Newbie Clothing

[Marc Shepherd]

While I don't want to be the 10 millionth person posting a "What should I wear to Nepal" question, I do have a couple of questions that may be a bit different.

I'll be heading to three countries on the 23rd of this month: Kathmandu (Nepal) Bhuthan, and northern India. We're not trekking in that we will stay in tents, etc. We're going to "rough it" in simple hotels and "hostels". However, in some remote places, we may be staying with some villagers. Still not sure, though.

Since we will be in different countries, I'm assuming that my clothing may have to be a bit more versitile. Then again, assuming can get you in trouble. Therefore, my clothing arrangement may be different than those of you pros who hit the base camps. That experience for me will come in time.

I'm really quite at a loss in what to bring in terms of clothing. I am a very light packer. A good backpack is all I need. I don't want to dress to much and of course too little. So here's a BASIC list of what I plan on bringing.

1. Patagonia Capeline base wear (2 undershirts and 2 underpants)
2. Fleece jacket like a NorthFace or of that caliber
3. Two pairs of lightwieght nylon or polyester pants that can be easily washed and dried. Each with zip off leggings
4. Shirt....That is a question. I'm not sure what to bring but I would think they should be like the pants.
5. Nice warm socks (several pairs)
6. Goretex hiking boots.

I understand layers is important. Since we will be traveling to different places by air and land, I want to make sure I have something for cold weather but also for warmer weather in the lower regions.

Therefore,

1. Am I on the right track on clothing?
2. What suggestions or criticisms do you have?

Thanks
Marc S

[Escher]

How high are you going? You say you aren't trekking in tents but are you going to tea house trek in Nepal? If so which treks? This will have a big affect on what clothing it would be best to take.

[Marc Shepherd]

Thimphu is about 9000 feet
Kathmandu is 4450 feet
Siliguri is about 500 feet
Paro is about 7500 feet

No teahouse treks. As you can see it varies quite a bit. Some hiking but not too much. Like I said, it's more of a trip than a trek. However, I figured I'd ask those who are more familiar with the outdoors.

Thanks for the reply

Marc S

[Escher]

If that is all you are doing then it sounds like you are on the right track to me. I've seen snow at 7000-9000ft in January in Nepal so I would take some light gloves, a warm hat and windproof layer/heavier weight jacket of some sort and I would think you would be fine. If you are going to Kathmandu first then you would be able to buy anything you needed for knock down prices. The gear might be fake but it will last the trip. Generally the days are fine but even at 9000 ft in winter it is cold at night and jacket, gloves and hat will see you right. Lightweight travel shirts that wash and dry easily are your best bet. Have a couple of sets and wash the spare one and it will be dry soon, or else just smell! Boots might be overkill for much of your trip but you could always pick up some cheap thongs to wear when in the valleys.

Have a great trip, sounds interesting.

[Marc Shepherd]

Thanks again for the info. I've done several desert treks in the Big Bend area of Texas. It's easy to pack light when it's 104 F. The mountains of the Far East is a completely different animal.

I'll follow you advice.

BTW, some really nice pictures on your Flckr site. I hope to pose some nice ones upon my return.

Marc S