7 things to remember for being a responsible trekker

Mountains are more than just beautiful.. they are humongous majestic giants capable of turning around anything or everything in or around them. A large number of flora and fauna along with local human population depend on the Mountains for survival; No wonder why most of the Mountain regions are worshipped as Gods and Here are 7 reasons why you should too!

• Mountains aren’t just for Humans:

As once Buddha explained difference between Liking something and lovingsomething, you wouldn’t pluck the flower if you love it! Instead you would enjoy its beauty as and how it is. A responsible trekker isn’t the one who just “likes” the mountain, instead the one who lovesthe mountains. They are home to many wild species of flowers, birds and animals; be sure you don’t disturb any of these mountain dwelling lives. Be a responsible trekker and make sure none of your activities adversely affects the peace of the paradise called mountains.

• Do as Romans when you are in Rome:

What many of the first time trekkers don’t understand is that, trekking isn’t just a regular picnic; instead it’s a life changing experience (as in my case!) that requires grit and determination! So please stop expecting all the luxuries and facilities you would get in the cities, instead blend with the locals and know their life style enjoy their cuisine, it’s not every day you get Kahwaor Buransh ka Sharbat!(Rhodendron flower sharbat). Be a Pahaadi, when you are in Pahaad!

• Respect Local beliefs:

Mountains are worshipped either as Gods themselves or the dwelling of place of the Gods across almost all cultures and regions, not just India or Nepal. (Mt. Fuji and Mt. Kilimanjaro are few of the examples where mountains are worshiped outside India). There are many local traditions and worship places enroute your treks that are of cultural importance to the communities living in the mountains. Make sure your activities doesn’t hurt the local sentiments and respect these places. 

• Carry  your Garbage:

It’s very common for any trekker to feel hungry and grab a bite during the tiring trek. But it’s necessary that you don’t litter the pristine beauty of the mountains. Carry trash bag along with you during your trek and collect your trash like candy wrappers in them and dispose them after coming back.

• Treating the people of Mountains

The local guides, porters, mule operators, the cooks and the helpers are the ones who is responsible for smooth operation of the treks. They make sure your path is clear, you are well fed, your support equipments reach the site and ensure your tents are sturdy and tidy; in short they keep you alivein the mountains. Waking at the early hours in bone chilling cold  to prepare meals for the entire crew isn’t just easy as it sounds. They do it tirelessly with a smiling face for not just one day but every day. They deserve all the respect and dignity!! Never ever insult them! I repeat Never! Mountains aren’t five star hotels where you would expect hifi meals. Be content and feel blessed for your meals in the mountains.

•  Pack the right Gears:

The trekking gears play an important role for successful trek and surviving in bright hot days and harsh cold nights of the mountains. A separate article is made available here on the trekking gears. The trekking gear requirements from trek to trek and season to season. Make sure you select the right gear for the occasion. Take help of friends with previous trek experience or the operator who is running your trek for selecting suitable gears for your trek.

• No one Climbs the same mountain twice:

Every experienced Mountaineers and trekkers acknowledge this fact. It’s not that people don’t climb the same mountain; it is just the fact that the conditions change in the Mountains in minutes and the same calm cool breeze would turn into a hailstorm any moment! Mountains are always wild and cannot be tamed. Just because you succeeded in summiting earlier, doesn’t mean you can do it with ease again. As the same mountain throws new Challenges every time, always pay due respect to the mountains and don’t take it for granted. Pay attention to your trek leader and guide’s instructions at all times and don’t stray from the group.

Happy Trekking!!

Niranjan. R

check out his tripoto profile