Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh in May: A Complete Guide
Leh-Ladakh, with its breathtaking landscapes and high-altitude beauty, is a dream destination for many travelers. However, its extreme altitude, ranging between 10,000 ft to 18,000+ ft, can lead to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) if not tackled properly. If you’re planning a trip in May, when the roads start opening and tourism begins to pick up, it’s crucial to be aware of Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh in May and how to prevent or manage it.
Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh in May
What is Altitude Sickness?
Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh in MaY also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), occurs when you ascend to high elevations too quickly, and your body struggles to adjust to lower oxygen levels. It can range from mild discomfort to severe health complications.
Types of Altitude Sickness:
1. Mild AMS – Headache, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness.
2. Moderate AMS – Severe headache, vomiting, difficulty walking.
3. Severe AMS (HAPE or HACE) – Can be life-threatening with fluid in lungs (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema – HAPE) or brain swelling (High Altitude Cerebral Edema – HACE).
Why is Leh-Ladakh Prone to Altitude Sickness?
Leh is situated at an altitude of 11,500 feet (3,500 meters) above sea level, which means oxygen levels are significantly lower than in the plains. Most tourists arrive via flights from cities at sea level (like Delhi or Mumbai), leading to sudden exposure to thin air. This rapid change increases the risk of altitude sickness. Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh in May
Additionally, Ladakh’s higher passes like Khardung La (17,582 ft), Chang La (17,688 ft), and Pangong Lake (14,270 ft) make acclimatization even more important. Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh in May
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness in Leh-Ladakh
You may experience symptoms within a few hours of arriving in Leh or when traveling to higher altitudes:
Mild Symptoms:
Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Loss of appetite
Breathlessness
Disturbed sleep
Severe Symptoms (Seek medical help immediately):
Severe headache that doesn’t improve with medication
Vomiting or persistent nausea
Difficulty in walking (loss of coordination)
Confusion or altered mental state
Coughing with frothy or pink mucus (HAPE)
How to Prevent Altitude Sickness in Leh-Ladakh
1. Plan a Gradual Ascent
If possible, travel by road instead of flying directly to Leh. Routes from Manali or Srinagar provide a gradual ascent, allowing the body to adjust slowly. However, if flying, take it easy for the first 24–48 hours in Leh. Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh in May
2. Acclimatize Properly
Day 1: Rest completely. Avoid any exertion, including sightseeing.
Day 2: Explore Leh town and nearby low-altitude places like Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and Magnetic Hill.
Day 3 Onwards: Travel to higher regions like Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri gradually.
3. Stay Hydrated but Avoid Overhydration
Drink plenty of water and ORS (Oral Rehydration Solutions) to keep yourself hydrated, but do not overdrink, as it can flush out essential salts from your body.
4. Avoid Alcohol, Smoking, and Heavy Meals
Alcohol and smoking reduce oxygen absorption, worsening AMS. Also, eat light, high-carbohydrate meals to provide your body with enough energy. Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh in May
5. Take Diamox (Acetazolamide) for Prevention
Start Diamox (125 mg twice a day) at least one day before reaching Leh.
It helps the body acclimatize faster by increasing oxygen absorption.
Avoid taking it if you’re allergic to sulfa drugs.
Consult a doctor before using any medication.
6. Travel with Oxygen Cylinders or Portable Oxygen Cans
Many travelers carry small portable oxygen cans (like Oxy99 or MyOxy), which are easily available in Leh for emergency use.
7. Layer Up & Stay Warm
Cold weather can worsen altitude sickness. In May, temperatures in Leh-Ladakh range from 5°C to 15°C, but higher passes can be freezing. Dress in warm layers to avoid hypothermia.
8. Follow the “Climb High, Sleep Low” Rule
If going to higher altitudes (like Khardung La or Chang La), return to a lower altitude for the night instead of staying at high-altitude places like Pangong Lake.
9. Recognize Symptoms Early & Act Immediately
If you feel unwell, do not ignore the symptoms. Rest, hydrate, and take necessary precautions.
What to Do If You Get Altitude Sickness?
For Mild AMS:
✔ Rest immediately.
✔ Drink fluids and take paracetamol for headaches.
✔ Avoid further ascent for at least 24 hours.
✔ Use oxygen cans if needed.
For Moderate AMS:
✔ Descend to a lower altitude immediately.
✔ Take Diamox if not already using it.
✔ Seek medical help if symptoms persist.
For Severe AMS (HAPE/HACE):
❌ DO NOT wait for symptoms to improve.
❌ Descend immediately to a lower altitude.
❌ Seek emergency medical assistance.
❌ Oxygen therapy and medication like Dexamethasone/Nifedipine may be needed.
Travel Tips for a Safe Leh-Ladakh Trip in May
✅ Choose the Right Transport:
Flying? Take 2 days of rest in Leh before heading higher.
Road trip? Prefer Srinagar-Leh highway (gradual ascent) over Manali-Leh highway (steep climb).
✅ Pack Essential Medications:
Diamox (Acetazolamide)
Pain relievers (Paracetamol)
Anti-nausea medicine
ORS sachets
✅ Book Hotels with Oxygen Support:
Many hotels in Leh offer oxygen cylinders for emergencies. Choose accommodations with medical support.
✅ Be Extra Cautious if You Have Health Conditions:
If you have asthma, heart disease, or respiratory issues, consult a doctor before planning your trip.
Final Thoughts: Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh in May
Leh-Ladakh is one of the most stunning places on Earth, but altitude sickness can quickly turn your dream trip into a nightmare if ignored. Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh in May Can be avoided By acclimatizing properly, staying hydrated, avoiding exertion, and being mindful of symptoms, you can enjoy your journey without health risks.
Travel smart, listen to your body, and take it slow—Ladakh’s beauty is best experienced when you’re feeling fit and healthy!
Have any questions or experiences to share about altitude sickness in Leh-Ladakh? Drop a comment below!
