Frequently Asked Questions

Safety is prioritized through qualified leaders, proper equipment, set evacuation protocols, and continuous monitoring of trail and weather conditions.

We design itineraries with acclimatization in mind, monitor symptoms daily, and descend or evacuate immediately if required.

Trek leaders carry basic first‑aid and high‑altitude medication; trekkers should also bring personal medicines recommended by their doctor.

On selected high‑altitude routes we carry supplementary oxygen and pulse oximeters as part of our emergency preparedness.

The team stabilizes the participant, initiates descent or evacuation, and coordinates with local resources and family as needed.

We can guide you on suitable trek insurance options, but trekkers usually need to purchase their own policy before the trip.

At Himalayas Shelter, all treks follow an extensive set of safety protocols, which include regular testing of hiking equipment, daily health checks, and weather assessments, as well as trained trek leaders to supervise treks.

Yes, the vast majority of Trek Leaders have been trained in emergency evacuation procedures, CPR, AMS management, and wilderness first aid.

Yes, oxygen cylinders and certain basic medical supplies are included with every trek.

The trekker will undergo an immediate evacuation, where they will have the opportunity to receive oxygen; following that, they will be taken to a lower altitude. From there, we will immediately arrange to evacuate them to the nearest roadhead and into the nearest medical facility.

Yes, we monitor a trekker's oxygen levels (SpO₂), pulse rate, and general wellness on a daily basis to identify early signs of AMS or exhaustion.

There is a first aid kit manufactured by Himalaya. The kit contains items such as antiseptics, pain relief, AMS medication (for emergency use only), ORS, and other items of necessity needed to provide complete first aid.

Depending on the route and the type of terrain, we carry portable evacuation means. In many cases, where terrain allows for quicker extraction, we can obtain local means (mules) to assist us.

Yes, and we recommend many of our treks to be suitable for these types of trekkers. All of our treks are designed to ensure a comfortable experience by providing safety briefings, pacing recommendations, and assisted acclimatisation.

Yes, it is highly recommended that all trekkers purchase travel insurance. Trekkers should ensure their travel insurance provides coverage for emergency evacuation and coverage at high altitudes.

Chiefly, you will need to provide any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies to any medications, surgeries recently performed, and any medications.

Yes; however, we do need a written medical clearance from your physician for you to travel with us. You will also need to carry the medications that are prescribed to you.

We receive updates from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), local weather reports, feedback from guides, and satellite forecasts.

Definitely! Our campsites are chosen by considering: 

• Safe terrain 
• Limited exposure to avalanches/wind
• Access to water 
• Emergency exit route

The following equipment is needed for the trek: microspikes or crampons, snow gaiters, weather-based route decisions, an extra layer of insulation, and an early turnaround time on summit days.

Our meals are made from fresh ingredients and served hot. We maintain a clean kitchen tent, and our staff uses boiled/purified water. We maintain sanitation guidelines to prevent any foodborne illness.

Yes! The water provided to trekkers is boiled, filtered, or treated with a disinfectant (e.g., iodine) to ensure it's safe. Trekkers also have the option to carry their own water purification tablets.

We suggest:

• The individual physician prescribed medication.
• Pain and fever medications.
• Medications for nausea.
• Adhesive bandages.
• Oral Rehydration Solution.
• Diamox (only with a doctor's prescription).

Yes, Himalayas Shelter will provide transportation, mules, or local rescue services depending on the terrain and emergency situation.

Each group travels along with a lead guide and a sweep leader; they maintain contact with communication devices such as radios or mobile communications if available.

Tell the trek leader right away. Early notification will assist in identifying any urgent needs and will provide timely assistance.

Trekking with Himalayas Shelter requires basic to moderate physical fitness based on the trek. You must be able to walk 4 to 8 kilometers on uneven terrain each day while carrying a small backpack.

Yes, there are beginner‑friendly treks with gradual climbs, and our team helps you choose the right itinerary and season.

Basic cardio like brisk walking, jogging, or cycling combined with squats and stair climbs for 4–6 weeks is usually sufficient for easy–moderate treks.

The leader adjusts the pace with support staff at the front and back, but you should still prepare in advance to enjoy the experience.

Treks suitable for families can include children and older adults, while strenuous routes have recommended age and fitness guidelines.

This depends on your doctor’s clearance, share your condition in advance so we can advise whether a particular trek is appropriate.

A good way to determine if you are fit enough is through a simple benchmark:

• Walk 5 kilometres in under 50 minutes
• Climb 3 to 4 floors of stairs without being fatigued
• Carry 5 to 7 kilograms in a backpack very easily
• If you meet the specifications above, then you are most likely prepared to trek in the Himalayas.

Not always. Some of our treks welcome beginner trekkers.

Four to six weeks before the trek is recommended. This gives you ample opportunity to develop your stamina and strength.

A good combination of the following will prepare you:

• Cardio – walking, biking or jogging
• Strength training – squats, lunges and core exercises
• Flexibility – any type of stretching or yoga
• Stair climbing – the ultimate way to train for leg endurance.

Running is not required, but it helps increase lung capacity and stamina, and regular walking is very beneficial.

Losing weight is not a requirement, but being at or near a healthy BMI will increase the length of time you can walk without experiencing fatigue.

When packing your backpack for trekking, it is important to bring along the following items:

• Water bottle
• Jacket/layers (to stay warm)
• Snacks
• Any personal medications
• Rain gear

Himalayas Shelter will provide you with all the necessary group and safety equipment.

The trekking gear provided by Himalayas Shelter to you will include:

• Tents
• Sleeping bags
• Mattresses
• Kitchen setup
• Safety equipment (i.e. oxygen, first aid, etc.)
• You must bring your own personal clothing and footwear.

You should wear waterproof, high-ankle trekking shoes with good traction, not sports shoes. 

The appropriate layering system for the mountains is as follows:

• Base layer (such as thermals)
• Mid-layer (such as fleece)
• Outer layer (such as a down jacket)
• Shell layer (such as windproof/rain jacket)

Yes. After making your reservation, you will receive a detailed gear and packing checklist from Himalayas Shelter.

Yes. Many trekkers between the ages of 45-65 have completed successful treks with Himalayas Shelter with adequate preparation and physician approval.

Yes! Using trekking poles will reduce the amount of stress on your knees, provide better balance and support you when going uphill or walking over snow.

Yes! Trekking requires the ability to be patient, to keep going, and to stay positive.

You should drink at least 2-3 liters of water each day while trekking. Hydration is essential for maintaining endurance and acclimatization.

It is not necessary to change your diet before a trek.

Yes! You should train walking with 3-5 kgs in your backpack until you feel comfortable carrying that extra load in the mountains.

Select easy-moderate treks that are mostly comfortable and open to children above 8 years.

Yes. Winter treks require better layering for warmth and gloves that are insulated.

Going on a trek unprepared is not advised.

The most common mistake trekkers make is underestimating the difficulty of the trail and overpacking.

Every day in your itinerary will list a complete description of the route, the elevation gain, the circuit distance, the name and description of the camps, and your anticipated weather, thus giving you the opportunity to be as prepared as possible before going out to hike.

Transport to and from the base location, personal gear, off‑route accommodation, and personal expenses are typically excluded.

On the trail we use shared tents or lodges/guesthouses where available; at base locations, simple hotels or homestays are arranged.

We serve freshly cooked vegetarian meals designed to provide enough energy and warmth for trekking days and cold nights.

Tents, sleeping bags, mats, and common technical gear are provided; trekkers bring their own clothing, shoes, and personal accessories.

For some departures, basic items like trekking poles or jackets can be arranged on rent, subject to availability at the base.

Yes, factors such as weather conditions, group health, and trail safety may result in changes being made to your itinerary while you are participating in the trek. Our number one priority is your safety.

Absolutely, we create customised itineraries for private groups, families, schools, and corporations.

Most trek packages include:

- Accommodation (e.g. tented or homestay accommodation)
- Meals while trekking
- Trekking leader & guide service
- Support Staff (e.g. Cook, Helpers, Porters/Mules, depending upon the trek)
- Camping Equipment
- Forest Permits/Entry Fees
- Safety Equipment (e.g., oxygen tank, medical kit, Oximeter, etc.)

The following items are usually excluded from the trekking services:

- Transportation after the drop-off location.
- Personal Gear (i.e., trekking shoes & Clothing)
- Off-loading Charges If You Want To Use Mules To Carry Your Bag
- Travel Insurance
- Any Personal Purchases At Local Shops
- Tips To Staff

The specific inclusions/exclusions will be provided to you when you make your booking.

Yes. We arrange either shared or private transport from major transport hubs like Rishikesh, Dehradun, Haridwar, Delhi and Mussorie, depending on the trek.

We prepare fresh, hot, local yet nutritious vegetarian meals that are suitable for high-energy levels when at high altitude. We can provide Jain meals or arrange for any specific dietary needs given prior notice.

The type of lodging provided will vary for each trek:

• Camping tents (three-person tents will be used and shared between two trekkers)
• Dining/Kitchen tent
• Homestay / Guest House at some of the base villages

All accommodation provided is clean, weather-resistant, and well-maintained.

Yes. You will be provided with high-quality sleeping bags and foam mattresses.

Our average group size is generally between 8-12 trekkers.

Yes. Prior to the start of your trek, we conduct a pre-trek briefing. It covers the following areas:

• Itinerary
• Safety Guidelines
• Weather Conditions
• Gear Check
• Instruction on Pace, Acclimatisation, etc.

Your daypack must be carried by yourself, but there are offloading options available for an additional fee for those who do not want to carry a rucksack.

• Tents 
• Sleeping gear 
• Kitchen/dining equipment 
• Cutlery 
• Safety equipment (oxygen, oximeter, first-aid kit) 
• Where appropriate, extra gear (e.g., microspikes/gaiters) will be supplied.

Each trekker is responsible for bringing their own equipment. However, we provide rental gear like trekking poles, down jackets, and trekking shoes.

Yes. We will provide a toilet tent or an eco-toilet at each campsite.

Yes. We acquire water from clean mountain streams and boil and filter it before users.

Most routes will provide cell service up to the base village, and no service at the higher camps. However, we will have communication with villagers for emergency purposes.

An average daily gain will vary depending on which trek you take. All of our itineraries are set up so that you should achieve adequate acclimatisation.

Yes. If you complete the trek, you will receive a completion certificate.

If you can no longer continue on your trek, we will arrange for a safe return and provide transportation to the nearest point of access.

The check-in and check-out times will be provided to all trekkers before the trip.

Yes, additionally, you will receive basic support from your trek leader for photo/video creation.

Yes. At Himalayas Shelter, we organise exclusive private and corporate departures along with custom services for schools and families.

It’s recommended that trekkers arrive at least one day before their trek.

You can fill out an inquiry form or get in touch with us directly to reserve your seat.

Yes. Each individual package requires you to pay a non-refundable reservation payment, typically 20-30% of the total cost of that package.

It is best to make your reservation as early as you can; at least 30-45 days before your hike takes place is best, especially during peak seasons (summer and winter).

A government-issued identification, i.e.,  adhar card, a medical certificate indicating physical fitness for specific altitude hiking, and a signed waiver form are all required documents.

Yes, reservations can be transferred to another hiker until a certain period of time prior to the actual hike date (approximately 7-10 days).

We accept UPI, debit/credit cards, and bank transfers, as well as international payment methods by means of third-party secure payment gateways.

We do not allow for payments to be made through an EMI or installment plan.

You are required to make your full payment on the day before you start the trek.

After a successful transaction, you will receive an invoice that complies with GST regulations via email & SMS.

The amount of cancellation fees varies based on the number of days until departure; additionally, we give vouchers.

Most refunds will take between 3-7 business days, depending on how soon the banks process your refund. Refunds for international payments might take longer for this reason.

If your trek is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances like extreme weather, road blockages, or government restrictions, in that case we postpone the trek, give a voucher, or lastly refund the amount.

Yes, until 7 days before the trek, you may reschedule your trek based on availability.

You will not be allowed to go on this trek if you don't provide the required documents. You must submit any missing documentation no later than the deadline.

Should you cancel within 48 hours of the trek date, your payment will be non-refundable, as there has already been considerable expense incurred associated with logistical planning and transporting support staff.

Clients from outside India must also provide a copy of their passport and visa, and travel/health insurance certificates and are charged in either INR or USD according to the payment method used.

Yes, in order to go trekking, you must have travel/health insurance coverage.

Yes, group reservations consisting of five or more individuals may qualify for discounts based on availability by trek and season.

Our customer support will be available via email, phone, and WhatsApp (during normal office hours). Emergency support lines are available during operational hours for treks.

Every important communication—gear checklists, weather updates, transport reporting points, and emergency contacts—is shared via email, WhatsApp groups, or SMS.

Our customer support desk is available via email, phone, and WhatsApp during business hours. Emergency support lines are active during trek operational windows.

Essentials include layered winter clothing, a waterproof jacket, good trekking shoes, thermals, gloves, cap, personal toiletries, and a sturdy backpack.

High‑ankle, well‑gripped trekking shoes are strongly recommended; sports shoes are usually not enough for snow or rough terrain.

Spring–summer and post‑monsoon are ideal for most routes, while selected winter treks are run when snow conditions are safe.

Mountain weather is unpredictable, expect cold nights, possible rain or snow, and strong sun during the day, so pack layers and rain protection.

Coverage is patchy and often limited to certain camps; power banks are recommended as charging points may be rare or chargeable.

Yes, we help coordinate shared or private transport from common pick‑up points to the trek base, which can be added separately to your booking.

High-ankle trekking shoes that provide superior traction (grip), have firm soles, and are made from materials that are either water-resistant or waterproof are ideal.

The number of clothing layers to take with you on your trek to the Himalaya Shelter will vary based on the current season, altitude changes, and your personal body size.

Yes! Typically, a heavy insulated or down jacket is required for most trekking above 3500 meters, and be aware that nighttime temperatures may fall well below freezing even during the summer months, so a good insulator is essential for safety!

You should take a 50 to 60-liter trekking backpack that has padded shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a rain cover. If your trek includes summit and/or acclimatization hikes, you may also want to take a 15 to 20-liter daypack.

Yes! Himalaya Shelter supplies all necessary technical and safety gear, including ropes, helmets, harnesses, and crampons or micro spikes if they're required.

Some essential trekking accessories include:

- Trekking Poles
- Woolly Cap, Sun Cap, and Neck Gaiter
- Warm Waterproof Gloves
- UV-protected sunglasses
- Headlamp/Torch with Extra Batteries
- Personal Medicines/First Aid
- Sunscreen, Lip Balm, and Reusable Water Bottles

Accessories such as these greatly improve comfort and safety while on your trek!

The best times for trekking are:

• April-June (Spring/Summer): Clear skies and snow above the highest altitudes
• September-October (Post-Monsoon): Steady weather with clear views of the terrain
• December-February: Snow Treks on some routes

Each season provides a different level of Himalayan experience.

Yes, there are some trekking routes you can take in July and August, although those routes will be located mainly in the rain-shadow areas. However, you must prepare adequately for a monsoon trek because of rain, mud, and limited vision.

Yes, however, winter hiking will only be offered on certain routes with the most additional safety precautions. Additionally, winter hiking will require you to have the appropriate winter gear, as well as be very physically fit and be fully prepared to deal with snow as well as temperatures below 0°C.

The temperature will be dependent on what altitude you are at and the season:

• 3,000-3,500 Meters = 0-5 °C
• At altitudes of over 4,000 meters, it is common for the temperature to drop to -10°C or below, especially in winter.

Himalaya Shelter prioritises safety above all else. We monitor the weather in real-time, create flexible itineraries for clients, create plans for evacuation in advance, and operate with trained professionals as trek guides. The camps or routes will change depending on what is considered safe for all involved.

Make sure not to panic and pay attention to your trek leader's instructions. Stay with the group, wear the proper layers for warmth, stay hydrated, and avoid separating yourself from the group. All decisions made by the guide are based on the safety of all individuals participating as trekkers.