Cats Protection Himalayan trek and tiger conservation experience 7 19 October 2017

Transcription

1 Trip Dossier

2 Cats Protection Himalayan trek and tiger conservation experience 7 19 October 2017 About India India conjures images of lush green tea plantations, brightly coloured saris, jasmine scented incense, ancient palaces and adorned maharajahs. There are many highlights in this vast country including the stunning backwaters of Kerala, the mighty Himalaya, the inhospitable deserts, the bustling cities, the magnificent coastline and of course the delicious cuisine. Delhi is the capital city of India and a buzz of sights, sounds and smells. From busy highways where sacred cows cross the street to peaceful temples and lush gardens, Delhi is a contrast like no other. Spicy aromas and the sizzle of street food tantalises your senses and the beautiful ancient monuments will leave you breathless. The Conservation Experience You will spend three days in the Kanha National Park located in Madhya Pradesh state. The National Park was established in 1955 and was inspiration to Rudyard Kipling for his novel The Jungle Book. During your time here you will learn about the various efforts which are made to conserve the environment, especially for tigers. You will also have the opportunity to get involved in some of these activities. We anticipate that you will take several safari drives into the National Park with the hopes of spotting tigers and other endemic animals. During these game drives you are likely to spot some of the other species such as langur monkeys, bison, wild boar, deer, maybe some jackals and if you are very lucky, perhaps even a leopard. During a visit to the Wildlife Interpretation Centre you will hear about the history of Kanha National Park, the landmark achievements in preventing extinction of certain species, and the stringent conservation programs which have helped make Kanha one of the best maintained National Parks in India. You will hear from rangers who will explain the methods used to take tiger censuses, how to set camera traps and how they protect the tigers and other animals. You will also get hands on and support the conservation efforts directly such as assisting with the removal of weeds, planting trees and habitat maintenance all of which are important tasks to keep the endemic plants in the National Park safe from invasive plant species which could change the ecological balance. There is also a possibility of helping with a tiger conservation lesson at a local school.

3 Trip Overview After flying from London you will start your challenge in India s capital, Delhi where you will have an introduction to Indian culture and this fascinating city with a short city tour before boarding the overnight train to Pathankot. After a night on the train you will transfer to the stunning hill station of Dharamshala which translates to a spiritual dwelling and is surrounded by dense forest and in the shadow of the Dhauladhar mountain range. Mcleodganj, a suburb of Dharamshala, is home to the Tibetan Government in exile and the Dalai Lama. From here you will commence your journey into the Lesser Himalayan range of Northern India where, during four days of trekking, you will be awed by lush green forests, views of snowcapped peaks, deep valleys, gushing rivers and small villages with friendly and welcoming local people. You will reach altitudes of up to 2842m (at Triund) and will walk approximately 14km per day, taking around 6-8 hours. After your trek ends you will return to Delhi and take a flight and a road transfer to the Kanha National Park and your home for the next few nights, Chitvan Jungle Lodge. The following three days will be spent learning about, and getting involved, with conservation activities at Kanha National Park under the guidance and direction of the Kanha National Park officials. On your final day you will fly back to Delhi and enjoy a celebratory meal together before flying back to London the next day. Who accompanies us? You will be accompanied by professional Englishspeaking guides and support staff who are First Aid trained and will support you throughout your journey. You will also be accompanied throughout by a UK tour manager and Cats Protection staff member. What is the climate like? Temperatures will depend on the weather with sunny days feeling hotter than overcast or rainy days. In Delhi and at Kanha National Park, temperatures can reach 35 C during the day, dropping to 20 C at night. The temperature in Dharamshala and during the trek is cooler with C expected during the day, dropping down to 5 C at night. Weather conditions vary and could be bright and sunny, rainy, cloudy or humid. Please note that weather conditions in mountainous regions can be unpredictable so you should be prepared for all climatic eventualities. Although the temperatures and conditions above are historically accurate, climate change can impact the seasons so you may experience uncharacteristic conditions during the trip which are out of our control. Should this happen the guide will assess the situation and make decisions to ensure the best enjoyment and ultimately safety of the group as a whole.

4 recommended for your personal hygiene. Toilet facilities at camp will be a hole dug into the ground with a small privacy tent surrounding it. Toilet paper is not provided so you will need to bring your own consider biodegradable toilet paper. During the trek you must pack up any toilet paper you use to dispose of properly at camp. Never leave toilet paper or other litter on the trail. At the hotels/lodge you will have en-suite bathroom facilities. What is the trek terrain like? The terrain will vary throughout the trek but in general you will experience undulating (uphill and downhill) terrain. There are very few flat sections so you should ensure your training includes plenty of hills. Underfoot there will be stony pathways, grass, rocks and perhaps a few small streams to cross too. Each day you will cover approximately 12-15km (7-9 miles) which, because of the variable terrain, can take up to 8 hours to cover. What is the food like? Meals throughout the trek 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 hearty, delicious and plentiful and a variety of mainly Indian and some Western-style meals that will keep your energy levels high for each day s trek. Meals in Delhi, Dharamshala and Kanha will be at your accommodation and at local restaurants. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated if we are advised in advance. Where will we sleep? At camp you will stay in 2-man tents (two people to a tent). You will be provided with sleeping mats but you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer. While in Dharamshala, Kanha and Delhi you will stay in basic hotels or lodges on a twinshare basis. What about bathroom facilities? During the trek bathing facilities will be limited but you may be able to freshen up at rivers or streams along the way. You are recommended to bring eco-friendly toiletries (Lush and The Body Shop sell environmentally friendly products). Each morning you will be provided with a bowl of hot water to freshen up for the day ahead. Biodegradable baby wipes are strongly How tough is it? The trek is graded moderate to challenging as you will trek over varying terrain for up to 8 hours a day, carrying a small daypack which may weigh up to 6kg, and camping in basic campsites along the way. You will also be exposed to altitudes up to a maximum of 2843m (9327ft). Whilst it is difficult to specifically prepare for trekking at higher altitudes, it helps to be physically prepared for the exertions of the trekking day by training in advance. It is advised that you arrive for the trek feeling comfortable 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.

5 Altitude The altitude you experience on this trek is up to 2843m which is slightly under the threshold that is considered high altitude (3000m). However there is a small likelihood that some people may notice altitude related symptoms. The local guides are very experienced in spotting signs of altitude sickness but it is important that you also research the effects so you can be aware of how your body is adjusting. A great source of information can be found at or Who can take part? This challenge can be undertaken by anyone of any age (min. 18 unless accompanied by an adult). It is advised that you are of a good fitness level before departure to ensure fast recovery from each day s exertions. An ideal candidate would be someone who enjoys being out of their comfort zone and trying something new, with a flexible and open minded personality. If you do not regularly exercise it is advised that you start training before departure to ensure your best chance of enjoyment on the trip. This could include speed walking, hill walking, swimming, running, cycling, gym workouts, team sports, boot camps, yoga etc. You can download a number of free apps which will help you train and track your progress. E.g. imapmyride (cycling), C25K (couch to 5k run), MyFitnessPal (for a variety of sports). It is possible to complete the trip without training but it may hinder your experience, and the experience of your teammates. We require a medical form to be completed by everyone upon registering, and any pre-existing conditions, medications used and other medical issues must be noted and (if relevant) signed by your GP. Any conditions that develop must be declared and a new medical form completed and signed. Different Travel s Online Training Different Travel has teamed up with Brightside Personal Training to bring you a fun and unique way to train for your upcoming challenge without needing to leave the comfort of your home or signing up for an expensive gym membership. Please see details here: Common mild symptoms of altitude sickness are headache, nausea, loss of appetite, disturbed sleep and fatigue. It is vital that you make your guides and tour manager aware of any symptoms immediately so you can be monitored. Important information about altitude: If you begin to show symptoms of moderate altitude sickness, don't go higher. If symptoms increase, descend immediately. Your tour guides and tour manager s decision for you to descend must be respected. People acclimatise at different rates. Keep aware of your own symptoms. Stay hydrated. Drink lots of fluids to remain properly hydrated (water, soup, tea, juices etc.). Urine output should be copious and clear to pale yellow. Take it easy and don't overexert yourself. Acclimatisation is inhibited by overexertion, dehydration, and alcohol. Avoid tobacco, alcohol and other depressant drugs including, barbiturates, tranquillisers, sleeping pills and opiates such as codeine. These decrease the respiratory drive during sleep resulting in a worsening of symptoms. Eat a high calorie diet while at altitude.

6 What does it cost? To sign up you will pay a non-refundable registration fee of 300. This can be split into 3 consecutive 100 payments if you wish. Once your place is confirmed you can start your fundraising which is a minimum target of 3,690 sponsorship for Cats Protection. You will also need to personally budget for airport taxes (approx. 250 which is payable 8 weeks prior to departure). These figures are in addition to the 300 registration fee. The events team at Cats Protection will give you dedicated fundraising support to reach, and most likely exceed, this target which is very achievable. Who is Cats Protection? Cats Protection is the UK's leading feline welfare charity. Over the last five years we have helped more than one million cats through our rehoming and neutering programmes. We rehome and reunite over 46,000 cats and kittens a year through our nationwide network of 29 adoption centres, over 250 volunteer-run branches and two homing centres. We also promote responsible cat ownership with our education projects and run comprehensive neutering programmes involving approximately 170,000 cats every year. Our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. What is included? Return flights from London (excluding airport taxes), transfers and domestic flights in India, tents on trek, accommodation in 3 star hotels/lodges, all meals, mineral water, local expert English-speaking Indian guides, porters and cooks, trek permits, and accompanying UK Different Travel tour manager and Cats Protection staff member. What do I need to personally budget for? Airport taxes (approx. 250), transport to and from UK airport, Indian e-visa (current cost US$60), vaccinations, travel insurance, tips, personal trekking kit, drinks, souvenirs etc. The total could be in the region of up to so we recommend saving small amounts each month to prepare for this. Is the trip ATOL protected? When you book you will be financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see the booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: How are our trips responsible and sustainable? During our trips The Different Travel Company uses locally owned hotels to ensure the local economy benefits from our presence. We ensure that our local partners provide a good working environment for staff, such as being properly equipped and being paid appropriate wages. We ask our participants to treat the local staff as they would like to be treated; with respect, dignity and care. During the trek you are asked to adhere to good environmental practices, including disposing of litter properly, refilling water bottles, using a solar powered or wind up torches when possible etc. When washing facilities are available, we suggest water usage is kept to a minimum. You are also advised to take biodegradable toilet paper, soaps and other eco-friendly sanitary products to keep the trail clean to ensure we adhere to leave no trace tourism. There will be opportunities to make a difference to the lives of the local people; whether it is by buying a gift at a shop which will help pay for the vendor s children s education, remembering to, showing your appreciation of the amazing staff by tipping your guides and staff and by simply learning from the local people about their way of life. This trip is a unique way to give something back to the local community through positive tourism. At the Kanha National Park you will learn about and be involved with conservation activities which will have an impact on the conservation efforts in the region and help support the natural habitat of the tigers and other animals that make Kanha National Park their home. Our community and environmental projects are selected very carefully to ensure their sustainability. Whilst our contribution is small, it is greatly valued and helps ensure the on-going success of the project. Our full responsible tourism policy is available on request. Please note that the activities, views and practices of the National Park and its rangers do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Different Travel Company or Cats Protection.

7 Itinerary Days 1-2 (Saturday 7 Sunday 8 October 2017): London Delhi Depart London for Delhi on an overnight flight. Upon arrival the next day, transfer to a central hotel where some rooms will be available to relax and freshen-up. After lunch enjoy a sightseeing tour of Delhi before transferring to the railway station for the overnight sleeper train to Pathankot (air conditioned sleeper class). Meals: lunch, dinner Day 3 (Monday 9 October 2017): Pathankot Dharamshala Arrive in Pathankot in the morning and transfer to Dharamshala (approximately 2.5 hours). On arrival in the home of the Dalai Lama, check in at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Visit the Dalai Lama Palace and the Tibetan government-in-exile buildings, or simply enjoy the atmosphere and browse for souvenirs in the handicraft stalls before enjoying a Tibetan dinner this evening. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Day 4 (Tuesday 10 October 2017) Dharamshala Kanol Village After breakfast we take a short transfer to our starting point, Boh Village. Boh village is situated on the banks of the Brahal River and our journey there will reward us with spectacular views of the Dhauladhar Mountains. We start with a steep ascent for about 2 hours and arrive in the remote tribal village of Batuni, where we visit a local family house for refreshments. From Batuni a short walk takes us to our lunch spot, after which we descend through lush green fields, terraces and woodland to Kanol village where we set up camp for the night. Approx. 12km trekking / 5 hours Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Day 5 (Wednesday 11 October 2017) Kanol village - Bahl After experiencing our first night under the stars, we continue ascending through many charming villages, passing beautiful open meadows and pine forests on the way. We stop for lunch in a small village called Kareri before continuing through dense forests to the Rawa River and onward to Bahl, our second campsite. Approx. 15km trekking / 6 hours Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

8 Day 6 (Thursday 12 October 2017) Bahl Truind This morning we make a steep ascent through mixed forests of oak, cedar and rhododendrons which takes us up to Triund, the highest point on our trek at 2843m. This alpine meadow situated on top of a ridge from where there are incredible views of the Dhauladhar peaks on one side and the Kangra valley on the other. This is the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset and our final night under canvas. Approx. 15km trekking / 7 hours Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Day 12 (Wednesday 18 October 2017): Kanha - Delhi We complete our activities at Kanha this morning and return to the airport for our flight back to Delhi. Celebrate your achievements with a farewell dinner this evening. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Day 7 (Friday 13 October 2017) Triund Pathankot After rising early and watching the spectacular sunrise over the Dhauladhar Mountain Range we set off down a grassy ridge which gradually gets steeper until we reach the Bhagsu waterfall where we stop to enjoy lunch. From there we trek down to Bhagsu village where we join the vehicle to return to Pathankot and take the overnight train to Delhi. Approx. 14km trekking / 6 hours Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Day 8-11 (Saturday 14 October Tuesday 17 October 2017): Delhi - Kanha Arrive in Delhi and transfer to the airport for the short flight (approx. 1 hour 40) to Jabalpur. On arrival there is a 3-hour drive to reach Chitvan Jungle Lodge, our base for the next four nights. Over the following few days you will spend time in and around the Kanha National Park on a range of activities. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner Day 13 (Thursday 19 October 2017): Delhi - London Transfer to the airport for your return flight to London (may arrive the next morning depending on flight schedules). Meals: Breakfast N.B. This itinerary is complex and details may change due to unusual weather patterns, wildlife movements, and the ability of the group and so on. Big cat sightings are never guaranteed in the wild. We will do our best to keep to the set itinerary however we cannot be held responsible for changes that might occur outside of our control. In all such circumstances your guides and tour manager will have the final say in the interest of the health and safety of the group.

9 Before You Go! A-Z of Information on India A is for Arrival. British citizens (and most other nationalities) require a visa prior to arrival into India. Holders of passports endorsed British citizen who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for an e- Tourist Visa (e-tv) to enter India at certain designated airports. You can find more information about the eligibility criteria on the government of India s e-tourist Visa website. The current cost is US$60 payable by credit/debit card on the e-tv website. You must check carefully whether or not you re eligible for an e-tv before you apply. (British subject, British protected person, British overseas citizen, British national (overseas) and British overseas territories citizen passport holders aren t eligible to apply for an e-tv.) If you are not a British citizen, of if you are of Pakistani or Sri Lankan origin (or dual British- Pakistan / British-Sri Lankan nationality) there may be different visa requirements and the processing time can be considerably longer than normal. You should contact the Indian Embassy for advice. The Different Travel Company will provide all participants with the necessary details to support your visa application 8 weeks before departure. A is also for Accommodation. You will stay in basic hotels while in Delhi and Dharamshala, a lodge at Kanha, on an overnight train between Delhi and Dharamshala and camping during the trek. The hotel accommodation is on a twinshare basis. In the event of there being an odd number of people, a triple room may be provided. A is also for Altitude. The maximum altitude reached is 2843m. As altitude sickness is unlikely to occur below 3000m, you are unlikely to suffer many effects however you may notice that you have a mild headache and some nausea but this can be minimised by drinking lots of fluids, eating plenty, resting properly each night and taking the pace of the guides. Please read the feature above for more information. B is for Begging. As a responsible tourism company we ask that you do not give money, sweets or gifts directly to beggars or children. Be aware that many of these individuals are full time professionals and the gift you give them may not end up in the hands of those in need. Similarly be cautious when purchasing items from street vendors who approach you. We appreciate that it can be difficult not to want to give to children and beggars, as relatively wealthy tourists, but it s important to understand that by doing so you are reinforcing the belief that tourists are the way to an easy income, and this becomes a perpetual problem for future tourists who experience begging. Aside from this, giving sweets in particular is not advised because many children don t have access to proper dental care and rotting teeth can cause serious long-term problems. By saying no and giving to a local NGO or charity you will be making a much more responsible difference. Please speak to your tour manager or local guides for advice on this. B is also for Boots. You will need to wear hiking boots during the trek so please ensure you have some well in advance of departure so you can break them in properly. A waterproof, breathable pair with a flexible Vibram (or similar) sole will be best. Make sure you try on lots of pairs before you choose some. You are strongly recommended to wear your boots on the plane (or take in your hand baggage) in case there are any problems or delays with your luggage. Comfortable boots are one of the most difficult pieces of luggage to replace/hire at short notice. B is also for Bottle. You will need a bottle to carry your own drinking water around 2-3 litres per day. You must be able to carry this yourself throughout the day. Some people prefer to bring a two-litre water container such as a CamelBak or Platypus hydration system plus a one litre bottle as a backup but two one-litre water bottles will also be fine if you would prefer. Please note: when shopping for a hydration system be wary of the cheaper alternatives to the CamelBak or Platypus brands, as they are notorious for leaking and experiencing valve problems. You must always test your hydration system well in advance of departure to ensure there are no problems. Regular bottles are also fine as per your preference.see also D is for Dehydration and W is for Water. C is for Camping. For the nights during the trek you will stay in tents (two persons per tent) at campsites along the trail. There will be a dining/mess tent with tables and chairs, cutlery

10 and crockery. Toilet facilities will comprise of a tent covering a hole in the ground. Qualified guides, cooks, a UK Different Travel tour manager and a representative from Cats Protection will accompany the group for the duration of the trek. You should bring your own sleeping bag (see S is for sleeping bag) but tents and a sleeping mat are provided. C is also for Communications. The mobile phone service has seen phenomenal growth and some of the dominant names include Bharti Airtel, Idea Cellular and Reliance. The country has a comprehensive coverage (although while in the national park this may be limited) but your phone may not be compatible with roaming so please check with your provider. Ensure you switch off any data (mobile internet) capabilities as failing to do so will result in a large phone bill. Internet access is widespread although connection speeds can vary wildly depending on where you are. To call the UK from a local phone you will need to dial 0044 then omit the first 0 of the number. From a mobile, dial +44 and omit the first 0 (you can get the + symbol by holding down the 0 or * key on your phone). C is also for Clothing for the Project. You are recommended to bring lightweight, cool, conservative clothing (no revealing tops or short skirts/shorts) and comfortable shoes or trainers for the project as it will be quite hot. Depending on the activities your clothing may get dirty so please either bring protective overalls or wear old clothing. C is also for Clothing for the Trek. Please bring non-cotton technical clothing for optimum comfort and hygiene. Non-cotton garments (e.g. polyester, nylon, polypropylene, Merino wool etc.), wick sweat away from your skin leaving your clothing dry. Cotton clothing absorbs sweat and stays wet which will make you very cold, which can be dangerous in a mountain environment. Cotton clothes also get smelly fast whereas technical items can be worn for days on end without smelling. This in turn means you do not need to buy or pack as many items of clothing. Sports clothes, clothes you wear to the gym or running gear is usually non-cotton so check what you have already before you go shopping! If you invest in a few key technical garments you can wear these for the entire trek. You do not need to bring a clean outfit for each trek day; pack light! During the day you may only need a lightweight top and trekking trousers but you may need to add a warmer mid layer or fleece when you stop for lunch and during early morning starts when the temperatures are lower. A loose fitting, long sleeved shirt or base layer is more practical than a short sleeved t-shirt, as you can roll sleeves up and down as required but please use your own judgement and consider your preferences. It is cold at night so please bring warm layers for the evenings. See the packing list below for more details. See also B is for Boots, and S is for Socks. C is also for Culture Shock. India is incredibly different to anywhere in Europe and many visitors are shocked when their first visit is not the exotic glamour of palaces and maharajahs, but poverty and relative chaos. It is important to be aware of the following: Crowds. Indian streets, markets, and bazaars are packed with people, vehicles and animals (particularly cows, which are sacred), and streets tend to be narrow. Same-sex interaction. It is not unusual to see men holding hands with other men, or with their arms around each other s waists. This is a display sincere friendship however Western men holding hands will be taken as homosexuality which is not accepted in India. Opposite-sex interaction. Indian women may be very reserved about talking to men so men should be cautious when approaching an Indian woman (even for asking directions). Women may feel more comfortable communicating with Indian women. Indian men may be very keen to interact with Western men and women, but women, please be aware that friendly conversation with Indian men can be considered a flirtation and eye contact with men is also considered as a sexual invitation. Wear sunglasses and/or avoid eye contact to reduce unwanted attention. Attention. Many local people will unabashedly stare at foreign tourists. Con artists, touts and beggars. Foreigners can be magnets for persistent touts and beggars. Beggars, especially malnourished children and the badly deformed can be particularly disturbing. People may approach you offering to have your photo taken with them, and once you have taken the photo

11 they will insist on payment. Environment. Dirt, garbage and insects abound in the cities. Roadsides and fields are often used as public lavatories. Noise. Drivers lean on horns, radios and TVs blare, even temples, mosques and churches use loudspeakers to spread their message. Pollution. Exhaust combined with dust can make the drier seasons a nightmare for asthma sufferers. The sewer systems can be primitive and when the temperature rises, the smell can be very strong. Many people will find it easy to come to terms with these radical differences in culture, but for some it takes longer. Just take things slowly and try to immerse yourself in Indian culture. D is for Day pack. Throughout the trek you will carry a daypack containing the essentials you will need during the trek day while your main luggage is transported to camp by mules/porters. Things you will include in your daypack include: personal first aid kit, warm layer, sunscreen, three litres of water, toilet paper, wet wipes and camera. We recommend a litre pack with a chest strap and hip belt. It is likely to weigh around 6-8kg when packed, so you must be prepared for this by carrying the equivalent during your training walks. Try on lots of daypacks before you buy and remember that it must have a hip belt and chest strap for optimum comfort and load bearing. You have to carry this yourself so please invest some time into finding a suitable, well-fitting daypack. D is also for Dehydration. This is a potential problem caused by exertions of trekking, or diarrhoea or vomiting. Day time temperatures can rise to 25 C so you should consume at least 3 litres of fluid such as water, soup, tea and coffee etc. to avoid the risk of dehydration. It is worth considering bringing electrolyte tablets which you add to water to turn it into an isotonic sports drink that can help prevent dehydration by topping up the essential salts and sugars lost when you sweat. Recommended brands include Nuun or Zero and are available in a wide variety of flavours for around 6 for 12 tablets. While trekking, make sure you check the water level of your CamelBak hydration system at rest stops so you can monitor your intake, and remember that taking small regular sips is more efficient than taking large glugs. See also W is for Water. D is also for Dietary Requirements. The majority of special diets, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc., can be catered for. Vegetarian cuisine is very common, delicious, and varied. Please ensure that you notify us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking or as soon as possible. D is also for Discount. Nomad Travel has kindly offered a 10% discount against any purchase of kit and equipment online or in-store and a 10% discount off vaccinations at their travel clinics. Also Cotswold Outdoor are offering our clients 15% discount for use at their stores or online. Please contact us for a voucher. E is for Electricity. Mains electricity is 230v/ 50 Hz but is subject to fluctuations and power cuts. Plugs are European 2-pin style and rarely, 3 large gold pin (old UK). E is also for Environment. The wonderful environment of the Himalaya is also an extremely fragile one. Increasing numbers of trekkers threatens to destroy the very beauty which attracts us in the first place. We are extremely environmentally conscious and aim to minimise our impact as much as possible. We encourage trekkers to travel responsibly and take care to leave as little impact as possible. We are well motivated towards eco-friendly practices and carry out all our garbage, apart from that which can be safely and easily disposed of at the campsite. Our aim is to help protect and preserve this beautiful environment for future generations of trekkers to enjoy. E is for Etiquette. Do observe silence, pay due respect and proper decorum inside the places of worship and religious monuments that you might visit. Most importantly, always remove your shoes at the entrance to the main hall of any holy shrine. Please note that some monasteries do not permit women to enter after sunset and before sunrise; cigarettes, alcohol and non-vegetarian foods are strictly prohibited in monasteries and you must not enter places of worship in sleeveless shirts or shorts. E is for Expenses. You will need cash for guides tips, laundry, drinks, personal spending money, souvenirs. There are ATMs in Delhi and

12 Dharamshala if you wish to withdraw cash, but be aware that your bank may charge for overseas withdrawals and transactions and some banks block overseas transactions so inform your bank before departure. See M is for Money. F is for First Aid kit. You should have a small first aid kit of essential items which is for your own personal use. Your tour leader is not allowed to give you medication so you must ensure you have access to your own first aid kit in your daypack. Items to include: personal prescription medicine, painkillers, blister plasters, insect repellent (containing 50% DEET), anti-histamine tablets, Imodium (Loperamide), rehydration sachets, lip balm with SPF, zinc oxide tape etc. F is also for Fitness. The Himalaya is mountain range so you should expect a variety of steep and undulating terrain which is rough underfoot. This tour is classified as moderate to challenging for someone of a good general level of fitness but you cannot be too fit for this challenge so everyone should commence a training program before departure including hill walking, cardiovascular workouts and resistance training. Training tips will be provided upon booking. If it is determined that you are not fit enough for the challenge and that this may be detrimental to the health and safety of yourself or the group The Different Travel Company reserves the right to cease your participation. F is also for Food. During your stay you will be able to enjoy delicious Indian cuisine prepared for you at local restaurants and by your own cooks during the trek. There are considerable regional variations amongst food in India, due partly to historical influences and partly to climatic conditions. Strict vegetarianism tends to be restricted to the south of the country, and beef is taboo. Common sense should be applied when ordering food, particularly from basic restaurants and roadside stalls ensure the food is very hot and freshly cooked; avoid salads and drinks with ice in as these may but drink mineral water instead (which is very cheap and widely available). G is for Gloves. Temperatures may be low in the evenings and during some days so you are recommended to bring a pair of gloves. H is for Haggling. When shopping for gifts in market places where there are no price tags on items it is expected that you will haggle. The first price is sometimes double the value of the item but remember that you should engage with the vendor to encourage rapport before haggling then only pay what you think is a good price for the item, not trying to get the lowest price possible. H is also for Head Torch. This is an essential item for the trek. It s great for days where you may leave camp early in the morning or arrive late in the afternoon, finding your way to the toilet at camp, reading in the evenings etc. The Petzl Tikka headlamp is an example of a very high quality head torch but there are some very good inexpensive head torches available if you shop around. Please ensure you take an LED torch, as ones with bulbs are not bright enough, and bring some spare batteries. H is also for Health. Different Travel regrets that we cannot provide medical advice on recommendations on vaccinations you should have. You MUST see your own GP or travel health professional at least 8 weeks before travelling for a personalised medical assessment. For general information visit or Please note that failure to be adequately vaccinated and protected against diseases can sometimes invalidate travel insurance policies as it is considered that you have not taken necessary precautions. If your GP does not specialise in travel vaccinations, Nomad Travel Health Clinic and Different Travel have teamed up to offer you a 10% discount on kit and vaccinations. H is also for Hiking Poles. Some people find them very useful as it takes pressure off the knees and can make trekking easier, particularly during the descent, but some people find them a hindrance. You are advised to try them out first to see if you think they would suit you. H is also for Hygiene. Showers are not available during your trek but there may be snow-melt pools or rivers you are able to bathe in along the way. You are advised to bring a pack of baby wipes and use natural or biodegradable soap/shampoo so as not to contaminate the ground, or nearby water sources which may be used for irrigation or consumption. Lush products are particularly good.

13 I is also for Insect Repellent. There are biting mosquitoes in India, particularly in the Kanha region so you are advised to take repellent with you. DEET is the most effective repellent available and The Department of Health recommends no higher than 50% DEET for use on your skin. Be careful when using any DEET product. Please note that malaria does occur in the Madhya Pradesh state (where Kanha National Park is located) however your risk may not be considered high enough to warrant malaria prophylaxis. A risk assessment with your GP, practice nurse or travel health specialist is advised. See also here: %28east%29/india.aspx#malaria I is for Insurance. The Different Travel Company will do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip however unexpected things can occur such as your cancellation, delays, medical problems and baggage loss etc. Thus, the purchase of travel insurance for our expeditions is mandatory and you are advised to organise this at the time of booking to ensure you are covered immediately. Travel Insurance is a cost effective way to protect yourself and your equipment. Please note: most travel insurance policies protect you before departure too so it is advised to buy insurance as close to booking as possible to protect the loss of your registration fee as a result of cancellation due to injury, illness etc. K is for Kit bag. You will need a kit bag which will be carried to each camp by porters/mules containing your luggage for the trek including your sleeping bag. The weight limit for this is 8kg. It should be strong, light and waterproof. Some examples of a kit bag include: North Face Base Camp duffle bag, Mountain Equipment Wet and Dry Bag, Rab Expedition Kit Bag but please shop around as there are many options available at various budgets. A large rucksack is suitable too. Do not bring a solid suitcase or holdall with wheels as this is not suitable. It is handy to bring a variety of plastic bags and/or dry bags to put particular items inside (such as your sleeping bag) in case of poor weather while the luggage is being transported. The capacity of your kitbag should be around 70+ litres but as long as all your gear fits and is within the weight limit it doesn t matter if it is larger or smaller. L is for Language. India's official language is Hindi although it is only understood by 30% of the population. Efforts have been made to promote Hindi as India s national language, and this has met with opposition in the south of the country, whereas in the north Hindi is the predominant language. Many educated Indians speak excellent English and many Indians speak more than one language. Hello Namaste Please Kripya Thank you Shukriyaa Excuse me Maaf kjiyeh How much? Kitneh paiseh? Yes Jee No Nahin Alright/OK Acha L is also for Laundry. Laundries are available almost everywhere and are very cheap and reliable. L is also for Luggage. You will need the following 4 luggage items. 1. A small daypack at around litres which you will carry yourself during the trek. This should have a hip belt and chest strap for optimal comfort. 2. A suitcase or large rucksack to hold your entire luggage (including your trek kit bag) for when you check in on the airline. This can be left in the hotel luggage room while trekking. 3. A kit bag to hold your trek luggage which is carried by the pack animals combination padlocks for keeping your baggage secure. M is for Money. In India the unit of currency is the Rupee. Currently the Rupee trades at approximately 100 to 1 (Oct 2015). We suggest you carry Sterling which can be exchanged in at the hotel or on arrival in Delhi at one of the banks or authorised money changers. Insist on a receipt as it will help you reconvert unused rupees into the original foreign currency at the time of departure. All unspent monies can be exchanged during departure at the airport. Small denominations should be purchased for tips etc. There are ATMs but your bank may charge you for withdrawals and transactions, or possibly even block your card so please inform them in advance to let them know your travel plans. Travellers

14 cheques should be avoided, and Scottish/Channel Islands notes will not be accepted for exchange. Around is usually plenty for all expenses. N is for Nibbles. You should bring your own high energy snacks for the trek. This should be something you enjoy eating and will be an energy boost during your trek days. Chocolate, sweets, dried fruit, cake bars, nuts, energy bars, Kendal mint cake flapjack and other high calorie snacks are recommended. P is for Phone. India s international dialing code is +91. If you have a GSM900/1800 mobile phone you should be able to use it without any problems (subject to your phone provider terms and conditions, and phone reception in your location). Phone signal may be intermittent during the trek. Roaming calls may be very expensive. See C is for Communications. P is for Photocopies. Photocopy (and scan & to yourself) of all your documents (insurance details, flight numbers, passport, credit/debit cards etc.) and take a copy with you during the trip. If you lose any of your documents you will then have access to a copy online and with you. P is for Photography. When taking photographs of the local people, it is polite to ask their permission. Taking a photograph of someone without their permission, especially in rural areas, can cause offence. In contrast, taking photographs of someone you have become friendly with is usually very welcome. If someone offers to have their photo taken with you, ask how much it will cost first, as many locals expect payment for photographs and it is wise to agree on a price first. P is also for Poverty. Poverty in India can be distressing. It is important not to underestimate the psychological impact of viewing poverty, and a sense of helplessness and guilt that often comes from it. Some people respond to such sights by feeling they must do everything they can to help everyone they can. The risk with this is that it leads to disappointment and disillusionment as no one person can do everything. The secret here is to recognise the signs (raised levels of stress, feeling emotional, guilty, frustrated and angry) and to set realistic goals about what you can and cannot do. We also recommend that you avoid acting on impulse especially when it comes to giving away money. People may seem genuine, but very many people still regard tourists as cash cows and act dishonestly and unethically. Do check with your guides before giving money. The general advice is question what you are told, don t be afraid to say no, and check it out with your guides. R is for Reading. Lonely Planet India. 15th edition (Oct 2013) ISBN: Indian Himalaya. Footprint Guides. 3 rd Edition (Feb 2015) ISBN: The Rough Guide to India. 7 th Edition (Jan 2011) ISBN: R is also for Religion. As the birthplace of four of the world s major religions India is known as the land of spirituality and philosophy. The most dominant religion in India is Hinduism which accounts for almost 81% of the population. Islam is the chosen faith of 13% of the population. 2.5% of Indians are Sikhs. Christianity is practiced by a further 2%. Buddhism and Jainism account for 1.5% of the population. S is for Safety. Incidences of petty theft such as pick-pocketing and bag snatching do occur in the larger cities and tourist areas so common sense precautions apply (no flashy jewellery, keep wallets out of sight, don t leave bags unattended etc.). S is also for Sleeping bag. You should bring a good quality sleeping bag which has a comfort rating of 0 C. You don t need to carry it yourself during the trek. It is important that you check that the degrees rating for your sleeping bag is comfort and not extreme. The difference between the two is that the comfort rating is the temperature at which a person in good health, having eaten a hot meal and sleeping in a sheltered environment will feel comfortable. The extreme rating is the temperature at which a person sleeping in a sheltered place will survive. S is also for Sleeping bag liner. A cotton or silk sleeping bag liner is also strongly recommended as it adds an extra layer of insulation to your sleeping bag but also helps to keep it clean from sweat and dirt. You sweat around 300ml in a sleeping bag each night and without a liner this

15 will absorb into your sleeping bag and will get very smelly. It is also handy to have if you get too hot and night and unzip your sleeping bag but want to be covered by something. S is also for Socks. It is important that the socks you choose are of good quality, non-cotton and will not slip down or sag in your boots which is one of the main causes of blisters. During your trek you will be wearing your breathable, waterproof boots and so you should wear socks to compliment these. Cotton socks absorb sweat and hinder its evaporation, making them damp and therefore likely to rub against your feet, causing blisters. Socks containing Coolmax (a brand of polyester), nylon, or Merino wool all have wicking properties. This means that instead of the fabric absorbing sweat, it pulls it away from the skin for it to evaporate. Socks like this complement the breathability of your boots, and your feet will stay cool and you will avoid blisters. S is also for Souvenirs. There are many excellent handicrafts including brassware, terracotta, carved furniture, papier-mâché, textiles, carpets etc. These are available at shops and stalls near tourist spots. Remember to haggle! In Dharamshala you will also find Tibetan handicrafts for sale and this may be the best place to buy your souvenirs as you can leave them at the hotel while you re trekking and take them back to Delhi with you on the train. S is for Sunglasses. These are important as they will protect your eyes from the sun which can be very bright at higher altitudes. T is also for Tickets (or e-tickets). These will be sent to you 2 weeks before departure. T is for Tipping. Tipping your guides, porters, baggage porters, driver and any other service staff is expected and appreciated. Please liaise with your tour manager for information. T is also for Toilets. Indian toilets are of the squat variety, although Western toilets are often found in hotels and guesthouses catering to foreign visitors. Indian toilet culture is very different to European and toilet paper is rarely used, with water from a tap in the bathroom being used to cleanse instead. You should take toilet paper with you wherever you go but put it into the bin provided rather that down the toilet. On the trek, there will be long drop style toilets provided with a toilet tent. Have a look online for a variety of insightful guides into Indian toilet culture! T is also for Towel. You won t need this for the hotel as it is provided, but during the trek you will be provided with a small amount of water to wash. In this event, you will need a towel to dry yourself. A highly absorbent but lightweight and fast drying trek is recommended. W is also for Water. You will be provided with bottled water on the trek. All tap water in India is undrinkable; this includes the water at the hotel. You must not brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with the tap water, only use bottled or purified water. Avoid getting water in your mouth when showering. You may wish to bring along some water purification just in case you wish to refill your bottle at a tap along the way. A highly recommended purification is Biox Aqua which contains chlorine dioxide. You may also wish to consider powdered fruit juice, as this will make the purified water taste better. By purifying water where possible you will also use less plastic bottles which will eventually end up in landfill. A 2- litre CamelBak or similar is recommended as a water container. W is for Weather. Temperatures will depend on the weather with sunny days feeling hotter than overcast or rainy days. In Delhi and Kanha, temperatures can reach 35 C during the day, dropping to 19 C at night. As we head into the mountains the temperature is cooler with C expected during the day, dropping down to 5 C at night. Weather conditions vary and could be bright and sunny, rainy, cloudy or humid. Please note that weather conditions in mountainous regions can be unpredictable so you should be prepared for all climatic eventualities. Temperatures given are historically accurate and we cannot be held responsible for deviations to this. Z is for Zinc Oxide tape. When your boots start to rub against your feet, you can apply zinc oxide tape to the hot spot to stop a blister developing. Prevention is better than cure! Last updated October 2015