One list, refined over hundreds of trips to Kashmir, Himachal and Ladakh. Print it, tick it, forget nothing.
Clothing
- Thermal base layer — top and bottom, even in summer
- Fleece or mid-layer, plus one windproof outer jacket
- Two pairs of trekking or grip-sole shoes; avoid new shoes
- Woollen cap, gloves and thick socks
- Sunglasses with UV protection — glare at altitude is brutal
Documents
- Original government photo ID for every traveller, plus two photocopies
- Passport-size photographs for permits
- Printed booking vouchers, because network fails exactly when you need it
- Travel insurance policy number
Medication and toiletries
- Personal prescriptions with a doctor's note
- Motion sickness tablets — the drives are winding
- Sunscreen SPF 50, lip balm and heavy moisturiser
- Basic first aid, ORS sachets and paracetamol
Electronics
- Power bank — camps and homestays have limited charging hours
- Extra camera batteries; cold drains them fast
- A universal adapter if you are carrying anything unusual