Indrahar Pass Trek, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time to go for Indrahar Pass Trek?

   September to October is the best season to do Indrahar Pass Trek just before the onset of severe winter. The normal weather conditions will be moderately colder but comfortable days with a temperature varying between 12 and 18 degree Celsius. Nights will have colder atmosphere. Monsoon and heavy snow fall time can be avoided.

2. What is the difficulty level of Indrahar Pass Trek?

   Indrahar Pass trek is considered to be a moderate to difficult trek with high rocky terrains and ridges causing you climb up the gradual ascents. It is a geologically active region as well, set on a thrust area of the Indian plate and that makes the trek a bit challenging and risky. Previous experience in trekking will definitely help you achieve the summits at Indrahar in a good way.

3. What clothing or equipment do we need to carry from our side during trek to Indrahar Pass?

   It is essential to carry comfortable jeans or trekking pants, shirts or T shirts, windproof jackets, warm and thick fleece, woolen sweater, thermal inner wear, socks, scarfs, woolen gloves etc as clothing essentials to prevent the cold climate at the destinations, especially at night time. Comfortable trekking shoes, lightweight floater or sandals, raincoat, water bottle, caps and hats, sun glasses, torch, medicines, personal toiletries, comfortable backpack bag, waterproof covers or bags etc can be the essential equipment you can carry from your side.

4. Which type of shoes should I carry on this trek?

   It is advised to carry only trekking shoes instead of sports shoes for Indrahar Pass Trek. Shoes with good soles that have a greater grip on the rough terrains and a strong ankle support can be used. Avoid buying new shoes because it can cause blisters. Try walking wearing the trekking shoes before you come for the activity. Forclaz 100, 500 and 600 are some of the good trekking shoes that can be used for this trek.

5. Can I have liquor or smoke while we're on the trek?

   You are advised to avoid consumption of alcohol and cigarettes on any type of altitude treks since both these activities can let your body dehydrate easily. Then you will find it very difficult to complete the stretches. Alcohol will open the pores in your skin and let the cold get inside and make the body temperature in terms with the temperature outside. But it will finally lead you to feel dehydrated and thirsty.

6. How is Indrahar Pass Trek weather?

   If it is winter time, then there will be complete snow on high passes and it will be melt by August. When monsoon arrives, both Dhauladhar Ranges and Indrahar Pass will be affected by rain very well. After monsoon, the high places will feel the days warmer and sunny with a temperature of 12 to 20 degree Celsius and the nights with -2 to 6 degree Celsius. September and October are the best months with a good, comfortable weather with little snowfall too.

7. Is Diamox is advisable?

   Yes. Since you are climbing up to a height of about 14245 feet above sea level, chances to experience the drastic change in oxygen level and climatic conditions are high. It may cause uneasiness to your body resulting in vomiting and breathlessness. Hence carry Diamox which will help you overcome the problems caused by acute mountain sickness as you climb the great heights.

8. How do I get in shape?

   Indrahar pass trek is considered to be a moderate to difficult trek but it needs a lot of cardio vascular endurance. For making your lungs work properly during the trek and get oxygen intake smooth, then you need to follow some exercises that will help your cardio vascular systems function properly. Start with jogging every day and daily increase the distance and speed. Simple exercises like squats, skipping, swimming will also be perfect for your muscles and flexibility. Stretching exercises can also be of use while perfecting your body to do this trek.

9. What are washroom/toilet facilities like on the trek?

   There will be separate toilet tents arranged at each campsite for men and women. Depending on the size of the group, the number of toilets varies. Toilet tents will have a deep pit, mound of soil and a shovel to cover it up. All of them usually will be dry toilets where you have to use toilet papers alone. Room freshener will also be provided.

10. What kind physical fitness will be required for this trek?

    You are expected to be in a good physical condition to do this trek. Before the start of the trek, you will need to jog for 4 kilometers and the weather conditions will be unfavorable to your body. But you need to be prepared to cross the thin air and proceed each climb carrying your backpack. Hence the physical fitness is very important. Start jogging one month prior to the trek covering 4 kilometers every day and thus make your lungs strong. Also, flexibility of your muscles and tendons to relax are also important and you can do stretching exercises regularly. Thus, you can come to a proper physical fitness to do this trek.