Lhasa Travel Answers

There is not a lot of information about you on your home page. My first question is have you ever been at altitude? I'm talking about the 4000+ m you will be experiencing in Tibet. Your two week trip will get you well on your way to becoming acclimatized (which normally takes 2 weeks to a month), but I think you will be surprised how difficult even fairly mundane levels of activity will be.

Besides a month in Aspen and one parachute jump from 12,500 feet, my altitude trips are few and far in between...Lhasa is my first stop after Beijing and then after Lhasa, I have 4 more weeks for Nepal and Bhutan. I have been reading up on medication for altitude sickness...any suggestions??

While altitude affects everyone differently, it will most certainly affect you. Lhasa is at about 3900 m, and this is one of the lowest altitudes you will encounter in that country. Everyone that I know that has been to Tibet significantly underestimated the effects of altitude on them. In spite of all the prep, we found we could only sustain about one third of our normal pace, and needed frequent breaks to catch our breath. We had virtually none of these problems on Lake Titicaca, which is about 1000 m lower; with shortness of breath on exertion being the only issue. As for acclimatization, the only thing that actually works is spending time at altitude; the medications like Diamox may or may not work for you, and it may help with some of the symptoms, but will not speed up how quickly you acclimatize. We found that the side effects from it were actually worse than the altitude sickness, but understand from our travel medicine doctor that the recommended dosage has been cut back significantly since the time we were in Tibet. According to one doctor I know (who is our local altitude medicine authority), it takes a good 4 weeks to acclimatize to altitude (which means being above 2400 m / 8000 ft). Your body has to produce more red blood cells to help cope with the low oxygen environment. Enjoy Tibet, but don't be surprised that you can't do everything your want to, especially if it involves exertion. I would suggest that you consult with a travel medicine clinic in planning your activities on your trip.

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Thanks for sharing your experience...I will take it all in consideration and not push myself.

In reference to your question concerning altitude sickness. Have have taken Diamox many times and it does seem to work somewhat. But I would only take this if other remedies do not work. First, be sure to start hydrating at least two days before arriving in Lhasa. When you think you can't drink anymore water...drink some more. Be sure to eat foods that will replace your electrolytes (sodium, potassium, etc...) as to avoid hyponatremia. I also found that sucking on ginseng root was more effective than the Diamox. I've also heard that the older you get the affects of altitude are not as severe. Hope this helps and good luck!!

Thanks for all the info...it's good to know there are a few advantages to growing old. At my age, I probably won't feel a thing. Gracias!!!!