Clothing:

In all mountain areas you should be prepared for inclement weather. On the other hand, excessive clothing takes some of the simple delight out of the trekking and it can also be very expensive. A sturdy pair of boots is always recommended, as is a good wind-and waterproof jacket and a comfortable backpack which is adequate for your needs. An invaluable extra is a sturdy walking stick - useful on muddy trails and for warding off over-friendly shepherd dogs.

If you are traveling exclusively in the Himalaya and are not prepared to carry huge quantities of trekking gear around all the time, you can practically equip yourself in Kathmandu by hiring or purchasing. A pair of shorts and comfortable long trousers, Raw wool pullovers, long johns, string vests, gloves, socks, and balaclavas can be purchased in Kathmandu.

Clothing Checklist

Walking Boots: These are the most important item when considering your trekking gear. Boots must give good angle support and have a sole flexible enough to meet the anticipated walking conditions. A sole fitted with a three-quarter length shank is not necessary unless you intend to tackle extensive snow and glacial terrain. Ensure that your boots are well walked-in beforehand, and don't forget to bring spare laces and some waterproofing application such as Dubbin.

Jacket: Unless you have a very tight budges it is worthwhile investing in a top range Gortex jacket. This will serve your needs in the Himalaya.

Down Vest: Recommended for those chilly mornings. If you already have a full down jacket then there is no harm in bringing it along, although the temperatures on your trek are seldom likely to call for its use, unless you really feel the cold.

Wool Shirt or Pullover: A thick woollen shirt is worth its weight in gold. This is an item that does not cost the earth but can contribute greatly to your total wellbeing. As an alternative, raw wool pullovers can be purchased locally in Kathmandu.

Breeches: A pair of woollen walking breeches is ideal. Ex-army woolen pants are another option. Pile trousers provide a satisfactory alternative, or even track suit bottoms if you are not likely to be going above 3500 meter. A lighter pair of reinforced cotton ex-army pants is also a useful item. Jeans are totally unsuitable in wet conditions.

Over Trousers: A strong nylon pair is indispensable in wet weather.

Shorts: Ideal for most trekking, although they should not be worn in villages, monasteries or other places were they may cause offence to the locals.

Shirts: T-shirts are OK, but include some cotton shirts with collar and sleeves to give much-needed protection in the sun. Ex-army shirts with plenty of pockets are ideal.

Thermal Underwear: Both the vest and bottoms can make a significant difference to comfort. A double layered vest is especially recommended, particularly if you are unsure of the adequacy of your sleeping bag. Also include a normal quality of regular underwear for the trek.

Gloves & Balaclava: Both items can be purchased locally in Kathmandu. A balaclava is particularly important as considerable body heat is lost through the head.

Socks: A sufficient supply of thick and thin pairs should be taken. Use cotton inner socks and woollen outer socks when on the trail.

Sandshoes: For campsites and days when you have blisters.

Sunhat: Absolutely essential.

Tracksuit: A bit of luxury for sitting in the mess tent in the evening

Snow Gaiters: Recommended, especially during the early part of the season when there is likely to be snow on the passes.

Snow Goggles/Sunglasses: Good quality snow or ski goggles are necessary to combat the side glare on the snow. Even if you are not actually walking on snow, the side glare from snow on the ridges can make goggles necessary. For non-snow conditions sunglasses are adequate. Back to top

EQUIPMENT

Hold all: A strong duffel bag or hold all is necessary for carrying your gear on the packhorses. The bag should be large enough to contain all your personal gear.

Stuff Bags: To protect your clothes from elements you should bring a few stuff bags, as most hold alls are not totally waterproof. Strong plastic bags are an ideal alternative.

Backpack: Internal frame backpacks are ideal for longer walks. Ensure that the sack is large enough to carry your toilet gear, camera, waterproof jacket and sweater, as the packhorses may not be at hand during a sudden change of weather. It is not recommended to bring a large backpack as a means of packing gear onto horses, as the condition of the backpack will deteriorate rapidly after a few weeks of rough treatment by over-zealous horse handlers.

Water Bottle: An aluminum or ex-army make is recommended, although plastic bottles can be purchased locally.

Swiss Army Knife: The pride of any shepherd's possessions, and always useful for peeling fruit and opening tins; one with a small screwdriver is invaluable for carrying out camera repairs.

Torch (Flashlight) & Candles: Available in Kathmandu. but don't forget spare batteries and bulbs.

Umbrella: For the rain, and shielding yourself from the sun; also handy when making discrete calls of nature. Available locally.

Miscellaneous: Toiletries, toilet paper, waterproof matches, sun block, towel, laundry soap, sewing kit, safety pins, and length of cord, and some small plastic bags to carry toilet paper and litter until you can dispose of it properly.

Optional Extras: Altimeter, compass, binoculars, notebook and pens