Nar & Phu with Kangla-Thorangla
Annapurna Trekking

Nar & Phu with Kangla-Thorangla

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Trip Facts

  • Max Altitude 870m - 5416m
  • Duration 20 Days
  • Group Size 2 - 15

Overview

The trip across the restricted area of Nar-Phu valley is one of the most exclusive and uncommon treks. This stunning location is on the most inaccessible side of Manang, and entrance is only permitted with paid permission. Likewise. these areas are fully covered by snow during the winter, making travel and exploration only feasible in other seasons. Along with deep gorges, dense forests, waterfalls, and suspension bridges, the two renowned passes Kangla Pass and Thorong La Pass the Himalayan peaks, and mainly the two valleys of Nar and Phu are the main attractions.

The journey starts with a tour of the UNESCO world heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley. Moreover, on the third day, the trip begins in Besishar. Although the routes are difficult, difficult, and winding, the scenery enthralls the trekker the entire way. The Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and prayer flags along the trail give the impression that you are passing through Tibet. We reach the Muktinath temple by the trek as well. It is thought that going to the temple brings about salvation.

Furthermore, one can take in the scenery of the Himalayan Mountain ranges and the lovely Pokhara valley during the final flight to Pokhara. Lastly, the final day in Pokhara can be spent sightseeing around the numerous lakes and relaxing. Since motorable roads make it simple to reach the standard Annapurna Circuit, the Nar Phu Valley Trek is a viable alternative for those who would rather enjoy a trek through Nepal’s rural areas.

Highlights of the tour

  • Experience the scenic hidden valley of Nar & Phu
  • One of Nepal’s classic treks while getting off the beaten path in the Annapurna region
  • Travel through ancient villages that have barely changed over the centuries
  • Explore charming villages with rich traditions, culture, and religion of Tibetan
  • Observe crossing two great picturesque passes Kangla & Thorangla in the country of rich flora and fauna, blue sheep, and elusive rare snow leopard.
  • Explore the rich biodiversity of the place
  • Enjoy the beautiful landscape of the place
  • Travel through a part of the Tibetan plateau

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu airport.

The flight into the Kathmandu Valley is breathtaking, offering views of the Himalaya and the terraced valley level. One of our employees will meet you when you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and drive you to your accommodation.
You may have time to tour the city depending on your arrival at the airport. You should eat your first meal in Thamel, a popular tourist destination, where there are many restaurants to choose from serving both Western and native Nepali cuisine.

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

In Kathmandu with sightseeing tour at places of interest.

The morning after breakfast at the given time our city and cultural guide will guide you in and around Kathmandu at places of interest and importance, as Kathmandu Valley is full of World Heritage Sites the holy Pashupatinath temple, Bouddhanath ( Little Tibet), Swayambhunath ( Monkey Temple) & monasteries, ancient Kings Palaces and courtyard in Kathmandu; after an interesting sightseeing back to the hotel, preparation for the trip to Nar & Phu with Kangla & Thorangla trek.

  • Max. Altitude
    1345m/4412ft
  • Meal
    3 stars level
Day 03

Drive from Kathmandu to Besi Shahar by bus

After an early breakfast your guide will be there to pick you up and you will take a bus to Besisahar. The journey will take around 6 hours if there are not any foreseen events.

  • Max. Altitude
    830m/2723ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 04

Drive to Chyamje by Jeep then trek to Dharapani.

On this day we will take a four-wheel jeep from Besisahar to Chyamje for around 2 and a half hours. After that we will trek for around 5 and a half hours to reach Dharapani which will be our rest point for the day.

  • Max. Altitude
    1810m/5937ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 05

Dharapani to Koto. Walking 6 hours.

After Breakfast in Dharapani we will be heading towards Koto. Up to this day you will be travelling along old Annapurna Circuit Route. It will take around 6 hours hike to reach Koto.

  • Max. Altitude
    2600m/8528ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 06

Koto to Chha Chha. Walking 6 hours.

You will start the day early after eating breakfast in Koto because there is a lot of distance to cover. You will first cross the river and approach the valleys of Nar and Phu. This region is less developed than the towns on the adjacent Annapurna Circuit and has a lot of scenic views for nature enthusiasts.

With a combination of lovely oak, rhododendron and bamboo forests, as well as steep cliffs and a number of suspension bridges as you cross back and forth going up the valley, the walk through the stunning narrow valley is one of the most picturesque on the hike. It’s around 6 hours of trek from Koto to Chha Chha.

  • Max. Altitude
    2950m/9676ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 07

Chha Chha to Metha. Walking 5:30 hours.

After an early breakfast in Chha Chha we head towards Metha. You will continue your journey through a wide waterfall after emerging from a little canyon where the foliage is thicker, and the area is bigger.
There are breathtaking vistas of some of the massive snow-capped peaks in the horizon as you ascend a steep slope on the final stretch into Meta. There are a few spotless teahouses for trekkers in this little settlement.

  • Max. Altitude
    3560m/11676ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 08

Metha to Kyang. Walking 4 hours.

Leaving Meta after breakfast, you will start to see some of the distinctive, kaleidoscopic Tibetan Buddhist stupas that have made Nar and Phu famous. For this day we will be doing a short trek of four hours to Kyang.

  • Max. Altitude
    3560m/11676ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 09

Kyang to Phu. Walking 4 hours.

With lovely views of the Phu valley and the beautiful Nar Phedi monastery, the walk twists over the ridge. You will eventually arrive at a monolith that defends the arduous trail up to Phu after more hiking through lovely canyons and gorges and through numerous suspension bridges over various streams.
From here, you may get your first glimpse of the three nearby villages, as well as an old dzong (Fortress in Tibetan style) and the ruins of two more forts, all of which are majestically perched above the surrounding flatlands. There will be a row of even more magnificent stupas visible in the distance just before you cross the bridge into Phu.

  • Max. Altitude
    4200m/13776ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 10

Phu to Nar Phedi. Walking 6 hours.

Get up in Phu, eat breakfast, and then go back the way you came down to Meta. But this time, you will exit at the monastery in Nar Phedi, which will serve as your lodging for the night. In actuality, Nar Phedi comprises just of the monastery!
The nuns are quite hospitable, and the apartments are tidy and clean. Come and sit with them in the kitchen as they cook dinner over a little fireplace.
You are welcome to see the puja (blessing), which takes place in the late afternoon. Look for the tiny charity box in the monastery in which you can place a gift towards the upkeep of this lovely and welcoming place.

  • Max. Altitude
    3490m/11447ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 11

Rest at Nar Phedi. Explore around.

The day is simple today. After eating breakfast, you can participate in praying and meditating with the monks in the monastery. You can also roam around in the surrounding if you want.

  • Max. Altitude
    3490m/11447ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 12

Start an early morning about 3 am from Nar to Nagwal . Walking 8:30 hours.

Since today is a long day, it is recommended to start early in the morning at about 3 am and travel to the Kang La Pass, which connects to the well-known Annapurna Circuit. Although it is not a challenging pass, the impact of the altitude might make the day tiresome.
Once at the summit of the pass, you can take in a breathtaking vista of Tilicho Peak, Gangapurna, and Annapurna II. If you adore scree running, you might enjoy the steep beginning of the descent. Take a break for lunch on a plateau with a view of the summit before continuing on to Ngawal. Compared to the historic villages you recently visited, Ngawal, on the upper Pisang circuit of the Annapurna Circuit, is unquestionably different. There will be phone and wi-fi signals at most lodges, and the menus are far more extensive, and the lodges are larger.

  • Max. Altitude
    3675m/12054ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 13

Nagwal to Manang. Walking 3 hours.

The trek for this day is relatively short and easy. We will be trekking for around 3 hours to reach Manang which will be our rest point for the day.

  • Max. Altitude
    3500m/11480ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 14

Manang to Yak Kharka . Walking 5 hours.

After starting the day at Manang, you will go up above Khangsar village along a gently meandering trail that offers more views of the Himalayan peaks as you pass among juniper bushes and the ruins of the former Khangsar.
The historic wooden bridge between Gumsang and Yak Kharka, where yak herders bring their livestock to graze, is reached by taking a trail that is not marked from here. Your overnight stop will be here.

  • Max. Altitude
    4090m/13416ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 15

Yak kharka to Throung Phedi walking 6 hours.

The picturesque trip for today begins with breakfast in Yak Kharka, followed by a long, steady ascent to where you will spend the night. As you ascend a hill, you will see that the high-altitude sceneries getting crazier and crazier. After that, you will proceed to the Marsyangdi river where a wooden bridge across the river will take you to a tiny tea store.
You will ascend the mountain path on the bank for a few distance, then descend to Thorung Phedi by way of a winding track. Once you’re settled, you can spend the rest of the afternoon reading, relaxing with a book, or socializing with other trekkers spending the night at High Camp.

  • Max. Altitude
    4441m/14567ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 16

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

Since this is the longest and toughest day of the walk, it starts at sunrise. Start by ascending the Thorung La, the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit at 17,717 feet (5400 m), where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Mustang and Kaligandaki valleys and the surrounding peaks.
Spend some time taking pictures as the summit unfolds to show a grand view of snow-capped peaks extending toward Tibet. Since the descent is nearly as taxing as the ascent, you can unwind with a cup of tea and a snack at the teahouse in Muktinath phedi when you reach the bottom.
Return to the tranquil settlement of Muktinath by hiking up a lengthy, grassy slope through a number of steps towards the lower Mustang. This significant Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage site are encircled by untamed mountains and offers unrivaled sights of Dhaulagiri, the seventh highest peak in the world.

  • Max. Altitude
    3802m /12470ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 17

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

Visit Muktinath Temple, an important site of prayer for Nepalese Buddhists and Hindus, after breakfast at your teahouse. Before beginning the trail, you will have the chance to explore the main temple and its surroundings.
Start your journey back to Jomsom from here on a straightforward, downhill path. You will have excellent views of Mt. Dhaulagiri as you retrace your route. Pass through Jarkot to see one more monastery, take in the views of the snow-capped mountains, and explore some prehistoric caves. Keep an eye out for local people who may offer products to pilgrims while admiring the indications of the vibrant Tibetan culture.

  • Max. Altitude
    2757m /9043ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    Hotel/Tea house
Day 18

Flight to Pokhara, transfer to the hotel

You will take a morning flight to Pokhara today for 30 minutes after breakfast in Jomsom. Get a window seat so you can take in the breathtaking mountain scenery as you travel. When you get to Pokhara, check into your accommodation and spend the afternoon and evening
at leisure.
This laid-back lakeside community serves as the entrance to the Himalayas, thus there are a ton of hip cafés, eateries, water sports, stylish stores, and yoga studios that appeal to foreigners and adventurers.

  • Max. Altitude
    900m/2952ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    3 stars level hotel
Day 19

Drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus. Driving 6 hours.

After breakfast, you will be heading towards Bus Park where you will be taking a tourist bus to Kathmandu.

  • Max. Altitude
    1345m/4412ft
  • Meal
    Breakfast/ Lunch/Dinner
  • Accomodation
    3 stars level hotel
Day 20

Departure from Nepal.

It is time to bid Nepal goodbyes. Enjoy one more breakfast in a café, a stroll through the city, and/or some souvenir shopping to cap off your time in Kathmandu. When you arrive at your hotel, a representative will pick you up and take you to the airport in time for your flight home.

  • Meal
    Breakfast

Pricing

Price for Nar & Phu with Kangla-Thorangla in different currency as follows:

Currency Pricing USD Euro AUD CAD Indian Rupees
Price per person US$ 2975 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

  • All the ground transportation as per itinerary.
  • Hotel in Kathmandu ( 2 nights) and Pokhara ( One night) with breakfast at 3 stars level.
  • Meals 3 times a day (Breakfast, lunch and dinner) during the trekking and Pokhara for you.
  • Twin sharing comfortable and clean private room in trekking.
  • Domestic flight ticket from Jomsom to Pokhara with airport tax.
  • Trip Map.
  • Filtered water in trekking using (Katadyn Pocket Water Filter)
  • An experienced, knowledgeable, helpful, friendly and English-speaking trekking guide and porter to carry your luggage during the trek (2 trekkers:1 porter).
  • Food, drinks, accommodation, insurance, salary, equipments, transportation, local tax for Guide and porter.
  • Group medical supplies (first aid kit will be available).
  • Four season sleeping bag and down jackets to use for trekking, if necessary.
  • Trip achievement appreciation certificate(sample of certificate).
  • All necessary paper works and Annapurna conservation entry permits.
  • Emergency helicopter rescue arrangement which will be paid by your insurance company.
  • TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System).
  • Farwell dinner in Kathmandu.
  • All our government taxes, vat, local tax, tourist service charges.

Service Excluded in this Trip

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu (Except farewell dinner in Kathmandu)
  • All kinds of drinks in the mountain (hot, cold and alcoholic).
  • Sightseeing in Kathmandu.
  • Personal equipment.
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu.
  • Travel and rescue insurance.
  • Extra personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, laundry, shower, excess baggage charges)
  • Tips for trekking staff and driver (Tipping is expected).
  • Any others expenses which are not mentioned on ‘Price Includes’ section.

Trip Info

The Nar and Phu with Kangla Thoroangla pass starts with Kathmandu. Upon reaching Kathmandu the trip continues a sightseeing tour in Kathmandu. Then from Kathmandu, the trip continues with a drive to Jagat 1, 290 m via Besisahar. After, trek to Dharapani and from Dharapani the trip continues through Kotto, Dharmashala, Kyang, Phu village

Similarly, while in Phu village there all visitors will rest and explore the Phu village. Then from Phu village, the further trekking continues Nar Phedi and to Nar Gaon. Likewise, from Nar Gaon, the trekking continues to Kang La Base Camp. After that, Cross Kangla Pass. From there to Manang and after that to Thorong High Camp.

Then the trip resumes from there to Muktinath, Jomsom then fly to Pokhara then drive to Kathmandu and International departure for homeward bound.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time for the Nar and Phu with Kangla Thorong La Pass?

The Nar Phu with Kanga la pass is almost 2 weeks long. Similarly, this trek is at a high altitude so choosing the right time is very important. Trekking at  Mardi Himal Trekking is possible all year round. However, the best times to travel are spring and autumn. The weather is fine during this time and you can travel on sunny days. Also, during this period you will have a perfect view of the area and its landscape. All visitors need to understand that choosing the best time to travel is just as important as choosing the right destination. So keep that in mind before you go on a trip.

What are the difficulties of the Nar Phu with Kangla Thorong La Pass trek?

What is the weather and climate of Nar Phu with Kanga la pass?

How to prepare for the Nar Phu with Kanga la pass?

Is the Nar Phu with Kanga la pass Open?

How fit should I be for Nar Phu with Kanga la pass Trek?

Can you do the Nar Phu with Kanga la pass by yourself?

Do I need a sleeping bag on my Nar Phu with Kanga la pass?

What is the age limit for the Nar Phu with Kanga la pass?

What is the max altitude of the Nar Phu with Kanga la pass?

What are the transportation facilities on the Nar Phu with Kanga la pass?

How Long Is the Nar Phu with Kanga la pass?

Can you have altitude sickness on the Nar Phu with Kanga la pass?

What is the food price at the Nar Phu with Kanga la pass?

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.