Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
RESPONSIBLE TREKKING
With average temperatures increasing more rapidly than almost any other place on earth,
the environment of Tibet is under unprecedented pressure. It is imperative that trekkers
make their way lightly and leave nothing behind but their proverbial footprints. Tibet's
beautiful but vulnerable landscape deserves the utmost respect. A fire, for instance, can
scar the landscape for centuries. Stay off fragile slopes and do not tread on delicate
plants or sensitive breeding grounds. Follow the Tibetan ethos, killing not even the smal-
lest of insects. This approach guarantees that later visitors get to enjoy the same pristine
environment as you.
RUBBISH
Carry out every piece of your rubbish including toilet paper, sanitary napkins, tampons
and condoms.
Have a dedicated rubbish bag and minimise packaging materials.
Do not burn plastic and other garbage as this is believed to irritate the Tibetan divinities.
HUMAN WASTE DISPOSAL
Where there is a toilet, use it.
Where there is none, human waste should be left on the surface of the ground away from
trails, water and habitations to decompose. If you are in a large trekking group, dig a privy
pit. Be sure to build it far from any water source or marshy ground and carefully rehabilit-
ate the area when you leave camp. Ensure it's not near shrines or any other sacred struc-
tures.
WASHING
Don't use detergents or toothpaste in or near watercourses, even if they are biodegrad-
able.
For all washing use biodegradable soap and a lightweight, portable basin at least 50m
away from the water source.
Try using a scourer, sand or snow instead of detergent. Widely disperse the waste water
to allow the soil to filter it.
EROSION
Hillsides and mountain slopes are prone to erosion, so stick to existing tracks and avoid
short cuts.
Do not trench around tents.
Never remove the plant life that keeps topsoil in place.
