Southern India Trek and Children s Hospital Project 2 nd 12 th February 2019

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Alban Hicks
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Southern India Trek and Children s Hospital Project 2 nd 12 th February 2019 About India India conjures images of lush green tea plantations, brightly coloured saris, jasmine-scented incense, ancient

There are many highlights in this vast country, from the stunning backwaters of Kerala, the mighty Himalayas and the inhospitable deserts to the bustling cities, magnificent coastline and diverse and

Kerala is famous for its important role in the export of spices, beautiful backwaters, houseboats, Kathakali dancers, tea plantations, lush green scenery and a calmer pace of life.

2 Southern India Trek and Children s Hospital Project 2 nd 12 th February 2019 About India India conjures images of lush green tea plantations, brightly coloured saris, jasmine-scented incense, ancient palaces and adorned maharajahs. A huge country, India is often known as the Indian Subcontinent; and is the 7th largest country by landmass on earth. There are many highlights in this vast country, from the stunning backwaters of Kerala, the mighty Himalayas and the inhospitable deserts to the bustling cities, magnificent coastline and diverse and delicious local cuisine. Kerala The state of Kerala is situated on the tropical South West coast of India. Kerala is famous for its important role in the export of spices, beautiful backwaters, houseboats, Kathakali dancers, tea plantations, lush green scenery and a calmer pace of life. The region has a very different feel for visitors compared to the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur) in the north of the country, for example. Keralan cuisine makes good use of the spices for which the area is famous, as well as the waterways, with fish featuring prominently. The Project You will spend two days assisting at a hospice care project in Trivandrum which provides assistance to children with cancer and their families, to enable high standards of treatment, care and support, and to ensure that no child suffers for want of treatment through lack of finance. Possible tasks include redecorating and painting, creating a garden and relaxation areas, or generally working to improve the environment for those who are supported by these facilities.

Trek Overview This beautiful trek in the Kannan Devan hills area will take you along a route through the highest tea estate in the world; Kolukkumalai.

In February the daytime temperature can range from 14 C to 28 C. The sunlight is very strong so sunscreen is important. February is one of the driest months of the year but rain is still possible.

You must ensure you have warm layers to put on at camp in the evenings and an adequate sleeping bag.

3 Trek Overview This beautiful trek in the Kannan Devan hills area will take you along a route through the highest tea estate in the world; Kolukkumalai. You will cross the foothills of the second highest peak in South India and trek through the rolling grassland and natural brooks of the Western Ghats. What is the climate like on the trek? In February the daytime temperature can range from 14 C to 28 C. The sunlight is very strong so sunscreen is important. February is one of the driest months of the year but rain is still possible. As we reach higher altitudes the temperature will feel cooler with possible night time temperatures of around -4 C. You must ensure you have warm layers to put on at camp in the evenings and an adequate sleeping bag. As with all mountainous areas weather conditions can be unpredictable so you should be prepared for all climatic eventualities, such as rain, cold, high winds and high temperatures. Although the conditions mentioned are historically accurate, we cannot be held responsible for deviations. Who will accompany us? The trek is accompanied by professional English-speaking local guides who have an excellent knowledge of the local culture and hiking in the region. You will also be supported by a team of cooks and porters, a UK Different Travel Company tour manager and a St. Margaret s Hospice representative. What is the terrain like? The terrain will vary each day but will generally be undulating with some steep sections, some flat areas, and some downhill. Underfoot you will find uneven stony pathways, grass, rocks and perhaps a few small streams to cross too.

How tough is it? This trek is graded moderate to challenging for people of good fitness level, having undertaken plenty of training preparation (including hill walking).

You will be exposed to the maximum altitude of 2640m (8650ft), which will be reached on trek day two.

Whilst it is difficult to specifically prepare for the combined challenges you will face, at a minimum you should ensure you are comfortable regularly trekking for periods of up to 7 or 8 hours for

4 How tough is it? This trek is graded moderate to challenging for people of good fitness level, having undertaken plenty of training preparation (including hill walking). Each day you will cover approximately 12km (7 miles) but because of the variable terrain, it can take up to 8 hours. You will be exposed to the maximum altitude of 2640m (8650ft), which will be reached on trek day two. You will trek over varying terrain, in different and sometimes extreme climates, carrying a daypack weighing at least 6kg and sleeping in basic living conditions. Whilst it is difficult to specifically prepare for the combined challenges you will face, at a minimum you should ensure you are comfortable regularly trekking for periods of up to 7 or 8 hours for at least two days consecutively. Having a positive and determined attitude is also a key element to your success on the trek. What about bathroom facilities? Toilet facilities will consist of a hole dug into the ground with a privacy tent. There will also be a basic cold water shower tent available. Toilet paper is not provided so you will need to bring your own. During the trek you will need to pack up any toilet paper you use to dispose of properly at camp. Never leave toilet paper or other litter on the trail. What is the food like? Fish forms a major part of southern Indian cuisine. Meals will be cooked by your dedicated trek chef and will be taken in a mess tent where a table, chairs, plates, mugs, cutlery and other equipment is provided for you. Meals are delicious and plentiful and a variety of mainly Indian style meals will keep your energy levels high for each day s trek. Where will we sleep? You will sleep in three-man tents (two people per tent) at campsites along the trail. Many of campsites have spectacular views across the Western Ghats so are beautiful places to stay. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag comfortable for use in temperatures of around -4 C.

Altitude The highest altitude on this trek is 2640m (the top of Meesapulimala, day two) but the average altitude is around 2000m.

Your local guide will be very experienced in spotting the signs of altitude sickness but it is important that you also do some research into the effects so you can be aware of how your body is

It is vital that you make your guides and tour manager aware of any symptoms immediately so you can be monitored. How fit do I need to be?

5 Altitude The highest altitude on this trek is 2640m (the top of Meesapulimala, day two) but the average altitude is around 2000m. 3000m and higher is generally accepted as high altitude but it is possible that some people notice mild altitude-related symptoms such as a mild headache or nausea at lower altitudes. Your local guide will be very experienced in spotting the signs of altitude sickness but it is important that you also do some research into the effects so you can be aware of how your body is adjusting. A great source of information can be found at or It is vital that you make your guides and tour manager aware of any symptoms immediately so you can be monitored. How fit do I need to be? It is advised that you start training at least 6 months before departure for your best chance of success and enjoyment. Hill walking, using the same boots and daypack you will take on the trek, should form a major part of your training as this will most closely replicate the trek, and is the best way to prepare your body for the ascents and descents. Increasing your cardiovascular endurance and core, and leg strength will benefit you greatly so hill walking can be complemented with swimming, running, cycling, gym workouts, team sports etc. You can download a number of free apps to help you train and track your progress. E.g. MapMyWalk, C25K (couch to 5k run), MyFitnessPal etc. If you attempt to complete the challenge without training it will make the trek unnecessarily difficult and may hinder your experience, and the experience of your team mates. Will I receive advice on training? In addition to supplying training tips, The Different Travel Company has a link with online personal training company Brightside, who offer online training packages tailored to your requirements: Try it out for just 1!

Medical issues A medical declaration form is to be completed by everyone upon registering, and any preexisting conditions, medications used and other medical issues must be noted and (if relevant)

It may be possible for you to participate if you are 16 or 17 years old but you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is no upper age limit.

airport taxes), all transfers and transport in India, accommodation in twin rooms in hotels, tents on trek (two to a tent), conservation fees, trek permits, meals as specified, local expert

6 Medical issues A medical declaration form is to be completed by everyone upon registering, and any preexisting conditions, medications used and other medical issues must be noted and (if relevant) signed by your GP. If your health situation changes after booking please inform us as soon as possible. Is there an age limit? You must be at least 18 years old to participate on this trek. It may be possible for you to participate if you are 16 or 17 years old but you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is no upper age limit. Trip cost 370 registration fee + 3,450 minimum sponsorship for St. Margaret s Hospice. Trip Includes Return flights from London (inc. airport taxes), all transfers and transport in India, accommodation in twin rooms in hotels, tents on trek (two to a tent), conservation fees, trek permits, meals as specified, local expert English-speaking Indian guides, trek support crew, a UK Different Travel Company tour manager. Trip Does Not Include Indian e-visa (US$75), drinks, souvenirs, vaccinations or medication required, travel insurance, tips, personal trekking kit etc. Who can take part? The trek can be undertaken by anyone with a good level of fitness, who is healthy and determined. Adequate preparation, planning and training is important because the fitter you are the more you will enjoy this experience. An ideal candidate would be a hill walker, an open-minded person with a sense of adventure or someone who would like to take part in a life-changing fundraising experience in the beautiful Indian countryside.

How will I raise the sponsorship required? Most people find that this is far easier than they imagined, and we will give you as much support as you need to reach, and even exceed your target!

7 How will I raise the sponsorship required? Most people find that this is far easier than they imagined, and we will give you as much support as you need to reach, and even exceed your target! Here are some suggestions for how you could raise your sponsorship. We will send you lots more ideas when you sign up! Non-uniform day at local school: 300 2x supermarket bag-packs: 500 Car boot sale/ ebay auction: x quiz nights: 500 Sponsorship (friends, family etc.): 300 Host a party, charge 10 to attend: 400 Ask five friends/ family members to raise 100 each: 500 Dress down day at work/ lunch money donation: 300 Donate your skills - ironing, babysitting, gardening, DIY: 250 Karaoke night: 250 Sponsored beard-shave / leg wax: cake sales at work: 50 a time: 200 Bucket collection at supermarket: 100 Total: 4,050 Is the trip ATOL protected? St. Margaret s Hospice is acting as agent for The Different Travel Company, ATOL The flight-inclusive trip in this brochure is financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay your registration fee you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate and ATOL Confirmation Invoice. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: How do I sign up? Complete the enclosed booking form and return with your registration fee to: Sonia Bateman, St. Margaret s Hospice, Heron Drive, Bishops Hull, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 5HA Or to events@st-margarets-hospice.org.uk Once your place is confirmed we will you a training guide, fundraising pack and much more! If you have any further queries, please call Sonia Bateman on

Itinerary Day 5 (Wed 6 th Feb): Trivandrum - Munnar After breakfast today we say farewell to Trivandrum and drive to Munnar (approx.

Day 1-2 (Sat 2 nd - Sun 3 rd Feb): London - Kochi Fly to Trivandrum and transfer to a central hotel for the next three nights.

Day 3-4 (Mon 4 th - Tue 5 th Feb): Trivandrum We will spend two full days helping with a variety of tasks such as painting, improving facilities, gardening and so on at the

Day 6 (Thu 7 th Feb): Munnar - Kolukkumalai This morning we transfer by jeep to the start point of our trek, at the confluence of three rivers and home to sprawling tea

8 Itinerary Day 5 (Wed 6 th Feb): Trivandrum - Munnar After breakfast today we say farewell to Trivandrum and drive to Munnar (approx. 8 hours), stopping regularly throughout the journey for breaks. You will have lunch enroute. Upon arrival you will check in at your hotel and have dinner. Day 1-2 (Sat 2 nd - Sun 3 rd Feb): London - Kochi Fly to Trivandrum and transfer to a central hotel for the next three nights. Depending on flight times there may be an opportunity for an introductory visit to the project this afternoon. You will have a welcome dinner this evening. Meals: Dinner. Day 3-4 (Mon 4 th - Tue 5 th Feb): Trivandrum We will spend two full days helping with a variety of tasks such as painting, improving facilities, gardening and so on at the CanKids facility in Trivandrum. You will also have the opportunity to gain an understanding of hospice care in India, and what CanKids does for the local community. Day 6 (Thu 7 th Feb): Munnar - Kolukkumalai This morning we transfer by jeep to the start point of our trek, at the confluence of three rivers and home to sprawling tea plantations. Our trek starts fairly gently as we pass through the tea estates (including the highest tea estate in the world at 2,160m). The day will end at one of the oldest tea factories in the region, built in 1935, before continuing to camp for dinner and the first night camping. Approx. 10km/5 hrs. trekking.

Day 7 (Fri 8 th Feb): Kolukkumalai Rhodo Valley It is worth waking up early this morning to enjoy spectacular views of the sunrise over the Western Ghats.

We continue on a ridge which offers spectacular views of the Tamil Nadu peaks and lowlands before summiting Meesapulimala itself.

9 Day 7 (Fri 8 th Feb): Kolukkumalai Rhodo Valley It is worth waking up early this morning to enjoy spectacular views of the sunrise over the Western Ghats. This morning we pass through more tea plantations before reaching the foothills of Meesapulimala, (2,640m), the second highest peak in South India. We continue on a ridge which offers spectacular views of the Tamil Nadu peaks and lowlands before summiting Meesapulimala itself. In the afternoon we will descend through rhododendron and pine forests, ending in the Rhodo Valley where camp is set up alongside a peaceful mountain stream. Approx. 13km/6 hrs. trekking. Day 8 (Sat 9 th Feb): Rhodo Valley Camp Today we set off through fragrant pine forests and rolling grasslands, enjoying views of the mountain ranges above. We descend to Yellapatty tea plantation which we cross to reach a small forest which leads us uphill to tonight s camp. Approx.17km/7hrs. trekking. Day 9 (Sun 10 th Feb): Camp Top Station - Kochi After another sunrise opportunity we continue our trek along the mountain ridges, with beautiful views over the tea plantations. Today is a great day for spotting the endemic birds of the Western Ghats as the territory changes from forest to evergreen and grasslands. This afternoon we will pass through some small villages where we may be welcomed in for a cup of chai before finishing our trek at historic Top Station (2,200m) where we say farewell to the trek support team and transfer to our hotel in Kochi (approx. 5 hours). Approx. 10km/5 hrs. trekking. Day 10 (Mon 11 th Feb): Kochi Today we have a day to relax in Kochi, a thrilling coastal city with diverse cuisine, culture, history, art, and music. We enjoy a farewell dinner in the old town this evening. Day 11 (Tues 12 th Feb): Kochi - London Transfer to the airport for the return flight to London. Depending on flight times you might arrive into London the next day. Meals: Breakfast. N.B. This itinerary may change due to weather, the ability of the group and so on. We will do our best to keep to the itinerary but cannot be held responsible for changes outside of our control. In all circumstances your guide and tour leader will have the final say in the interest of the group s health and safety.

Because you trek we can. Information Pack

Because you trek we can. Information Pack Information Pack Countess Mountbatten Hospice Charity Indian Himalaya Trek & Community Project 24th September- 5th October 2016 About India India conjures images of lush green tea plantations, brightly