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ESSENTIAL FACT FOR VISITIORS
Altitude ranges from 9000ft (2,750m) at Kargil to
25,170ft (7.672m) at Saser Kangri in the Karakoram, Leh
is 3.5o5m from sea level.
Acute mountain sickness:-
Visitors flying into Leh will invariably suffer from
some symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). At 3505m
(10,000 Feet) above sea level, some visitors will
experience headaches, loss of sleep, nausea,
breathlessness, lack of concentration etc.
Precautions/Treatment:
To avoid this, please take the following precautions:
(1) complete rest for the first 24-36 hours (avoid even
the slightest exertion if possible);
(2) avoid alcohol and smoking during the period;
(3) drink plenty of liquid (to keep your urine pale and
plentiful); and
(4) take paracetamol, aspirin or ibuprofen for
headaches.
Symptoms:
AMS is a particularly important medical consideration
while trekking in Ladakh. Altitude sickness means the
effect of altitude on those who ascend too rapidly to
elevations above 3000 meters.
The initial symptoms of AMS are as follows:
-headache (typically throbbing, often worse when lying
down)
-fatigue and exhaustion
-nausea, loss of appetite
-slight swelling of hands and faces
-dizziness, light headedness
-insomia/sleeplessness,
-confusion, disorientation
-breathlessness and breathing irregularity
Typically symptoms appear anytime during the first 36
hours after an ascent. If you rest at the same altitude,
symptoms usually disappear quickly (but can take up to 4
days) and you are now acclimatized to this altitude. AMS
may reappear as you ascend higher still and
acclimatization has to occur again.
These symptoms are to be taken very seriously, in cases
of an appearance of any the above symptoms, any further
ascent should be avoided; otherwise more serious, even
life threatening problems can occur. The only cure for
AMS is to descend to lower elevations immediately.
Acclimatization by ascending to no more that 300 to 500
meters per day above 3000 meters, and the proper amount
of rest and dehydration are the best methods for
prevention of AMS.
If you follow the simple advice of our trained guides,
you won't have to worry about complications from
mountain sickness. We design our tours to ensure clients
are ready for high altitude, and arrange alternative
itineraries for those at risk.
TEMPERATURE:-
Summer;Average-30 Degree Celsius to 30 Degree Celsius.
Winter: Average-13Degree Celsius to 12 Degree Celsius.
Best season:-
The best time to visit Ladakh is between June and of
September. To avoid the crowd, some visitors choose to
come during the Winter Season, Where you will be able of
enjoy interaction with the Ladakhis.
Communication:-
You can make international and local calls at very low
rates at Glacier Communications, located at our main
office at Fort Road. Glacier internet provides fast
connection at only Rs. 120 per hour.
Getting There:-
By Air:- From June to September, there is around 3 to 5
flights from Delhi to Leh each week. Reservation should
be made well in advance. Be sure to ask for a window
seat so that you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the
the Himalayas.
By road:-
The Manali-Leh road is opened in the summer. It is a
long but magnificent trip (Two Days One Night).
Changing Money/Credit Card:-
Currency exchange facilities are available at the State
Bank of India and Jammu & Kashmir Bank. To avoid long
queues and delay, we at Glacier also provide currency
exchange at competitive rates. Credit Cards are not
widely accepted in Leh. We hope to provide a credit card
advance facility soon.
Electricity:-
230-240V. Please note that electricity failure is common
and occurs on a daily bases. Please do not forget to
pack a torchlight.
Health:-
Leh has several pharmacies that can dispense advice and
medicines. The Sonam Norbu Memorial Hospital is located
three kilometers from the main city (Leh).
Travel Insurance:-
We strongly advice visitors to obtain insurance before
embarking on any travels. Travel insurance should cover
medical and evacuation expenses.
Language:-
Ladakhi (similar to Tibetan) and Hindi are the most
commonly spoken language in Ladakh. Many people however
understand and speak English.
Permits:-
All non Ladakhi require permits for certain restricted
areas, in particular, Nubra Valley, Korzok, Samad
Rockchen, Tso Moriri, Dha-Hanu and Pangong Tso. Glacier
will arrange for the necessary permits at the standard
rate.
Photography:-
Always ask permission before taking pictures of people,
ritual events or special places like shrines. If people
seem reluctant or look away, then do not take the
picture. Be careful not to cause offence.
Religion:-
50% Buddhist.
45% Muslim.
5% Others.
Shopping:-
Try to buy locally made crafts and support local skills.
Do not simply buy something based on the price but on
the actual value to you. Bargaining for lower price for
both souvenirs and services is often accepted and an
expected custom, but don't drive a hard bargain just for
the sake of it.
Tipping:-
Tipping is not too common in India but is very much
appreciated.
Time Zone:-
GMT +5.5 hours.
What to Wear:-
In Ladakh, the temperatures are extreme. Pack a
practical selection of clothes for both hot and cold
climates. While tracking, you may encounter a wide range
of temperatures due to the high altitude and unforeseen
weather conditions. So be prepared. Please note that you
can pack light since there will be an opportunity for
you to do laundry in Leh. Comfortable shoes with good
ankle support will make all the walking more enjoyable.
We recommend a pair of walking boots/shoes. If you do
now own a pair, sneakers/trainers will suffice. |
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Essential
Fact For Visitors:-
