How to Travel Safely In Uttarakhand during Monsoon Season

Monsoon season in Uttarakhand is a very difficult situation to deal with for tourists as well as the locals. During the months from July to early September the region remains susceptible to unexpected and sudden weather changes, heavy torrential rainfall, landslides and flooding situations among other problems. If you plan your travels to Uttarakhand (Devbhoomi) wisely and smartly during the monsoon season then rest assured you will have a great time. This is the time when tourism is low and sightseeing places are free of doting tourists and you will get a chance to experience the Himalayan rains in all its glory.

 

 

Here are some tips to keep you safe if you happen to venture out in Uttarakhand during the monsoon season:

The Right Type of Clothing

Let’s be realistic. You will most probably get caught in the rain if you are travelling during the rainy months sooner or later. Some clothes tend to remain soaking wet or damp for a long period of time that may cause fever, headaches and cough and cold along with an unbearable stench. It is best for you to pack a lot of synthetic clothing which dries out quickly leaving you feeling comfortable and ensuring a hassle free travel experience even if you get caught in rains. Be sure to pack extra pair of dry socks to keep your feet warm at all times which are the key to safe travels on the hills.

Necessary Medications and Repellants

Constant rainy season causes puddles to get formed that in just a couple of hours turns into a breeding ground for various insects and mosquitoes. Hills and mosquitoes go hand in hand and the situation worsens during the monsoon season when every puddle becomes a breeding ground for these pests. One must remember that although small in size they can cause some fatal and life threatening diseases whose impact will be felt for a lifetime. It pays for you to be a smart traveler and carry a good quality of mosquito repellant, repellant ointments like odomos and citronella scented perfume that has proven to keep mosquitoes at bay.

Check Weather Forecast Beforehand

Do not travel impulsively on the hills during the monsoon season. Plan beforehand and do check for sure the weather forecast. If it says that the chances of rainfall are high during the travel date that you may have decided then it is wise for you to postpone your plans for a further date. Keep updated with the local Uttarakhand news channel to get the exact news update regarding the weather condition. Make sure to only travel during the sunny days and when the weather agrees with you otherwise do not take a chance with nature.

Save Your Electronic Devices

Remember not only to protect yourself from the monsoon rains but also keep all your electronic devices safe from the rain water. Keep your phones, chargers, portable items, camera, torches etc. safely inside and plastic Ziploc bag. This will ensure that your electronic devices are safe and dry and will be able to help you when needed in case of an emergency. Apart from this you need all your travel memories intact in a camera and this can only happen if you stash it away in a plastic bag inside a waterproof bag.

Do Not Eat Street Food

Trying out the local delicacies in Uttarakhand is one of the most vital experiences that will make you feel closer to the culture of the hills. However in case of monsoon season try to avoid any outside food that may cause you some illness or you may accidentally ingest some bacteria infested food. Viruses, fungi and bacteria tend to multiply and cause some potentially harmful problems and will ruin your vacation days. Stay limited to the food available in restaurants, home stays and cafes as they are prepared in kitchens and not outside, ensuring safe and healthy food.

Do Not Opt For Camping

It goes without saying that camping activities in Uttarakhand should be avoided completely under all conditions during the monsoon months. The camping grounds become breeding grounds for various different types of insects that can cause serious illnesses. If you do happen to end up on the hills during the monsoon season with your camping gear then be sure to avoid the low lying areas where you can see rain water puddles accumulated and rather opt for an area where you can see free flowing water streams.

Miscellaneous Tips and Things to Keep in Mind for Monsoon Travels

• Carry a mini first aid box with all the medication you may require during your travel journey. Consult your family doctor for some additional medicines that you may require like anti diarrhea, anti-fever and cough and cold medication.
• Pack surplus supplies like extra packaged food, an extra pair of dry clothing, socks and even an extra fully charged portable charger in case the electricity supply runs out.
• If travelling by car keep a savior tool kit consisting of Swiss Knife, Scissors, Tape, Ropes, screwdrivers etc. although these may sound random but in case of travelling during the monsoon months one cannot predict when can these items be needed.
• Stay away from open water sources and running river water as they also turn into breeding grounds for bacteria and infections.