Certainly, acclimatizing to Leh, Ladakh comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some pointers specific to acclimatization and how to make your Ladakh trip a memorable one.
1. *Proper Rest:* A well-rested body copes better with altitude stress. All tourists/visitors arriving in Leh must undergo at least 48 hrs of acclimatization before initiating their journey to high-altitude areas as per the Leh Ladakh GOVT health advisory. Also, ensure you get enough sleep during your stay.
2. *Hydration is Key:* For Acclimatization, staying hydrated is crucial. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol to minimize the risk of altitude. A minimum of 3 to 4 liters of water is advised.
Sometimes water doesn’t do as much justice hence keep some sachets of Ors – Enarzal handy and keep taking sips of it.
3. *Gradual Acclimatization:* Allow your body time to acclimatize to the altitude by spending the first day in Leh without strenuous activities. Slowly increase your physical exertion over the next few days. There should be no active physical exertion on the first two days of arrival in Leh.
Road travel does not help at all in acclimatization. It builds up the altitude effect progressively.
4. *Altitude Medication:* Consult a doctor for altitude sickness medication, like Diamox, before your trip. This can help prevent and alleviate symptoms. After Consulting doctor, Tablet Diamox-250mg (acetazolamide) can be taken twice a day, after breakfast after dinner min two days before starting journey to Leh and should be continued for two days more, after arriving at Leh. If you are already consuming any blood thinner medicine in your regular chart then mention that to doctor specifically.
Indigestion is another reason why people feel nausea when they reach high altitude regions like Leh ,hence it is advisable to keep in hand digestive/ antacids of your choice or ask the host for natural local home remedies. Always remember prevention is anytime better than cure.
6. *Avoid Intoxication s:* Smoking and consumption of alcohol can cause altitude-related issues, so it’s advisable to avoid it during your stay in Ladakh. Avoid sleeping pills, alcohol and smoking
7. *Know the Symptoms: High-Altitude Pulmonary Edima (HAPE) and High -Altitude Cerebral
Edema (HACE) is a serious scenario and can cause death.
Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of altitude sickness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Coughing
- Lassitude
- Lack of Concentration
- Disturbed sleep
- Loss of appetite.
- Irregular breathing
- Breathlessness
Seek medical help if these symptoms persist.
Last but not the least remember never ever to panic regarding altitude effects .
Remember, everyone reacts differently to high altitudes, so listen to your body and take necessary precautions.
8. *Balanced Diet:* Tourists should have a light meal on the first day of arrival to avoid indigestion. Consume a diet rich in carbohydrates and low in fats. This helps in acclimatization and provides energy for your body to cope with the altitude.
9. *Avoid Overexertion:* Avoid excessive sleep during day time.
10. *Proper Clothing:* Be aware of Desert Sun, use a cap/hat with Sun glass to avoid headache. Dress in layers to adjust to the fluctuating temperatures. Evenings and mornings can be chilly, while the sun during the day can be intense.Always handy to carry an all weather full sleve jacket.
11.*Skin Care Essential* It’s imperative to carry sunscreen with a higher SPF and deep nourishing moisturizer when traveling to Ladakh due to the high-altitude sun exposure, which can be intense and lead to skin dryness. Proper skincare essentials help protect against sunburn and maintain skin hydration in the arid climate.
In case of any emergency kindly contact the following telephone No.
1. CMO office Leh 01982-252012
2. Medical Superintendent, SNM Hospital Leh 01982-252014
3. Casualty SNM Hospital Leh 01982-053629
Planning to travel Ladakh? following articles are must read for you,
- How to Prepare a travel medical kit or First Aid box
- Permit to travel inside the Ladakh for both domestic and international travelers is mandatory. Read details
- Do you want to cover a colorful festival of Ladakh with mask dance, Check Dates for Festivals of Ladakh
