Everybody cherishes snow and that’s why being home of the Himalayas, trekking in India and trekking in Nepal has become increasingly popular in the last few years. Many professional or amateur trekkers crave to visit the Himalayas at least once and experience its fascinating beauty.

One can easily trek in the Himalayas after training physically as well as mentally and by gaining experience. But a crucial aspect that people forget is to maintain body temperature, especially when you are trekking in the Himalayas. The temperature at Annapurna base camp may fall to minus 20 degrees at night in the month of February. One needs a robust technique to survive in such weather.

So, if you are planning for trekking in Nepal or trekking in India or any of its trekking routes here are a few ways that can help you balance body temperature:

1. The emphasis of layering: Yes, layering is the key to survive and maintain body temperature in the Himalayas. Make sure you have at least 4 layers to keep you warm which may include thermals, woolen sweaters, fleece jacket, and a hollow fill jacket. Don’t forget to layer up your lower body as well with tights and trek pants. Some other essentials during the trek are balaclava, sunglasses, sun cap, water-resistant gloves, woolen socks. Keep a check on the fabric's quality while layering up.
2. Refrain from sweating: Sweating results in perspiration i.e. if you sweat, chill wind will freeze you. Therefore, the best way is to balance body temperature is to refrain from sweating. Keep on adding or removing the layers while trekking as it helps in managing the body temperature. Wearing a windproof shell is another solution for the same as it reduces the rate of perspiration.
3. Maintain hydration and energy: Although you are trekking in a cold region which may suppress your thirst, drink at least 3-4 liters of liquid each day. If you fail to hydrate, your body you may suffer from hypothermia. Carry tea bags or coffee bags to prepare warm beverages during the trek. Warm beverages are easy to take and hence, don’t let the body dehydrate. Also, keeping the energy levels high is equally important. Therefore, keep eating at small intervals which will help your body generate heat.
4. Insulate your sleeping bag: The gaps between your body and sleeping bag are the spots that make your sleeping bag cold. Therefore, it is suggested that you insulate your sleeping bag, especially for the night. In order to keep yourself warm, you can either fill up the empty spaces with clothes or use a liner. Using a good quality liner that can give warmth of 8 degrees Celsius to your sleeping bag.
5. Don’t hold the urge to urinate: Whether it is 2 am to 2 pm don’t hold the urge to urinate. Your body fails to generate body heat as most of the energy is lost in keeping the urine warm. For body heat, your body needs energy and that can be done if you relieve yourself when nature calls.
6. Hot water bottles: Another way to keep yourself warm in the sleeping bag is to use hot water bottles especially, during the night when the temperature is the lowest. They are one of the best ways to keep you warm when trekking in Annapurna base camp. Moreover, you can use this water to hydrate yourself in the middle of the night or during the dawn.

Follow these tips to keep yourself away from the freezing temperature and keep the body moving.