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How Do I Prepare for High Altitude Before My First Kailash Yatra?

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Preparation begins with a route-specific medical discussion and an itinerary that allows time to acclimatise. The three-day circuit crosses Dolma La at roughly 5,630 metres. Being strong enough to walk uphill at home does not tell you how you will respond to sleeping at high altitude.

The north face of Mount Kailash in Tibet
The north face of Mount Kailash in Tibet.

Before leaving home

Take the day-by-day route and sleeping stops to a clinician familiar with altitude travel. Discuss relevant health conditions, medicines, previous experiences at altitude and whether the itinerary is appropriate for you. Practise walking in the footwear you will use. Keep any prescribed personal medicines accessible during transfers.

During the pilgrimage

Report a new headache, nausea, dizziness or unusual fatigue promptly to the guide. Do not go higher with symptoms of altitude illness. Worsening symptoms require descent and medical help. Confusion, poor coordination or breathlessness at rest are emergencies. Before the trek, know whom to alert and how the group will arrange help from each overnight stop.

Kailash packages and further reading

Related guide   Travel Insurance for Kailash Parikrama