Important Information on Leh

All visitors must ensure that they are physically fit. People with heart and lung related problems must consult a physician. Acclimatisation is a must. Therefore, it is advisable to take it easy in the beginning. Travelers are likely to experience some breathlessness, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite. The Sonam Norbu Memorial Hospital in Leh has an extremely qualified team of dedicated doctors familiar in dealing with high altitude sickness and other medical problems. Diamox has been used to in acclimatisation but it is advisable to consult your physician. The best is to take plenty of water. Clients are advised to bring their own personal medicines. One should carry regular medicine for Diarrhoea, Gastric, Acidity, Headaches, Fever, Cough, Cold, Congestion.

It is an absolute must to carry skin creams, lotions and chapsticks. One should also carry Sun Glasses, hats, Scarfs, thick cotton trousers / jeans for day use, wollen sweaters/ jackets, sports shoes, sandals with straps for rafting and evening wear and gloves. Films and batteries for cameras should be carried in quantity, because re-supply is not assured. A powerful flashlight is a must for those interested in studying monasteries, as the interiors are dimly lit. Photography of bridges, airfields and military installations is strictly prohibited.

Acclimatization and altitude sickness

Ladakh is a high altitude cold desert with a low level of atmospheric oxygen. It is, therefore, absolutely necessary that visitors reaching Leh from the plains of India by air, give themselves sufficient time for acclimatization before engaging in any physical activity. The rarefied atmosphere may cause high altitude ailments like Acute Mountain Sickness, necessitating instant evacuation of visitors who are unable to get acclimatized.

Anyone travelling to altitudes above 10,000 ft (2,700 m) is liable to suffer from acute mountain sickness (AMS) unless properly acclimatized. The most common symptoms of acute mountain sickness are headache, disturbed sleep and loss of appetite, nausea, coughing, irregular breathing, breathlessness, lassitude and lack of concentration. If you are reaching Leh by air, it is important to take complete rest for the first 24 hours after arrival. Any kind of physical exertion is to be avoided. Smoking and drinking should also be avoided till you are fully acclimatized. The symptoms of acute mountain sickness generally develop during the first 36 hours, and not immediately upon arrival. Your body should get used to the lower oxygen level of Ladakh after 2 or 3 days if you have taken complete rest for the first 24 hours and as much rest as possible during the next 12 hours.

Note: We would be happy to organize a specialized, tailor-made tour for you to suit your requirements.

For details, please contact sandhyapande@nettoursindia.com