Leave no trace in the mountains

Waste

The Himalaya's popular trails have a plastic problem, and there's no collection at 3,500 m. Whatever you leave stays.

• Carry a small bag for your own rubbish, and empty it only in proper bins at the road head.
• Choose refillable bottles over packaged water.
• Pick up a few pieces of litter every day. Many operators run clean-up drives; join in.
• Don't burn plastic at camp. The smoke is toxic and the residue stays.

Toilets

Most camps have toilet tents. Where there isn't one:

1. 1

   Walk at least 60 m (about 70 steps) from water, camps and the trail.

2. 2

   Dig a hole 15 to 20 cm deep with a trowel or your heel.

3. 3

   Afterwards, fill it in and cover it.

4. 4

   Pack used toilet paper and sanitary products out in a sealed bag. They don't break down in the cold.

Water and wildlife

• Wash yourself and dishes away from streams, and scatter the water. Soap harms the life in mountain streams, even biodegradable soap.
• Don't feed animals, including dogs that follow groups up from villages. It changes their behaviour and spreads disease.
• Watch wildlife from a distance. Bharal, ibex and pheasants are easily disturbed in winter, when every bit of energy counts.
• Stick to the trail. Short-cutting switchbacks starts erosion that scars slopes for years.

Villages and culture

• Ask before photographing people, especially at temples, monasteries and ceremonies.
• Walk clockwise around stupas, mani walls and chortens.
• Dress modestly in villages, and remove shoes where it's asked.
• Buy local: homestays, tea shops, produce. It keeps money in the valley.