The Ultimate Guide for Trekking in the Monsoon

June 7, 2021

Why trek during the Monsoon ?

With lush green forests, mist-clad pathways, thundering waterfalls and gushing rivers, nature has saved it’s best part for the daring hearts. So, loosen up your muscles and get going, because there’s also an added benefit of a free stress relief therapy. A walk through the rain-drenched nature is definitely going to make you forget all your worries. Trekking during the monsoon can physically challenge you, as you’d have to make your way up through rough, tough, steep and slippery pathways. In the end though, you’re going to become a mentally rejuvenated, proud human with numerous stories to share…or maybe boast about.

How to choose a monsoon trekking location?

Choosing a location will not be difficult as there are countless options for monsoon trekking in India. The important thing is to choose a safe place as landslides and flash floods tend to be very common during the monsoon season. If choosing an offbeat location, try browsing it on the internet and do a thorough research. Conveniently, go with the packages offered by experienced travel companies as they’d have detailed itineraries, adequate experience and safety measures at affordable rates. Such packages will also provide you with an opportunity to meet new people. Also, be aware of your physical strengths and weaknesses and choose a trekking level that suits you. For instance, while the Pin Parvati Pass Trek and Pin Bhaba Pass Trek are known to push your physical strengths to the maximum, Bhrigu Lake, Kalsubai, Lohagad and Duke’s Nose treks are easy to accomplish.

How to prepare for your trek?

The key to a hassle free trekking experience is proper planning and researching. Don’t think you’re all done once selecting a location. Research about the place, trekking route and terrain. Trekking in a group is always a better idea than trekking alone as there’ll always be help at hand and chances of getting lost is less. Once you get a clear idea about the needs of the trek, make a list of essential stuff and pack your bags accordingly. Preparing your mind and body for unpredictable weather conditions is also recommended as you know…it’s monsoon after all.

Best places for monsoon trekking In South India

There are countless options for trekking in South India as the land is ruled by the majestic Western Ghats. Here are some of our recommendations :

Best places for monsoon trekking In North India

The land of the Himalayas needs no introduction as a trekking spot. With snow covered summits to flower bedded valleys, it’s indeed a trekker’s paradise.

Choosing what goes into your monsoon trek backpack

It’s easy to overload your backpack with all the unnecessary stuff and forget the most important ones. So, always make a list of what’s important and what’s not. Here are some things that should find a place in your backpacks.

Ponchos / Raincoats : Ponchos are the best option while trekking as they tend to be more comfortable and give you more mobility. They’ll also fit loosely and thus allow more airflow.
Trekking sticks : Well you know what we’re here for.
Thermal flask : Because hot water!
Sleeping bag : It’s always better to carry a sleeping bag rather than bulky and separate bedding gear.
Power bank : It’s monsoon and chances of power outage are more.
Tents : If you’re camping, a basic dome-shaped waterproof tent will protect you from the night-time downpour.
Ultralight quick dry towels : So that they’ll dry fast.
Handkerchiefs or Napkins : In case you don’t want to remain wet.
Flashlight : Chances of power outage again.
Swiss knife : Very handy!
Extra plastic covers for wet clothes: Mixing up your dry clothes with the wet ones is the last thing you’d want.
Sweatshirts : In case it gets too cold during night, let’s make sure you’ll have a cozy good night’s sleep.
Basic first aid kit And here’s a bonus for ladies – waterproof makeup (thank us later).

Choosing the right clothing and footwear for monsoon trek

Clothing :
Go with synthetic fibers like Gore-Tex or nylon as they would dry fast. Avoid wearing jeans as they’ll get heavier and really uncomfortable once wet. Also avoid cotton, as they’ll absorb moisture and will take a long time to dry. Always carry extra pairs of clothes and towels and make sure to wrap them in plastic bags. You can choose to wear three-fourths to prevent mud stains or splashes, but then choose according to your location. Using dark colour pants would be helpful to prevent ‘post-trek-washing-depression.’
Footwear :
Invest in a good, ankle-length trekking shoes. Waterproof shoes will be great but many prefer water-resistant shoes, as it would let your foot breathe better than waterproof ones. But then if you go by the word of experienced trekkers, even that is going to get wet. So, carrying an extra pair of well-fitting floaters will be a great idea. Make sure the floaters have good grip and tight buckles in case you’re going to trek wearing those. Also make sure to cover your legs with leech socks.

Waterproofing your stuff

Cover your backpack with a good rain-cover. Well that’s layer one of protection.
Clothes
Always cover your clothes with plastic covers. Avoid mixing up of dry clothes with wet clothes by packing them separately, every single time.
Gadgets
It’ll be a heart wrenching experience to witness your favorite gadgets drowning helplessly in rainwater. So better, invest in a good dry bag if you want to protect expensive equipment like camera, lenses and mobile phones. There are also waterproof phone bags available in the market, which would let you use your phone in rain. It would also be a great idea to stock some silica gels, just so as to prevent moisture from damaging your stuff, especially your camera.
Other personal belongings
Do not forget to cover your wallet, ID’s and other personal documents and belongings with plastic covers, period.

How to protect yourself from tropical insects and animals during the monsoon trek?

It’s festive season for mosquitoes and other insects like leeches. Unless you want to spend your night revenging those vampires, keeping a mosquito repellent or cream is very much essential. Protect your legs by pairing up good ankle-length shoes with powerful leech socks while trekking. Wear full sleeve clothes and full pants to protect your skin from leeches. Try avoiding shorts as your skin will be more prone to insect attacks and thorny bushes. Your health matters
Do have a basic first aid kit containing cotton, astringents and band aids handy. Antiseptic creams are also a must so that you won’t worsen your bruises (in case you get hurt). Antibiotics, slips of Crocin and balms are also recommended.

Happy trekking!