Logistics for a multi-month adventure never go exactly to plan. Throw in mountains, weather, people, language, physical, mental, influences and something is bound to go off the rails.
However, we’re not the kind of folks who jump on a plane and just start walking. I have a mix of curiosity and respect for the people who do things that way, as its a completely different mindset to mine.
Mike and I like to plan. We do this to help control what’s in our control, be clearer about what is in others’ control, and acknowledge what’s completely out of anyone’s control. I also believe planning helps you visualize being on a trip.
To plan the Great Himalaya Trail we have broken things down into the following major buckets:
- Budget
- Ideal itinerary
- Resupplies
- Permits, guides, porters
- Gear
- Food
Probably the most fun logistical challenge for this trip are the resupplies.
Resupplies
Resupplies in a thru hiking context may include food, toiletries, gear, replacement shoes, medications, etc.
The trick on this trip is not so much working out how often we need a resupply, but balancing the locations of the resupplies considering:
- access and remoteness of the trail
- number of teahouses versus campsites
- types of terrain / gear / weather
We have nine resupply points. The plan is for Angs Himalaya Adventures will meet us with resupplies. Where possible these resupplies also align with guide and porter sections of the trip.
Maybe we have too much food, maybe we don’t? Maybe I packed too many broken pieces of shampoo bar? Maybe we won’t be able to stomach our breakfasts? Maybe there will be delays from weather to get our resupply?
These questions go through our minds, however we look forward to the challenges along the way. Plus, when all you need to do is get up, walk, eat, walk, eat, walk, eat and sleep, a few puzzles along the way gives you something to think about on the trail!
When we complete the trail we look forward to sharing more information about the permits, budget, and itinerary in a useful spreadsheet format.
2 Comments
By Bob Gregorish
You’re great at planning! I’m sure you’ll handle all the contingencies.
By Alpine Fuzzies
We may have overplanned 😄 Have some leftover food from the first 10 days or so, but it will not go to waste. We are calling weetabix “Canadian Tsampa” 🥣