Travel always attaches to responsibilities. As reaching mountainous regions in Asia where are home of ethnic minorities, travelers should pay attention to the most important things below.

– Respect local residents from the most BASIC things such as asking for permission, saying “thank you” and not bothering.

– Respect indigenous culture and custom. Do not propagate bad modern lifestyle depraved culture to local community.

– Do not gather anything on mountains, do not pick flowers.

– Do not leave rubbish on mountains, take away everything you bring along as hiking.

>> read more: Responsible travel: Leave no trace

Notes for hiking skills

– Step steadily, focus on breathing evenly and make every effort until you are weary, you just rest. Do not rest too long due to body will be cold and joints will be susceptible to fatigue.

– Just drink every small sip of water, avoid drinking much at one time.

– Always follow closely your group, have a thorough grasp of the itinerary and avoid separating from your group.

– Compel to climb to rest stations, where have tents of forest residents at flat, airtight places and especially near water fountains.

>> read more Active Travel Asia’s guides about trekking & hiking

Notes for preparation

– Just carry bare luggage and necessary tools for the trip such as rainy coat, hiking shoes, hat, flashlight, hammock, tent, etc. These things are really indispensable: medical box (bandages, antiseptics…), insect repellent medicine, candy or chocolate to prevent hypoglycemia.

To know more essential gear for hiking/ trekking, you can view our recommends here.

– Weather of mountain is really chilly so you should prepare plenty of warm clothes, gloves, shocks, sleeping bags, body warmer heat patches and trekking mattresses for sleeping.

If your travel is operated by a travel company, they will prepare tent, blanket, mattress… and bring them for you by local porters.

Notes for what to do

– It is fantastic to contemplate magical night sky of jungle areas with millions of stars really close.

– Talk to local residents you encounter and search out their culture. Commonly they are really friendly, rustic and hospitable.

– Immersing in nature and enjoy pure air.

By Xuan Tran – ActiveTravel Asia