Ladakh Without Altitude Sickness: What Actually Works

Two nights in Leh, no exceptions

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

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

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