Home of Mt. Everest, Nepal is indisputably the top trekking destination of the world and is simply a treat for backpackers. A trip to Everest Base Camp is an unforgettable and thrilling experience, but it’s not for the faint of heart.
Here are some important tips to make it through this life-changing trek:
Physical Training
The trek itself is not a complex thing, but you need some technical know-how about hiking at high altitudes. Having the endurance to go through this strenuous trek requires training to withstand various pressures. Undergoing some type of physical exercise routine for at least couple of months before starting your trek is an advantage for you. You can either walk on elevated roads or on treadmill with a backpack to get your body used to it. Building some muscle strength is also recommended for a great trekking experience at Everest.\
Mental Training
Life in the mountains is not as easy as it seems. A lot of things can happen outdoors on a trek. Getting used to small challenges such as camping in the open at high altitude, dirt, bugs, and answering to nature‘s call in the open is important. The trek is also a test of your patience and other emotions that could easily get in the way as an obstacle, so try some calming exercises or meditation to acclimatise yourself to challenging situations.
Choosing the Right Gear
It is very important to take care when selecting your trekking gear. There are many gear items that are required for the trek, but some essentials really need to be in the right condition to help you have a safe and successful trekking experience. Don’t cheap out on your boots. Get a solid and waterproof pair of trekking boots that allow maximum comfort for your feet. Next, make sure you get the best jacket. A lot of different jackets are available, but you’ll want to get at least a 700 fill down jacket, which can keep you cozy in extreme weather. Third thing is to carry a water carrier and a shatterproof bottle. Keep it filled, as it is important to keep yourself hydrated throughout the walk. Another important item is a headcover or hat to save you from strong sun rays. All this gear can be easily purchased in Kathmandu at a good price.
Staying Hydrated
Staying hydrated is of prime importance. At higher altitudes, you body tends to lose water a lot more quickly than at ground level, so make sure to drink at least 4 liters of water a day. This is why it is important to always carry bottles filled with water while trekking. Some people get altitude sickness at some stage of the trip, especially at higher altitudes, and the best way to fight it is by drinking lots water and taking medicine if the sickness increases.
Slow and Steady
Never be in a hurry to complete the trek. It’s important to take slow and steady steps, the key to success in the mountains. The trek is not to be seen as a sprint. Letting your body adapt to low oxygen levels at higher altitudes requires some time. You only need a normal walking pace where you can walk and talk with fellow trekkers without physically straining yourself too much. If need be, then stop at a place to relax and catch a breath before resuming the trek. And you’ll want to go slow to take in all of the mountain’s incredible views.
Bring some Food with You
Another difficult task on this trek is to maintain an appetite. Many times, even after a long day of walking and climbing, you are unable to feel like eating at such high altitude. It is normal to experience this, but to keep yourself moving you’ll need some energy-producing food, as you are burning a lot of calories while trekking. You will get all the important daily meals on the trek, but if you are sick or feeling weak, having some familiar food can give you a push during hard times. It’s always a good idea to pack some extra snack bars or other food items while preparing for the trek.
Sun Protection
Keeping away from strong UV rays becomes a challenge on mountains like these, but you need to take a lot of care to protect yourself. These harsh rays can not only burn your skin but will also dehydrate your body, ultimately slowing you down. Using a high UV-factor sunscreen can minimise the impact of rays on your body. You may also use a hat to cover your head to stay away from the sun and headaches.
