Rathong Valley Trek

Rathong Valley is a challenging trek which takes you through the picturesque Rathong Valley in West Sikkim region. The trek passes through the very famous Dzongri La which is at an altitude of 14,600 ft. The trek trail takes you through Chowrikhang, which is the base camp of the prestigious Himalayan Mountaineering Institute.

You will also visit the Doodh Pokhari Lake, which is considered as a holy lake and the view of which is sure to leave you mesmerized. The trail blends typical Eastern Himalayan evergreen forests with truly majestic view of Kanchendzonga and a host of high Sikkim peaks almost looming in. Entire trek trail runs inside Kanchendzonga National Park and it gives you the best views of Kanchenjunga – the third highest mountain in the world.

Trekking in North-East, particularly Sikkim, is a totally different experience from trekking in the Northern Himalayas. The southeast face of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest mountain, is viewable from the pass, which is also the base camp for those aspiring to scale the mountain. Not just Kanchenjunga but 14 other summits will be your reward on this trek.

This trek is nestled in the vibrant Kanchenjunga National Park, one of the greenest regions in the world and the rich flora and fauna is unmatchable. The dramatic changes in the weather combined with quick altitude gain makes it a challenging trek, suitable for trekkers with moderate experience. You will get the views of many peaks on this trek.

Few to mention are Kanchendzonga Range, Pandim, Thinching khang, Joponu, Siniolchu, Frey, Kokthang, Rathong, Kabru North, Kabru South, Kabru Dome. The route has very thick vegetation, along with hundreds of bird species, butterflies and wildflowers, especially different varieties of Rhododendrons.

Packing for Your Next Adventure: Everything You Need to Know
The key to having a good time in the mountains is to be organized and plan ahead. In addition to all of your training, ensuring that you have the appropriate equipment is an important aspect of preparing for your trip. Choosing the proper equipment will give you an extra comfort and safety boost, so you can be at your best while still enjoying yourself. It’s essential to have the right gear with you to get the most out of your trip. To help you better prepare for the mountain you will be climbing, we have provided a complete packing guide.

TREKKING GEAR LIST

Our training goal is to get you physically and mentally prepared to face the climb with more confidence. The climbing goal will be to perform consistently throughout the adventure. Fitness for mountaineering requires a high overall level of physical conditioning. Both cardiovascular and motor fitness are needed to climb at varying levels of intensity and to navigate challenging terrain, often while carrying a loaded pack and at high altitudes.

Training goals are critically important and allow you to perform better at higher altitudes and enjoy the entire adventure. We suggest that you examine the physical requirements of the climb you are approaching and work on your fitness in different levels. Click here to Learn more about Trip Grades and choose what’s best for you!

Establish a timeline for your training program and focus on specific conditioning for better results. Along with your workouts try and add hikes and climbs in the outdoors whenever possible to get more comfortable with different terrains. Sound fitness gained through a well-guided program is the only best way to ensure a safe and successful adventure.

Mountaineering Fitness and Training
It may also be helpful to break down your training timeline into a number of key phases. These are:

Phase 1 : Base physical fitness
The first phase of getting prepared for your climb is to focus on your base fitness. You should incorporate a fitness routine that focuses on both cardiovascular fitness and motor fitness training. For those who are not used to intense workouts this phase will help you to kickstart your training. Remember that consistency is the first most important factor in achieving any goal. Combine your basic fitness regimes along with running and stair climbing. You are now ready for outdoor adventures.

Phase 2 : Training specific for the climb
Once you have established your base physical fitness, you will need to train specifically for the climb. Depending on the difficulty and intensity of the climb, add advanced workout sessions combined with uphill training. Try and do the same fitness routines with some added loads. Strength training combined with cardiovascular and motor fitness will help with the overall conditioning. This will take your workouts to the next level and help gear up for the mountaineering challenge ahead.

Phase 3 : Outdoor Training
Nothing can replace training in the real outdoors. In the final phase of your training, you should be attempting climbs which are similar to the ones you are approaching. It is great to test your endurance outdoors. This gives you a great edge in preparing for conditions similar to the ones you will encounter during your expedition. It isn’t always possible to find similar terrains close to where you live, but it is best to find a hike as close to the climb as possible. This is the best way to test your climbing gears as well.
Training goals and timeline

Working out for at least 5 days in a week is the best way to get your body physically prepared for the climb ahead. Regular and consistent training always gives the best result and keeps you highly motivated. Make sure that you workout regularly and also give enough time for rest and recovery. Keep it balanced and have a properly planned fitness routine and never overdo exercises to the point of injury. While 2 to 3 months is a good amount of time to train, starting your training earlier allows more time to adjust and prepare.

Click here to learn more about Training for your Upcoming Climb and get ready for the adventure!