Monsoon treks are breathtaking – lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls and mist-laced trails with earthenware aroma await your visit. Unfortunately, however, not everything about these monsoon excursions is poetry: rain can fall for days on end, making trails slippery while your gear remains wet until reaching your campsite. Here at Trekup India, we have assisted numerous trekkers during monsoon season treks and gained valuable lessons that we have put into this guide on staying dry, safe and secure while trekking during rainy conditions.
1. Prepare for Rain
A watertight backpack and rain cover are essential in order to keep equipment dry in case it rains, such as dry bags for electronic devices, as well as zip-lock bags containing important documents.
Clothing That Dries Fast
Cotton clothing absorbs moisture quickly and takes some time to dry; try instead choosing quick-dry clothing made of materials like polyester that evaporate quickly, such as:
- Moisture-wicking T-shirts & trek pants
- Light Rain Jacket and Poncho
- Trekking shoes should be waterproof and feature excellent grip for trekking expeditions.
- Monsoon trekking can be treacherous. Make sure that you invest in anti-slip footwear before setting out.
- Shoes for trekking that feature large treads (Vibram soles are recommended)
- Gaiters to keep dirt and leaks out
2. Stop Leeches Now
Leeches can be a major problem during monsoons. But you can help protect yourself by following a few easy tips:
- Use tobacco or salt on shoes and socks
- Utilise leech socks or clothing that fits closely, such as clothes that tighten around the ankle.
- Utilize a small salt sachet to eliminate leeches quickly.
