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A light space blanket (mylar or first aid blanket) is very useful, not only for use in an emergency, but also for protection against the cold.

Water purification should be considered before the trip. You should never drink tap water in India, not even for cleaning teeth. In cities outside Ladakh you should use bottled water, available everywhere (make sure that it is sealed). The mass disposal of plastic bottles has become a serious problem in India (and Leh in particular), and it is strongly recommended to refill bottles with boiled or filtered water. This can be done in many shops and guesthouses in Leh.

DRINKING WATER ON TREK

Opinions on water purification during the trek vary. Although water in small streams is generally clean, there is always a risk of bacterial or viral infection, especially if the stream passes a village or pasture. Boiling water is the most effective way of making it safe for drinking, even at high altitude. However, considering that you need to drink about 5 litres a day, it is not practical. Chemical methods are based on iodine, chlorine and silver. The simplest consists of dropping iodine into water and waiting for some time. This, however, does not kill all the bacteria and is sometimes considered unsafe for anyone with a thyroid problem. Advanced chemical methods (available as soluble tablets) are effective in treating bacteria and viruses, but these usually affect the taste and smell of the liquid.