Important Safety Notice

Sarchu sits at 4,253 metres (13,953 feet) above sea level. At this altitude, the air contains approximately 40% less oxygen than at sea level. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a real risk for anyone ascending too quickly — regardless of age, fitness level, or previous altitude experience.

Our camp maintains oxygen cylinders and trained staff at all times. However, the best defence against altitude illness is knowledge, preparation, and smart acclimatisation. Please read this guide before you arrive.

What is AMS?

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the body's reaction to reduced oxygen at high altitude. It typically develops within 6–12 hours of arriving at elevation. Mild AMS is common and manageable; severe AMS can be life-threatening if ignored.

The golden rule: Never ascend further if you have AMS symptoms. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen.

AMS Symptoms

Headache (most common first sign)
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite
Difficulty sleeping
Shortness of breath at rest
Confusion (severe – descend immediately)

Prevention: What TO Do

Ascend gradually — don't rush from sea level to Sarchu in one day if possible. Spend a night at Keylong (3,114m) or Jispa (3,220m).
Stay well hydrated — drink 3–4 litres of water daily. Dehydration worsens AMS significantly.
Eat light, easily digestible meals. Avoid heavy, oily food on arrival day.
Rest for 2–3 hours after arriving at Sarchu before any strenuous activity.
Consider Diamox (Acetazolamide) — consult your doctor before travel. Start 24 hours before ascent.
Carry a pulse oximeter and check SpO₂ (should be 80%+ at Sarchu).
Report any symptoms to our camp staff immediately. We are trained to help.

Prevention: What NOT To Do

Do NOT ignore headaches or mild symptoms — they can escalate rapidly.
Do NOT consume alcohol on arrival day — it accelerates dehydration and masks AMS symptoms.
Do NOT sleep at an altitude higher than where you acclimated that day.
Do NOT take sleeping pills — they suppress breathing during sleep at altitude.
Do NOT exercise vigorously on your first day at Sarchu.
Do NOT smoke — it reduces blood oxygen levels further.
Do NOT ascend if you already feel unwell. Rest or descend.

Essential Items to Carry to Sarchu

Medications

Diamox (consult doctor), Ibuprofen for headache, anti-nausea tablets, ORS sachets, basic first aid

Water Bottles

Minimum 2L capacity. Hydration is your #1 altitude defence. Avoid carbonated drinks.

Warm Clothing

Temperatures drop to -5°C to 5°C at night. Thermal inner layers, fleece jacket, windproof outer layer are must-haves.

Sun Protection

SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV-blocking sunglasses, and a hat. High altitude UV radiation is intense — sunburn happens in minutes.

Pulse Oximeter

A small, inexpensive device that measures blood oxygen. Normal SpO₂ at Sarchu: 78–85%. Below 70% = descend immediately.

Medical History

Carry any prescription medications and a brief medical history card, especially for heart, lung, or blood pressure conditions.

Emergency Contacts

Save our camp number, nearest hospital (Leh District Hospital: 01982-252360), and emergency services.

Power Bank

Charging infrastructure is limited en route. A fully charged power bank is essential for navigation and emergency calls.

Road Safety on Manali–Leh Highway

For Bikers

Service your bike before departure in Manali. Critical: brakes, tyres, chain, and fuel system.
Carry extra engine oil, puncture kit, and basic tools.
Ride in daylight only — target Sarchu before 4 PM.
Don't ride solo through river crossings. Wait for vehicles and follow their path.
Full-face helmet, riding jacket, gloves, and knee guards are non-negotiable.

For Self-Drive Vehicles

4WD or AWD strongly recommended from Darcha onwards.
Carry extra fuel (jerry can) — no petrol pumps between Darcha and Leh.
Check BRO road status at lahaul-spiti.nic.in before departure.
Inner Line Permit required for Lahaul & Spiti — get at Manali DC office.
Drive slowly on gravel passes. Sudden drops in traction are common.

Emergency Contact Numbers

The Yunam Adventure Camp
+91 82192 43718
WhatsApp: +91 94188 86828

Leh District Hospital
01982-252360

Manali Civil Hospital
01902-252318

BRO Helpline (Road Status)
1800-180-3100

Police (Sarchu Area)
01902-252100

Himachal Tourism
1800-180-8080

High Altitude Safety Guide