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Do’s and Don’ts
For those fascinated by the unexplored, the Garhwal Himalayas offer breathtakingly beautiful trekking routes. Trekking is often the best way of getting to know the land, its people, its culture and traditions. From time immemorial, hill folk and pilgrims have trekked to the shrines. Adi Shankaracharya trekked in Garhwal Himalayas in 8th century A.D. and was the pioneer who opened trekking routes in this part of the country.
 These mountains offer umpteen possibilities to the initiated. There are many places to be discovered which remain untouched by human devastation, where one can see the Himalayas in all their regal splendour.
Trekking is best enjoyed in smaller groups, not exceeding eight or ten. This also allows the hillside to regenerate. Larger groups create administrative problems unless organised well.
Indian nationals need no permission for trekking in any area outside the Inner Line. For routes inside the Inner Line, the local District Magistrate's permission or that of the Central Home Ministry is necessary in advance.
For foreigners, crossing the Inner Line is not permitted. Treks up to 4,900 m need no permission and can be undertaken on tourist visas. Above 4,900 m, treks can also be undertaken with prior permission from the IMF, provided no peak is attempted. Camera permits are also necessary. 
Do's
- Carry enough kerosene or cooking gas for all your requirements so you don’t have to use wood as fuel.
- Try to organise a local guide before embarking on a trek.
- Before leaving on a trek inform the nearest Tourist Office or police checkpost, detailing your trekking program and the date when you return.
- Study your trekking route well before leaving and always carry an area map. (Do not depend entirely on the map as they could be inaccurate).
- BE PATIENT, things in the mountains may not go according to plan.
- At places where toilet facilities are not available, defecate 30 metres away from the water sources and bury or cover the waste. After using temporary toilets at camping sites always fill them up with mud or sand.
- Respect local customs and etiquettes.
- While taking photographs exercise restraint, respect privacy and obtain permission.
- Remove shoes while visiting temples.
- Carry medicines and a First Aid Kit for use in the event of an accident. Also carry a bottle of boiled water while trekking.
- Always trek at a consistent, medium pace.
Don'ts
- Do not litter the mountains. Carry back all non-degradable material and burn or bury paper before leaving your camp site.
- Avoid using pollutants such as detergents, shampoo etc in streams or springs.
- Taking away of cuttings, seeds and roots is illegal in many parts of the Himalayas.
- Do not make open fires and discourage others from doing so. Do not use wood as fuel for fire at camping sites.
- Never touch or remove religious objects and respect holy places.
- Do not wander alone in the forest
- Never leave lit cigarettes or any kind of fire burning in the forest.
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