Delete the ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’ in your mind about trekking, read on

Nature doesn’t come with an instruction manual, but the below content was written by TransTrails experts for your safety. As you read it you’ll discover that a TransTrail guide brings more than just expertise to the task.

The best way to trek is with someone who enjoys it thoroughly. A good trekking guide keeps everyone organized, safe and in good spirits.


What is the difference between trekking and hiking?

Trekking is a reasonably long journey taken by foot in the countryside, whether over well-marked routes, or in the wilderness. It is usually done over the kind of terrain where vehicular transport is not available.

Hiking on the other hand, covers longer distances and often takes more than a day. It involves the use of specialized safety and protective gear.

It is true though that the terms 'trekking' and 'hiking' are used casually and interchangeably.


Who can go trekking, and what is the qualification required?
We usually insist on a Ph.D in geology or zoology, and ownership of a tranquilizer dart gun. Because there are times when we need help to keep the more hyperactive members in a trekking group calm. Don’t hit the TransTrails guide though.

Seriously now, a good definition for ‘trekking’ would be - A leisure activity that enables a person to spend quality time with Nature and oneself. Thus, everyone is eligible for trekking. However, when one is intends to trek in high altitudes and challenging terrain, one must be reasonably fit.

A person who can walk long distances, is patient, diligent and can be rhythmic while walking in different terrains will enjoy trekking the most.

For beginners, the essential quality required is mainly the ability to walk long distances. All other traits get developed with continued visits or treks.

What is the minimum fitness needed to undertake a trek?
If you can climb up three flights of stairs, and slide back down on the railing…you can trek…and you must be good fun.

Truth is, almost anyone can undertake a trek in the Western Ghats, as long as they lead an active everyday life. However some exercise like walking or even jogging may go a long way in readying you for a trek. Individuals/ Elders with respiratory and cardiac ailments must avoid the more demanding trails, like the ones in the Himalayas.

What kind of shoes should one wear for walking in the wild?
An easy thumb rule, if you can moonwalk in them they’re probably not right. Also…never rush out and buy new shoes for the trek.

One must wear shoes with thick soles and enough grip to tackle the terrain. The best pair is one that has been broken-in much before one embarks on a trail. Avoid wearing new shoes that may turn your pleasure trip into agony. Sneakers should do fine unless they are ill fitting. Hunter shoes with canvas are also a good bet for any season. For monsoon, avoid wearing shoes that have little or no grip.

How often do we take a break while on trail?
Just like school and college, you learn different things during the breaks.

Breaks give you the opportunities to enjoy the trail the most and appreciate Nature, and the people with you. We know that you’ll remember the breaks too, and not just the walking part of the treks.

We can take as many breaks as you need, the group will be supportive and a TransTrails guide will ensure that you’re okay.

We recommend that our groups begin early and intersperse the walk with sufficient breaks. Breaking more often for shorter durations is better than breaking fewer times for longer durations.

How best can we enjoy the walk in the wilderness?
Please wait for the green light to come on before you cross a stream. Fish have rights too you know.

The objective is to enjoy the walk and not to race to the destination.

An incident-free trek is the best one. Simply avoid unnecessary risks like leaving the trail and trying to find a way back. Keep a safe distance from the edge of a cliff. Be always aware that rocks, roots and uneven ground on the trail may trip you. A little alertness will keep you away from medical emergencies.

Are there any specific techniques of walking in the wilderness?
Sleep walking is strictly prohibited, most other kinds are okay.

Be slow and deliberate when you walk. In challenging terrain, keep your mind on the path ahead of you. Check for loose rock on the route. Always put your foot forward only when you are sure that you have secured the other foot on the ground and will not trip or loose balance.

If walking on rocky terrain use the front of your foot to test the ground in front of you, and not the heel. That way you ensure that you are sure-footed even with loose rocks. On rock patches (or a steep rocky hillside), If possible, follow the steps of the person ahead of you.

If you are walking on steep ground, place one foot ahead, ensure the firmness of the ground and bring your other foot at the same level. This will make your climb easier and less exhausting.

Is trekking safe? Can it be dangerous?
Simply follow the safety tips. TransTrails guides trek regularly and natives in the habitat ‘trek’ every day.

Trekking can be dangerous only when attempted with no knowledge of the techniques involved and the terrain. That is where a trekking organization comes in with long experience and tried and tested safety procedures.

What if an individual gets lost?
Please don’t. Simply do what the scriptures say… stick to the right path and stay close to those who show you the way… and you won’t get lost.

A TransTrails guide always walks behind the very last trekker in the group, so the chance of being left behind is nearly nil. If you still get separated from the trekking group, it is important to remain calm and relaxed. Occasionally shout or blow the whistle that you are carrying in your backpack, so that the group can locate you.

Try to walk back on the path to the point where you may have left it by mistake. While doing this, observe keenly and remember the trail you are taking back, so that if you do not find the way, you can come back to the place where you realized you were lost, and wait there for others to find you.

If after several attempts you are not able to trace the path, look out for a place to take shelter and relax. Try and enjoy the beauty of surroundings. Some act of enterprise by trying to make yourself home at that place, (by gathering things from around that you may need for security) can keep you occupied and make you more relaxed during the waiting period.

Listen for the whistle that the TransTrails guides always carry with them. Answer with your whistle till they find you.

What if I hurt myself on the trek?
We believe prevention is better than cure, but still train intensely for such emergencies.

Despite the best efforts, if you still get hurt due to unforeseen events, don’t worry. TransTrails carries a complete medical kit that will be used as and when required. Our staff is not only trained but have practical experience of injury occurring outdoors, and will attend to you professionally.

What does one do to avoid dehydration?
A good trekker is 70% water and 30% caution.

Carry sufficient water while on the trail, unless we have told you that water is available. Take enough breaks and consume small quantities of water at each break.

If the heat becomes unbearable, take refuge in the shade and try to keep cool.

Wear clothes that will absorb sweat and let it evaporate easily. Replenish your liquid intake often. You may add some salts to the water to replace the ones lost by sweating.

We ensure that you avoid having to walk in the mid-afternoon heat especially in the hotter months. If conditions worsen, rest under cover and seek help from locals.

What are the basic precautions to take against wild animals that we may encounter on the trail?
We advise ‘Extreme caution as the best substitute for expertise’.

Always be careful while walking in the wilderness. Do not disturb wild life/insects as they may cause you harm. Do not leave the main trekking trail, and do not walk alone. Walk with the group for your safety, so animals will get intimidated.

It is not safe to confront a wild animal that you see near, or on the path. The reaction of the animal will vary according the species of the animal. Most wild animals are shy and will leave immediately. However, the animals with little ones may turn dangerous.

If they are dangerously close and have still not noticed you, try not to make sudden movements. If they spot you and move towards you, a loud noise may discourage them from approaching you.