Can you get altitude sickness in Kathmandu?

No. Kathmandu sits at 1400m, well below the altitude where altitude sickness typically occurs (2500m+). However, flying directly to higher elevations like Lukla (2840m) can trigger symptoms.

How long does it take to acclimatize?

Initial acclimatization takes 3-5 days at each elevation band. Your body continues adapting for 2-3 weeks. Most trekkers feel significantly better after their first rest day above 3000m.

Does physical fitness prevent altitude sickness?

No. Fitness helps with the physical demands of trekking but doesn't prevent altitude sickness. Young, fit athletes can be just as susceptible as older, less fit trekkers.

What's the difference between mild and severe altitude sickness?

Mild symptoms (headache, nausea, fatigue) are manageable and often improve with rest. Severe symptoms include vomiting, severe headache, confusion, or difficulty walking straight - these require immediate descent.

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness in the Himalayas

Prevent altitude sickness by ascending slowly (no more than 500m per day above 3000m), staying hydrated, and recognizing early symptoms. Take rest days every 2-3 days of climbing and consider acetazolamide if you're prone to altitude issues.

Plan your ascent rate. Above 3000m, gain no more than 500m of sleeping elevation per day. You can climb higher during the day, but sleep low. Build rest days every 2-3 climbing days into your itinerary from the start.
Start acclimatization early. Arrive in Kathmandu 2-3 days before trekking. Fly to Lukla (2840m) rather than starting from lower elevations if possible. Your body begins adapting immediately.
Hydrate aggressively. Drink 3-4 liters of water daily above 3000m. Your urine should be clear or light yellow. Dehydration makes altitude sickness worse and symptoms harder to distinguish.
Eat carbohydrates. Aim for 70% of calories from carbs at altitude. Your body processes carbs more efficiently in low oxygen. Dal bhat (rice and lentils) is perfect fuel.
Recognize the symptoms. Headache, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite are normal up to 3000m. Above that, these symptoms plus vomiting, severe headache, or confusion mean you must descend immediately.
Consider medication. Acetazolamide (Diamox) 125mg twice daily starting 24 hours before ascent helps prevent symptoms. Consult your doctor first. Ibuprofen helps with headaches but doesn't prevent altitude sickness.
Know when to descend. If symptoms worsen or don't improve after a rest day, descend 500m immediately. Never ascend with worsening symptoms. Descent is the only cure for severe altitude sickness.

Can you get altitude sickness in Kathmandu?: No. Kathmandu sits at 1400m, well below the altitude where altitude sickness typically occurs (2500m+). However, flying directly to higher elevations like Lukla (2840m) can trigger symptoms.
How long does it take to acclimatize?: Initial acclimatization takes 3-5 days at each elevation band. Your body continues adapting for 2-3 weeks. Most trekkers feel significantly better after their first rest day above 3000m.
Does physical fitness prevent altitude sickness?: No. Fitness helps with the physical demands of trekking but doesn't prevent altitude sickness. Young, fit athletes can be just as susceptible as older, less fit trekkers.
What's the difference between mild and severe altitude sickness?: Mild symptoms (headache, nausea, fatigue) are manageable and often improve with rest. Severe symptoms include vomiting, severe headache, confusion, or difficulty walking straight - these require immediate descent.