The variety of foods available throughout the expedition is excellent considering our continued isolation. When we are at altitude the routine may vary somewhat according to the conditions and facilities available variable and obviously the days will be longer (7 to 10 hours), however there is ample supply of good food whether it is a packed lunch or a formal picnic. In the evening the people usually gather in the mess tent into chart before retiring by 9.00-9.300 p.m. for a good night’s sleep. STAFF Experienced Himalayan Holidays Pakistan Guides lead the expedition. They are experienced mountaineers and have guided many expeditions in the area. Likewise, the cook and his crew have a great deal of experience in working in the mountains. Finally, there will be many porters ready to carry all our supplies for the trip duration (We can pick up little or no supplies en route). ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS When we ascend above 2500 meters our bodies have to acclimatize to the decreasing amount of the oxygen available. To allow our bodies to adjust Himalayan Holidays has structured its treks so that you ascend slowly, allowing acclimatization to occur. However, during the acclimatization process, you may experience some of the following symptoms: 1. Head ache 2. Tiredness 3. Disturbed sleep 4. Loss of appetite/nausea 5. Shortness of Breath 6. Cough 7. Palpitation 8. Swelling of the hands an face All Himalayan Holidays Guides have extensive first aid training and we urge you to communicate with the group guide at all times should you have any symptoms of the above. The only cure for Acute Mountain Sickness is to descend.
Please note that your group guide has ultimate responsibility and may ask you to descend if symptoms persist. CLOTHING Walking Boots should be sturdy and of good quality to handle the rugged moraine conditions. Leather is the most suitable or, for people who prefer lightweight boots, leather boots that have Gore-Tex or Sympa-Tex waterproofing should be worn. They should be well broken in and the correct fit. You should have a second pair of walking shoes for easier terrain and/or for around camp such as runners. Continuous days of moraine walking and river crossings wear cheaper and lightweight shoes out quickly. They result in foot problems (e.g. blisters) that may spoil your holiday. You need proofing wax and brush (if you have all leather boots) and lightweight walking shoes or runners. Snow gaiters - corduroy or canvas, secured with Velcro and studs and a hook, no zips. Thongs/sandals - very useful for river crossings and around camp Socks – 3 pairs lighter weight and at least 2 pairs thick wool or polypropylene (Thorlo brand or similar are ideal) Note - this is assuming you wear one pair at a time Underwear - 3-4 changes Several shirts - 2-3 cotton T-shirts preferably with collar, and 1 long sleeved shirt Scarf - lightweight cotton - for sun protection around neck Swimming costume - essential if you intend to wash at streams EQUIPMENT LIST Sleeping bag- it should be rate for four-season use, approx• temperature rating -10 to 15 degrees. Large daypack or small rucksack- minimum 45-litre capacity, with an effective waist harness and comfortable shoulder straps. Sunglasses - with 100% UV and infrared protection (ensure that prescription glasses also have the same level of protection from the sun). Headlamp or small torch with spare alkaline batteries and globe Basic first aid kit - blister protection, medication for bad stomach upsets, throat lozenges and mild painkillers e.g. Aspro, Panadol. Sewing kit, penknife, Sun block and lip salve-ample supplies for the trip duration. Toiletries – comb, soap, facecloth, toothbrush, paste, shampoo, small towel Water bottles - 2x litres minimum, Nalgene or Sigg brand Thermarest - additional comfort on long treks; reading material, cards, scrabble etc, especially for any extended. Bad weather we may encounter. Camera and film Notebook and pen A sweet treat for the group from home (optional) e.g. chocolate or sweets - well received by the other members! Walking trousers/skirt/shorts - 2/3 firs - ensure you have both, warmer and lightweight clothing for extremes of temperature and weather conditions. Being a Muslim country, clothing should be long and baggy for both men and women whilst in cities and generally whilst on trek. Thermal underwear - long sleeved top and long johns, polypropylene or, chlorofibre two tops are useful for evening and daywear. Warm trousers - Polarfleece, Thinsulate or wool for evenings around camp. Lightweight wool jumper - A good intermediary layer Thicker wool shirt/jumper or Polarfleece jacket/pullover Waterproof jacket - must be completely waterproof, not shoe proof, Gore-Tex is ideal. It must fit comfortably whilst wearing warm clothing and wearing your rucksack. It must have a hood, zipper flap and storm cuffs and come down over hips. Waterproof trousers - preferably with zip-through legs so they may be• easily removed.
Gloves - 1 pair thermal gloves (polypropylene or chlorofibre) and 1 pair Dachstein preshrunk wool; Mitts or thick wool or fleece gloves; Alternately a thermal pair of gloves with a Gore-tax pair of mitts which have a fleece liner Waterproof mitts Wool or polar - fleece hat and thermal balaclava; Sunhat/visor WHAT YOU CARRY You should consider carrying with you extra warm clothing, a rain jacket, at least a litre of water (2 1itres at times), film and camera gear, valuables and any necessary medical toiletry items such as lip-eze or sun screen lotion. A spacious rucksack (minimum 40 litres) with a good waist harness and shoulder straps makes trekking far more enjoyable.
