Annapurna circuit with Ice Lake trek
Annapurna Trekking

Annapurna circuit with Ice Lake trek

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Trip Facts

Overview

Annapurna Circuit Trek & Thorang la trekking is an adventurous trek that offers a lifetime experience, a complete scenic journey beneath the world’s 7th and 10th highest mountains Annapurna 8,091 and Dhaulagiri at 8,167 meters, which plunges below Kali Gandaki River, forming the world’s deepest gorge as the walk leads on both sides of massif Annapurna mountain range, walking towards North and ending on the southern area on this amazing Annapurna hiking.

This adventurous and scenic journey offers a great panorama of the world’s highest peaks with close-up views of Annapurna I (8,091m / 26,545ft) Annapurna South (7,219m-23,693ft), Gangapurna (7,455m-24,457ft), and Annapurna III (7,555m-24,787ft) Lamjung Himal 6,931 m and towards east worlds 8th highest Mt. Manaslu 8,163 m, Pisang peak 6,091m, Chulu East 6,584 m, Chulu West 6,419m and the massive range of world’s 7th highest
Mt. Dhaulagiri is 8,167 meters with adjoining Nilgiris, Tukuche peaks, and Vara Shikar / Annapurna Fang with Mt. Machhapuchhre ‘Fish-Tail’ 6,997 m.

Annapurna Circuit trek begins from Lamjung unto the high valley of Manang area, and then completed at the picturesque and most scenic place at Pokhara valley, the main touristic spot around the whole Himalaya region, with crystal clear lakes where it catches the reflection of Annapurna Mountains on its serene Lake Phewa and Begnas.

Trek leads above greenery landscapes of mid-hills passing many traditional villages of Gurung and Magar tribes, walk heads closer to the snow-capped mountains area and towards the enchanting alpine climatic zone with nice charming villages of Dharapani and Chame.On leaving the alpine woodland area entering the dry arctic terrain around Manang valley in the country Tibetan way of life in culture, tradition, and religions, at Manang with a rest day to acclimatize before heading higher to Thorang-la pass.

After a good rest day and being acclimatized, the journey continues higher in the arid, arctic terrain reaching the highest spot of this adventure at Thorang-la pass with an altitude of 5,416 m / 17,700 ft high offering tremendous panorama surrounding this beautiful, rugged spot. From the top enjoying the success of the climb, the walk leads downhill to the holy Muktinath area, one of the holiest pilgrimage places for Hindus and Buddhists since earlier times.

Muktinath, which means Liberation, pilgrims visit here for prayer and to liberate themselves from the bad lifetime, here we take a jeep or bus ride for 4-5 hours to Tatopani, as the trekking trails have turned into a motorable road since the last few years, taking a motor ride will save a few days of walks.

The journey finally reaches Tatopani ‘hot spring’ in sub tropic warm and low area, after an enjoyable time at Tatopani start the trek on the trail to Pokhara with a climb most of the way to Ghorepani through the cool shade of rhododendron forested, at Ghorepani visit Poon Hill for a wide panorama of snow-capped mountains with striking sunrise views, and from here descend towards Pokhara via the scenic route passing Tadapani, Ghandruk, Landruk and ending at Dhampus for overnight and the drive to scenic Pokhara valley, and then lastly back in the hustle-bustle city life of Kathmandu after a remarkable and memorable time in the high mountains Annapurna Circuit trekking.

Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek

  • Classic trek on ancient trade routes
  • Ascending the Marshyangdi valley
  • Passing Manaslu and Hinchuli
  • Visit the old Buddhist monastery in Braga
  • Explore beautiful Manag village
  • Crossing the Thorung- La ( 5416m)
  • The Pilgrimage town of Muktinath
  • View of Dhawagiri Ice- flow
  • The world deepest gorge and the Kaligandaki valley
  • Natural Hotspring at Tatopani
  • Sunrise at Poonhill with magnificent mountain views.

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrive in Kathmandu received by Unique Path staff.

On arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan international airport meet Unique Path staff warm welcome with garland and transfer to respective hotels in the hub of Kathmandu at Thamel area, after fresh up and relaxation Unique Path guide will brief on the program regarding hotel, Kathmandu, trekking.

 

  • Max. Altitude
    1345m/4412ft
  • Accomodation
    3 stars level hotel
Day 02

Drive from Kathmandu to Besi Shahar by bus. Driving 6 hours.

Trekking staff will arrive at your Hotel at 7.00 am in the morning to pick you up. We have 7 hours of driving to Besishar. It is about 185 km from Kathmandu. On arrival at Besisahar, you will witness stunning snow capped mountain scenery.

 

  • Max. Altitude
    830m/2723ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 03

Drive to Chyamje by local Jeep then trek to Dharapani . Driving 2:30 hours & walking 5:30 hours.

Annapurna circuit trekking begins with a morning interesting drive towards Nepal mid-west with mountain scenery, the journey leads to Beshsishar town then on the dirt road to Khudi, Bhulbhule, Ngadi, and Jagat following the Marsyangdi River upstream, the drive continues through rice terraces fields and villages to Syange, from here with a slow climb leaving the Marsyangdi River behind for few days then reaching our first overnight stop at Jagat village, a farm village with many lodges to take care the needs of the travelers.

From this village, walk leads to a gradual winding path to Chyamje, after this we village back to Marsyangdi River crossing towards the east bank and then through a thick forest, with superb views of majestic Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges, then on the wide path all the way to a nice village at Tal Besi, after a break here another few hours walk reaches to Dharapani village for overnight stop, this village situated on the junction of Annapurna circuit and Manaslu trek.

  • Max. Altitude
    1810m/5937ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 04

Dharapani to Chame. Walking 6 hours.

After Dharapani walking along the wide trail through tranquil rhododendron and pine forest passing the small villages of Bagachap and Danque, then to Timang village with its ancient Buddhist culture along with a grand view of

Mt. Manaslu 8,163m / 26,781ft, after Timang village another hour walk leads to the village of Koto and then to Chame for the overnight stop, Chame is a large major town of Manang area and as well a headquarters.

  • Max. Altitude
    2725m/8940ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 05

Chame to Pisang . Walking 5:30 hours.

From here onwards feel the cool and fresh mountain air, morning walk leads through enchanting alpine forests of rhododendron and pine tree lines following the Marshyangdi River upstream with several ups and downs to Bhratang village after this small village walk follows uphill’s through the woodlands at Dhukure Pokhari with a couple of teahouses overlooking views of Chulu’s and Pisang peak and of Pisang village, after a break here descending to reach the lower Pisang village for an overnight stop.

  • Max. Altitude
    3190m/10465ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 06

Pisang to Braga village. Walking 5:30 hours.

Pisang village with grand scenery of mountains and surrounding landscapes, from here on feeling the altitude gain, morning walk passes through the forest with a short uphill with superb views of Hongde airstrip beneath the staggering Annapurna II and III, Gangapurna Chulu’s and Pisang peak, then walking on the downhill path and towards the flat valley at Hongde village, after this place tree line disappears with barren, arid with cold and dry climate. Just before Manang, visit the old Braga monastery which houses old Buddhist relics, ancient wall painting, and frescos, offering stunning views of Annapurna Himalaya, from here an hour walk brings to Manang village, the houses here are built up in traditional Tibetan style and Manang people are known for their rich culture and traditions.

  • Max. Altitude
    3475m/11400ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 07

Day hiking to Ice lake 4620m/15157 and back to Manang. Walking 7:30 hours.

A necessary rest day for acclimatization before heading to higher ground and Thorang –la, in Manang optional short hike to explore the Manang village and its valley, this large village situated on the wide windswept valley at the bank of Marsyangdi River beneath Annapurna and Gangapurna mountain range, a nice walk up for views of Gangapurna Glacier and the Lake.

  • Max. Altitude
    3500m/11480ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 08

Manang to Yak Kharka . Walking 5 hours.

After a good time at Manang, morning adventure leads towards Ghunsang village on the uphill path to Yak Kharka, an interesting high altitude walk with super scenery of the snow-capped mountains, then crossing the river to reach Yak Kharka a small settlement, offering tremendous views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III and Chulu Peaks.

  • Max. Altitude
    4090m/12416ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 09

Yak kharka to Throung Phedi walking 6 hours.

As the walk progress and gets closer to the base of Thorang-la on the trail beyond a small place at Ledar, then crossing a bridge walk heads to a climb along the riverbank of Jarjung, leading up on the narrow path to cross a steep rocky slope and finally reaching at Thorung Phedi, depending upon the physical conditions of the clients, if all goes well an hour steep climb to the overnight stop at Thorang High Camp, staying here to make it easier for the next day climb over Thorang pass.

  • Max. Altitude
    4441m/14567ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 10

Thorung Phedi to Muktinath via Thoroung-la passes (5416m). Walking 8:30 hours.

Today the highlight of this great journey after early breakfast set for the long climb to Thorang-la with a steep ascend all the way to Thorung La Pass top at 5,416 m / 17,700 ft, the highest altitude gain of this memorable adventure this certainly requires a high spirit and physically strong mind to cross over it. The top offers mind-blowing scenery of beautiful landscapes and snow-capped peaks, from here the walk leads to a long descend to Muktinath at 3,800 m. on reaching Muktinath for the overnight stop, this is a sacred and holy place for both Hindus and Buddhists the word Muktinath literally means ‘the place for Nirvana or Liberation.

  • Max. Altitude
    3802m/12470ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 11

Morning visit Muktinath Temple then trek to Jomsom. Walking 4:30 hours.

Early morning a short walk up to Muktinath temple premises and visit the main temple of Lord Vishnu after getting washed on 108 holy water spouts with freezing icy waters then ready for worship and puja where the priest will offer you with blessing.

From here visit other main areas of Jal Devi temple and witness the ever-present flames in the main temple hall, after a meaningful visit of great purpose then trekking to Jomsom.

  • Max. Altitude
    2757m/9043ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 12

Flight to Pokhara & transfer to the hotel. At after noon, free or sightseeing in Pokhara.

After breakfast, an early morning scenic flight to Pokhara then drive to Hotel in Pokhara.

  • Max. Altitude
    900m/2952ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    3 stars level hotel
Day 13

Drive back to Kathmandu.

Morning a scenic drive to Kathmandu, after a wonderful memorable trip in the high mountains of Annapurna area, then on reaching Kathmandu transfer to respective hotels with afternoon free at leisure.

  • Max. Altitude
    1345m/4412ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/Lunch
  • Accomodation
    3 stars level hotel
Day 14

The trip ends

The trip ends, our Airport Representative will drop you to the Kathmandu international airport for your final flight departure from Nepal. Driving 15 km – 10 minutes

  • Meal
    Breakfast

Pricing

Price for Annapurna circuit with Ice Lake trek in different currency as follows:

Currency Pricing USD Euro AUD CAD Indian Rupees
Price per person US$ 1375 1,126 1,830 1,655 86,826

WANT TO KNOW LATEST DEALS ?
For latest offers & pricing for group & individual, please contact us.

Service Includes and Excludes

Service Included in this Trip

  • All the ground transportation as per itinerary. 
  • Hotel in Kathmandu, inclusive breakfast at 3 stars level (1 night- Before trekking and 1 night after trekking).
  • Hotel in Pokhara, inclusive breakfast at 3 stars level (1 night)
  • Meals 3 times a day (Breakfast, lunch and dinner) in trekking & Pokhara for you.  
  • Seasonable Local fresh fruits after dinner.  
  • Filtered water in trekking using (Katadyn Pocket Water Filter)
  • Twin sharing private comfortable room in trekking.
  • Annapurna trekking Map. 
  • Domestic flight tickets from Jomsom to Pokhara, inclusive taxes.
  • First aid medical kit, Ox meter to check pulse, heart rate and oxygen saturation at higher altitude.
  • Trip achievement certificate.  
  • An experienced, knowledgeable, helpful and English-speaking trekking guide.
  • Strong and friendly mountain porter to carry your trekking baggage. 
  • Food, drinks, accommodation, insurance, salary, equipment’s, transportation, local tax for Guide and porter.  
  • Four season sleeping bag and down jackets to use for trekking, if necessary. 
  • All necessary paper works.
  • Annapurna Conservation entry permit. 
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System). 
  • Emergency helicopter rescue arrangement which will be paid by your insurance company.
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • All our government taxes, vat, local tax, tourist service charges.

Service Excluded in this Trip

  • Extra accommodation and meals in Kathmandu (Except Farewell Dinner)
  • All kinds of drinks (Hot/cold & alcoholic) in trekking.
  • Personal equipment.
  • Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Extra personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, laundry, shower, excess baggage charges).
  • Tips for trekking staffs and driver (Tipping is expected).
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on ‘Price Includes’ section.

Fixed Departure

Please, kindly note that following starting date will be your arrival date in Nepal and ending date will be your return date from Nepal after the trip completion.

Year
  • 2023
  • 2024
Start Date End Date Availability Booking
29 Sep, 2023 12 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
06 Oct, 2023 19 Sep, 2024 OPEN Book Now
13 Oct, 2023 26 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
20 Oct, 2023 02 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
27 Oct, 2023 09 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
03 Nov, 2023 16 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
10 Nov, 2023 23 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
17 Nov, 2023 30 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
24 Nov, 2023 08 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
01 Dec, 2023 14 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
08 Dec, 2023 21 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
15 Dec, 2023 28 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
22 Dec, 2023 04 Jan, 2024 OPEN Book Now
29 Dec, 2023 11 Jan, 2024 OPEN Book Now
30 Dec, 2023 12 Jan, 2024 OPEN Book Now

Does our itinerary plan do not go with your holiday dates? Does fixed departure dates are not suitable for you? Do you want to extend or shorten your trip duration? No worries, we can create your own custom tailor-made holidays with flexible duration and dates.
Click here to share your plan with us.

Trip Info

The trip to Annapurna Circuit Trek and Thorong La Trekking which is also Annapurna Circuit trek starts with one’s arrival in Kathmandu International Airport where one can tour the Kathmandu valley. Then from Kathmandu a drive to Besi Shahar. After, to Chyamje by local transport either by bus or Jeep then trek to Dharapani (1810m). Then from Dharapani to Chame. Similarly, from Chame to Pisang.

Likewise, from Pisang to Manang. Similarly, after arriving in Manang you will rest in a comfortable accommodation facility in the area. In addition, this rest is important because it makes you familiar with the surroundings of the high altitude. After Manag, the trekking continues through Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi. Similarly, from Thorong Phedi the trek continues to Muktinath via Thorong-la passes.

After that a short drive to Tatopani – natural hot spring (1110m) by local transport. Similarly, after the bath, the trek resumes to Ghorepani. And, from Ghorepani in the early morning visit Poon Hill (3210m) to trek to Nyapul and drive to Pokhara. From there drive to Kathmandu. Similarly, after breakfast, the trip ends, our Airport Representative will drop you at the Kathmandu international airport for your final flight departure from Nepal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Annapurna Circuit Trek?

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a wonderful journey. Similarly, the trek can be done throughout the year. Although the trek can be done throughout the year choosing the right time for the trek will add more value to your trek. Likewise, the best time for the trek is during the spring and autumn seasons. During this time of the year, the weather is pleasant and you can travel with the clear visibility of the surroundings.

Similarly, you can enjoy the beautiful views of mountains in the Annapurna Region. Furthermore, if you travel here during this time of the year then you can enjoy the biggest festivals of the country Dashain and Tihar as this time is the festive season in the country. In addition, traveling to Nepal during this time of the year will make you knowledgeable about the culture and tradition of the place. Moreover, you can also explore different other festivals of the country

How fit should one be for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

What kind of Weather and climate will one find while doing the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

What are the safety and security provisions for Annapurna Circuit Trek?

How much will it cost to climb the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Can you climb the Annapurna Circuit Trek alone?

Do I need a climbing permit for the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Can you have altitude sickness on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

What is the food price at Annapurna Circuit Trek?

How many hours do I need to walk per day on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Can I carry children on the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Is the Annapurna Circuit Trek trail crowded?

Is charging my phones and batteries possible in the route of the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Can I buy or rent gear while trekking?

What should be the weight of a backpack?

Grade A: Easy *

Trekking is essentially day hiking and doesn’t require any special training. However, good physical condition, a love of walking, and a desire to enjoying the spectacular views of the mountains and encounter village life are essential. We offer a diverse range of easy treks. Categorizing a trek as easy means that no difficult climbing or ascents to high altitudes is involved. They take usually no more than a week and are suitable for anyone. Be assured that a loss of altitude in no way means a loss of interesting things to see and experience. While our more challenging treks get you closer to a small number of mountain ranges, lower altitude treks often provide better viewpoints from which to enjoy the colorful horizons of a whole series of ranges. The duration of a trek can be from 4 to 9 days with an average of 4 to 5 hours walking per day. The elevation of the trail will be between 800m/2624ft and 2800m/ 9240ft above sea level.

Grade B: Moderate **

These treks are suitable for any walker looking for something a little more challenging and energetic. They are a combination of some longer and shorter walks and hill-walking experience is desirable. The duration is usually from 10 to 15 days. Following the up and down terrain of Nepal and walking to higher elevations contrasts these treks to those in the easy classification. However, you will be rewarded for your efforts with spectacular close-up views of glaciers and of the high Himalayas. Although the terrain is not difficult, some vigorous hiking experience is useful. There may be up to 6 hours a day on the trail and the elevation rises and falls from 800m/ 2624ft to 4000m/13210ft above sea level.

Grade C: Fairly Strenuous ***

Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should except to trek above 5416m/17872ft.

Grade D: Strenuous ****

These real adventure treks are both technical and highly strenuous. Excellent physical condition is essential and mountaineering experience is preferable. Following rough terrain, they involve steep ascents to high altitudes with the possibility of some rope climbing. Stamina is needed to complete one of these treks, as it can take from 20 to 28 days to reach the heart of the wildernesses that they transverse. Participants should except to trek above 5600m/18480ft

EQUIPMENTS & GEARS

EQUIPMENTS, GEARS AND GUIDES

Nepal is one of the best places in the world for river rafting. Numerous fine rivers offer excellent opportunities for rafting, canoeing and simply immersing oneself in the magnificent landscape. Nepal’s thundering waters, coming from the glaciers of the mighty Himalayan, provide unmatched thrills.

Clothing

Down Or Fiber Filled Waterproof Jacket And Trousers 1
Fleece Jacket Or Pullover 1
Warm Cotton Trousers 2 Pairs
Shirts And T-Shirts 4 Pieces
Lightweight Cotton Long Pants 3 Pairs
Long Under Wear 2 Pieces
Short Under Wear 4 Pieces
Sun Hat Or Scarf 1
Woolen Hat 1
Sunglasses 1
Lightweight Gloves 1
Rain Coat 1
Heavyweight Gloves Or Mittens With A Waterproof 1

Footwear

Trekking Boot 1 Pair
Thick Socks 4 Pairs
Light Socks 3 Pairs
Camp Shoes 1 Pair
Sandals 1 Pair

Other Equipments

Sleeping Bag(4seasons) 1
Down Jacket 1
Daypack 1
Water Bottle 1
Sun Cream, Sunglasses
Flashlight With Spare Bulbs, Batteries, Lip Salve, Gaiters.

Optional

Insect Repellent Toilet Articles Note Book & Pen Toilet Roll
Laundry Soap Pocket Knife Towel Sewing Kit
Plasters Binoculars Camera Film
Cards And Personal Medical Kit

Travel insurance is compulsory for all Clients undertaking any tour. It should provide adequate protection for the full duration of the tour to cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter evacuation, loss of luggage, etc.

For your kind information, we would like to give a list of the insurance companies, please go through the links below:

For Canadians And Americans

  1. http://www.travelguard.com
  2. http://www.worldnomads.com
  3. http://www.mondial-assistance.ca
  4. http://www.travelassistnetwork.com
  5. http://www.travelex-insurance.com
  6. http://www.travelite.com
  7. http://www.travelunderwriters.com
  8. http://www.hccmis.com/atlas-travel-insurance

For Australians And New Zealanders

  1. http://www.covermore.com.au
  2. http://www.allianz.com.au
  3. http://www.worldnomads.com.au
  4. http://www.bupa.com.au
  5. http://www.itrektravelinsurance.com.au
  6. http://www.1cover.com.au

For British

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.uk
  2. http://www.worldnomads.co.uk
  3. http://www.thebmc.co.uk
  4. http://www.direct-travel.co.uk
  5. http://www.essentialtravel.co.uk

For Europe And Slovenia

  1. http://www.coris.si
  2. http://www.europaeische.at

For South-Africa

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.za
  2. http://www.tic.co.za

For Indians

  1. http://www.internationalsos.com/en/asia-pacific_india.htm

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is common at high altitudes sickness. In general may occur when people ascend too quickly normally in altitudes of over 3000 m. The symptoms of altitude sickness are due to lower air pressure at high altitudes, which results in lower oxygen levels as you breathe the air in. The air is under less pressure and this makes it harder for your body to get the oxygen out of the air and into the circulation. It’s this extra strain on the body that causes altitude sickness.

Symptoms tend to be worse at night and include headache, dizziness, and lethargy, loss of appetite, nausea, breathlessness and irritability. Difficulty sleeping is another common symptom.

MAJOR SYMPTOMS OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

INITIAL SYMPTOMS

  1. Periods of sleeplessness
  2. Runny nose.
  3. Extra tiredness
  4. Occasional loss of appetite
  5. Feeling laziness
  6. Wish to vomiting
  7. Periodic breathing

Above are normal symptoms which may occur into your body that you should not be worried. Every trekker will experience some or all of these, no matter how slowly they ascend.

ADVANCE SYMPTOMS

  1. Headache and vomiting
  2. Dizziness
  3. Racing heartbeat
  4. Exhaustion
  5. Nausea
  6. Diarrhoea
  7. Loss of apatite
  8. Weakness
  9. Hard to breath
  10. Extra tired
  11. Dry Raspy cough
  12. Sleeplessness

When above symptoms will occur into your body, these symptoms usually resolve by spending one or two extra nights at the same altitude or using medicine. Even you are resting at the same altitude or using medicine, if symptoms are becoming worse, then it is necessary to descend.

SERIOUS SYMPTOMS

  1. Worsening headache and vomiting
  2. Swelling of hands and face
  3. Reduced urine output
  4. Walking with a staggering gait
  5. Confusion
  6. Increased tiredness
  7. Breathing irregularity
  8. Visual hallucinations (seeing things that are not real)
  9. Changes in the ability to think
  10. Changes in normal behavior

If above serious symptoms will occur into your body, these extremely dangerous symptoms are called High Altitude Cerebral Edema (or HACE). They can lead to unconsciousness and death within 12 hours. Increasing shortness of breath, cough and tiredness may also be signs of High Altitude Pulmonary Edema or HAPE. HAPE can also be rapidly fatal if ignored.

TO PREVENT ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

  1. If possible, don’t fly or drive to high altitude. Start below 3,000 metres (10,000 feet) and walk up.
  2. If you do fly or drive, do not overexert yourself or move higher for the first 24 hours.
  3. If you go above 3,000 metres (10,000 feet), only increase your altitude by 350 to 500 metres (1,000 feet) per day
  4. Climb high and sleep low! You can climb more than 300 to 500 metres in a day as long as you come back down and sleep at a lower altitude.
  5. If you begin to show symptoms of moderate altitude sickness, don’t go higher until symptoms decrease.
  6. Drink plenty of water, tea or juice etc (at least three to 4 liters per day). Urine output should be copious and clear to pale yellow.
  7. Eat high-carbohydrate foods (rice, pasta, cereal) for more energy.
  8. Take it easy and don’t overexert yourself when you first get up to altitude. But, light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating the symptoms.
  9. Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of dehydration, and don’t smoke.
  10. Don’t push yourself when climbing up to passes, rather take plenty of breaks.
  11. Avoid taking sleeping pills.
  12. Avoid active movements and try to relax in the first one or two days upon arrival at the high altitude areas.
  13. Bring adequate medicine.
  14. If nothing else works, return to the areas with the lower elevation.
  15. Allow sufficient time for acclimatization (After 3000 meters).
  16. Don’t make rapid Ascent. Don’t go too far too fast.
  17. Do not trek/travel alone, take guide/porter.
  18. Follow the advice from your guide, hotel, local, guide book.
  19. Descent if mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.
  20. Never leave or descent sick person along.
  21. Avoid getting cold.
  22. Take an easy and comfortable trekking route even if its longer

MEDICINE

Following is a list of items you should consider including in your medical kit – consult your pharmacist for brands available in your country.

  1. Aspirin or paracetamol – for pain or fever
  2. Antihistamine – for allergies, eg hay fever; to ease the itch from insect bites or stings; and to prevent motion sickness.
  3. Antibiotics consider including these if you’re traveling well off the beaten track’ see your doctor, as they must be prescribed, and carry the prescription with you.
  4. Loperamides or Diphenoxylate ‘blockers’ for diarrhea’ Prochlorperazine or metaclopramide for nausea and vomiting.
  5. Rehydration mixture to prevent dehydration, eg due to severe diarrhea; particularly important when traveling with children.
  6. Insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm and eye drops.
  7. Calamine lotion, sting relief spray or aloe vera-to ease irritation from sunburn and insect bites or stings.
  8. Antifungal cream or powder – for fungal skin infections and thrush.
  9. Antiseptic, such as povidone-iodine for cuts and grazes.
  10. Bandages, band-aids or plasters and other would dressings.
  11. Scissors, tweezers and a thermometer (note that mercury thermometers are prohibited by airlines)
  12. Cold and Flu tablets, throat lozenges and nasal decongestant.
  13. Multivitamines – consider for long trips, when dietary vitamin intake may be inadequate.