I love to trek to the huge mountains, forts and the fascinating dense forests. Your destination must depend on your taste and reasoning. Reasoning means where you wish to go and for what reason you wish to go? Whether you wish to just relax or go on an adventurous trip.
There are some basic principles which you can follow to make your trekking experience memorable. Firstly decide on where you wish to go and for what long you wish to stay outdoors, a whole week, a weekend or only a day. This will help you for further preparations. The duration of the trek will decide how many equipment you have to carry with you.
Fitness is very essential element when you decide on a walking holiday. Before a trek you have to train yourself and get fit. You have to test your mental and physical ability before you decide on a trek. A right attitude and determination are very essential elements when you want to trek. Based on your ability, attitude and determination you can decide the degree of challenge you are ready to face. Always keep in mind that when you are on a long trek, there will be little or no transport to return to civilization.
A trek is totally different from a hike. A hike is a walk in the outdoors for a day or two and the path or trail in a hike is well-defined whereas a trek requires a demanding walk and the path or trail may or may not be defined. While you are on a trek often the surroundings are unknown and the trails are uncertain. You would require a map and a compass to navigate if you are on a trek. So whenever you assess yourself be practical and realistic. Also include members in your group wisely.
A trek can be divided into three general grades easy, moderate and difficult. These grades can differ depending on the fitness level and willingness of people. What one person finds easy may be difficult for the other. Thus easy, moderate and difficult are relative terms which can change from person to person. Along with the distance the difficulty level of a trek is dependent on the kind of topography, elevation and ascents. Moreover weather is another important factor. A trek can be easy in winter but you can face challenges in summer. All treks cannot be done in a given season. Some treks are possible in summer and some in winter. Not all treks can be done throughout the year.
An easy trek has well-defined tracks and are not very physically challenging. They are just for fun and relaxation. Moreover they are near to civilization and you can return back easily if need arises. Basic food and assistance from locals are usually easily available. Anybody who walks regularly and is generally in good shape can attempt an easy trek.
In case of moderate treks you have to push yourself a little beyond your comfort zone. The terrains are narrower and more demanding. They require significant amount of uphill walking and a little bit of climbing even though not technical climbing. While on a moderate trek you are away from civilization with no easy escape routes. On many moderate treks you may need to be independent with respect to food, water and other emergency supplies like medicines and first aid. Only walking would not be enough for a moderate trek. Exercising along with walking can help you to build stamina and strength for a moderate trek. Some training is required if you wish to opt for a moderate trek.
Tough or challenging treks are those which require extremely high energy levels and stamina. They require great fitness, training and prior experience of trekking. These treks are not for the inexperienced or the beginners. These treks require long uphill walks in difficult environments and conditions. They demand your stamina and determination. The area is mostly inaccessible and deserted therefore the trekkers need to be self-supporting and ready to face harsh conditions. The trekkers may have to walk on ice or through water; they may have to face strong winds and rain or extreme cold or heat depending on the weather.
