Trekking , My views

I am not a "Serious" trekker (No, I take it very seriously and love it, you probably get what I mean) and nor do I think it should be a serious affair. I have only done a very few treks and so my opinion in this matter does not carry a lot of 'weight' so to speak.

This is mostly to give interested folks an idea about what trekking is 

MYTH 1 :

Trekking = Mountaineering

I find that many of my  friends are interested in "Trekking", the first impression that this word creates to them  is "Scaling mountain peaks with ice-axes and ropes", no trekking is NOT "Mountaineering". Trekking is experiencing a landscape (not necessarily hilly regions ) on foot without any strict goal or deadline to meet (As opposed to Expeditions).
Its a great way to experience a bit of danger , a bit of tranquility. Trekking brings out deeper bonds between friends, hidden strength and determination in side oneself and most importantly its hugely fun. The breathtaking scenery is the rewards and precipitous mountain peaks dwarf one's life's mundane problems and help put things into perspective.

MYTH 2:

Harder = Better

A trek is considered hard because of many reasons:

1. Steep gradient : Will drain you both physically and mentally
2. Technically tough : Requires maneuvering some tricky terrain
3. Remoteness : No civilization nearby
4. Height : Altitude sickness is a possibility.

Now at higher altitudes and remote locations you are bound to get closer views of mountain vistas but that does not mean easier treks are less rewarding as far as scenery is concerned. If you are too drained after a tough trek you won't be able to enjoy even the most marvelous of  views.

Trekking is not only about pushing yourself to the limit but mostly about enjoying nature with you in it.

MYTH 3 : 

Expedition/Mountaineering >> Trekking (Trekking is for sissies)

Comparing mountaineering with trekking is like comparing a formula one race with a joyride in a convertible.
Yeah there is absolutely no doubt that mountaineering is much more challenging, more technically demanding and far more dangerous and its certainly not for everyone. But that is exactly why trekking is more fun, its less expensive, it has more room to change your plan according to your whim, you are not bound. Basically the happy-go-lucky way of a trek is its main charm.

Some suggested first Treks in the Himalayas:

For beginners I would suggest the following treks according to my own preference:

1. Sandakphu - Phalut
2. Har-ki-Dun
3. Valley of Flowers
4. Hemkund Sahib
5. Gomukh
6. Dodital
7. Tunganath-Chandrashila
8. Madmaheswar  

Of-course there are a lot more but these are the most common.

Note:

1. Take a even though you feel like you know everything about a route. They can help you when you really need it.
2. Take basic medications.
3. In case of severe altitude sickness while ascending , turn back immediately and go down to a lower altitude.
4. Always show respect to local people . They are one of the nicest people on earth.
5. Help the local people in any way you can. Inspiring others to visit can boost local tourism and help the local people a lot.
6. Do not litter .