Frequently Asked Questions:
If you are thinking about taking your first trip with Sherpa Society Trekking & Mountaineering, you probably have a lot of questions. After all our journeys are very different from standard tours offered by less experienced companies. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about our trips.

How many miles do we walk per day?
This varies with each trip, of course. In the mountains, we measure treks in hours, rather than miles. On most treks, we hike from 4 to 6 hours per day, with a lunch break of 1 to 2 hours during the day.

We encourage you to walk at your own pace. There is no need to keep up with others during the days hike. There will be a guide at the back of the group to make sure you arrive safely to camp at all times. We know that much of the fun of trekking is maintaining a comfortable pace, which will allow you to fully enjoy and appreciate surroundings.

What kind of clothing and foot ware do I have to bring?
You probably have everything right in your closet. For most trips we encourage "layering" your clothes to allow for changeable weather conditions. You will need to bring a combination of regular hiking clothes such as long, loose fitting slacks, shorts, T-shirts, long sleeve shirts, sweaters, long thermal underwear and a down parka or vest and light to medium weight hiking boots. We will provide you with a detailed equipment list when you sign up fro your adventure of a lifetime.

While camping, what are bathroom facilities like? How will I bathe?
Camping toilets: On our trips, staff members dig a latrine a convenient and hygienic distance from our camp and put a small tent around it for privacy. The breakfast the next morning when you head off on the trail. While on the trail during the day, you'll soon get adept at finding a private place in the bushes when nature calls.

Bathing and washing: You'll be provided with hot "washing water" each morning to use for taking a sponge bath inside your tent and for washing you clothes. You will also be provided with hand washing water before each meal. Some trekkers enjoy bathing and washing there clothes in the rivers near camp, just like locals.

Do I have to carry a backpack?
No but, you will have to carry your daypack containing your water bottle, camera, an extra sweater, sunglasses and a rain coat or windbreaker. Porters, pack animals, or vehicles carry all of the other expedition gear.

Am I in good enough shape for a trekking holiday?
If you are in good health and enjoy regular exercise such as jogging, tennis, or even long walks, we have a trip designed for you. The most important consideration is a positive attitude. If you're not sure you do, call us and we will be happy to help you select the appropriate trip.

Can I handle high altitude?
We have had 3 decades of experience with treks at high altitude, and know hot to pace a trek or climb. Each person reacts to altitude differently, so it is difficult to predict how you will do. But in general, with the careful pacing of our trips, allowing proper time for acclimatization most people adapt well. The potential problems with high altitude sickness stems from people going too high too fast. We make sure this doesn't happen. Ensuring you a memorable and comfortable holiday.

What will the weather be like on the trip?
In mountain regions, daytime hiking temperatures generally range from 10 degrees to 21 degrees Celsius. (Night time temperatures drop down to between 12.2 degreees to 4.4 degrees Celsius. Night time temperatures can be colder than this at high altitudes). Temperatures also depend on the season you will be trekking!

Since we carefully schedule trips to coincide with the ideal season to visit a particular area, we do our best to assure you "good" weather. Unfortunately, Mother Nature always has the final say. We are happy to answer you weather question on an individual basis, to advise for specific areas and seasons.

What is the food like? How is the water purified?
The food on our camping trips are as varied as the trips themselves. You can be assured that it will be tasty and nutritious. Our specially trained camp cooks will surprise you with a delightful array of delicious treat. We have always set high hygiene standards in preparing meals in our camping surroundings.

Water purification: All water used for cooking and drinking is purified by our camp staff either by boiling or by the use of iodine at high altitudes. Iodine is safer than boiling, since water boils at lower temperatures at altitudes. The health of our clients is of prime concern to us at all times. We take every care and precaution in this area.

There is now quite a variety WATER FILTERS on the market some of which now include an iodine resin. We ask you to follow the manufacturer instructions carefully. If you choose to bring one along.
 

 

Sherpa Society Trekking & Mountaineering Pvt. Ltd. [2008]

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