Going to Ladakh? Follow these 3 high-altitude golden rules by Kamiya Jani

Kamiya Jani taking in the breathtaking heights of Ladakh — don’t forget to follow the high-altitude golden rules for a safe adventure! (Image: Instagram/@kamiya_jani)

Ladakh is a dream destination for many — dramatic mountains, clear blue skies, and monasteries perched on cliffs make it feel almost surreal. But beyond the beauty lies a challenge that many travellers underestimate: the thin mountain air.

Curly Tales founder Kamiya Jani recently shared her experience in Ladakh — a trip filled with stunning landscapes and magical moments, but also one that reminded her of the importance of following some golden rules of mountain travel.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kamiya Jani (@kamiya_jani)

Story continues below Advertisement

Remove Ad

At around 11,500 ft above sea level, Ladakh’s oxygen levels drop to just 60–65% compared to the 100% you breathe in a city like Mumbai. For the body, this sudden dip in oxygen can be a shock. While some travellers adjust quickly, others may take longer — and ignoring this fact can result in Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which Kamiya unfortunately experienced.

The Golden Rules of Surviving High Altitude in Ladakh

Her Ladakh experience is a reminder that preparation is key. Here are the golden rules she recommends for anyone planning their dream trip:

1. Keep Your Meals Light
For the first 48 hours, skip heavy meals like Maggi, momos, or fried food. Your digestive system slows down at high altitude, so lighter meals make it easier for your body to adapt. She swears by garlic soup, a local remedy believed to improve oxygen absorption.

2. Don’t Overexert Yourself
On her trip, she made the mistake of heading to Khardung La (18,000 ft) and then moving on to Siachen the very next day. The result? Severe AMS symptoms. If you do visit Khardung La, limit your time there to under 30 minutes and avoid pushing your body too hard, too soon.

3. Plan Wisely & Acclimatize
A Ladakh itinerary isn’t just about covering spots — it’s about allowing your body to adjust. Give yourself 24–48 hours in Leh before heading to higher altitudes. This simple step can save your entire trip.

Ladakh is breathtaking, but it demands respect for nature and patience with your own body. With the right planning and by following these golden rules, you can enjoy every bit of its magic without letting altitude sickness ruin your adventure.

The lesson from Kamiya’s Ladakh journey is clear — it’s not about doing something “wrong,” but about understanding that every body reacts differently to high altitudes. With the right preparation, mindful eating, and smart planning, you can fully enjoy Ladakh’s breathtaking beauty without health worries.

So if Ladakh is on your bucket list, remember these simple rules — because the mountains are best enjoyed when your body feels as good as your soul does in their presence.