The Meraki Tribe
Safety & Health · 6 min read
How to Prevent Altitude Sickness (AMS) in Spiti Valley & Zanskar (Captain’s Guide)
By Varun Tyagi (Lead Expedition Captain) · Updated 2026-08-31
⚡ Quick Take: Never rush directly from Manali to Kaza in a single day. Entering via Shimla allows your body to acclimatize gradually across 3 days (Delhi → Sangla at 8,900 ft → Tabo at 10,700 ft → Kaza at 12,500 ft).
1. What is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)?
Above 8,000 feet, atmospheric air pressure decreases and oxygen molecules per breath reduce. If you ascend too quickly, your body struggles to adapt, causing mild headaches, dizziness, loss of appetite, and nausea.
AMS is completely preventable when you follow a structured ascent itinerary.
2. Why The Meraki Tribe Enters via Shimla
Our signature departures always enter through Kinnaur:
- **Day 1:** Delhi (700 ft) to Sangla (8,900 ft) — Gentle first night.
- **Day 2:** Sangla to Nako / Tabo (10,700 ft) — Body adapts to mid-altitude.
- **Day 3:** Tabo to Kaza (12,500 ft) — Fully acclimatized and ready for high-altitude villages like Hikkim (14,567 ft) and Komic (15,027 ft).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do The Meraki Tribe vehicles carry oxygen cylinders?
Yes, every Meraki departure vehicle is equipped with medical portable oxygen cylinders, pulse oximeters for daily SpO2 monitoring, and certified first-aid kits.
Recommended Group Departure
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Summer Spiti Full Circuit (7N/8D)
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