Ladakh Without Altitude Sickness: What Actually Works

Two nights in Leh, no exceptions

In short: Leh sits around 3,500 m. Two nights with only gentle activity — old town, a nearby monastery, an early night — dramatically reduces problems later at Khardung La and Pangong.

Leh sits around 3,500 m. Two nights with only gentle activity — old town, a nearby monastery, an early night — dramatically reduces problems later at Khardung La and Pangong.

Sequence your valleys

In short: A low-altitude Sham valley drive on day two is a better acclimatisation day than sitting in a hotel. Save Nubra and Pangong for days three onwards.

A low-altitude Sham valley drive on day two is a better acclimatisation day than sitting in a hotel. Save Nubra and Pangong for days three onwards.

Habits that help

In short: Hydrate steadily, skip alcohol for the first two days, eat light, and walk slowly on arrival. Discuss altitude medication with your doctor before the trip Report headaches early rather than pushing through Descend if symptoms worsen — always the correct decision

Hydrate steadily, skip alcohol for the first two days, eat light, and walk slowly on arrival.

• Discuss altitude medication with your doctor before the trip
• Report headaches early rather than pushing through
• Descend if symptoms worsen — always the correct decision