Everest Three Passes Trekking
Everest Trekking

Everest Three Passes Trekking

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Trip Facts

  • Max Altitude 5,555 m
  • Grade Strenuous
  • Duration 18 Days
  • Group Size 1 - 15

Overview

Everest Three Passes Trekking is challenging and adventure-filled trekking in the Everest Region of Nepal. Much of the trek takes place inside the Sagarmatha National Park which was established in 1976 with the view of protecting the pristine ecosystem of the region. This trek takes us to three famed passes in the vicinity of Everest. These passes are Cho La Pass (5,368 m), Kongma La Pass (5,535 m), and Renjo La Pass (5,338 m). Collectively these passes are known as the ‘three passes of Everest’.

The Everest Three Passes Trekking starts with a flight to Lukla from Kathmandu. Lukla Airstrip is located in the eastern part of Nepal. It is situated at a trekking distance of one to two days from Namche Bazaar, the town which is better known as the ‘Gateway Town to Everest’. The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is a thrilling affair. You will first get to see the complete view of the Eastern side of the Himalayas of Nepal from up above the sky. Then the landing experience at Lukla airport is one to cherish for a lifetime. The airport is located between gigantic peaks hence the last-minute descent into the valley where the strip is situated is completely thrilling.

We will head to Namche Bazaar from Lukla. Then we will trek toward Chukung through villages like Dingboche, Tengboche, and Pangboche. This village houses some of the most ancient and largest monasteries in the region.

The Tengboche monastery is the oldest Monastery in the Khumbu Region. We will cross our first pass – the Kongma La Pass – while trekking for Lobuche from Chukung. The Kongma La pass is the highest altitude one among the three passes of the Everest region.

We will head towards Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar from Lobuche. The Khumbu Glacier forms the path between Lobuche and Everest Base Camp. Everest Base Camp (EBC) provides a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and the Khumbu Ice Fall. We will head towards Kala Patthar (5,545 m) from Everest Base Camp. Kala Patthar provides one of the best views of the mountains in the Everest Region.

We will cross Cho La Pass while on our way to Gokyo Valley. The Gokyo Valley is home to six beautiful freshwater lakes and a village called Gokyo. We will stay at Gokyo Village for the night and trek to the top of Gokyo Ri (5,483 m) mountain the next morning.

The Gokyo Ri hilltop is equal to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar in terms of the spectacle on view from the place. We will cross the last pass – the Renjo La Pass – while on our way to Namche Bazaar from Gokyo Village.

The entire trek takes place inside the Sagarmatha National Park which is located in the Khumbu Region. The park is home to some of the rarest species of plants, birds, and animals. The Sherpa people are the main inhabitants of the region. They are hardworking and very hospitable apart from being world-famous mountain climbers. The people of the region mainly practice Buddhism. Animal Husbandry and agriculture is the main occupation of the people of the region.

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Itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu airport. Our Airport Representative transferred to hotel by private tourist vehicle.

There you will be met by our Airport Representative and transferred to hotel by private tourist vehicle.

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

An early morning to Lukla from Kathmandu and trek to Phakding. Flight 30 minutes and walking 3 hours.

We will start our trek with a beautiful 30-minute mountain flight to Lukla. The early morning flight provides a full range panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range. Lukla airstrip is located in the lap of gigantic mountains, which circle the airstrip in all directions. This makes the descent into the airstrip a very adventurous and thrilling affair.

We will collect our luggage and then start our trek to Phakding. Phakding is a beautiful Sherpa village located very close to the Ama Dablam mountain. Ama Dablam is one of the most beautiful mountains in the Khumbu region. We will walk through forests of rhododendron and bamboo, cross millet fields, and beautiful snowmelt rivers during our trek. Small but beautiful settlements of the Sherpa people are located throughout the journey. We will stay at a guest house in Phakding for the night.

  • Max. Altitude
    (2610mtrs/8563ft)
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 03

Phakding to Namche Bazaar walking 5:30 hours.

We will trek to Namche Bazaar today. Namche Bazaar is the most populated village in the Khumbu Region. It is not only a tradepost for people of the region, but it is also the gateway town to Everest Base Camp and surrounding regions. Trekkers to and from all parts of the Everest region converge at Namche Bazaar, inserting otherworldly life into the place.
Namche Bazaar was used by ancient salt traders between Nepal and Tibet as a thoroughfare town for centuries. Since Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Edmund Hillary first scaled Everest in 1953, Namche Bazaar has been transformed into a hub for trekkers and tourists from all over the globe. We will meet at the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park after a short walk from Phakding. We will walk along the picturesque landscape of the Dudh Koshi River valley after crossing the park entrance. We will reach Namche Bazaar in the evening and rest at a guest house there.

  • Max. Altitude
    (3440m/11286ft)
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 04

Rest and acclimatization. Walking 5:30 hours.

Namche is the ‘Gateway to Everest’ we will spend today here in order to acclimatize and adjust to the thinning air. A short trek to the museum celebrating the traditional customs of the Sherpa people. From here you will get the proper glimpse of Everest and the surrounding mountains. And we hike up the Syanbuche airport, and Everest view hotel and sightseeing at the Khumjung village (3800m/12,466ft), which is the biggest settlement of Sherpa. Then we trek down to Namche Bazzar for overnight stay.

  • Max. Altitude
    (3490m/11447ft)
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 05

Namche to Debuche via Tenbuche monastery. Walking 5 hours.

We will trek to the village of Debuche which is half an hour further from Tenbuche. The village is home to the largest Monastery in the Khumbu Region – The Tengboche Monastery. Tengboche is a beautiful and archaic monastery of the region and special worship is conducted at the monastery by the head Lama.
The Dudh Koshi river makes the path leading up to the village of Tengboche. Forests of pine, juniper, bamboo, and rhododendron provide a serene trekking atmosphere. During the last part of the trek, we will leave the Dudh Koshi river and trek along the final steep part of the journey. This part can be a bit challenging. It is ideal to reach Tengboche village before 3 pm because special worship is conducted at the monastery by the head Lama.

  • Max. Altitude
     3680m/12070ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 06

Debuche to Dingboche. Walking 5:30 hours,

Our target is to reach the village of Dingboche today. We will first cross the Imja River via a suspension bridge nearby Deboche. We will then start an uphill climb from the foot of the Imja River. The ascent takes us to the village of Pangboche.
We will get a spectacular view of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Island Peak from Pangboche village. The vegetation also starts to get slightly alpine henceforth. We will walk along with the dense forests of the Khumbu region until we reach the beautiful Dingboche village. Dingboche is also known as the summer valley. There is a beautiful monastery in Dingboche. The Imja Tse valley also starts from Dingboche.

  • Max. Altitude
    4410m/14464ft  
  • Meal
     Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
     Hotel/Tea house 
Day 07

Day hiking up to Nagatsang Ri (5000m/16500ft) and back to Dingboche. Walking 4:25 hours.

We will stay at Dingboche and acclimatize ourselves for the tough journey ahead to some of the highest passes in the Himalayan region. The highlight of the day is the hike up the top of Nangkartshang peak. We will pay an early morning visit to the Dingboche Monastery and take part in the worship ritual conducted by the head Lama. Dingboche is one of the oldest and most revered monasteries in the Khumbu region.
We will begin the hike to Nangkartshang peak after breakfast. The climb is a mild one and you can accomplish it very easily. The view of the surrounding mountains from the top of the peak is stunning. We will return to our guest house after the hike and rest early in preparation for the tough days of the trek to come.

  • Max. Altitude
    4410m/14464ft 
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 08

Dinbuche to Lobuje via Kongmla pass (5525m/16729ft). Walking 5:30 hours

We will trek up to Lobuche today via KongMa La Pass first before reaching Lobuche. Kong Ma La is the highest pass among the three passes of the Everest Region. Kongma La Pass, along with Kala Patthar, is the highest point of our trek.
The weather at KongMa La Pass can change instantaneously so we must be totally prepared while crossing the pass. We will reach Lobuche in the evening. Lobuche is a small village situated at the foothills of the Khumbu Glacier, which is the largest glacier in Nepal. We will rest at a guest house in Lobuche after a tiring day’s walk.

  • Max. Altitude
    4910m/16104ft  
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
     Hotel/Tea house 
Day 09

Lobuche to Everest Base Camp (5363m/17590ft) and back to Gorekshep. Walking 7:30 hours.

We will trek to the highlight point of our trek today – Everest Base Camp. The walk to Everest Base Camp must be done through the slippery slopes of the Khumbu Glacier, therefore today’s part of the trek is slightly challenging. We will first reach the small village of Gorakshep, where the Everest Base Camp was once located before it was moved to the current spot.
The Everest Base Camp is at the distance of a short walk from Gorakshep. We will get a stunning view of the Khumbu Icefall and the surrounding mountains from Everest Base Camp. We will stay for some time at Everest Base Camp and return back to Gorak Shep for the overnight stay because there are no accommodation facilities at Everest Base Camp except for tents of climbers.

  • Max. Altitude
     5353m/17557ft  
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
      Hotel/Tea house
Day 10

Hiking up Kalapathar(5555m/18220ft) and trek to Zhongla. Walking 6 hours.

Today we will trek to Kala Patthar, the highest point of our trek. Kala Patthar is the Nepali name for black stone. There are many big stones near the place hence the place is named Kala Patthar. You will get a stunning view of the mountains in the Everest Region and the Khumbu Glacier from Kala Patthar.
After spending some time in Kala Patthar and taking photographs, we will head towards Zongla by taking a less frequented route because our target is to cross the Cho La Pass and head towards the splendid Gokyo Valley. We cannot reach Cho La pass in a single day of trek from Kala Patthar so we will rest in Zongla for the night.

  • Max. Altitude
    4710m/15448ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
      Hotel/Tea house 
Day 11

Zhongla to Thagna(4500m) via the Chola-la cross(5420m/17777ft). Walking 7:30 hours.

We will conquer the second pass in our journey today. The Cho La Pass is trickier than the Kong Ma La pass despite being at a slightly lower altitude than the latter. Unexpected weather changes and thick snow make the past more adventurous and challenging. We can however navigate the pass easily with adequate preparation.

We will spend some time in Cho La Pass and head towards the small village of Thagna. We will stay at a guest house in Thagna and take an early rest after a long hard day of the trek through one of the most challenging high Himalayan passes of Nepal.

  • Max. Altitude
     4500m/14760ft
  • Meal
     Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
     Hotel/Tea house  
Day 12

Thagna to Gokyo. Walking 4:30 hours,

We will trek to the beautiful Gokyo valley. The trek from Thagna to Gokyo valley is relatively easy. We will only have to go uphill for some time otherwise most of the trek is a downhill descent to the foot of the Gokyo Valley.
The Gokyo Valley is home to a series of six picturesque blue lakes which are popularly known as the Gokyo Lakes. These lakes are the highest freshwater system of lakes in the world. The Tonakh Cho lake is the largest among these lakes. A beautiful village named Gokyo is located at the heart of the Gokyo Valley. The village is situated at the foot of the Gokyo Ri Mountain. We will trek along the shore of these beautiful lakes and rest at a guest house in Gokyo village.

  • Max. Altitude
    4790m/15711ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 13

Hiking up to Gokyo Ri (5483m/17985ft) and afternoon rest or looking around Gokyo valley. Walking 6 hours.

We will trek up to the top of the Gokyo Ri mountaintop today. Gokyo Ri is situated at a height of 5,483 m and provides a spectacular view of the mountains in the Everest region like Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori, Tabuchi, etc.
We will stay for some time at the top of Gokyo Ri Mountain and return back to the Gokyo Valley at the end of the day. The descent is easy and we will rest at our guest house and indulge ourselves in local cuisine.

  • Max. Altitude
    4790m/15711ft 
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 14

Gokyo to Lundhen via Renjo la Pass (5345m/16184ft) and continue trek to Lundhen Walking 7 hours.

We will cross Renjo La Pass today. It is the third and last of the three high passes in the Everest Region. Renjo La Pass is located at an altitude of 5,345 m. The trek from the base of the Gokyo Valley to the top of Renjo La Pass is steep and arduous. We will stay for some time at Renjo La Pass while enjoying the beautiful scenery and relieving ourselves from the pain of the uphill walk.
We will trek downwards after that and head towards the small village of Lundhen. The walk takes us along beautiful conifer forests of pine and fir. We will also experience a slight hike in temperature as we move downwards towards Ludhen. We will rest at a guest house in Ludhen and take a rest following the last of the challenging days in the mountains of the Everest Region.

  • Max. Altitude
    (4380m/13262ft)
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
      Hotel/Tea house
Day 15

Lundhen to Namche Bazaar walking 6:30 hours.

We will trek back to Namche Bazaar today. The walk today occurs through beautiful forests of pine, bamboo, juniper, berries, and rhododendron. Rhododendron is the national flower of Nepal and if you happen to be trekking during spring, the entire forest is turned red by the blooming Rhododendrons.
There are small and sporadic settlements along the way. These villages are clad in prayer flags and surrounded by mani walls, Chortens, and stupas. We will reach Namche Bazaar in the evening after an easy downhill trek for the most part of the day. We will rest at a guest house in Namche Bazaar for the night.

  • Max. Altitude
    (3440m/11285ft)
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
      Hotel/Tea house
Day 16

Namche bazzar to Lukla. Walking 6:30 hours.

Today we will trek back to the town of Lukla, the place where the airstrip is located. We will trek along with beautiful forests, waterfalls, and raging rivers formed from the melt of the Himalayan snow. The beautiful Phakding village lies midway through our trek.
We will stay for some time in Phakding and trek along the picturesque lower Everest region before reaching Lukla. The town of Lukla is a small but bustling tourist center because of the airport. You can buy some souvenirs at local shops before resting at a guest house.

  • Max. Altitude
    (2850m/9348ft)
  • Meal
     Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house   
Day 17

After breakfast an early morning flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla.

You will take an early morning flight back to Kathmandu following breakfast. You will bid farewell to the mountains of the Everest region from the air as the flight provides end to end view of the Himalayan Mountains of Nepal.
You will return to your hotel after landing in Kathmandu and our three passes trek officially ends from here.

  • Max. Altitude
    1345m/4412ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast
  • Accomodation
    3 stars level hotel
Day 18

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

Group Pricing

The trip cost will vary depending on the group size, please find Everest Three Passes Trekking rates below.

Group Size
(PAX)
1 2-3 4-6 7-9 10 +
Price (USD)
per person
1600 1475 1325 1295 1255

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 by tourist vehicles. 
  • Hotel in Kathmandu, inclusive breakfast at 3 stars level (1 night- Before trekking and 1 night after trekking).
  • Meals 3 times a day (Breakfast, lunch and dinner) in trekking for you.
  • Seasonable Local fresh fruits after dinner.   
  • Filtered water in trekking using (Katadyn Pocket Water Filter)
  • Twin sharing private comfortable room in trekking.
  • Everest trekking Map. 
  • Both ways domestic flight tickets from KTM/Lukla/KTM, 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 English-Speaking Government license holder trekking guide.
  • Food, drinks, accommodation, insurance, salary, equipment’s, transportation, local tax for Guide.  
  • Four season sleeping bag and down jackets to use for trekking, if necessary. 
  • All necessary paper works and Everest national park entry permits. 
  • Pasang Lamu rural municipality entry permit. 
  • Emergency helicopter rescue arrangement which will be paid by your insurance company. 
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System). 
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • All our government taxes, vat, local tax, tourist service charges.

Service Excluded in this Trip

  • Lunch & Dinner 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, porter, 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

Year
  • 2023
  • 2024
Start Date End Date Availability Booking
04 Oct, 2023 21 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
09 Oct, 2023 26 Oct, 2023 OPEN Book Now
17 Oct, 2023 03 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
25 Oct, 2023 11 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
04 Nov, 2023 21 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
09 Nov, 2023 26 Nov, 2023 OPEN Book Now
17 Nov, 2023 04 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
25 Nov, 2023 12 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
04 Dec, 2023 21 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
09 Dec, 2023 26 Dec, 2023 OPEN Book Now
17 Dec, 2023 03 Jan, 2024 OPEN Book Now
25 Dec, 2023 11 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.
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Trip Info

The full board package includes your meals 3 times daily in trekking where as budget packages does not include meals. Please do let us know which package that you would like to book we are here for your service.

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.