MONSOON TREKKING 101

Time of India

2 days ago

As monsoon treks become the go-to weekend escape for nature lovers, seasoned trekkers weigh in on what every adventurer should keep in mind before setting off
MONSOON TRAILS SEE RISE IN NOVICE TREKKERS
Experts warn that social media often presents an overly romanticised view of monsoon treks, masking the real challenges involved.
Nish Agatha, founder of Into the Wild – Open Hikers Club, a community-led trekking initiative, says, 'We've had people turn up in jeans, trainers, and without any rain protection.
Some are completely unaware of how rapidly conditions can shift with a single downpour. It may seem harmless, but one ill-prepared trekker can put the entire group at risk.'
PREP SMART FOR WET TRAILS
According to experts, preparing for a monsoon trek involves careful attention to footwear, moisture management, and route awareness.
'Your gear must be waterproof or at least water-resistant—bags, jackets, and even base layers,' says Bengaluru-based Sidhant Simha, founder of a trekking organisation, adding, 'Training for slippery terrain is essential, as balance and core stability matter more than endurance.'
He adds that route selection is critical — avoid areas prone to landslides, flash floods, or thick fog. 'Knowing which trails are risky is vital, so trekking with a guide or experienced person is advisable.
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Always check weather forecasts and forest alerts, monsoons are highly unpredictable,' he warns.
Essentials for a monsoon trek
High-ankle trekking shoes with good grip and water resistance, depending on the difficulty of the terrain
Poncho or rain jacket with a hood
Backpack rain cover and plastic/zip-lock bags for inner packing
Trekking poles for extra balance on slippery paths
Quick-dry clothes and an extra set of clothing in a dry bag
Headlamp with extra batteries, as fog and rain reduce visibility
Insect repellent, and a small first-aid kit with antiseptic
Waterproof phone pouch and basic navigation tools
(as suggested by Sidhant Simha, who runs Indivoyages, a trekking organisation)
NOT ALL TRAILS ARE MONSOON-READY
Trekking during the monsoon isn't one-size-fits-all—different regions respond to rain differently. 'Some trails shut down due to landslides or flooding, while others—like parts of the Western Ghats—thrive,' says Syed Zyan, a seasoned trekker.
'Safety depends on terrain, weather patterns, and whether you're on an organised trek or a DIY outing with friends.' He adds, 'We always ask: Can the trail handle heavy rain? Are there safe exit points? And do we have recent updates from locals or fellow trekkers? These details can make all the difference.
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HOW LOCALS HELP KEEP TREKKERS SAFE
When exploring lesser-known or remote trails, coordinating with local authorities is crucial.
Nish Agatha, the founder of a trekking club. says, 'We often hire local guides, stay in homestays, and buy supplies from the villages we pass. It's our way of giving back—and a reminder that trekking isn't just about escape, but about forging real connections along the way.'
HANDLING EMERGENCIES ON THE TRAIL
'In monsoon conditions, every step must be intentional,' says Syed Zyan, a seasoned trekker. 'On mossy rocks or wet slopes, always test your footing before committing. Trekking isn't about speed; it's about surviving gracefully. Sprains and slips are common, so carrying a basic emergency kit is vital. We also check with locals beforehand for updates on river levels or possible blockages. If a route appears risky due to flash floods or landslides, we reroute or cancel it.
For longer treks, we carry essentials like ropes, ponchos, stretchers, and walkie-talkies—because conditions can change fast.'
We schedule our treks differently during the monsoon, starting early to avoid late returns and always allowing for a buffer in case of potential delays. When the clouds decide to open up, there's no outrunning them
Syed Zyan, a seasoned trekker
Forest guards and local communities are the first to spot dangers caused by rain, wildlife activity, or erosion. Their updates have helped us reroute or cancel treks at the last minute—something no map or app can provide
Nish Agatha, founder of a trekking club
People often drink less during the monsoon, risking dehydration. Carry at least two litres of water, use ORS or electrolytes, and keep quick-access snacks handy—sugary bites can be a real lifesaver on the trail
Sidhant Simha, founder of a trekking organisation