Altitude Sickness in Himachal: Prevention & What To Do
AMS symptoms, Diamox protocol, evacuation contacts and the 3-day acclimatization rule.
AMS affects 40% of travellers who sleep above 3,000m without acclimatization. It's preventable and manageable.
When to worry
Above 2,500m. Serious risk above 3,500m (Rohtang, Kunzum, Baralacha, Kaza, Chandratal).
Early symptoms
Headache, nausea, loss of appetite, poor sleep, breathlessness on light exertion. Onset 6-24 hours after arrival.
Diamox protocol
125-250mg twice daily, starting 24 hours before ascent. Continue for 2 days at altitude. Consult a doctor.
3-day acclimatization rule
For Spiti/Ladakh: Manali (2,000m) → Sissu/Jispa (3,200m) → Kaza (3,650m). Never sleep >800m higher than previous night.
Emergency
Descend immediately. Kaza has a civil hospital with oxygen. For serious cases: 108 or Manali/Chandigarh airlift.
Frequently asked
Can kids go to Spiti?
Above 5 years, with slow acclimatization. Not recommended for under-5s or pregnant women.
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