A Seasoned Adventurer's Guide To Explore The Rough Trails Of Ladakh 2021

 

Ladakh is a must visit destination in India. However, there are a lot of things that you need to keep in mind when visiting high altitude destinations as the climatic conditions can be extreme. If you have never been to Ladakh before, you need to keep this guide handy.

Acute Mountain Sickness: 
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a common condition experienced by people traveling to high altitude places for the very first time. But before buying Ladakh packages, keep the following points in mind:

• You have to be physically fit
• It's better if you do not take a flight to Ladakh as the change in altitude will be sudden which will increase your chances of getting AMS. A car drive is much better as your altitude will increase gradually.
• After reaching your destination take at least 30 hours of rest so that your body acclimatizes to the low atmospheric pressure
• If you have heart problems, asthma, blood pressure, then you should NOT travel to Ladakh at all
• If you experience headaches, fatigue, nausea, or dizziness, immediately seek medical attention.
• Smoking or drinking in high altitude places. 
• Avoid sleeping during daytime

What To Pack For A Trip To Ladakh? 

It rarely rains  Ladakh. A simple pullover jacket will provide you with warmth during the day. However as the sun sets, and the temperature even reaches zero, it is better to be inside a blanket. These things should be crossed off along with proper Ladakh packages:

• Two jackets, 2-3 pullover
• Suncaps
• Woolen hand gloves
• First aid kits
• Four to five pairs of socks
• Waterproof shoes
• If possible, a sleeping bag
• UV protection goggles
• Sunscreen lotion
• Energy bars
• Scarves

General Travel Tips:

• Remember The Communication Curfew: While there is no official curfew in Ladakh region, most  STD booths in Ladakh close before 9:00 p.m. While you might find global direct calling facility in Kargil you will have to be very careful as prepaid SIM cards do not work here.
• Do Not Use Plastic: Plastic items are officially banned in the Ladakh region. Hence any use of such items can land you in trouble. Also, local people expect tourists to be responsible for the environment of the region, so it would not go down well with them either.
• Carry Proper Documents: Don't forget your passport, permits, license, travel documents, and identity cards when visiting the Ladakh. You will be required to present them at many Passes. To experience Ladakh extensively, you will require Innerline permit as well. 

Finding Leh packages is easy but visiting Ladakh is another experience altogether. Not only should you research about the places that you can visit in you should also give yourself a few days to acclimatize to the altitude. Just remember the above tips and you will be fine.