Trekking in India
— All Your Questions Answered

We do not hold slots without payment as it is unfair to other trekkers. However, you can book with confidence: up to 7 days before departure you can reschedule for free or take a 100% TrekCash Voucher (valid 1 year) if plans change.

We also offer EMI starting at ₹386/month so the full payment doesn't feel like a burden upfront.

Yes, group bookings are fully supported. For groups of 10 or more, contact us before booking for special group pricing. Each participant can be added during the booking flow.

If you've already completed payment and want to add someone, they'll need to register separately and join the same batch by selecting the same date.

After booking you'll receive:

• A booking confirmation email with your invoice
• Addition to a WhatsApp batch group with fellow trekkers and your trek coordinator
• A pre-trek briefing video call 5–7 days before departure covering itinerary, packing, and fitness tips
• A detailed packing checklist and medical form to fill

Your trek coordinator is your point of contact from booking to return. Save their number — they're available on WhatsApp for any questions.

If your preferred date is full, we recommend choosing the next available batch — most treks run every weekend or bi-weekly. If your dates are truly fixed, contact us directly and we'll notify you if a cancellation opens up.

Yes. Central Government employees can avail up to 30 days of Special Casual Leave per calendar year for trekking or mountaineering expeditions conducted through a registered adventure organisation. Trekkaro is registered with relevant adventure bodies to support SCL applications.

Email us at info@trekkaro.com at least 20 days before your trek date with your name, trek details, and employee ID, and we'll provide the necessary documentation.

The best first treks in India for complete beginners are:

• Nag Tibba (2 days, 9,915 ft) — perfect weekend starter trek
• Kedarkantha (6 days, 12,500 ft) — India's most popular winter snow trek
• Har Ki Dun (6 days, 11,700 ft) — easy valley trek with ancient villages
• Dayara Bugyal (5 days, 12,000 ft) — alpine meadows, stunning views
• Brahmatal (6 days, 12,250 ft) — frozen lake, snow forests, beginner-friendly
• Deoriatal–Chandrashila (4 days, 13,123 ft) — stunning 360° Himalayan views

No prior experience is needed for easy and most moderate treks. Treks are graded Easy, Moderate, and Difficult and each has specific fitness requirements — not experience requirements.

Difficult treks like Roopkund, Rupin Pass, or Goecha La require prior experience of at least one moderate high-altitude trek (above 12,000 ft). This isn't a formality — at these altitudes, the margin for error is small.

Minimum age: Generally 7–10 years for easy treks (with a parent/guardian). Children below 15 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Trekkers aged 15–18 may participate with a signed parental disclaimer.

Maximum age: There is no hard upper age limit. Trekkers above 55 are welcome on easy and some moderate treks with a recent doctor's fitness certificate. Trekkers above 60 may be required to submit a Treadmill Test (TMT) report for moderate and difficult treks.

Fitness matters far more than age. We have had trekkers in their 60s who were better prepared than trekkers in their 20s.

For guaranteed snow on trails, the best months are December through February. Key snow treks by season:

• Dec–Feb: Kedarkantha, Brahmatal, Chopta Chandrashila, Dayara Bugyal — 3–6 ft of snow
• Mar–Apr: Late snow on Kedarkantha, early snowmelt on Rupin Pass
• May–Jun: Snow bridges and snow patches on Rupin Pass, Hampta Pass

Summer and autumn treks offer snow-capped peaks as a backdrop but mostly snow-free trails — which makes them easier and more comfortable for most trekkers.

We strongly advise against it. Difficult treks at high altitudes are physically and mentally demanding in ways that are hard to anticipate. The Himalayas do not forgive under-preparation. A beginner who pushes too hard risks AMS, injury, and ruins the experience not just for themselves but for their group.

The right progression: start with a beginner trek → build your fitness → attempt a moderate trek → then a difficult one. Most passionate trekkers find that "easier" treks on paper become far more rewarding than expected when done well and in great company.

Solo trekking on popular trails like Kedarkantha or Har Ki Dun is possible for experienced trekkers who know the route well. However, for all high-altitude treks above 12,000 ft, trekking with a trained group and leader is strongly recommended, for these reasons:

• Trail conditions change rapidly — a guide knows when to turn back
• AMS can impair judgment at altitude — someone needs to watch you
• Emergency evacuation is far easier with a team
• Many forest areas legally require a registered operator

Trekking is a multi-day walk on natural trails, usually at altitude, with overnight stays at camps or guesthouses. No special equipment beyond basic gear is needed.

Hiking typically refers to a single-day walk on a marked trail — shorter in duration and lower in altitude.

Mountaineering involves technical climbing above 5,000+ metres using ropes, ice axes, crampons, and specialised training. It carries significantly higher risk.

All Trekkaro trips are trekking expeditions — no technical climbing skills required.

Trekkaro provides FREE on every trek: Trekking shoes, -10°C insulated jacket, trekking poles, gaiters, microspikes (for snow treks). You just need to carry your personal clothing.

You need to bring:

• Woollen base layer (thermal top + bottom)
• 2–3 full-sleeve dry-fit T-shirts
• 1 fleece mid-layer
• Trekking trousers (2 pairs, avoid jeans)
• Woollen socks (3–4 pairs) + inner socks
• Warm gloves and a woollen cap
• Sunglasses (UV400), sunscreen SPF50+
• 30–40 litre backpack with rain cover
• Headlamp with spare batteries
• Personal first aid (ORS, Digene, Crocin, Avomine)
• Water bottle (1 litre) + water purification tablets
• Lip balm, moisturiser (altitude dries skin fast)

Trekkaro is the world's first trekking company to provide all essential gear completely free — included in every trek package at no extra cost. This includes Decathlon-brand trekking shoes, -10°C jackets, trekking poles, gaiters, and microspikes.

Most other operators charge extra for gear rental or leave you to arrange it yourself. With Trekkaro, you simply carry your personal clothing — we handle the rest.

Sports shoes or running shoes are not suitable for Himalayan treks — they lack ankle support, grip on loose rocky trails, and insulation on snow. Proper ankle-high trekking shoes with Vibram or similar grip soles are essential.

Trekkaro provides Decathlon-brand trekking shoes on every trek — tested, properly gripped, and fitted before departure. You don't need to buy or arrange anything separately.

If you do own trekking shoes, break them in over 2–3 weeks of daily use before the trek. Brand-new shoes on Day 1 cause blisters by Day 2.

The most common mistakes trekkers make when packing:

• Cotton clothing — cotton absorbs sweat and stays wet, causing hypothermia at altitude. Wear dry-fit or wool instead.
• Jeans — heavy, slow to dry, restrict movement on steep ascents.
• Too many clothes — pack for 3 days even on a 6-day trek. You'll wash and re-wear. A heavy pack ruins the experience.
• New unworn shoes — blisters from Day 1 are the #1 avoidable trek spoiler.
• Glass bottles and single-use plastic — not permitted on eco-conscious treks.
• Laptop — there is no electricity at altitude camps. Leave it at the base.

A 30–40 litre backpack is ideal for most 4–7 day Himalayan treks. Avoid anything larger — it encourages overpacking and becomes a burden on steep ascents.

Target backpack weight: 7–9 kg maximum (including packed lunch and water). Every extra kilogram adds significant strain at altitude.

Your backpack must have a proper hip belt and padded shoulder straps — the hip belt should carry 70–80% of the weight. If you're unsure about backpack fit, ask us before your trek.

Sleeping bags and tents are provided by Trekkaro as part of the trek package. You do not need to bring or rent a sleeping bag separately.

Tents are shared between 2 trekkers of the same gender. If you're travelling with a partner and want to share a tent, just let us know at booking. Sleeping bag liners are recommended for extra warmth on high-altitude or winter treks — these are lightweight and compact.

There is no electricity at high-altitude campsites. This is true for the vast majority of Himalayan treks above 10,000 ft. Charging points may be available at the base camp only on some treks.

Essential prep: carry a 20,000 mAh power bank, fully charged before departure. Note that cold temperatures drain batteries significantly faster than normal — keep your phone in an inner pocket close to your body, not in an outer pocket.

Fully charge all camera batteries before leaving the last town. Carry spare batteries for DSLRs.

Trekking poles: Highly recommended for all treks. They reduce knee stress by 25–30% on descents, improve balance on loose terrain, and are invaluable on snow. Trekkaro provides them free.

Microspikes: Essential for any trek with snow or icy sections (Dec–Mar). They attach to the bottom of your shoes and prevent slipping on ice. Trekkaro provides them on snow treks.

Gaiters: Protective covers that go over your shoes and lower trouser legs, blocking snow, mud, and water from entering your shoes. Essential for winter and monsoon treks. Provided by Trekkaro where needed.

Use these benchmarks:

• Easy trek: Walk 5 km on flat ground without stopping. Start training 2–3 weeks before.
• Moderate trek: Jog 3 km comfortably / run 5 km in 35 minutes. Train 4–6 weeks before.
• Difficult trek: Run 5 km in under 30 minutes, consistently. Train 8 weeks before.

Week 1–2: 30-minute brisk walk daily. Stair climbing (20 floors) every alternate day. Basic squats and lunges (3 sets × 15 reps).

Week 3: Increase to 45-minute jog or brisk walk. Walk with a loaded 5 kg backpack on weekends. Add core work (planks, leg raises).

Week 4 (tapering): Keep up light activity but don't overexert. Rest well 2–3 days before departure. Avoid new exercises that could cause muscle soreness.

Key exercises: stair climbing (mimics ascent), running (builds cardiovascular endurance), squats (builds quad and knee strength for descents).

Yes, you can — but preparation matters more. BMI is not a direct indicator of trekking ability. Your cardiovascular fitness and joint health are far more relevant.

If you are significantly overweight, start with an easy 2–3 day trek first. Focus your training on low-impact cardio (walking, cycling, swimming) to build stamina without stressing joints. Consult a doctor before any high-altitude trek, especially if you have associated conditions like blood pressure or diabetes.

Asthma: Mild, well-controlled asthma is generally not a barrier. Carry your inhaler at all times. Inform your trek leader before departure. Cold, dry mountain air can trigger symptoms — a buff/neck warmer over mouth helps. Avoid treks during high-pollen seasons if allergic.

Heart conditions: Consult your cardiologist and get a fitness clearance certificate before booking. Low-altitude easy treks (below 10,000 ft) may be suitable with medical clearance. High-altitude treks carry significant cardiovascular risk for anyone with unmanaged heart conditions.

Any medical condition must be disclosed in the health form. Withholding this information endangers you and your group.

Knee pain is the most common trekker complaint and is largely preventable. Descents are far harder on knees than ascents.

• Use trekking poles — they reduce knee load by 25–30% on descents. Provided free by Trekkaro.
• Carry a knee brace if you have known knee issues
• Build quad strength before the trek — squats and wall sits strengthen the muscles that protect the knee
• Descend in a zigzag — never march straight down steep slopes
• Take ibuprofen only when necessary — don't mask pain and push on

If you've had a recent knee surgery or injury, consult your orthopaedic and get clearance before booking.

With only 1–2 weeks, focus exclusively on these three:

• Walk daily with a loaded backpack (5 kg) for 45–60 minutes
• Climb 20+ floors of stairs every day — nothing prepares your lungs and legs faster
• Sleep well and hydrate well — your body recovers and builds capacity during rest, not during exercise

Avoid trying new intense exercises that might cause soreness or injury before departure. And if your fitness level is genuinely low, consider choosing an easy trek (Nag Tibba, Chopta) rather than a moderate one.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) occurs when your body cannot acclimatise fast enough to lower oxygen levels at altitude — typically above 8,000 ft. Symptoms usually appear 6–24 hours after rapid ascent.

Mild AMS symptoms: Persistent headache, nausea, loss of appetite, dizziness, fatigue, disturbed sleep.

Severe AMS / HAPE / HACE (medical emergency): Confusion, inability to walk straight, persistent vomiting, severe breathlessness at rest, coughing up pink frothy sputum, loss of consciousness.

• Ascend slowly — never gain more than 300–500 m altitude per day above 3,000 m
• Hydrate well — drink 3–4 litres of water daily on trek. Dehydration accelerates AMS
• Avoid alcohol — the night before and during the trek. Alcohol disrupts oxygen absorption
• Eat carbohydrate-rich meals — they metabolise more efficiently at altitude than fats or proteins
• Acclimatise at camp — on longer treks, rest days are built in for exactly this reason. Do not skip them
• Speak up early — tell your trek leader at the first sign of symptoms. Early intervention prevents escalation

Diamox is a prescription medication that helps the body acclimatise faster. It is sometimes prescribed for treks above 14,000 ft or for trekkers with a history of AMS.

Do not self-prescribe Diamox. Consult a doctor before your trek. It has side effects (frequent urination, tingling in hands/feet) and is contraindicated for people allergic to sulpha drugs.

For most beginner and moderate treks, proper hydration and a paced ascent are more effective than any medication. Diamox is not a substitute for correct acclimatisation.

Trekkaro trek leaders carry oxygen cylinders and emergency medications on all high-altitude treks for use in genuine emergencies.

On all Trekkaro treks, our protocol for severe AMS is:

• Immediate oxygen support via portable oxygen cylinder (carried on all high-altitude treks)
• Emergency descent — we immediately send the affected trekker down with a guide and support staff
• Stretcher evacuation to the nearest motorable road if the trekker cannot walk
• 108 ambulance coordination for transfer to the nearest hospital
• Helicopter rescue arranged for life-threatening situations in coordination with state forest departments

Trek leaders conduct daily health checks (pulse oximetry, BP, oxygen saturation) to catch AMS early before it escalates.

Mobile network availability depends on the trek and the route. Most Himalayan treks lose network connectivity from the first or second day on trail — particularly in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

BSNL generally has the best coverage on Himalayan trails among Indian operators. Jio works in some valleys.

Before departing: inform your family of the full itinerary and expected return date. They should not panic if they don't hear from you for 5–6 days. Trekkaro trek coordinators maintain updates at base camp and relay information when trekkers return to network range.

Trekking in India with a registered, experienced operator is very safe. The vast majority of incidents on Himalayan treks happen to solo trekkers or people trekking with under-equipped operators.

Trekkaro's safety protocols:

• 1 trained trek leader per 8 trekkers
• Wilderness First Aid trained staff on every batch
• Pulse oximeters, oxygen cylinders, and medical kits on all high-altitude treks
• Daily health checks for every trekker
• Pre-trek medical form assessment
• Evacuation protocols and emergency contact chain

The mountains are powerful and must be respected — but with proper preparation and a reliable team, Himalayan trekking is an extraordinarily safe adventure.

Yes — trekking with Trekkaro is safe for solo women, and over 30% of our trekkers are women travelling alone. The group dynamic of an organised trek is inherently safe — you're never truly alone on trail or at camp.

• Tents are gender-segregated
• Toilet tents provide privacy at camp
• Trek leaders enforce a zero-tolerance code of conduct
• WhatsApp batch groups let you connect with fellow women trekkers before departure

Many solo women choose their second and third treks specifically because of the community aspect — group treks are one of the best ways to travel independently while remaining safe.

All Trekkaro trek leaders are:

• Trained in Wilderness First Aid — capable of managing AMS, fractures, hypothermia, and other mountain emergencies
• Certified by recognised mountaineering institutes
• Experienced on that specific trail (not generic guides)
• Equipped with pulse oximeters, medical kits, oxygen cylinders, and emergency communication devices

Trek leaders conduct daily health checks, manage pace for the group, brief trekkers each evening about the next day's terrain, and make the call to descend if any trekker's health is at risk.

Travel/trek insurance is mandatory on every Trekkaro trek and is not included in the trek price. Your policy should cover:

• Emergency helicopter evacuation (costs can be significant)
• Medical treatment at hill hospitals
• Trip cancellation due to illness or injury

Look for a policy that explicitly covers high-altitude trekking above 4,000 metres — standard travel insurance often excludes altitude-related emergencies. Companies like Bajaj Allianz, ICICI Lombard, and Care Health offer adventure-specific policies.

Please buy your policy before the trek and carry a copy; your trek leader will ask for it at the base camp.

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Trekkaro trek leaders continuously monitor weather conditions and have the authority to modify routes, descend early, or cancel summit attempts in the interest of safety.

If a trek is cancelled by Trekkaro before departure due to extreme weather, natural events or government restrictions, you receive a TrekCash Voucher for the full trek fee, valid for 12 months.

Once a trek has started (from Day 1 of the itinerary), no refund or TrekCash Voucher is issued — including early exit for weather, illness or safety reasons, as set out in our cancellation terms.

Trek food is hot, freshly cooked at camp, and better than most first-timers expect. A typical day on trail:

• Early morning (5–6 AM): Bed tea / hot water
• Breakfast (6:30–7:30 AM): Poha, paranthas, oats porridge, bread with butter/jam, hot tea/coffee (boiled eggs on request)
• Trail lunch (packed): Sandwiches, lemon rice, pulao, or paranthas with pickle
• Evening snack at camp: Hot soup, biscuits, popcorn, peanuts
• Dinner: Dal, rice or roti, sabzi, pickle — plus a dessert or kheer on summit/special nights

Meals are hot, vegetarian, and calorie-dense — designed for the energy demands of altitude trekking. Eggs are available on request at the campsite.

All Trekkaro trek meals are vegetarian. This is the universally practical choice at altitude — vegetarian food is lighter to digest, easier to cook, and safer to store in mountain conditions.

Eggs are available on request at the campsite. No other non-vegetarian food is served on trek.

For specific dietary needs (vegan, diabetic, Jain, or severe allergies), mention these at booking. We will do our best to accommodate. However, at high altitude with limited kitchen facilities, options are limited — it's best to carry personal snacks for specific requirements.

Water on Himalayan trails comes from glacial streams, natural springs, and rivers — it is generally pure at high altitude, far from human settlements. However, never drink untreated water directly from streams in areas near campsites, as upstream contamination is possible.

Trekkaro provides boiled/purified water at campsites — hot water in the morning for filling bottles before the day's trek. Carry water purification tablets as backup for mid-trail refills from clear glacial streams.

Yes — packing a small personal snack bag for the trail is highly recommended. Useful trail snacks:

• Energy bars (Snickers, Clif, or similar)
• Dry fruits and nuts (almonds, raisins, dates, cashews)
• Dark chocolate (quick energy + morale booster at altitude)
• Glucose biscuits
• ORS sachets (one per day — replenishes electrolytes lost through sweating)

Keep trail snacks easily accessible in the top pocket of your backpack — you don't want to unpack everything on a steep section to find a chocolate bar.

Alcohol is not permitted on Trekkaro treks. At altitude, alcohol dehydrates the body, impairs acclimatisation, reduces blood oxygen levels, and significantly increases AMS risk. Even one drink at altitude has the effect of two at sea level. It also impairs judgment in situations that require clear thinking.

Smoking is also strongly discouraged. It reduces lung capacity precisely when your body needs maximum oxygen absorption. Smoking in or near tents, camp kitchens, or in forests is strictly prohibited.

Always carry the originals (not photocopies) of:

• Government photo ID: Aadhaar card, Voter ID, PAN card, Driving Licence, or Passport
• Booking confirmation (email screenshot or printout)
• Medical declaration form (filled and submitted before departure)

Many forest check-posts collect and retain a copy — carry 2 photocopies of your ID. Keep a soft copy on your phone as a backup. Foreign nationals also need a valid Indian tourist visa and passport.

Most Himalayan treks require a Forest Department entry permit — this is obtained by the operator on behalf of the trekking group. Trekkaro handles all permit arrangements for every trek. You just need to carry your original ID.

Treks inside National Parks (e.g., Valley of Flowers, Govind National Park) additionally require National Park entry fees, which are included in your Trekkaro package.

Some specific treks (e.g., Rupin Pass in Himachal) require permits from the District Forest Officer — arranged by Trekkaro 7–10 days before the trek.

Inner Line Permits (ILP) are required for treks near sensitive border areas. Key areas requiring ILPs:

• Ladakh: Nubra Valley, Pangong, Tso Moriri area treks
• Arunachal Pradesh: All treks (Indian citizens need ILP; foreign nationals need Protected Area Permit)
• Parts of Himachal Pradesh: Kinnaur-Spiti border belt treks (Lamkhaga, Borasu Pass)
• Parts of J&K / Kashmir: Specific border-adjacent routes

For all Trekkaro treks requiring ILPs, we arrange them well in advance. Processing typically takes 7–21 days depending on the region. We'll notify you of any ILP requirements when you book.

Foreign nationals need:

• A valid Indian tourist visa (e-tourist visa available for most nationalities)
• Passport (original to be carried throughout)
• For border-area treks: Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Restricted Area Permit (RAP) — arranged by Trekkaro with minimum 21 days advance notice

Forest permit fees for foreign nationals may be higher than Indian nationals on some trails — the difference is factored into the trek pricing at booking.

Email us at info@trekkaro.com well in advance for any international booking to ensure all permit logistics are handled correctly.

A self-declaration medical form is mandatory for all trekkers — this is submitted online after booking. It covers existing medical conditions, medications, allergies, and emergency contact details. This information is used by trek leaders for health monitoring on trail.

A doctor's fitness certificate is required for:

• Trekkers above 60 years on moderate/difficult treks
• Anyone with heart conditions, uncontrolled BP, diabetes, or recent surgery
• Trekkers above 55 on difficult high-altitude treks

This is not bureaucracy — it is for your safety. Trek leaders use this information to make critical decisions on trail.

Trek pricing varies by trek, duration, and season. Visit the individual trek page for the current price of any specific trek.

Trekkaro price includes: All meals on trek, accommodation (tents/guesthouses), permits, trek leader and support staff, all trekking gear completely free. Travel insurance is not included and is mandatory.

Not included: Travel to/from base camp, personal medication, extra personal expenses.

Yes — Trekkaro offers EMI starting at ₹386/month, making Himalayan trekking accessible regardless of your budget. EMI is available via select credit cards at checkout.

We accept: UPI (GPay, PhonePe, Paytm), Credit/Debit Cards, Net Banking, and Wallets. Cash and cheque payments are not accepted.

For international payments, contact us at info@trekkaro.com and we'll set up a suitable payment link.

For groups of 10 or more, Trekkaro offers special group pricing — contact us at +91-805 7654321 or info@trekkaro.com before booking to discuss group rates.

For smaller groups, our Refer & Earn programme rewards you for every friend you refer who books a trek — check the Refer & Earn page for current offers.

Standard exclusions from all Trekkaro trek packages:

• Travel to and from the trek base camp (train, bus, or cab to the starting point)
• Accommodation before and after the trek (pre and post-trek nights)
• Personal medication and personal first aid
• Meals before and after the trek (outside trek days)
• Personal expenses (tips, souvenirs, snacks purchased enroute)
• Costs due to weather-related delays, road blockages, or unforeseen circumstances

Check your specific trek's Inclusions & Exclusions section on the trek page for exact details.

ATMs are generally unavailable beyond the nearest hill town to the base camp. Key last ATM points:

• Uttarakhand treks: Dehradun, Rishikesh, or Uttarkashi depending on route
• Himachal treks: Shimla, Manali, or Rampur
• Kashmir treks: Srinagar

Withdraw cash at the last major town before heading to base camp. On trek, you don't need cash — all Trekkaro services are pre-included. Carry a small amount of cash for personal extras (mineral water, phone charges at base, tips for support staff).

Yes — Trekkaro provides free cloakroom storage at the base camp for one bag per trekker. This is ideal for city clothes, laptop bags, suitcases, and anything you don't need on trail.

Your luggage is safely stored and returned to you on your return to base camp. Additional bags may be charged extra — confirm with your trek coordinator.

Booked on trekkaro.com? Cancel from My Bookings → Cancel Booking, and choose a refund or a TrekCash Voucher. Booked offline with our team? E-mail info@trekkaro.com from your registered e-mail ID with your tax invoice attached.

• 30 days or more before departure: 70% refund (30% cancellation charge)
• 15–29 days before departure: 50% refund (50% cancellation charge)
• Within 14 days, or no-show: no refund

Rather not lose anything? Any time until 7 days before departure you can reschedule to another batch for free (once per booking, subject to seat availability), transfer your booking to another trekker, or take a TrekCash Voucher worth 100% of what you paid, valid for 1 year — whichever refund slab would otherwise apply. Online bookings get the voucher instantly in My Bookings. Full details: Terms & Conditions, Section 09.

If Trekkaro has to cancel a trek because of circumstances beyond our control — extreme snowfall, avalanche risk, floods, landslides, earthquakes, or government curfews, lockdowns and other civil restrictions — you receive a TrekCash Voucher for the full trek fee paid.

• Valid for 12 months on any trek listed on Trekkaro.com
• Sent to your registered e-mail within 10 working days
• Can be transferred to another person who meets the trek's eligibility requirements

If the new trek costs more than the voucher, you pay the difference. See Terms, Section 09.

Yes — rescheduling to another batch is free, once per booking, up to 7 days before departure, subject to seat availability (not available for bookings paid with a TrekCash Voucher). Booked online? Go to My Bookings → Reschedule free and pick your new batch. Booked offline? Write to info@trekkaro.com with your booking details and preferred batch.

Can't find a batch that suits you? Take a TrekCash Voucher worth 100% of what you paid (valid 1 year) instead — online bookings can do this instantly from My Bookings → Cancel Booking.

Refunds are processed within 10 working days of cancellation approval and go back to the original payment method only (card, net banking, UPI or wallet). Your bank may take another 3–5 business days to show it.

Office hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM IST.

Kedarkantha (12,500 ft / 3,810 m) is an Easy-Moderate trek — India's most popular winter snow trek and an excellent first Himalayan experience. The trek covers 20 km over 6 days with 4–6 hours of walking per day.

Best time: December–February for deep snow (3–6 ft on trail), March–April for fresh snow + clear views. Autumn (Oct–Nov) offers snow-free trails with stunning summit views.

Fitness required: Walk 5 km brisk daily for 3–4 weeks before. Run 3 km in under 25 minutes for a comfortable experience.

Rupin Pass (15,250 ft / 4,650 m) is a Moderate-Difficult trek — not suitable for first-time trekkers. The highlight is the famous three-tier Rupin Waterfall and a challenging snow gully climb to the pass.

Best time: May–June (snow bridges, waterfalls at peak), September–October (post-monsoon autumn).

Experience required: At least one prior moderate high-altitude trek. Must be able to run 5 km in 30 minutes. Strong core and leg fitness essential for the steep gully climb.

Har Ki Dun (11,700 ft / 3,566 m) is an Easy-Moderate trek and one of India's most beautiful valley treks. It passes through ancient villages (Osla, Gangad) where people still follow traditions dating back to the Mahabharata.

Best time: April–June (spring, rhododendrons in bloom), September–November (autumn, clear skies). December–March for snow.

It's an excellent choice for families with teenagers, first-timers who want cultural immersion alongside mountain scenery, and anyone who prefers walking through valleys over high-altitude exposed passes.

Roopkund (15,700 ft / 4,785 m) — the famous "Skeleton Lake" trek — is rated Difficult. It is not suitable for beginners. The trek involves long daily walks of 8–10 hours, high-altitude snow sections, and a steep final ascent to the lake.

Best time: May–June and September–October.

Requirements: At least 2 prior Himalayan treks (including one above 12,000 ft). Must be able to run 5 km in under 30 minutes. Crampon experience helpful.

Valley of Flowers (11,800 ft / 3,600 m) is a Moderate trek and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The valley blooms between mid-July and mid-August — this is the only window to see its famous 500+ species of wildflowers. The trek is not available other months.

The trek is done during monsoon — trails are muddy and it rains most days. Rain gear and waterproof shoes are essential. Despite the weather, it is one of the most visually spectacular treks in India.

Hampta Pass (14,065 ft / 4,287 m) is a Moderate trek that crosses from the lush Kullu valley to the stark desert landscape of Lahaul — one of the most dramatic landscape transitions in the Himalayas.

Best time: June–July (snow on the pass) and September–October (clear weather, post-monsoon).

The pass crossing day is long (8–9 hours) and strenuous. The trail is technical with a steep ascent to the pass and a descent into Lahaul. Combined with Chandratal Lake, this is one of the most rewarding moderate treks in India.

Brahmatal (12,250 ft / 3,734 m) is one of India's best-kept winter secrets — an Easy-Moderate trek perfect for first-timers wanting a snow experience. The trail passes through oak and rhododendron forests before emerging onto snowfields with views of Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.

Best time: December–February for frozen lake and deep snow. March for fresh snow with longer daylight.

Unlike Kedarkantha (which gets very crowded), Brahmatal offers a more peaceful, uncrowded experience with equally spectacular views.

Dayara Bugyal (12,000 ft / 3,658 m) is one of the most beautiful alpine meadow treks in India — vast open grasslands with 360° views of peaks including Bandarpunch, Kala Nag, and Srikanth.

It is Easy in difficulty, suitable for families with children (8+), seniors, and first-time trekkers. The gradual ascent through dense forests to the meadow is particularly stunning in April–May when rhododendrons are in full bloom.

Best time: April–June (blooming flowers) and October–November (clear autumn views). December–February offers 4–6 ft of snow on the meadow for a winter wonderland experience.

At Trekkaro camps: dedicated toilet tents are set up at each campsite — these are pit toilets that are cleaned and relocated after each use. They provide privacy.

On trail (between camps): you relieve yourself in the open, away from water sources, trails, and tent areas. Always bury waste and carry back all tissue paper — biodegradable bags are provided.

Bathing: Full baths are not possible on the trail (no hot water facilities at altitude). You can use wet wipes for basic hygiene. At the base camp, warm water may be available for a basic wash. This is true across all operators — not a Trekkaro-specific limitation.

Most Trekkaro batches have 10–18 trekkers, and never more than 20. Smaller groups get more personalised attention; larger groups create a more social experience. We cap batch sizes to ensure the trek leader can give adequate attention to each trekker's health and pace.

Each batch has: 1 trek leader, 1 assistant guide, kitchen/support staff, and mules/porters for central luggage. The leader-to-trekker ratio is maintained at 1:8 maximum.

Central camp luggage (sleeping bags, tents, kitchen equipment) is carried by mules or porters on most Trekkaro treks — you only carry a day pack (10–12 kg) with your personal items.

Personal backpack offloading (a mule or porter carrying your day pack) is available on some treks at an additional charge. This is recommended only for trekkers with injuries, physical limitations, or senior trekkers.

We encourage all trekkers to carry their own daypack — it improves your fitness, builds confidence, and is the right spirit of trekking.

Tents are shared between 2 trekkers of the same gender. Couples/friends travelling together can request to share the same tent at booking.

Trekkaro uses high-quality mountaineering tents designed for wind, rain, and sub-zero temperatures. Sleeping bags rated for -10°C are provided.

Keep shoes outside the tent porch and your backpack at the tent entrance to maximise sleeping space. Tents become cosy quickly — and shared body warmth is actually an advantage on cold nights!

Transportation to and from the base camp is generally not included in the Trekkaro trek fee (check your specific trek page). However, Trekkaro organises shared cab bookings from the nearest major city/railhead to the base camp — you can book this through your trek coordinator at standard rates.

Shared cab pickups typically depart at 5–6 AM from city pickup points and arrive at base camp by evening. Return drops reach the city by 7–9 PM on the last day.

Plan your train/flight to arrive the evening before your trek departure date — never on the morning of Day 1. Delays are common on mountain roads.

Yes — you can absolutely trek during your period. Physical activity at altitude does not worsen menstrual health for most women. Many women find their cycle is lighter or delayed at high altitude.

Practical tips:

• Menstrual cups are ideal for trek — no waste to carry, no disposal issues, lasts all day
• If using pads/tampons, carry a sealed ziplock to pack out all used products — do NOT bury them as animals dig them up
• Carry extra pain relief (Meftal-Spas or Ibuprofen) as cramps can feel worse with physical exertion
• Inform your trek leader discreetly if you need slower pacing on that day — there is no judgment

Camp safety is a priority on all Trekkaro treks:

• Women's tents are grouped together and positioned centrally in the campsite, not at the perimeter
• Dedicated toilet tents for women are set up at each camp
• Trek leaders maintain a presence at camp throughout the night
• A strict code of conduct is briefed to all trekkers before departure — any inappropriate behaviour results in immediate removal from the trek

At Trekkaro, women — whether solo or in groups — consistently report feeling safe and comfortable throughout the trek. The community spirit of group trekking is itself a significant safety buffer.

On most Trekkaro batches, women make up 30–50% of the group. It is rare to be the only woman in a batch, particularly during popular trek seasons.

You can see who else is in your batch via the WhatsApp group that's created post-booking — many solo women connect with other women in their batch before Day 1, creating a buddy before even reaching base camp.

Trekkaro has female trek leaders and female support staff on several batches. If having a female leader is important to you, mention it at booking — we'll do our best to assign a female trek leader batch, subject to availability.

All our trek leaders — regardless of gender — are trained to the same standard and hold the same safety certifications. Many solo women trekkers find that male trek leaders are equally attentive and professional in handling any gender-specific concerns with discretion.

Yes — age is not the barrier; fitness and health are. Many of our most inspiring trekkers are in their 60s.

Recommended for 55+ trekkers: Easy treks — Nag Tibba, Dayara Bugyal, Har Ki Dun, Chopta Chandrashila (moderate).

Requirements: A doctor's fitness certificate is required for trekkers above 55 on moderate/difficult treks. A Treadmill Test (TMT) report may be required for treks above 13,000 ft for those above 60.

Inform your trek coordinator of your age and health status at booking — we'll assign you to a batch with an appropriate pace and a trek leader who can give you extra attention.

Children above 8 years can join easy treks accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children between 8–14 must have a parent/guardian present throughout the trek.

Best treks for families with children:

• Nag Tibba (2 days) — ideal first family trek
• Dayara Bugyal (5 days) — gentle meadow trek
• Chopta–Chandrashila (4 days) — manageable for fit children above 10

Children should be able to walk 3–5 km comfortably without assistance. Avoid high-altitude treks (above 12,000 ft) for children below 10 — their bodies acclimatise less predictably than adults.

Western Ghats treks are typically low-altitude, humid, and dense forest trails — very different from high-altitude Himalayan treks where oxygen is lower and terrain more exposed. Start with an easy Himalayan trek first.

Best options for parents new to the Himalayas:

• Nag Tibba (2 days, 9,915 ft) — short enough to test altitude response
• Dayara Bugyal (5 days, 12,000 ft) — gradual ascent, beautiful meadows, not too demanding
• Har Ki Dun (6 days, 11,700 ft) — valley trek, minimal altitude gain, culturally rich

Avoid Kedarkantha or higher treks for the first Himalayan experience with seniors — let the body acclimatise first on a shorter, lower-altitude trek.

A Treadmill Test (TMT) — also called a cardiac stress test — is a cardiological examination that checks how your heart responds to sustained physical exertion. It identifies underlying cardiac conditions that may not be apparent at rest.

Trekkaro requires a TMT report for:

• Trekkers above 60 on treks above 13,000 ft
• Anyone above 55 with a history of cardiac conditions or uncontrolled hypertension

A TMT is conducted by a cardiologist at any major hospital and takes about 30–45 minutes. Get it done within 3 months before your trek date. A normal TMT report clears you for most Himalayan treks.

Trekkaro follows strict Leave No Trace principles on all treks:

• Zero single-use plastic — trekkers are briefed before departure. No plastic water bottles or wrappers on trail
• Carry in, carry out — all waste (including organic waste) is carried back to base and disposed of responsibly
• No washing or cooking near water sources — camps are set up at a minimum 30-metre distance from streams and lakes
• Pit toilets at camp — properly covered and relocated each day
• No wood fires on most high-altitude treks — cooking is done on gas stoves

The Himalayas are facing a serious waste crisis. Every trekker's choices matter — we take this responsibility seriously.

Drones: Many trekking areas in Uttarakhand, Himachal, Ladakh, and Kashmir are near defence-sensitive zones where drones are prohibited without prior permission from the DGCA and local district administration. Operating a drone without permission on these trails is illegal and can result in confiscation. Check DGCA rules for the specific area before bringing one.

Professional cameras: Permitted on all Trekkaro treks. Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks may have specific restrictions on commercial photography — inform us if you're shooting for commercial purposes.

Carry extra batteries and a power bank — no charging facilities are available on trail.

Wildlife encounters on Himalayan treks are a possibility and generally a highlight — Himalayan monal pheasants, musk deer, bharal (blue sheep), and sometimes Himalayan black bears are seen on forest trails. Leopards are present but rarely seen.

Key safety practices:

• Trek in groups — don't stray from the trail alone
• Don't carry or dispose food carelessly at camp — this attracts bears and rodents
• Never approach or try to feed any wildlife
• If you encounter a bear, stay calm, back away slowly without running, and make yourself look large

Trekkaro trek leaders are trained to handle wildlife encounters. Dangerous incidents are extremely rare on popular trails.