High-Altitude Sickness: A Real Challenge We Must Respect
Our recent trip through the high-altitude regions of Ladakh brought us unforgettable memories but also crucial lessons about health, safety, and responsible travel in extreme environments. While many riders and drivers handled the terrain well, some faced genuine challenges due to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which must never be underestimated.
Altitude Impact Report:
Sarchu: Many experienced intense cold and symptoms of AMS including vomiting, shortness of breath, headache, and nausea. Some riders complained of extreme cold in their limbs especially their fingers and palms making it hard to even unzip jackets or operate controls.
Leh: A few riders reported persistent headaches and mild nausea. One case turned serious, with oxygen saturation levels dropping to 85 and signs of pulmonary edema. Thankfully, we availed free treatment from Leh’s government run hospital and our heartfelt thanks to the Ladakh administration for these vital services.
Khardung La Pass: Riders felt breathless with headaches, a common effect due to the sudden gain in altitude.
Wari La Pass: One rider experienced hallucinations and cognitive slowing, a worrying sign of altitude stress and oxygen deficiency.
Chang La Pass: Dizziness and shortness of breath were reported. Quick rests and hydration helped.
Pangong Tso: Some faced mild nausea and lightheadedness.
Umling La Pass: Mild altitude sickness and headaches were common—but expected at 19,000+ ft.
Emergency Response & Safety:
A Dangerous head on bike accident occurred during the trip. The riding shoe protected one rider from what could’ve been a serious leg fracture—underscoring the need for proper gear at all times.
One injured rider was helped by ITBP medical personnel at Tso Moriri, where a bleeding nail injury was attended to immediately. Their support was prompt, professional, and deeply appreciated.
Oxygen, Monitoring & Medical Support
We carried portable oxygen cylinders and pulse oximeters on the trip. Alongside our in-team doctors and support crew, these helped us detect symptoms early and ensure no condition went unattended. Their presence turned serious moments into manageable situations.
Important Shift in Future Itinerary
Based on our experience:
We will no longer halt at Sarchu, where most AMS symptoms began.
Instead, Jispa will be our preferred stopover after Manali to allow better altitude acclimatization.
We’re adding an extra night in Leh to help everyone adjust before pushing towards higher altitudes.
Future trips will now be 12 days and 11 nights—giving space for rest and recovery, and making the experience safer and more enjoyable.
The Alcohol Reality: Not Just a Warning—A Rule
While alcohol can seem like a celebration after a tough day of riding, it has severe consequences at altitude:
It dehydrates your body, worsening AMS symptoms.
It lowers your oxygen absorption, which can lead to fainting, confusion, accidents, or even death.
It can lead to self-harm, vehicle damage, or harm to others—even unintentionally.
We understand the joy of celebration. However, alcohol is not a personal choice when it risks everyone’s safety. It is not a request—it's a mandatory guideline for future trips. We encourage celebrations on the final day, once safely back in low altitude areas, in a controlled and safe environment.
How to Stay Safe in the High Himalayas
Here are simple but effective practices that help everyone:
Avoid alcohol entirely during the journey.
Drink water regularly, even when not thirsty.
Eat light, warm, nutritious food.
Acclimatize gradually, don’t rush uphill drives.
Sleep early and rest properly, especially at higher camps.
Recognize symptoms early—never ignore headache, nausea, breathlessness, or confusion.
Always wear proper riding gear gloves, jackets, boots, and helmets save lives.
In Gratitude
To the Ladakh government, ITBP, our in-house medical support, and every fellow travelerthank you. Your care and quick response made a real difference. The mountains are magical, but also demanding. With respect, preparation, and discipline, we can all experience them joyfully and safely.
By
Shreedeep Jyothi Majumder
Founder & Director
Meridional Moto Traverse OPC Private Limited