Delve into the Life of the "Explorer" Traveler
In the heart of India's beautiful Kashmir region, Maninder Kohli, a renowned mountaineer, led a group of 12 adventure enthusiasts on a five-day trek post-unlock 4. The group chose Kashmir as their destination due to its allure as a paradise for adventure lovers, with its stunning landscapes and challenging terrains.
Upon arrival in Srinagar, all tourists underwent a compulsory Rapid COVID Test, as part of Kashmir's protocol for tourist entry during the ongoing pandemic. The tourists were free to travel within Kashmir upon testing negative. All participants and support crew agreed to limit interactions and self-isolate a week prior to the trek, and all tests conducted two days before departure returned negative results.
The trek, which took place in the Sind Valley near Sonamarg, covered a distance of 48 km and involved crossing the Sonmasti Pass. The group followed a series of health and safety measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Health monitoring was a key focus, with participants benefiting from continuous health checks including oxygen saturation, heart rate, and respiratory rate monitoring. Some organized treks may incorporate wearable tech for physiological monitoring to ensure safety at high altitudes.
Adherence to standard COVID-19 precautions was also essential. This included the use of masks and hand sanitizers, especially in crowded areas or during transit, maintaining physical distancing when possible, and staying informed about any local health advisories issued by Jammu & Kashmir authorities around the trekking timeframe.
To minimize environmental and health risks, trekkers should avoid overcrowding by respecting group size limits and peak season restrictions implemented by organizers or local authorities. They should also follow “Leave No Trace” principles to prevent littering and protect the fragile alpine ecosystem. Using authorized guides and registered trekking agencies that adhere to safety and health protocols is also recommended.
The Srinagar-Leh Highway, a common approach route for many treks in Kashmir, may face seasonal closures due to weather, affecting trekking plans. Tourists must check road and weather conditions before traveling.
The Central Government has stated that states will no longer be allowed to impose lockdowns outside containment zones without its permission. This clear directive has helped revive tourism in many regions, including Himachal Pradesh, although challenges remain in fully recovering post-COVID-19 lockdown.
Kashmir's clear protocol for tourist entry during COVID-19 has made it a popular choice for trekking activities. Maninder Kohli, who shared images of Kashmir's breathtaking vistas and urged people to consider trekking in the region, believes that with the right safety measures in place, adventure tourism can thrive even in these challenging times.
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- After successfully completing the five-day trek in Kashmir, Maninder Kohli and the group decided to document their travel experiences, intending to showcase the captivating lifestyle and breathtaking landscapes that Kashmir offers as a paradise for adventure enthusiasts.
- As the trek concluded, Maninder Kohli began planning his next adventure, considering destinations that would not only cater to his passion for mountaineering, but also promote the thriving lifestyle and diverse travel opportunities that Kashmir has to offer.
