1)pairs of convertible pants/shorts (pants that zipper to shorts) for hiking mountaineering – these are worn a lot on the trek and are very practical.

2) 4 pairs of very good hiking socks (ie: Smartwool brand available at REI stores or on-line at, Adventure 16 stores or online)

3) 1 bathing suit (for Kir Ganga or other times when jumping in a lake would be great!)

4) High quality long underwear tops and bottoms (ie: Patagonia’s Capilene brand – expensive but keeps you warm when needed, cool when needed and very breathable!)

5) A quick dry camping towel available at stores mentioned above
7) A rain poncho and small travel umbrella for very wet days on trek – it’s monsoon season!

8) A waterproof hat that is also warm and covers you from the sun OR a waterproof hat, a hat for sun and also a hat for the cold mountain nights where it can get below freezing.

9) Gloves

10) Sport sandals are a must (ie: Tevas)

11) Bandana

12) Good (well worn in before trek) hiking boots that have been water sealed

13) gators for snow or mud

14) breathable quick dry under garments (women might want to consider bringing sport bras)

15) Ski/down warm jacket

16) wind/water resistant parka/jacket (could include a lining that makes it a warm winter jacket)

17) Extra pair of warm socks for nighttime – not for hiking

18) Several t-shirts for hiking, sleeping, etc. (easy, breathable, quick dry running or hiking t’s recommended)
SUPPLIES:

1) A large back pack that can carry up to 70 lbs

2) A large day pack that you will be carrying that can contain the following: your water bottle, camera(s), clothing for instant weather changes (ie: a rain poncho, your hat, gloves, warm jacket, extra pair of socks, umbrella if needed, some snack foods, your journal, your sunglasses, a cover for the day pack in case it is raining heavily, etc.)

3) A therma rest or other kind of pad for sleeping is not required as the trek provides pads but is recommended for added comfort!

4) A very warm sleeping back that is good for temperatures that go below zero at night.

5) A water bottle or a thermos that can be used for HOT or COLD water is a good idea

6) A hot water bottle to keep you warm at night

7) A head lamp/torch

8) A walking/hiking stick or sticks if you have knee problems or want to prevent future problems – studies show that they can alleviate 700 lbs of pressure on your knees (available at stores mentioned above)

9) Resealable ziplock baggies for toiletries

10) A couple of large size garbage bags in case of rain, etc.

11) Small personal first aid kit

12) Locks for bags

13) electricity converter for digital camera batteries (not usable during mountain trek but before and after!) India uses 220 volt system

14) Camera – digital works at high altitudes but be vigilant about usage as you cannot charge your battery on trek (take extra battery and a lot of memory!)

15) Books about India--

Recommended: Lonely Planet India or Lonely Planet Northern India, Lonely Planet Hindi/Urdu Phrase Book, Culture Shock: India