For motorcycle riders, riding to Ladakh isn’t just a trip—it’s a rite of passage for adventuring touring. The breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude passes, and rugged terrains make it one of the most thrilling experiences for any biker. Most riders ensure that they are geared up well, with the best motorcycle jackets in India, riding pants, boots, luggage and helmets, but they do not think too much about what the riding conditions might be like. While the topography and company of mountains is enthralling, there are challenges that one can come across.
However, amidst all the excitement, many riders overlook a silent but serious challenge—Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). AMS can turn your dream ride into a nightmare if you’re not prepared. Understanding why it happens, how to prevent it, and what to do if it strikes can make all the difference between a successful Ladakh ride and an emergency evacuation.
Why Does AMS Happen?
AMS occurs when your body struggles to adjust to the low oxygen levels at high altitudes. Leh sits at 3,500 meters (11,500 ft) above sea level, and passes like Khardung La and Chang La take you even higher. As you ascend rapidly from Srinagar or Manali side, your body doesn’t get enough time to acclimatise, leading to symptoms such as:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue or confusion
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to severe complications like High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which can be life-threatening.
How to Prevent AMS on Your Ladakh Bike Trip
AMS is avoidable or at least you can reduce the risk of being impacted severely if you follow some key precautions:
1. Ascend Gradually
The best way to avoid AMS is to let your body acclimatize. If you’re flying into Leh, take at least 24–48 hours to rest before heading to higher passes. If riding, take it slow—avoid gaining more than 500m in altitude per day once you cross 2,500m. This takes about 2-3 days. Even after reaching Leh, you should acclimatise for a couple of days before heading to Nubra Valley or Pangong Tso.
2. Stay Hydrated but Avoid Overhydration
Dehydration can worsen AMS, but drinking excessive water can deplete essential salts. The key is to sip water frequently and include ORS or electrolyte drinks in your hydration routine. This means that you should keep a bottle of water handy and keep sipping water at short intervals. This alone can make a huge difference to the chances of suffering from AMS.
3. Fuel Your Body Right
Eat light but frequent meals rich in carbohydrates. Avoid heavy, greasy food, alcohol, and smoking, as they slow down oxygen absorption and make AMS worse.
4. Take Acclimatization Breaks
Follow the golden rule of climb high, sleep low—spend time at higher altitudes during the day but return to a lower altitude to sleep. Riders following the Manali-Leh route should consider a stopover at Keylong or Sarchu instead of rushing to Leh in one go.
5. Consider AMS Medication
Medicines like Diamox (Acetazolamide) can help prevent AMS by improving oxygen absorption. If you’re prone to altitude sickness, consult a doctor before your trip and start taking it one or two days before your ascent. This should be taken only after a prescription from the doctor, as one could have side effects depending on your individual health.
What to Do If You Get AMS on Your Ride?
If you or a fellow rider start experiencing AMS symptoms, act immediately. Avoid waiting it out too long, as symptoms and effects of AMS can be rapid and debilitating very soon.
1. Descend to a Lower Altitude
This is the most effective cure for AMS. Even a 500-1,000m descent can significantly improve symptoms.
2. Rest and Rehydrate
Stop riding, drink fluids, and rest until you feel better. Avoid further exertion.
3. Take Oxygen If Available
Many bike riders carry portable oxygen cylinders—use them if symptoms are severe. Leh and some key stops like Pangong and Nubra have oxygen bars and medical facilities that can help. These are also available in Leh, in case you need to order them.
4. Seek Medical Help If Symptoms Worsen
If AMS progresses to severe confusion, difficulty breathing, or chest tightness, it could be HAPE or HACE—both require urgent evacuation and medical treatment. DO NOT ignore severe symptoms as they can be fatal.
AMS is often overlooked in the excitement of a Leh-Ladakh bike trip, but being unprepared can cut your adventure short. The key is to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, fuel your body, and take it slow. Most importantly, if AMS symptoms appear, don’t push yourself—descend and recover. Ride safe, stay prepared, and make your Ladakh journey one to remember—for all the right reasons!
Would you like recommendations on must-have riding gear for Ladakh? Keep a look out for our blogs on the right gear and accessories, as well as itineraries. Follow Reise Moto to see latest product roll-outs and what’s happening in the biking world.
- Team Reise Moto
