Wrong gear ruins more treks than fitness does. This packing list is for typical 4–6 day camping treks in Uttarakhand (Kedarkantha, Dayara, Dodital, etc.) — adjust for monsoon or high-altitude routes. We provide tents and sleeping bags on most packages; you carry personal layers.
Essentials (non-negotiable)
- Trekking shoes — ankle support, worn in for 3+ weeks before trek. Not sports shoes.
- Backpack 40–50 L — with rain cover; or daypack if porter hired.
- Head torch — spare batteries; summit starts are pre-dawn.
- Water bottles — 2 litres total capacity; purification tablets optional.
- ID + photocopies — forest permits need government ID.
- Personal meds — including ORS, blister tape, your prescriptions.
Clothing layers
| Layer | Winter (Dec–Mar) | Spring / autumn |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Thermal tops + bottoms | Quick-dry t-shirts |
| Mid | Fleece or light down | Fleece |
| Outer | Down jacket + waterproof shell | Rain jacket + windcheater |
| Legs | Trek pants + thermal | 2 trek pants |
| Hands/head | 2 gloves, wool cap, sun cap | Sun cap, light gloves |
What we usually provide
On camping treks: tent, sleeping bag (often -10°C rated on winter routes), mattress, kitchen. Winter Kedarkantha: microspikes/gaiters often included — confirm on booking.
What NOT to bring
- Jeans — heavy, slow to dry, chafe.
- Cotton inners in winter — holds sweat, makes you cold.
- Brand-new boots on trek day.
- Excess toiletries — no showers on trail.
Monsoon add-ons (Valley of Flowers, etc.)
- Poncho that covers pack
- Quick-dry everything
- Leech socks for lower forest — ask guide locally
- Waterproof pouches for phone and cash
Sample Kedarkantha winter list
See also gear section on Kedarkantha trek page. For a full route overview: Kedarkantha guide.