home for migratory birds coming in winter. The islands here are ever-changing. 

Zoom out on Google Maps, and you will see names of islands inspired by bats, peacocks, cattle, and even sunsets! 

Our team of explorers returned absolutely enchanted by this trek. We can understand the reason why: On the first day of the trek, you hop on the back of a gypsy and start your trek from Zero Point. This jungle safari offers you many facets of experience. It takes you from visuals of the longest earthen dam in the world to the stillness of a dry deciduous forest.

On the second day, you get ready to hop on a boat from the Bat Island. At this juncture, you could be wondering why the place is called an island if it is connected to the mainland? We were surprised by this too! During the monsoon, the path that you came trodding on will disappear due to rising water levels. Doesn’t this fact make you wonder about the countless mysteries that lie submerged in the vast backwaters of the dam? 

After you take a long boat ride with nothing but water and small islands in sight, you arrive at your camp for the night. The cattle island. An island with very interesting inhabitants and history. We’ll circle back to this. 

Come evening, when the sun dips below the horizon, casting its final glow across the water, the vastness of the Hirakud reservoir will become strikingly apparent. 

Visiting Debrigarh is not unique. But trekking on its trails definitely is! As you make your way through bamboo thickets and dense canopy, you are constantly reminded of the diverse flora and fauna of this region. Be on the lookout to spot the paw prints of endangered species of wolves and tigers. Walking beside the backwaters is a joy for birdwatchers and photographers. The sheer variety of fauna you will spot on this trek will leave you trembling in awe. 

An island hopping trek like this is very rare. Combine this with a safari and trek around the island, and it becomes a must do trek for anyone who wants to get introduced to nature. 

This fee includes everything from base camp to base camp.

Please note: The insurance has to be claimed within 7 days from the specific incident for it to be deemed valid.

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.

Use this section to learn about the Odisha Debrigarh Sanctuary Trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo id and medical certificate for entry at forest check posts on the trek. The medical certificate along with the disclaimer form will be part of the Safety Check-in done by the trek leader when you arrive at the base camp. 

➤Stay facility: Your two night stay in the wildlife sanctuary will be in a camping tent, where the men and women will have separate 3 person sharing tent. 

➤ Dustbin Free Campus: Do not bring any packaged food, tags from your new clothes or any waste with you. We follow a Dustbin Free Zone and No Wet Wipes Policy at our base camps in line with our spirit of Green Trails.

➤Cloakroom facility for excess luggage: We have a Cloak Room facility at the base camp for excess luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave behind one piece of luggage at no charge. Anything beyond one piece of luggage is chargeable at Rs 500 per luggage. (The luggage could be a backpack/suitcase/duffel bag or anything similar.). Do not leave behind any valuables in the cloakroom.

Nitesh Kumar is the Chief Explorer and one of the Senior-most Trek Leaders at Indiahikes. He has led & explored the most famous treks across our country, like Bodpathri Meadows, Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek, and Brammah Valley. He is also the mastermind behind the design of the Debrigarh Sanctuary Trek itinerary. Read what he has to say about the trek here.

What I like about the Odisha Debrigarh Sanctuary Trek

At Indiahikes, while rating a trek difficulty we consider several factors. These include altitude gained every day, length of a trek every day, highest altitude, nature of the terrain, weather etc. Based on this we rate a trek as easy or difficult or somewhere in between.

Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader.   

Crocin (Paracetamol) – 6 tablets (fever)

Norflox TZ – 3 tablets (diarrhoea/ severe GI issue)

Knee Cap (Optional), if you are prone to a knee injury

Our trek leaders carry a medical kit with them. If there is an emergency our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines listed here.

Pro Tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit. 

These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.

Original and 2 (two) photocopies of government identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification. 

Disclaimer certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part is a personal medical record.  The second part is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate

Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate

Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.

Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet.

If you’re trekking in the Debrigarh Sanctuary in March, the temperature during the day will be around 28 to 34 degrees and, at night the temperature will drop to 15 to 18 degrees. You will need to carry a minimum of one warm layer. 

Ensure you carry a pair of sandals, a poncho and full sleeve t-shirts and pants to have a comfortable trek.

Trekking shoes: Carry trekking shoes and not sports shoes. The trail will be slippery in several places and will require shoes with good grip and ankle support. You can watch this video to learn to choose the right trekking shoes. 

Backpack (40-45 litres): A backpack with sturdy straps and a supporting frame. Rain cover for the backpack is essential.

On a trek, carry fewer clothes than you would normally need. Do not pack for ‘what if situations’. That will only add to the weight of your backpack and not be used on the trek. Once your clothes get warmed up on a trek, you will not feel like changing. Just maintain personal hygiene.

One layer of warm clothes: Carry one warm jacket or fleece for protection in the night. If your jacket is windproof then all the more better. 

Two trek pants: Carry light quick dry trek pants. One trek pant while trekking and an another pant inside the backpack. Denim/jeans and shorts are not suitable for trekking.

Three t-shirts: You will wear one t-shirt while trekking and the rest two t-shirt inside your backpack. Carry light, full-sleeved t-shirts that prevent sunburns on the neck and arms. Let one of these be a dry-fit t-shirt. It will dry quickly in case you are trekking on a rainy day. 

Sandals: Carry sandals on this trek required on day four during the shore walk. Trekking shoes are required for the forest but have a handy pair of sandals to slip into.

Sunglasses: Sunglasses are mandatory. This is to protect you from the harsh winter sun.

Sun Cap: In the jungles, even though there is heavy tree cover, the harsh sun can dehydrate you very quickly. A sun cap comes in handy to prevent the moisture to escape when you are sweating. 

Socks (4 pairs):  Your normal cotton/ sport socks are good, but make sure they are all high ankle socks

Headlamp/LED torch: Mandatory + extra Batteries.

Trekking pole: Watch this video to understand why you need a trekking pole. 

Ponchos: In a jungle, unexpected rain is possible at any time, and hence it’s mandatory to carry a poncho so that you don’t get wet.

Toiletries: Sunscreen, light towel, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer. Do not carry wet wipes since these are not biodegradable. We do not like biodegradable wet wipes because they take a long time to decompose in the mountains. Use toilet paper instead.

Sanitary waste: Make sure you bring your used sanitary napkins back to the city with you. Carry a zip lock bag to put used napkins. Bring this ziplock bag back with you to the city and do not dispose of sanitary napkins in the mountains.

Cutlery: Carry a spoon, coffee mug and a lunch box. We insist on trekkers getting their cutlery for hygiene reasons. We do not allow biodegradable or disposable cutlery on our treks.

Plastic covers: While packing, use plastic bags to compartmentalize things and carry a few extra plastic bags for wet clothes.

We recommend jogging as the best routine to get fit for a trek. It works on the same muscles that you use while trekking — your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It helps increase your stamina day by day. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools. 

The Odisha Debrigarh Sanctuary trek comes under easy-moderate category and is a 3-day trek, the fitness requirement is different than our traditional Himalayan treks. 

While we suggest running as the best exercise to get fit for the trek, being able to brisk walk 5 km under 45-50 minutes should be sufficient to do the trek comfortably. Share your fitness screenshot in the WhatsApp group with your experience coordinator once you register for the trek. 

How to achieve this fitness? 

Start with walking at least 4 days a week 

If you cannot brisk walk/jog 5 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.

Once you’re able to reach 5 km, increase your pace day by day. 

Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 5 km in less than 45 mins.

Frequently Asked Questions About Odisha Debrigarh Sanctuary Trek

Trekkers share their experience with Indiahikes

As industry leaders, we have innovated and set safety standards in the trekking industry. Our people, our processes, and our equipment are what make Indiahikes the safest trekking organisation in India.

Complete the steps below to register for your Odisha Debrigarh Sanctuary Trek

We go to great lengths to keep you safe on your trek. However, trekking with the safest organisation in India comes with certain commitments from your end. 

Eligibility Criteria for Odisha Debrigarh Sanctuary Trek

Island Camping Trek in the backwaters of the longest earthen dam in the world. Trek details, itinerary, cost, maps, available dates, Odisha Tourism, boat rides, Jungle Safari. 

Odisha Debrigarh Sanctuary Trek, ODS, Orisha sanctuary trek, orrisha trek, sanctuary trek, wildlife sanctuary trek, 

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It is hard for the settings of the Chhattisgarh Jungle trek not to set your imagination ablaze. The landscape is such that you are constantly transported to the mysterious world of Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book. 

Lying in the heart of the Guru Ghasidas National Park, this is our most unique trek. It is so unique and exotic that we cannot compare it with our other treks.

For example, on the very first day, we walk through the open deciduous forests of the Chota Nagpur plateau. The forests are dense, yet you can see through them for long distances. In the open forest, the world appears both intimate and expansive. These are the forests where the last of the Indian cheetahs would sprint through with explosive bursts of speed. Trekkers have yet to witness such forests.

Rock formations within the forests are strange, almost like volcanic bubbles erupting from the surface, yet frozen for millions of years. Hidden within Chhattisgarh jungles are ancient, pre-historic caves. Cave paintings here are easily ten to fifteen thousand years old. The outside world does not know of their existence. The cave paintings tell stories of men, women, animals, and communities. These ancient cave paintings evoke a profound sense of awe, like peering through a window into the distant past.

The trek continues to surprise us every day. The final day has trekkers smitten. The entire day's trek is a walk on the Gopat River as it meanders through the forests and finally emerges out of them. The crystal clear cool waters swirl around our ankles. Trekkers have never experienced walking on a river bed like this for a full day's trek of over 5 kilometres. These are once-in-a-lifetime moments. 

Not many have heard of Guru Ghasidas National Park. It is larger than both Ranthambore National Park and Kanha Tiger Reserve put together, at 1,440 square kilometres. 

Chhattisgarh jungle trek is even more remarkable because you need the Forest Department to help you get inside the national park. These are reserved areas, and access for the common man is prohibited. So, with the help of the forest department, we explore a natural jungle untouched by safari tourism. It is not often that you get to experience the jungles of our country like this.

A word of caution: While the trek is by no means difficult, it is not easy on the legs either. There are long daily walks—about 10 kilometres on largely forested terrain. Fitness is critical.

Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek - Complete Information

Use this section to learn about the Chhattisgarh Jungle trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

A route map of the Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek

➤Documents required: It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a photocopy of their Aadhar card and your passport-size photo for entry at forest check posts on the trek, along with your medical certificate and disclaimer.

➤Stay facility: On the trek, you will be staying 2 in a tent

Take the Durg-Ambikapur Express train from Raipur Junction to Baikunthpur Road at 9:30 PM on Day 0 of your trek. This ensures you will reach Baikunthpur Road before 5:00 AM on Day 1, in time for your pick up. Please note there are no other trains that reach Baikunthpur Road. In case you miss this train, you will have to arrange a taxi from Raipur and take a road journey overnight.

While returning, you will reach Baikunthpur Road by evening on Day 4. Take the Durg-Ambikapur Express that leaves at 11:50 PM from Baikunthpur Road to Raipur. Plan your travel out of Raipur any time after 10:00 AM on Day 5 of the trek.

Watch these videos to plan and prepare for your trek

Sandhya is a founding partner at Indiahikes. Over the past ten years, she has explored and put on the map a few of the greatest Himalayan treks in India, including Kashmir Great Lakes and Kedarkantha. She is a TedX Speaker and has been awarded the "Women of Worth" Award by Outlook Business in 2017. She believes in sustainable living just as she believes in sustainable trekking.

Here’s Sandhya talking about the highlights of the trek she herself explored.

What I Like About the Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek

Here, we rate Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek as a ‘moderate’ trek, It demands stronger legs to cover long distance and ideal judgment on footings for tricky descents. At Indiahikes, we take fitness very seriously. We believe that to enjoy a trek, you must be fit. 

For getting fitness approval, it is mandatory for you to follow the following process and share the screenshot of the run time.

1. Install any free running app like Strava or Nike on your phone.

2. Go for a 5 kms jog/run and cover it in less than 37 mins. 

If you are 45 years or above who don't run and prefer brisk walking, then you can cover 10 km in 90 mins. 

Note: If you are a cyclist then you should be able to cycle for 18-20 kms in 1 hour.

3. Jumping jacks, squats and stair climbing along with stretching will help you prepare well..

The best time to be on this trek is from mid-October to the end of January. In fact, that’s the only time you can trek here. In all the other seasons, the Chhattisgarh Jungle trek either gets too hot, or is bashed with heavy rains.

Mid-October to the end of January is the ideal time to do this trek because the rains have cleared all the haze and the temperature becomes cooler. The jungles of Central India are best experienced in these cooler months. The overall atmosphere makes for a very pleasant trek experience. 

Original and 2 (two) photocopies of government identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.  

2 (two) passport-size photographs. This is required to obtain the trekking permits

If you’re trekking in the Chhattisgarh jungles in winter, the temperature during the day will be around 15 to 23 degrees and, at night the temperature will drop to 3 to 5 degrees or less. You will need to carry a minimum of two warm layers. Apart from this, ensure you carry your warm accessories such as fleece gloves, woolen socks and woolen cap.

Two layers of warm clothes: Carry either one padded jacket or two layers of fleece jacket/ sweater.

Sandals: Carry sandals on this trek required on day four during the river walk. Trekking shoes are required for the forest but have a handy pair of sandals to slip into.

Hand gloves: A fleece or woollen glove will do.

woolen cap/ fleece cap: You’ll need this to cover your head, as most of the heat escapes from your head. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek

To do this trek comfortably, you must be able to cover 5 km in under 35 minutes. This is the minimum fitness required for this trek.

If you cannot run 5 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.

Once you’re able to run 5 km, increase your pace day by day. 

Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 5 km in less than 35 mins.

You must be able to run 5 km in 35 mins consistently for at least 2 weeks before the trek. 

This trek requires at least 6-8 weeks of preparation. The longer, the better. So plan your trek soon and start preparing. 

Here's a complete guide to get you trek fit.

How to get Fitness Approval from the Indiahikes team:

Every trekker needs fitness approval from the Indiahikes team 20 days before the trek date. Without this, you will not be allowed on the trek. 

A minimum of 3 screenshots of your runs/jogs/walks/cycling 

Every high-altitude trek comes with a set of challenges. Steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, snow walks, stream crossings, pass crossings, and summit climb. Even the easiest of treks have some of these challenges if not all of them. Without fitness, trekkers struggle, get injured easily, lag behind, or simply fail to complete the trek. 

At Indiahikes, we take pride in the fact that our trekkers are among the fittest in the country. Those who do not meet the fitness requirements are often sent back. Our philosophy is that trekking and fitness go hand in hand. Without fitness, there’s no trekking. 

Trekker's share their experience with Indiahikes

Here are the unedited reviews by trekkers

I am grateful for this mother-son time

This trek has been a completely unique experience

I recommend Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek to one and all

Treks truly transform regardless of age

The trek was quite different as compared to a Himalayan trek but nevertheless, unforgettable!

Got to see some very ancient caves and a wide variety of rocks

Being an alien to the group I was pleased by the kind way I was received by the team

A calm, relaxed and rejuvinating one

There were places exactly as it was in the movie - 'Lion King' and 'The Jungle Book'.

Everyday, in the jungle, was so different and had it's own charm.

I enjoyed everyday of our trek especially stay near the lake and river

This trek proved to be a true gem, offering a perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and cultural immersion

Complete the steps below to register for your Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek

We go to great lengths to keep you safe on your trek. However, trekking with the safest organisation in India comes with certain commitments from your end.

Eligibilty criteria for Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek

Other Treks Like Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek

Complete information on the Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek. Trek details, experiences, maps, photos, videos, when to go, what to take, how difficult is the trek, what should we bring, is it safe?, etc

Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek 2024 - The Jungle Book Trek

Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek Chattisgarh Chattisgad Chhattisgad Chatisghad Chatisghar ghar cha chha chat chati chatti chhattis ju jun jung best jungle trek best jungle safari trek in India CJT

STARTS FROM

At Indiahikes, we have one simple vision: everyone must trek because trekking transforms lives. We have been working towards this vision by exploring treks across the Himalayas and opening them up to trekkers. 

However, over time, we realised that for everyone to trek, we need treks that are easier on the legs: treks that give you all the goodness of the outdoors, minus the stress of tough climbs and tricky sections. 

This is what led us to the exploration of the Manali Kaisdhar Trek.

On the Manali Kaisdhar Trek, the trails are short and flat. There are hardly any tricky sections to navigate. And the best part is that it can be done by everyone, making it an ideal trek for beginners and families looking to start their trekking journey in the Himalayas.

The rewards you get out of the Manali Kaisdhar Trek are much greater than the effort you put in. In just four days, you get a chance to completely immerse yourself in nature. You walk in the deep woods dominated by dense coniferous trees like silver oak and blue pine. You come across a waterfall, walk to the ridge: the highest point of the trek, and get a glimpse of the culture of remote Himalayan villages. If that’s not enough, you are treated to stunning views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges. Stunning vermillion sunsets are an additional bonus here. 

The winter in Kullu Manali is when you may get the best snow experience of your life. 

Being a fairly new type of trek, we had to keep the seats limited. So if you are looking to spend your winter holidays in Manali with your family or friends (no matter the age), this is the perfect way to do it.

Did you know if you are doing the trek with your family, you can avail a 30% scholarship for your child? Read more here.

Manali Kaisdhar Trek - Complete Information 

Use this section to learn about the Manali Kaisdhar Trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

➤Stay facility: At the base camp, your stay is in Swiss tents. The accommodation will be in bunk beds and will be separate for men and women. 

The Manali Kaisdhar Trek is an easy trek. Though it’s an easy trek, there are certain things that you must be aware of. The trek is short but it can get sunny as you walk up the steep slope. Dehydration is really common if you don’t have enough fluids to hydrate yourself.

This will become a ritual in my family

Truly grateful being here

Best part was trying to connect with ourselves

The Indiahikes Manali Kaisdhar Trek is open...

Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader. 

Dolo 650 (5 tablets): This is paracetamol. It helps tackle fever and mild pain

Avomine (4 tablets): Carry this especially if you are prone to motion sickness. Pop one-half hour before the start of your road journey.

Combiflam (5 tablets): Take a combiflam if you get a sudden twist of the leg or a muscle strain. It is a pain reliever. It also contains paracetamol. 

Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food that you’ve taken is undigested. Alert your  leader immediately. It could be a sign of AMS. 

ORS (6 packs): Consume a pack of ORS water at least once a day, usually mid-day when you are in the middle of your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking.  Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.

Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known issues of knee pain.

Our trek leaders carry a high altitude medical kit with them, which also consists of Life Saving Drugs. If there is an emergency, our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of the medicines listed here.

Pro Tip: We find that these medicines are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.  

Manali Kaisdhar Trek requires sturdy trekking shoes, has good grip, has ankle support and can handle snow. Here is a quick video on how to choose your trekking shoes.

| Buying Tip: The trek series and MH series are good options by Decathlon. They are tried and tested. There isn’t any necessity to buy the higher-priced models. Here is a list of other budget shoes that trekkers are using.

| Rental: We have the trek series and the MH series by Decathlon available for rent from the Indiahikes store. They are already broken into and in good condition. Rental shoes are not dirty or unhygienic. This is how they are kept clean.

For the Manali Kaisdhar Trek, you need a 40-50 litre backpack. Make sure your backpack has good hip support, shoulder support, and quick access pockets. Here is a guide on how to choose a backpack.

| Buying Tip: Wildcraft, Decathlon and Adventure Worx usually make good backpacks. While Wildcraft has more expensive ones, the other two brands have budget-friendly backpacks to choose from. 

| Rental: The 48-litre backpack by Adventure Worx is available for rent from the Indiahikes store. They are custom-made for our Himalayan treks. Rent them if you don’t have a backpack.

Wearing layers is the mantra in the winters. Layers give you maximum protection from all elements. And when the weather changes in the mountains (as it happens every few hours), you take off or put on layers as required. 

Wear one T-shirt and carry two. Carry full sleeve dry-fit T-shirts (preferably collared). These prevent your arms and neck from getting sunburnt. In the rarified air on the trek, especially at high altitudes, UV rays can burn you in no time.

Dry-fit T-shirts quickly dry your sweat; they are easy to wash, and in case of a rainy day, they dry quicker. Round neck T-shirts are okay, but collared ones are better.

| Cotton or Synthetic? As Indians, we love cotton. Down in the plains when the heat is blistering 40°C it makes sense to wear cotton. But it takes a long time to dry when it gets wet. In the mountains, where it is cooler, synthetic is what you wear. They wick sweat rapidly and keep you dry. (But they do tend to smell quickly, so carry a roll-on deodorant with you.)

| Buying Tip: You can get dry-fit T-shirts from Decathlon. Also, stores like Reliance Trends and Max have dry-fit T-shirts. They don’t usually cost much.

| Pro Tip: If you are extra susceptible to cold, you could get a set of thermal inners. In our experience, wearing two T-shirts over another works as a better thermal. And they save you weight and space since you’re already carrying them. 

Since you are doing this trek in the winter, you will need at least two insulation layers for this trek.

You will need 1 pair of inner thermals, 2 light fleece layers, or 1 thick fleece layer. Do not get your grandma stitched sweaters, which can be very heavy. You need sweaters and fleece jackets that can be folded into compact rolls.

1 Outer Layer: For your outer layer, a padded jacket serves the purpose here. You don’t need a water-resistant material. But you need an outer, padded jacket that keeps the wind and cold out. Ensure your padded jacket has a hood as well.

| Do you need a down/feather jacket? Not really. A regular padded/shell jacket will do. This video here will help you to learn more about the difference.

| Note: Down/feather jackets are not available these days. Many jackets masquerade as down/feather jackets. They are essentially fine polyester-filled jackets. They mimic the function of a down jacket but are usually expensive.  

| Rental: Padded jackets made by Fort Collins are available for rent at the Indiahikes store. They are custom made for Indiahikes and trekkers find them terrific, even in winter.

A minimum of one pair and a maximum of two pairs of trek pants should suffice for this trek. Wear one pair and carry one just in case it rains/snows. trek pants with zippered cut-offs at the thighs are very suitable for treks. Also, choose quick-dry pants over cotton. They dry up soon, even in the cold climate.

| Buying Tip: Go for pants with zippered pockets. They come in handy to keep your phone, handkerchief or pocket snacks.

| Track pants or trek pants? Stretchable track pants make a good backup and can double up as your thermal bottoms. But track pants do not trek pants -- so don’t use them as your main outerwear. Keep them only as a backup. 

Mandatory Accessories, without these too you won’t be able to do the trek.

These accessories are mandatory. Trekkers generally put off purchasing / borrowing the accessories until the last minute. We suggest the opposite. Start gathering these accessories first. 

Sunglasses are to prevent snow blindness. A small overexposure to direct sunlight on snow can lead to snow blindness (about a half hour’s exposure). That’s because fallen snow is like thousands of mirrors that reflect direct UV rays. So you need sunglasses with UV protection. 

| Wearing Tip: Wear sunglasses if the hiking day is bright and sunny (on open sections, meadows). On a snowy section, you must never take off your sunglasses until the section has been fully crossed.

| Buying Tip: Try getting sunglasses that wrap around instead of those that have openings on the side. Even peripheral UV ray exposure is not a good idea.  

| If you wear spectacles: If you wear spectacles, you can get oversized sunglasses that you wear over your regular glasses (available at Decathlon). If that is cumbersome, photochromic lenses work equally well. Here’s a quick guide on managing sunglasses with spectacles.

| Contact lens users: If you use contact lenses, you can use them on the trek too. The lens solution will not freeze. You will also not face any problems in changing your lens in your tent. Just carry enough cleaning solution with you to clean your fingers well. Wear your sunglasses over your contact lens. Read this article for more guidance on managing contact lenses on trek.

A sun cap is mandatory. Hiking without a sun cap can lead to headaches, sunstrokes, quick dehydration and a sharp drop in hiking performance. 

| Tip: In the mountains, the general rule is to keep your head covered at all times. During the day a sun cap protects you from the harsh rays of the sun (it is doubly stronger with naked UV rays). A sun cap keeps your body temperature in balance. In the evening/early morning, the reverse is true. Your head loses your body heat quickly. A woollen cap prevents heat from dissipating from your head.

| Pro Tip: Sun caps with flaps are a blessing for trekkers. They cut out almost all UV leaks. They prevent sunburns in every possible way. They are a lot more effective than sunscreen lotion. A wide-brimmed sports hat also helps to prevent sunburn in a big way. 

On this trek you’ll need gloves to grip something or to steady yourself. You also want the gloves to keep you warm. Get synthetic hand gloves that have waterproofing on the outside and a padded lining on the inside. If you find the combination difficult to get (not likely), wear a tight-fitting fleece hand glove inside a synthetic hand glove. Hand gloves are mandatory on this trek.   

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