Trek Preparation
The Kawa Karpo kora is not easy. No matter what your fitness level it is best to prepare sensibly in the weeks before the trek.
It goes without saying that a good deal of general fitness is advised so any regular cardiovascular exercise will help a great deal. Additionally, it’s also a good idea to work on your core strength for overall strength during long days trekking and if required for carrying heavy bags or other items.
So what’s the key to preparing sensibly?
Taking your terrain and likely schedule into account the best form of preparation is regular walking/ hiking in the weeks before. Running on treadmills or roads is great for your overall fitness level, but will not help train up those muscles in the way that they will be used whilst trekking ascents and descents along the kora.
What to expect on the kora
Well, if you’re looking for luxury, this treks not for you. The majority of the trek involves camping along the route or sleeping in local houses in small villages. Both of which, whilst rewarding, provide little in the way of luxury and comfort – although you do get used to it quickly:)
It is possible to keep clean though, and general hygiene is recommended particularly when trekking in a group and sharing sleeping arrangements, if not only for yourself. Basic, washing facilities are available through streams or pales of water, however with the exception of the hot pools at Quzhu, an overall body wash is not very likely. If it were, you’d be limited to using freezing glacial water! It’s definitly a good move to take wet wipes with you, particularly if you wear contact lenses.
At this point there’s probably no real reason to remind you that toilets as you’re likely used to, are non-existent. But just in case…you’ll be with nature on this trek.
Essential items to bring on the kora
- Don’t go anywhere without your passport and visa. If you’re visa’s in an old passport, carry both.
- Reception is minimal but does exist in places along the route. Take your phone in case of emergency.
- Good quality tent and ground mat. A minimum of 3 season advised and not larger than a 3-man in case space is at a premium.
- Inflatable sleeping mat and sleeping bag.
- Torch. Head-torch recommended but any will do.
- Swiss Army knife or similar.
- Large rucksack/ bag for carrying all your gear.
- Reasonably sized, i.e. 10-15L max, day-pack. It’s recommended that this be able to accommodate a water hydration system/camel-pack if needed/preferred.
- 1.5 – 2L water hydration system/camel-pack – this can either be carried in your day-pack or if prefered around your waste (often easier for refilling or checking).
- Water purification tablets. You’ll have minimal chances to buy water.
The small print
For those thinking of doing the kora, either as part of an organised group or on your own, just remember it’s not happening without a China visa. So get yourself a China visa with preferably a minimum of two entrees over a period of 30 days, although this is only our recommendation and not a must for doing the trek. As for Tibet, no permits are provided for the kora alone.
The information here is provided only as a guide, based on personal experience, and should not be taken as gospel. It’s your trek. You’re responsible, you decide. No responsibility is accepted by me should you follow anything written here.