While trekking in the Himalayan region is spectacular at any time of the year, traversing its rugged terrain powdered by silvery snow is simply magical. Sure, the experience may be a tad difficult due to the sub-zero temperatures, but a winter trek is nothing short of memorable. The vibrant blue hues of the sky, the silence of snowfall, the bare beauty of the valleys and the sheer delight of playing with snow all contribute to an exhilarating adventure. That said, careful planning and the right equipment are necessary to ensure safety and wellbeing. No matter which winter trek in India you choose to go on, make sure you have the following essentials for hiking and being warm in the snow.

　　Things To Pack For A Winter Trek In India

　　Clothing

　　Trekkers must pack and wear layers of clothing as fluctuating temperatures and snowfall severity in the mountains are unpredictable. Make a check-list of the following items to carry with you:

　　Thermal shirts that have moisture-wicking abilities

　　Thermal tights for chilly evenings and nights. If you wear them on the actual hike, they will get sweaty and take a while to dry.

　　Waterproof trekking trousers for the winter

　　Sweaters with mid-weight fleece

　　Softshell jackets

　　Padded waterproof jacket

　　Several pairs of long trekking socks made of wool

　　Woollen caps as 40–60 per cent of body heat escapes from the head

　　Waterproof gloves

　　Neckerchiefs or scarves

　　Multiple t-shirts

　　Multiple undergarments

　　Backpack

　　Make sure your backpack fits well, is neither too big nor too tiny and that it has enough room inside it (60–70 litres) to accommodate everything you need for a week-long hike. Bring along a rain cover and ensure the backpack is well-supported on your hips and shoulders and that the pockets are easily accessible.

　　Shoes

　　In order to keep your feet dry, waterproof trekking shoes are essential. Walking on damp socks can be quite painful, as anyone who has done it knows. It is possible for your feet to become wet from walking in snow or water, so ensure that your shoes are waterproof and reach your ankles. Additionally, ensure that there is no room for water to flow in and that your shoes are well sealed. Use waterproofing spray on the shoes if they are partially waterproof. You may also need to look into buying or hiring gaiters—which cover the vulnerable tops of your footwear to fully protect your feet from the elements—and microspikes, which are traction devices designed to enhance grip and stability while walking or hiking on icy or slippery surfaces.

　　Sunglasses

　　Wearing sunglasses helps avoid snow blindness. Even a brief overexposure of 30 minutes to direct sunlight on snow might cause snow blindness on any Himalayan trip. This is because the fallen snow acts as hundreds of mirrors, reflecting ultraviolet (UV) light. Wear UV-blocking sunglasses when trekking through open areas like meadows if the day is sunny and bright. Always wait to remove them until the entire snowy portion has been traversed.

　　Steer clear of sunglasses with side apertures and go for wraparound styles instead. Exposure to even a small amount of UV radiation is not advised. If you already wear spectacles, buy oversized sunglasses that you can wear over your regular glasses. If that is cumbersome, photochromic lenses work equally well. Those who regularly wear contact lenses can wear their sunglasses over them.

　　First Aid Kit

　　The medicines listed below are commonplace before embarking on an adventure trip. Nevertheless, please see your doctor beforehand or check with your tour operator about what you can bring with you.

　　Water syringe or antiseptic cloth to wipe wounds

　　A butterfly bandage for minor cuts

　　Sterile gauze pad and bandages (elastic for bigger wounds, as well as cotton)

　　Latex gloves if the wound is bleeding

　　Medication for upset stomach (diarrhoea)

　　Medication for fever, flu and cold headaches

　　Prescription painkillers

　　Oral rehydration salts (ORS) pouches

　　Fast-acting pain relief spray for external application

　　Any personal medication that your physician has prescribed

　　Dimox or similar for high-altitude sickness

　　Insect repellent

　　Non-alcoholic beverages and energy bars

　　Extra Tips

　　One thing to keep in mind is that trekking in winter is a grade tougher than trekking in other seasons. For example, a Himalayan trek that is easy to moderate in spring and summer becomes a moderately difficult trek in winter. Thus, you must be physically fit to attempt a hike in the Himalayan winter. Work on your cardiovascular endurance and muscular stamina at least two to three months in advance by running, strength training, rucking (walking with weight on your back) and doing yoga for mobility. Besides this, here are a few more pointers to take note of:

　　Pack a quick-dry travel towel

　　Use a walking stick, especially for parts of the hike that are downhill

　　A comfortable zero-degree sleeping bag and hot tent

　　While they are not required, some hikers have discovered that emergency blankets and sleeping bag liners are helpful

　　A thermos flask to keep water warm

　　Petroleum jelly for dry skin and lips

　　Steel cutlery that can be reused again and again and is easy to wash