East West Cultural Tour
Bhutan Tour

East West Cultural Tour

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Trip Facts

  • Max Altitude N/A
  • Grade N/A
  • Duration 15 Days
  • Group Size N/A

Overview

The East-West Bhutan tour is an ideal tour for those who want to explore the true Kingdom of Bhutan. Bhutan is a small kingdom in the Himalayas. It is bordered by Tibet in the north and India in the south-east and west. This tour covers the best of both Eastern and Western Bhutan. This ultimate cultural tour let you traverse the cultural valleys of the west, spiritual central Bhutan as well as the bumpy east. It is a tour for those people who are seeking to explore entire Bhutan as well as its culture. As Bhutan is highly influenced by Buddhism, this tour lets you visit several cultural places and monasteries. The cultural tour to East-west gives you a glimpse of its rich religious and cultural heritage all along the way. Besides, the journey offers you Bhutan’s incredible landscapes, high mountain pass, Lush green valley, beautiful countryside, and alpine meadows.

Bhutan East-West Cultural Tour

 The 14-day tour offers a rare sight of entire Bhutan including Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Bumthang valley, Gangtey Valley, and many more. The tour starts with your arrival at Paro International Airport. In Paro, we will visit several monasteries and Dzongs including the Taktsang monastery. Then, we will move to the capital of Bhutan and explore Thimphu. Similarly, we will explore the popular tourist destination in Bhutan that is Gangtey, and Bumthang. Likewise, we will even explore several towns such as Trongsa, Mongar, Trashigang, and Samdrup Jongkhar. These places bless us with the natural scenario that comes along the way. However, the tour ends at Guwahati, the capital town of the Indian north-eastern state of Assam. Our representative will arrange an Indian vehicle to Guwahati from Samdrup Jongkhar. You can take a flight to your hometown from the Airport in Guwahati. 

On the other hand, this spectacular cultural tour cultural exploration, and various events and festivals in Bhutan bring out the spirit of celebration. It gives you a glimpse of the lifestyle of Bhutanese people. Besides, one can explore several famous tourist destinations such as Taktsang Monastery, National Museum (Ta-Dzong), Rinpung Dzong in Paro. Thimphu offers you Memorial Chorten, National Library, Tashi Choe Dzong, etc. Similarly, Jakar Dzong, Kharchhu Goemba, Jambay Lhakhang, Kurje Lhakhang are the places in Bumthang. Likewise, Punakha Dzong, Mongar Dzong, and Trashigang Dzong are other prime attractive place during this tour. The tour offers a stunning view of the High Himalayas including Chomolhari. The tour is available all year round. However, this tour is highly encouraged from March to May and Sept to Nov. The weather is suitable during this season for the incredible view of nature.

Trips Facts

Tour Name: Bhutan East-West Cultural Tour

Duration: 14 days

Country: Bhutan

Transportation: Flight and Comfortable rides

Best Season: March to May and Sept to Nov

Trip Type: Tour Sightseeing and short Hike

Starting City: Paro

Ending City: Paro

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrive at Paro Airport and drive to the hotel

The East-West cultural tour to Bhutan starts with your arrival at Paro International Airport. The flight to Paro offers you the magnificent scenario of the High Himalayas and the landscapes of the kingdom of Bhutan. Our Airport representative will pick you up from the Airport terminal and transfer you to the hotel of your choice in Paro. After arriving at the hotel, we will hold a pre-tour meeting for you and give you a briefing about the preparation of this tour. We will then introduce you to your guides. After some procedure, you can spend your evening either resting in the hotel or going out visiting the market in Paro. Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Day 02

Paro -Taktsang Monastery

Our tour today is to one of the finest monasteries in Bhutan Taktsang Monastery. When it comes to traveling to Bhutan, Taktsang Monastery comes on the must-visit list. Early morning after breakfast, we will drive to Satsam Chorten and then hike to Taktsang monastery. Taktsang monastery is also popular as Tiger Nest monastery. It is located on the cliffside of the upper Paro valley in Bhutan. It is the sacred site of Buddhists which was 1st built-in in 1692. This monastery carries its significance. However, it is said that Guru Padmasambhava had flown on the back of the Tigress to meditate in the cave in the 8th century thus, giving it the name Tiger Nest. This monastery is the cultural icon of Buddhism. The view provided by this monastery is stunning. One cannot resist taking pictures in these monasteries. 

After exploring this monastery, hike back to the road and drive to Kyichu Lhakhang. It is a seventh-century temple revered as one of the most magnificent sites in Bhutan. Later, visit Rinpung Dzong which is a Buddhist fortress featuring several Shrines and Chapels, as well as wall paintings and grand architecture. Overnight at hotel in Paro

Day 03

Paro to Thimphu

Today we will transfer from Paro to the capital of Bhutan-Thimphu. The distance from Paro to Thimphu is 50km which is about a 1 hr 20 min drive excluding stops. On your way to Thimphu, you will explore several places in Paro. You can visit the National Museum (Ta-Dzong) which is 5km from Paro. It was once the watchtower for Rinpung Dzong and later was converted into the National Museum in 1968. In addition to this, visit the oldest temple in Bhutan Kyichu Lhakhang. Later, you can explore Rinpung Dzong. Several Bhutanese festivals are celebrated here in this Dzong. Tshechu, an annual festival in Bhutan is held here in Rinpung Dzong. After exploring places in Paro you will drive to Thimphu following Parchu downstream. The Parchu river confluence with Chuzom passing through several villages such as Bondey, Shaba, Isuna, etc. 

In the evening you can stroll around Thimphu market. Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 04

Thimphu Sightseeing

The 4th day of the tour starts with sightseeing in the capital of Bhutan. Today we will spend our whole day at Thimphu. Thimphu has a lot to offer to visitors as it is popular for its Buddhist monasteries and culture. So, the very thing you can do in Thimpu is to visit Buddha point for the incredible view of the city along with the Himalayas. The next thing to explore in Thimphu is Takins-which is home to Bhutan’s national animals. Similarly, you can visit the Memorial Chorten which is a huge stupa built-in in memory of the third King. Besides, visit the National Library where ancient monuments are preserved and protected. On the other hand, you can explore Tashi Choe Dzong- the main Secretariat building. There are cemetery farmers markets, crafts bazaars as well as the institute of traditional medicine in Thimphu for you to explore.

Likewise, another must not miss a place in Thimphu is a 300-year-old traditional house that is now converted into a museum. However, in the evening you can stroll around the marketplace in Thimphu. Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu

Day 05

Thimphu to Punakha

Early in the morning, we will drive from Thimphu to Punakha. The distance between Thimphu to Punakha is approximately 84 km which takes about 2 and a half-hour drive. The drive offers you wonderful landscapes on the way. After a half an hour drive from Thimphu, we will ascend o the Mt road at Dochula Pass at an elevation of 3140m. It is a mountain pass in the snow-covered Himalayas where 108 memorial Chortens or stupas have been built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo. In particular, there is a Druk Wangyal Lhakhang monastery built in honor of Jigme Singye Wangchuk. Moreover, from the Dochula pass, one can get a clear view of the eastern Himalayas. Then the road passes through the Rhododendron forest reaching the highly fertile land of Punakha.

After lunch, upon reaching Punakha we will have a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang. It is a temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley and also, particularly a pilgrimage site for childless couples. Similarly, our next destination in Punakha will be Punakha Dzong. It is an administrative center of Punakha District which is the second oldest and largest Dzong in Bhutan. Overnight at a hotel in Punakha.

Day 06

Punakha to Phobjikha Valley

Early morning after breakfast, we will set out for another popular destination in Bhutan, the Phobjikha valley. The distance between Punakha to Phobjikha valley is 75km which takes nearly 3 hours the drive. Drive via the bustling market town of Wangdue Phodrang. The drive passes through the winding mountain road through the oak and Rhododendron forest over Phobjikha valley. It is a beautiful u-shaped glacial valley located at the side of the Black Mountains. The valley is home to a large flock of Black-necked cranes. These rare species migrate to this valley in winter from late October to mid-February. However, it is also home to other endangered species such as wild boars, sambars, Himalayan black bears, leopards, and red foxes. You can explore Bhutanese flora and fauna in this valley.

In addition to this, we will visit Gangtey Gompa which is located on a hill rock amidst the Gangtey village providing a striking view of the Phobjikha valley below. Overnight at a hotel in Gangtey.

Day 07

Gangtey to Trongsa

Today bidding farewell to Gangtey, we will proceed towards Trongsa. From Gangtey the road ascends to Lawa La passes through a straight road and rejoins the East-West highway. From the highway, the road ascends to Pele La pass. This pass provides a stunning view of Jumolhari, Kangbum, Jichu Drake, and so on. However, Trongsa is 48km from the Pele La pass and takes only 2 and a half hours to reach. The road descended through evergreen forest dwarf bamboo, pastureland, and several small villages before reaching Trongsa. En route to Chendebji Chorten, a large stupa in Bhutan. From the stupa, the road passes through farmlands, villages and reaches Trongsa. Trongsa is a town and an ancestral home of Bhutan’s ruling dynasty. Situated on a steep ridge, this town offers a spectacular view of the deep valleys surrounding it. 

After lunch, we will visit Trongsa Dzong which is one of the prime attractions of Trongsa. It is the largest Dzong in Bhutan built-in 1644. Similarly, we will explore the Ta Dzong museum where we can observe the collection of historical artifacts of the Royal Family. Overnight at a hotel in Trongsa

Day 08

Trongsa to Bumthang

The tour today is towards the Cultural Heartland of Bhutan, Bumthang. Early morning after breakfast we will drive towards Bumthang enjoying the scenario that comes in. Bumthang is 79km from Trongsa and takes only 2 and a half hours excluding the drive. The drive leads you to the winding mountain road following the Natural landscapes over the cultural heartland in Bumthang. However, if you are interested you can stop at Yathra (textile weaving factory ) on your way to Bumthang. As Bumthang is highly influenced by Buddhism, several monasteries and Gompas are the prime attraction of Bumthang. On the other hand, you can even explore several traditional stone houses, markets, Yaks grazing fields, and Pastures along the way. Likewise, Bumthang lets you experience the lifelong culture, tradition, and typical village life of Bhutanese people.

Therefore, the prosperity of flora and fauna, the sweeping views of the lush green valleys with magnificent views of the high Himalayas is an experience to cherish for a Lifetime in Bumthang. Overnight at Bumthang.

Day 09

Bumthang Sightseeing

Today we will embark into Bhutan’s Cultural Heartland, Bumthang. Our tour to Bumthang starts with Jakar Dzong which is the administrative center of the valley. It is in an attractive location overlooking the Chokhor valley. From there, descend downwards into the town and walk over the suspension bridge. A little further, you will reach Kharchhu Goemba which is home to about 400 monks. It was founded by Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche in 1984. It is a place where young monks polished their debating skills. The next destination that awaits you in Bumthang is Jambay Lhakhang. Built in the early 6th century by the Tibetian king Songtsen Gampo, it is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. It carries its significance. However, it is believed that this temple is one of the 108 temples built by the King to win against the demonic power.

Bumthang is the home to some of the oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries. Likewise, explore Kurje Lhakhang, one of the sacred places in Bhutan. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche meditated in a cave to conquer the evil spirit and in the hope of restoring the King’s health. Apart from this, visit Tamshing Lhakhang where Buddhist paintings are stored and protected. Furthermore, you can visit the local Bhutanese Shop in the evening. Overnight at Bumthang.

Day 10

Bumthang to Mongar

Early morning after breakfast bidding farewell to Bumthang we will proceed towards Mongar. Mongar is a town and is one of the oldest educational hubs of the country. It is on the road between Thimphu to Trashigang. The distance between Bumthang and Mongar is 190 km which takes about a 7-hour drive including the sops. The drive today will be a little longer than the rest of the day. However, the drive to this route provides an opportunity to explore the Rhododendron field along with the stunning landscapes. Drive through Ura village and ascend sharply to the highest Bhutan’s road network, Thrumshing-La Pass (4000m) The drive passes over sheer cliffs and through beautiful fir forest and green pastures to reach Mongar town. One can capture the moments in the photograph.

Additionally, you can catch the Glimpse Gangkhar Puensum (7541m) in case of clear weather. It is one of the world’s highest unclimbed peaks. Visit Mongar Dzong in Monga, built-in 1930. It is located on a small gently sloping area just above the town. The Dzong shows us the demonstration of how well Traditional Bhutanese architecture has continued to thrive through the centuries. Overnight at Hotel in Mongar.

Day 11

Mongar toTrashigang

Our tour today is another popular tourist destination in Bhutan, Trashigang. The drive today will be easier and Shorter but you still need a 3-hour drive covering 90km of the total distance. The drive passes through leafy forest filled with ferns and over Kori-La pass (2450m). There is an array of Prayer flags, a small mani wall as well as a building containing hundreds of butter lamps. From the pass descend through cornfields and banana groves and reach the road below Yadi. However, on the way, you can stop at Drametse Gompa, which is completely optional. The gompa was founded in 1511 by the granddaughter of Pema Lingpa. The name Drametse refers to “the peak with no enemy”. The monastery is the home to hundreds of monks and Gomchen. Furthermore, this monastery was proclaimed as the masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2005.

On the other hand, visit Trashigang Dzong built-in 1695 to defend against Tibetian invasions. Overnight at Lodge in Trashigang.

Day 12

Explore Trashigang

Today we will explore another beautiful town of Trashigang. Trashigang is considered the Jewel of the East. It is the capital of Trashigang Dzongkhag district which is the largest district in Bhutan. Early in the morning after breakfast, we will visit the temple of Gom Kora and Doksum Village. We can see the women busily weaving traditional Bhutanese fabric during this trip. Later, visit Trashiyangtse Dzong situated on the cliffs, surrounded by the rivers Garmi Chhu and Dangme Chhuu. Likewise, one of the major attractions of this Dzong is the three-day annual festival. Another prominent place in the city is Chorten Kora and our next visit will be to this stupa.  However, the stupa looks normal but building the structure of this stupa took almost a dozen years. Furthermore, this stupa is regarded as highly sacred and people believe that this stupa guards them against demonic forces.

On the other hand, Trashigang has a strong cultural heritage and importance as it is a place where many groups of semi-nomadic people live. You can even have a cultural exploration of semi-nomadic people. Overnight at Trashigang.

Day 13

Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar

The loop drive from Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar takes about 6 hours. Samdrup Jongkhar is the gateway to eastern Bhutan and Assam India. Shortly after leaving Trashigang, the roads ascended through terraced fields to Kanglung at 1870m. At this point, you can see the extensive campus of Sherubtse College.  Then the road climbs up and crosses Yongphu La. Likewise the road passes through Gumchu, Khaling, spread out in a high side valley above Drangme Chhu. Khaling has various large school campuses an institute for the disabled. From Khaling the road traverse above the small village fields cross  Kharungla and arrive in the pleasant town of Wamrong. Stop for lunch at Wamrong, Pass-through Pemagatshel town to Deothang, dominated by a large Army camp with very few shops. Finally, from Deothang you enter Samdrup Jongkar passing through Salk and teak forests.

Therefore, the drive from Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar  gives you a pleasant feeling of exploring the rural life of Bhutan along with is culture and tradition

Day 14

Samdrup Jongkhar to Guwahati

Today you will be bidding farewell to your East-west cultural tour in Bhutan. After breakfast, your guide will arrange an Indian vehicle for your transfer to Guwahati. Guhawati is the capital town of the Indian north-eastern state of Assam. From Guwahati, you can take a flight to your onwards flight to your home country.

Day 15

Early morning drive to Paro for departure

Note: BD Plan, BL Plan, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch content will appear here. Above itinerary can be designed along your preferences. Please let us know whether you would like to make a shorter.

Pricing

Price for East West Cultural Tour in different currency as follows:

Currency Pricing USD Euro AUD CAD Indian Rupees
Price per person N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

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

Service Includes and Excludes

Service Included in this Trip

  • Private transportation
  • Necessary Bhutan travel permits
  • English speaking Bhutanese guide and Driver
  • Accommodation on Twin sharing/ Single room basis.
  • Sightseeing and monastery entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • Meal plan: Full Board Basis
  • Bhutan Government Royalty fee ($ 65 per person / per day)
  • Bhutan Visa fee
  • Flight fare for Kathmandu- Paro- Kathmandu or from other destination.

Service Excluded in this Trip

  • Insurance of any kind.
  • Additional cost due to natural calamity and unforeseen circumstance
  • Personal expenses such as drink, guide tips & etc.

Trip Info

Short Description Mode Of The Packages: What Are Included In The Packages

Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast at 2 to 3 stars level, Twin sharing comfortable and clean private room in trekking, both ways domestic flight tickets from KTM/Lukla/KTM, necessary permits, all the ground transportation by tourist vehicles, an experienced guide and porter and all the necessary permits.

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.