Odati Adventures

17/8, Manish Nagar, 4 Bungalows, J P Road,

Andheri (West), Mumbai 400 053

Tel.: +91-22-2635 3861 Email: odati@vsnl.com

URL: www.odati.com

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THE NANDA DEVI AFFAIR

Route Dehradun – Joshimath – Lata - Dharansi - Tolma – Joshimath – Dehradun

Trail Lata – Kanuk – Lata Kharak – Saini Kharak – Dharansi Pass – Jungla Camp – Tolma – Surai

Thota

Region Garhwal Himalayas - Uttaranchal

No of Days Ex-Mumbai 11 Days

Ex-Delhi 11 Days (Including day of Arrival & Departure)

Grade High Altitude / Moderate Grade

Maximum Altitude 4250Mtrs / 13,940Ft

Passes Dharansi Pass

Access Trek begins Lata Village

Trek ends Surai Thota

ITINERARY

Day Date Description Meals Altitude

Mtrs Ft

Day 1 Thurs,16-Sept’10 CoO - Dehradun L,D 657 2,155

Dehradun – Devprayag 829 2,723

Stay in Devprayag

Day 2 Fri,17-Sept’10 Devprayag – Joshimath – Lata B,L,D 1,875 6,152

Home stay in Lata

Day 3 Sat,18-Sept’10 Lata – Lata Winter 2,317 7,599

Lata – Kanuk B,L,D 3,243 10,640

Camp in Kanuk

Day 4 Sun,19-Sept’10 Kanuk – Lata Kharak B,L,D 3,689 12,099

Stay in Lata Kharak (Log hut / camps)

Day 5 Mon,20-Sept’10 Lata Kharak – Saini Kharak – Lata Kharak B,L,D 3,689 12,099

Stay in Lata Kharak (Log hut / camps)

Day 6 Tue,21-Sept’10 Lata Kharak – Dharansi Pass - Dharansi B,L,D 4,250 13,940

Camp at Dharansi

Day 7 Wed,22-Sept’10 Dharansi B,L,D

Camp at Dharansi

Day 8 Thurs,23-Sept’10 Dharansi - Dharansi Pass – Jungle camp B,L,D

Camp at Jungle Camp

Day 9 Fri,24-Sept’10 Jungle Camp – Tolma B,L,D 2,680 8,793

Home Stay at Tolma

Day 10 Sat,25-Sept’10 Tolma – Surai Thota B,L,D 2,161 7,090

Surai Thota – Joshimath – Rishikesh / Dehradun B,L 1,360 4,462

Stay in Rishikesh / Dehradun

Day 11 Sun,26-Sept’10 Dehradun – CoO B

CoO = City of Origin

A DIVINE AFFAIR WITH THE GODDESS

CHARGES

Dehrudun, Joshimath – Lata – Lata Kharak – Dharansi – Jungle Camp – Tolma – Surai Thota -Dehradun

For Indians: Ex Dehradun: To Be Confirmed Single Supplement: To be Confirmed

For Foreigner passport Holders: To be Confirmed Single Supplement: To be Confirmed

Rate Includes:

1. All travel by road transport from Dehradun to Joshimath via Devprayag

• Dehradun to Lata via Joshimath, overnight jeep journey with stay in Devprayag.

• Surai Thota – Rishikesh - Dehradun

2. The following meals

• All meals as indicated in the itinerary above

• All meals in local restaurants and those prepared by local cooks during the course of the trek.

3. Trek

• All transport from Dehradun to Lata and from Surai Thota to Dehradun.

• All camping charges at various locations.

• All charges for hiring porters, ponies, mules and or yaks

• All entry charges at Dharansi Pass and wherever else required.

• All equipment that includes tents, sleeping bags, sleeping liners, sleeping mats, toilet tents, cooking

Gear etc.

• Support of experienced guides and staff who belong to the valley and know the terrain very well.

4. Stay / Lodging

• All stay at Devprayag, Rishikesh / Dehradun in hotels on twin - sharing basis

• All stay at Lata, Tolma in Home Stays

• All camping during the trek on availability basis.

Rate Excludes

1. Travel from CoO to Dehradun and back

(PARTICIPANTS ARE REQUESTED TO MAKE THEIR ARRANGEMENTS ALL BY THEMSELVES FOR THIS

JOURNEY AS THEY MAY HAVE ALTERNATE PLANS)

2. Jeep hiring charges for extra trips (if any).

3. Hiring of extra porters for hauling excess personal luggage.

4. Excess stay & meals due to bad weather conditions resulting in delays due to of flights or any other form of

transport.

5. Soft drink charges, table drinks, laundry, cigarettes, telephone expenses, beer and liquor charges.

(The symptoms of High Altitude Sickness resemble the after effects of consumption of liquor. The two

can hardly be recognised from each other. Please read the note on High Altitude Sickness given below.

Also carrying liquor on the trek adds tremendous load for the porters and damage baggage during

handling by porters)

6. Rescue / medical charges in case needed due to high altitude sickness, any ailment and/or accidents.

7. Excess stay in Dehradun / Rishikesh or any other place due to delay in flights, train, bus or any other form of

transport due to bad weather condition or conditions beyond our control.

8. Any other item not mentioned in “Rate Includes” section above

Contingency charges in case of delay due to weather / accident or illness of self or any other group member / act of

god / or any situation out of the control of the trip leader / conductor.

MODE OF TRANSFER OF CHARGES

You may make the payment by the following modes:

Cash:

For Mumbai only: Cash Collection can be made by Odati Staff at the nearest place of your convenience within the

city limits.

Other Locations:

You may deposit the advance amount in cash at any HDFC Bank Ltd branch, near you. The account details are given

as under.

Cheque

You may make a payment to us by Cheque / DD / Banker’s Cheque. Kindly draw the Cheque in the Name of ‘Odati

Adventures’ and courier / hand over to us or drop it in a HDFC drop-box near you. Please do not forget to write your

name and your contact number at the back of the cheque especially when you are dropping it in a drop box. Also

mention our account number 00192 0000 23985 at the back of the cheque.

Electronic Transfer:

You may use the electronic transfer facility to send us the payment. The following are the details.

A/c Name Odati Adventures

A/c Number 00192 0000 23985

Nature of A/c Current

Bank HDFC Bank

Branch Versova - Andheri (West)

Branch Code 0019

RTGS / NEFT IFSC Code: HDFC0000019

MICR Code 400240009

DOCUMENTS TO CARRY

Indians

� At least 2 passport size photographs

� 2 Photocopies of a photo identity card with proof of address along with the Original document

o Driving license

o Election ID Card

o Passport

o Pan Card with supporting proof of address

o Employee ID card

Foreigners

� At least 4 Passport sized Photographs

� At least 2 photocopies of your passport and visa along with the Original

� If you are working in India

o Indian PAN card with 2 copies of the same

o FRRO registration proof with 2 copies

o Inner Line Permit stamped / Restricted Area Permit – if already stamped or acquired on passport or

a separate permit – not compulsory to acquire on passport.

A FLYING LAP OF THE TRAIL & TRAVEL

Nanda Devi may not be the highest mountain in India but is definitely one of the most beautiful and most enigmatic.

It took 50 years of arduous exploration before Eric Shipton and H.W. Tilman along with three Sherpas finally

discovered a way through the Rishi gorge into the sanctuary in 1934. This further led the Anglo-American expedition

in 1936 to conquer this great beauty making it the highest climbed peak till the 1950 expedition of Annapurna.

Our trip has been specifically designed to cover the backdrop of the spectacular 7,816Mtrs Nanda Devi Peak as we

retrace the route that Shipton and Tilman discovered. After an overnight’s stay at Devprayag, we drive along the

Dhauli Ganga about 201Kms to Lata. Enroute we snatch glimpses of mountains such as Dronagiri, Hathi Parbat,

Bethartoli, Mrigthuni and Nanda Devi. Lata is a small dainty village alongside the road in the Dhauli Ganga valley

where we find a lot of houses made of mud, stone and wood. The word Lata refers to Lat, meaning leg, the leg of the

Goddess Nanda Devi’s resting place. We meet our team of porters and guides here and it would be a good time to

sort out our belongings while we get to know the people who will support us during the course of the trip. We then

take a short trek to Lata (summer village) which is actually the traditional gateway to the Nanda Devi Trek. It is

interesting to know that Lata and its neighboring village Reni is actually the birthplace of the Chipko Movement. We

then trek about 3km to Kanuk village where we set up camp for the night.

The modern Chipko movement started in the early 1970s in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, with growing

awareness towards rapid deforestation. The landmark event in this struggle took place on March 26, 1974, when a

group of female peasants in Reni village, Hemwalghati, in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, India, acted to prevent the

cutting of trees and reclaim their traditional forest rights that were threatened by the contractor system of the state

Forest Department, and transpired hundreds of such grassroot level actions, throughout the region.

Courtesy: Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chipko_movement

The next day we’re in for a steep climb in and out of some pine shade to the pasture of Lata Kharak (Khark); Kharak

meaning meadow/pasture, where we camp for 2 nights resting and savouring great views of the greater Himalayas.

We make sorties to Saini Kharak and nearby hill tops. As we walk amongst broken boulders towards Saini Kharak,

with the Rishi Ganga Gorge below us, we are greeted with splendid views of the peaks of Dronagiri, Bethartoli,

Nanda Ghunti, Trisul, and Devisthan and we are also granted a peek into the core zone of the Nanda Devi Biosphere.

Our hardships are completely forgotten when we come to a view-point from where we see the Divine Nanda Devi in

all her glory.

The third stage of our journey involves a steep climb high over the Dharansi Pass and down to the Dharansi Camp.

This is the most trying stage of the trek being no easy route up rocky, steep and snowy slopes and will require much

assistance in a precipitous terrain. This stage of our trek will most definitely leave us with mixed feelings of

exhilaration and foolhardiness.

A full day’s rest at Dharansi will be required to recover and rejoice as we come back over the pass to walk through

the thick forests at the foot hills of Dronagiri. We camp for the night at Jungle Camp.

From Jungle Camp we walk at an easy pace through thick forests of Birch, Fir and Rhododendron to a tiny village

called Tolma on the slopes of a valley where we will be provided with home-stay facility. This gives us an excellent

opportunity to interact with the villagers and learn about their ways of living. This would also be a good time to

make a mention of Keedajadi.

Keedajadi (Cordyceps sinensis) is a larva mummified by a fungal infection and is found at altitudes between 3,000

and 5,000 Metres. It is a prized ingredient in Chinese medicine (known to be a cure for a variety of ailments from

fatigue to cancer) and is known to sell up to prices higher than gold. Locals and Shepherds venture up into the higher

reaches of mountain slopes during summer months in huge processions to collect as much of this herb as possible. In

recent years, the craze to lay their hands on this ‘cash crop’ has even resulted in violence and other mis- endeavors.

From Tolma we will further trek downhill to our final destination Surai Thota which is about 30Kms from Joshimath.

SOME DISTANCES

� Dehradun – Rishikesh 45kms

� Dehradun – Devprayag 112kms

� Devprayag - Joshimath 176kms

� Joshimath – Lata 25kms

� Lata – Lata Kharak 08kms

� Lata Kharak – Dharansi Pass 12kms

� Tolma – Surai Thota 03kms

� Surai Thota - Joshimath 30kms

� Joshimath – Rishikesh 252kms

Trivia: American Mountaineer Willi Unsoeld initiated an expedition to Nanda Devi, and part of the preparation

was done by his daughter Nanda Devi Unsoeld, a lovely woman who had been named after the most beautiful

peak Unsoeld had ever seen. Sadly Nanda Devi died high on the peak because of altitude sickness. But the locals

quickly formed the idea that the Goddess, wanting her as a devotee or friend took Devi into her own ethereal

realm. An alternate belief holds that the goddess had caused herself to be reborn as Nanda Devi Unsoeld and

hence very naturally and inevitably returned to her heavenly abode.

SOME HIMALAYAN FAUNA IN THE REGION

Himalayan Tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus)

A wild goat which lives in the steepest precipices. May go up to 5000m altitude. Males have a

distinctive, dark, shaggy ruff and a long mantle of paler hairs: they weigh up to 100 kg; females about

60 kg. Live in groups as large as 20 to 30.

Himalayan Musk Deer (Moschus chrysoogaster)

Member of deer family though different appearance. Does not have any antlers. Males have

backward-curving tusk-like incisors in the upper jaw. Unlike other deer, they have a gall bladder and a

uniquely developed scent gland in the abdominal region which produces valuable musk.

Himalayan Black Bear (Selenarctos thibetanus)

Associated with mixed broad leaf and conifer forests. Adult males weigh up to 180 kgs before

hibernation; head-body length of 1.6m. A creamy white V pattern marks the chest. Well adapted for

tree climbing. Can become carnivorous.

Common Langur (Presbytes entellus)

Long-limbed, long-tailed, black faced monkey; heavily whiskered and thickly coated. Lives close to

villages as well as in the forest areas. 60 to 75 cms height (while seated). Live in troops of 15 to 30

individuals, mostly on trees to 3,500m altitude.

Himalayan Brown Bear (Ursus arctos).Usually herbivorous feeding on grass and herbs.

Some become carnivorous killing sheep, goats or ponies. Males may grow to 1.7m in length; females

are smaller.

Bharal (Pseudois nayaur)

Sheep like in appearance; males are 3 ft at shoulder; slaty blue body colour, black flank stripes and

dark chests; cylindrical horns curve outwards seen in large herds of 80 in high altitude parts of

Ladakh. It is an important source of food for the snow leopard.

Snow Leopard (Panthera uncial)

One of the most beautiful of the large cats with handsomely marked coat. Regular sightings of snow

leopard are reported.

AVIFAUNA INCLUDES

Crested Black Tit

Yellow Billed Fantail Flycatcher

Orange Flanked Bush Robin

Blue Fronted Redstart

Indian Tree Pit

Common Rose Finch

Nutcracker

AREA MAP:

MAP COURTESY: Leomann Maps

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO CARRY…

• Back Pack

o Get a nice big pack of at least 60Ltrs. and a small day pack one to carry your essentials as your

baggage will be carried by a porter. (Decide the size of your pack at the end of the note. You will

have a fair idea of how much you are going to carry!). Please get only that is essential.

• Waist Pouch (Optional)

o This will be handy to carry small valuables, small cameras, change, money, emergency items like

vitamin tablets, lighters, keys, taps, extra rolls, etc.

o Else every extra bit can be carried in your day-pack.

• Clothing - Though clothes are not expected to get dirty (at least due to sweat grime), you may not want to

wash them either!

(There may be enough opportunities to wash clothes but the waters are really cold.)

o Underwear (at least 3-4 sets extra)

� These will tend to get wet due to moisture, occasional rains, sweat and sometimes crossing

streams / rivers.

o Trousers (at least 2 other than what you wear)

� Pack in synthetic pants or track pants and not denims! Denims are extremely bulky to carry

and when wet due to sweat or wading, are very heavy and uncomfortable to wear on. Track

pants are very comfortable but the thinner variety may have to be supplemented with over

pants or long johns (thermals) for the night chills / temperatures. These also dry faster.

o Shirt / T Shirts

� Long sleeves shirts (at least 2) will help protect your skin from sunburns at the same time

protect against cold when heading into winds or resting on trail. These can be worn over

half/full sleeve T-shirts (#)(at least 4) that absorb sweat and are comfortable to wear. Cotton

T-shirts are quick to dry and a couple of them can be worn over one another to form

insulating layers to protect against extreme cold. The new material Climalite from Adidas is

really soft, comfortable and very quick to dry, consider getting a few of these. T shirts made

of this are highly recommended as base layers during the daily walks.

o Woollens

� Woollen sweater will come in handy in case the weather turns extreme! A windproof jacket

with fleece may do the job equally well but may not be able to “wick” the internal moisture

away.

� Woollens are bulky to carry and we do not recommend carrying them. Multiple layers of T-

Shirts(#) and fleece will do the job equally good without adding too much load to your pack.

o Shorts

� There may be days when you are feeling a little too hot and the weather permits you to be

in shorts for some time. Pants that have a zipper to split them may be a convenient choice.

o Balaclava / Monkey Cap / Ear Band

� All made of wool or fleece, these will come in handy for extreme weather and while heading

into winds. These cover the ears which are more vulnerable to steady cold winds.

o Cap

� The sun may beat you down in and a cap will be an essential part of your gear as it will keep

the sun from getting to your face help conserve some heat that is lost through the head,

especially while walking in cold conditions and save from hypothermia. A round floppy hat

that covers the neck may be better choice.

o Rain Jacket

� There is nothing you will wish you got along at high altitudes than good rain gear. This serves

dual purpose; firstly it will come in handy during rains and secondly this will contribute to

keep you warm. And when we say good, it must stand up to the test of heavy rains and high

winds without any seepage on the inside. Look for one with an attached hood. Else consider

the overall RAIN PONCHO

o Towel

� Sure you will not forget this. And do you know of the “Pancha”? This thin lungi / sarong kind

of wipe cloth (Available in Dadar, Girgaon – Mumbai, Bangalore, Mangalore, Pune, Kerala,

Chennai, etc.) is lightweight, takes little space and dries faster. Turkish towels could just be

too much luxury to carry around! If you do not stay in Mumbai, then a thin towel is

recommended.

• Pancha is a thin white cloth with a green, red or blue border. This towel is

extensively used in South and West India.

• Footwear

o Socks

� Woollen socks (at least 1 pair) will be helpful during the walks over high passes and cold

nights. Also get cotton towel ones (3 pairs) for easy walks and back ups. Thinner nylon socks

(1 pairs) will give added protection (insulation) and bulk to your feet when the walks get

chilly.

o Shoes

� These are going to be the most important part of your gear. Good firm shoes that are

covered from all sides and deep tread and having enough volume to be able to take two pair

of socks worn one over the other. In case you plan to wear old (or new) sports keds (Nike,

Reebok, Adidas, Puma etc…) please have a good look at them and ask if they will last the

walk through varied terrain. Old shoes must be reinforced with sticking / stitching so that

they do not fail you mid-way on the trek. There is no worse agony than having your footwear

fail you halfway up the trek.

o Floaters / Sandals

� Not always will you be wearing those shoes. Floaters/Sandals will be comfortable to travel in

and moving about at the end of each day as also while crossing multiple streams. However

there may be days when you may still have to live in your shoes. Ensure that your

floaters/sandals can be worn over at least one pair socks.

o Medical Tape

� Will come in to repair sheared footwear or to take care of those blisters and scratches.

• Miscellaneous

o Torch with extra batteries.

� Walking at night? No, but this will be one of the most often used extra in your kit. Make sure

it works well, before you pack it in. And don’t forget to pack extra batteries. These can be

used in the personal stereos, torches, cameras etc. Hey anyone has EXTRA BATTERIES

PLEASE! Please leave the cheap imitation (or Chinese made) varieties back at home as they

are sure to fail you on the trek. There are going to be no charging points for your electronics

too.

o Penknife

� Want to slice fruits? Or chop that loose lace? Your packet of “Haldiram’s” is packaged very

well! Or want to take out that thorn stuck in your shoes? There is more to a penknife than

what you can think of!

o Goggles / Sun Shades

� These will be helpful during walks in the sun and the snow.

o Water Bottle / hydration pouch

� At least 2 litres. Always top it up before you set on the trail. You may need more and we

suggest you to take extra if you can take the load.

o Plastic Bags

� These will be useful to pack in just about everything. They will also help to sort items in your

backpack and will not mess with your packing everyday. Try the zip locks. They are great

value and will keep all your clothes and valuables safe from moisture.

o Camera with extra rolls

� Who would not want to take back memories of all the wonderful places? But make sure that

you have extra rolls that will last the whole trek.

� CR123 batteries for all those who have a requirement for such cells. (Remember, batteries

tend to drain quicker in cold weather)

o Small sewing kit

� This will help to sew up those buttons and small gashes (in case!) to your clothing. Besides

you can never underestimate the utility of a good long thread and a sharp needle!

o Match Box / cigarette lighter.

� Yes! You do not smoke or do you! But a matchbox can create fire, one of the five essential

elements. Keep it, just as part of emergency kit.

o Pen & Paper

� Poetry or a book? Don’t Know! But you may still want to take and give notes to many on the

trail besides all the creative writing you may do!

• Primary Medical Kit

o Band Aid strips / Johnson-plast / Elastoplasts tape

o Cotton

o Aspirin

o Avomine (motion sickness)

o Antacid tablets

o Paracetamol / Metacin / Crocin (This works well for altitude as well)

o Lomotil

o Brufen (don’t think the trail will be that painful, but its always handy; and have one along with an

antacid to avoid getting acidity)

• Toiletries

o Bath Soap

o Detergent Soap

o Sunscreen

o Lip Balm / Petroleum Jelly

o Tooth Brush

o Tooth Paste

� A resource not every one needs to carry. Pool the same to make your pack lighter.

o Shampoo sachets / Small bottle

� The small bottle can be bought from a pool to share instead of each one carrying too much

load. Besides empty sachet covers may just be an environmental eyesore!

o Toilet Paper

o Mosquito Repellent

� May be needed in certain places. This may also be use to keep flies etc away on trail. Just in

case!

WHAT YOU NEED NOT CARRY!!!

o Valuables

� Sure you do not want to misplace them. Nor attract locals / tribes for the wrong reasons.

� On some occasions, cold metal comes in contact with skin to cause metal bites. When the

metal turns very cold (temperatures drop below freezing) and sticks to the skin it freezes the

skin moisture causing local frostbites. A very painful condition (especially true with metal

watches, metal bodied cameras and other electronics).

o Jeans / Denim trousers / jackets

� These are a no-no for treks, as they will be either soaked by your own sweat or rains/river

crossings. Wet denims are a liability to lug as they do not dry fast. Denims are thick and may

provide only temporary respite from cold. Besides when wet with sweat they may chaff your

skin. The fits most of the denim have, are uncomfortable for long cold treks.

o Electronics

� Many electronics refuse to work below freezing or in cold conditions. Cold electronics

gadgets consume more battery and hence you will have to carry extra batteries and hence

extra load. Each pencil cell battery will weigh about 50Gms and if you plan to carry even five

extra pairs that add 500Gms, besides the problem of disposing them. Used batteries are

considered to be one of the biggest environmental hazards.

� These also attract the attention of locals / porters and may induce them into theft.

� Protecting your electronics from the elements may pose another challenge.

o Heavy material

� Any heavy material, which you feel may add load to your backpack. Consider the absolute

necessity to carry such items and the occasions when and how many times you may use the

same, before you pack them.

� Such items may include things like, heavy key chains, chain locks, bulky perfume / deo-

bottles, glass bottles for oil / liquids, etc.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Altitude illnesses result from insufficient oxygen in the blood due to decreased barometric pressure at high

altitudes. Persons with well-controlled blood pressure and heart problems and normal pregnancies seem to do just

fine at high altitudes but must exercise some caution.

Hypoxia: Hypoxia is a pathological condition in which the body as a whole (generalised hypoxia) or region of the

body (tissue hypoxia) is deprived of adequate oxygen supply. Hypoxia in which there is complete deprivation of

oxygen supply, is referred to as anoxia.

In the case of altitude sickness (AMS), hypoxia develops gradually, the symptoms include headaches, fatigue,

shortness of breath, a feeling of euphoria and nausea. In severe hypoxia, or hypoxia of very rapid onset, changes in

levels of consciousness, seizures, coma and death occur. Severe hypoxia induces a blue discolouration of the skin,

called cyanosis (haemoglobin is a darker red when it is not bound to oxygen (deoxy-haemoglobin), as opposed to the

rich red colour that it has when bound to oxygen (oxy-haemoglobin), and when seen through the skin it has an

increased tendency to reflect blue light back to the eye). In cases where the oxygen is displaced by another

molecule, such as carbon monoxide, the skin may be 'cherry red' instead of cyanotic

Generalised hypoxia occurs in healthy people when they ascend to high altitude, where it causes altitude sickness

and the potentially fatal complications of altitude sickness, High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE) and High

Altitude Cerebral Oedema (HACE).

The 3 factors that determine whether you acclimatize well or become ill are

1. The Altitude

2. The rate of ascent to that altitude, and

3. Your individual susceptibility to altitude illness. Men and women are equally susceptible to acute mountain

sickness and children are somewhat more susceptible. Older people seem to do just fine at such altitudes.

What is difficult for young and fit persons to understand is that superior physical conditioning grants

absolutely no immunity from altitude illness.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

MILD/MODERATE Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

Headache

Nausea and possible vomiting

Loss of appetite

Mild lassitude, fatigue or weakness at rest

Insomnia

Unusual shortness of breath on exercise

Treatment

Do not ascend till symptoms go away

Maintain adequate hydration

Light Exercise

Acetazolamide (Diamox)

Pain medication for headaches

If symptoms do not go down, descend!

Monitor health

SEVERE Acute Mountain Sickness

Ataxia is a sure sign when severe AMS sets in

Shortness of breath at rest

Pale skin

Extreme fatigue

Increased Heart and Respiratory Rate at rest

Gurgling sound in lungs (Early Severe AMS)

Productive Cough (Late Severe AMS)

Severe Headaches not relieved by medication

Seizures

Disorientation, irritation, combative attitude, unconsciousness

Treatment

Descend!

Oxygen and Gamow bags

Dexamethasone

Evacuation

PREVENTION of Acute Mountain Sickness

The best way of preventing altitude illness is by allowing the body adequate time to acclimatize.

The reason we build extra days at various locations on our High Altitude trips is for acclimatization. Short

acclimatization walks at various locations are mandatory for preparing well for the trek. Once acclimatized at such

altitude, we foresee few problems on the trail.

Acclimatization days before or on the trail are not leisure or extra days. Kindly do not request to shorten the itinerary

by asking to reduce these days.

Everyone’s physiology is different and there is nothing to be ashamed of if you acclimatize more slowly than others.

Altitude is the great equalizer. Persons who are out of shape and not very athletic at sea level “may” acclimatize well

and surpass marathon runners who may be too incapacitated to move on the trail.

When rapid ascents cannot be avoided, medications are available that help acclimatize fast. Diamox, a sulpha drug

causes the blood to be slightly acidic, which stimulates breathing. It is also a mild diuretic. It hastens the natural

process of acclimatization. Other drugs that seem to have a considerable affect is Coca200 and homeopathy drug.

Garlic seems to work well with many locals as a great prophylactic or as a treatment but seems unreliable. More

drugs are being

Adequate hydration is also helpful in preventing altitude sickness. The body loses tremendous amounts of fluid from

the lungs and the skin in the high and dry environment. You must drink enough to maintain a clear and sufficient

quantity of urine output. It is recommended at high altitude, more than 70% of your diet should be carbohydrates.

It’s also best to engage in some moderate activity during acclimatization rather than just lie around. Exercise

stimulates circulation and respiration and help the body adapt.

Avoid alcohol and sedatives. The typical symptoms of Acute Mountain sickness are exactly similar to alcohol

hangover. One reason alcohol should be avoided at high altitudes is that it can blur the distinction between AMS and

a hangover. Alcohol also aggravates the effects of altitude and can actually impair acclimatization and make people

more ill.

HAPE & HACE or HAPO & HACO

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) - HAPE is considered to be caused by a leak in the alveolar capillary

membrane. It is a non-cardiogenic form of pulmonary oedema. Some of the possible causes may include:

Pulmonary arterial vasoconstriction

Fluid retention

Rapid climb

Physical exertion at high altitude, and

Cold temperatures

High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE) - Symptoms

Hypoxia,

Shortness of breath,

Fatigue,

Tachycardia,

Tachypnea, and

Central cyanosis.

High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE) - Treatment

Calcium channel blockers (Nifedipine),

Acetazolamide (Diamox)

Dexamethasone (in extreme cases)

Corticosteroids

Complete Rest

Oxygen therapy

Immediate evacuation to lower altitudes, and

Use of a Hyperbaric Chamber – Gamow bag

High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE) - Prognosis

If HAPE is not treated immediately, it could prove to be fatal for most patients. If the oedema fluid is drained off

promptly, however, HAPE does not seem leave the patients with any long term complications.

High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE) - Prevention

In order to reduce one's chances of developing HAPE, there are simple precautionary steps that one can take,

including: climbing slowly, allowing one's body additional time to get used to high altitude environment, and not

drinking any alcohol.

High altitude pulmonary oedema (HAPE) is a life-threatening form of non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema that

occurs in otherwise healthy mountaineers at altitudes above 2,500 meters (8,202 ft). Some cases have however

been reported also at lower altitudes (between 1500 and 2500 m in highly vulnerable subjects), although what

makes some people susceptible to HAPE is not currently known. HAPE remains the major cause of death related to

high altitude exposure with a high mortality in absence of emergency treatment.

High Altitude Cerebral Oedema (or HACE) is a severe (frequently fatal) form of altitude sickness. HACE is the result

of swelling of brain tissue from fluid leakage. Symptoms can include headache, loss of coordination (ataxia),

weakness, and decreasing levels of consciousness including disorientation, loss of memory, hallucinations, irrational

behavior and coma. It generally occurs after a week or more at high altitude, but symptoms of mild HACE can

sometimes show up even after few hours at higher altitudes. Severe instances can lead to death if not treated

quickly. Immediate descent is a necessary life-saving measure (2,000 - 4,000 feet). There are some medications (e.g.

dexamethasone) that may be prescribed for treatment in the field, but these require proper medical training in their

use. Anyone suffering from HACE must be evacuated to a medical facility for proper follow-up treatment. A Gamow

bag can sometimes be used to stabilize the sufferer before transport or descending.

OTHER ALTITUDE RELATED AILMENTS

Common Cold: Take every care that you do not get common cold when you hit the trail you will need all your lung

capacity to breathe in maximum amount of air and any blockage could be an irritant.

Hypothermia

Sudden change in temperature and exposure to severe cold especially while crossing a high, cold windy pass may

cause hypothermia. It occurs when the body is unable to contain body heat and one feels extremely exhausted,

cold, confused and unable to co-ordinate limbs.

Immediate treatment is to be undertaken to avoid further deterioration in the condition. Remove the patient to a

shelter, remove wet clothes and get the patient into a sleeping bag. Hot liquids, like coffee, should be given to drink.

Alcohol should be avoided.

Chill Blains

A painful swelling of the hand, feet or ear by excessive exposure to cold and by poor circulation. These can result

from intermittent exposure to high humidity and low temperature without causing the tissue to freeze. Keep the

affected limb wrapped in warm clothing or in a sleeping bag.

Frost Bite

Frostbite is the medical condition whereby damage is caused to skin and other tissues due to extreme cold. At or

below 0º C (32ºF), blood vessels close to the skin start to narrow (constrict). This helps to preserve core body

temperature. In extreme cold or when the body is exposed to cold for long periods, this protective strategy can

reduce blood flow in some areas of the body to dangerously low levels. The areas where this occurs will freeze over.

The combination of cold temperature and poor blood flow can cause severe tissue injury by freezing the tissue.

Frostbite is most likely to happen in body parts farthest from the heart, and those with a lot of surface area exposed

to cold. The initial stages of frostbite are sometimes called "frostnip". Mountains or high altitudes with snow are

most dangerous to cause frostbite. If frostbite is not treated immediately then the damage and the frostbite become

permanent. Nerve damage will occur because oxygen doesn't get to the areas. Frostbitten areas will turn discolored,

purplish at first, and soon turn black. After a while nerve damage becomes so great that feeling is lost in the

frostbitten areas. Blisters will also occur. If feeling is lost in the damaged area, checking it for cuts and breaks in the

skin is vital. Infected open skin can lead to gangrene and amputation may be needed.

To treat frostbite, move the victim to a warm location and seek medical help. Soak frostbitten areas in warm (not

hot) water, or, if in wilderness, warm by contact with the skin of a non-frostbitten person. Continue until the victim

has regained sensation and movement in the afflicted region; this often follows great pain as the nerves thaw. Never

rub, slap or shake the stricken region as ice crystals in the frostbitten skin will damage surrounding tissue. Follow the

treatment with a period of constant warmth: refreezing following thawing exacerbates the damage.

Factors that contribute to frostbite include extreme cold, wet clothes, wind chill, and poor circulation. This can be

caused by tight clothing or boots, cramped positions, fatigue, certain medications, smoking, alcohol use, or diseases

that affect the blood vessels, such as diabetes.

If caught in a severe snowstorm, one should find shelter early or increase physical activity to maintain body warmth.

People susceptible to frostbite should wear woolen socks/gloves/caps in extreme cold. For frostbite in the feet,

keeping feet in warm saline water will provide relief. Diabetes can also sometimes lead to frostbite, so diabetics

should take precautions as to avoid trips to ice-cold places.

Immersion Foot

When a person’s foot is exposed to wet and cool conditions for long but not freezing conditions, it leads to

immersion foot. Usually the feet will get pale, get a tingling sensation or may lack pulse. This injury seems to affect

the nerves and the muscles due to reduced supply of oxygen than to the blood vessels. Immersion foot can bet

treated by gradually re-warming the feet in a warm water bath.

Heat Exhaustion

Prolonged exertion on a hot day can cause heat exhaustion. It happens due to reduction in water and salt in the

body rather than increased body temperature. Lots of water is lost due to excessive sweating. The symptoms are

dizziness, headache, vomiting and loss of appetite. Transfer the patient to cool environment and increase intake of

salt and fluids.

Heat Stroke

This is caused from exposure to high temperature over a considerable period. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat

stroke. Usually it set sin suddenly without warnings except reduction in sweating. The body temperature rises over

41 degrees C. The body must be cooled as rapidly as possible. Total immersion in cold water may be undertaken or

the victim can be covered with cold towels. Stop cooling when the temperature comes down to about 39 Degrees C.

Snow Blindness

Snow blindness is a burn of the cornea caused by excessive exposure to UV light. It is entirely preventable by wearing

adequate glasses or goggles that filter 90% of UV-B radiation and reduce exposure from sides too.

UV light penetration increases by 5% for every 1000 Feet gain in altitude, hence there is 75% more UV penetration at

15000 feet than there is at sea level. Even on cloudy days the exposure is enough to cause damage.

Snow blindness is extremely painful and can last for 48 hours or more. If snow blindness occurs, patch the eyes to

prevent extreme irritation caused by the eyelids moving across the injured cornea. Cold compression should be

applied and pain pills administered.

THERE WILL BE MORE TO READ ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS WHILE WE GET THERE, AND IT’S IMPORTANT FOR

EVERYONE TO KNOW AND LEARN MORE.

PLEASE REPORT ANY SYMPTOMS OR SIGNS OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

SO THAT THINGS DO NOT GET OUT OF HAND!

Sources

1. www.wikipedia.org

2. “Trekking in Pakistan and India” by Hugh Swift

3. “Mountaineering – The freedom of the Hills” - The Mountaineers

For detailed study of Altitude Sickness kindly refer:

1. http://www.ismmed.org/np_altitude_tutorial.htm#AMS

2. http://www.emedicinehealth.com/mountain_sickness/article_em.htm

DIAMOX:

Remember that consumption of water is a must as Diamox (Generic Name - Acetazolamide) is a Diuretic and may

cause dehydration if water is not consumed in large quantities. The side effects of Diamox may include mild nausea

and tingling of extremities. Be ready to visit the rest rooms often after consuming Diamox that may mean getting up

in to the middle of the night often to relieve yourself.

For those who are allergic to Sulpha Drugs (Diamox being a sulpha drug), you may take 3-4 pills of Homeopathy

Medicine called Coca 200 3 times in a day from 23 June 2010 until 08 July 2010.

SOMETHING ABOUT THE HIMALAYAS

1. The Himalayas are less than 25 million year old, amongst the youngest mountain ranges in the world!

2. The chain of mountains lying in between the Brahmaputra and the Indus constitute the Himalayas.

3. Himalayas stretch 1900 Miles long and between 50-200miles wide

a. The Himalayas are divided into three zones depending on their altitudes

b. Outer or lower Himalayas: Not more than 3000Feet above MSL these are known as the Siwaliks

c. Middle or greater Himalayas: Extend from Kashmir to Bhutan and China between 6000 ft to 14000Ft

high

d. Inner Himalayas: Consist of Zanskar, Ladakh, Hindu Kush and Karakoram

4. The Indian Himalayas consists of, Arunachal Pradesh (Also known as the Assam Himalayas), Sikkim, Kumaun,

Garhwal, Kinnaur, Spiti, Kullu, Lahaul, Kishtwar, Kashmir, Zanskar, Ladakh and the Eastern Karakoram.

5. The Eastern Himalayas are considerably wetter than the Western because the rain clouds coming from Bay of

Bengal drain themselves in the southern section losing moisture quickly as they move northwest.

6. In general the temperature drops about 1 degree C for every 300Mtrs rise in altitude.

7. Even in winters, one may see grasshoppers and agamid Lizards feeding or basking in the sun on one side of the

slope, while a few meters away the ground is covered by deep snow and all animals are hibernating.

8. Ladakh: A region of harsh and bleak winters, daily winds, notable paucity of rainfall or even winter snow

9. Arunachal Pradesh: A region of tropical climate, with substantial to heavy rains and heavy snow in winters.

Thick forests abound and so do fauna. Eastern Arunachal is even more greener and sometimes even

unpenetrable.

10. Himachal Pradesh experiences a wide variation in climatic conditions. There are areas that receive very heavy

rainfall (in the foothills) and those that are cold and almost rainless (the deserts of Lahaul, Spiti and Puh).

Summer lasts from mid-April to end-June and most parts become very hot (except in places over 3,000m which

experience mild summer) with the average maximum temperature ranging from 28ºC to 32ºC. Winter, from

late November to mid-March, is the longest and severest season. Snowfall is very common in tracts above 2,200

m with the mercury remaining below freezing point in the Higher and Trans-Himalayas. Autumn is the best

season here when the skies are bright and sunny during the day and clear and starry at night.

THE HIMALAYAN TOURIST CODE

• Protect the natural environment

• Limit deforestation. Make no open fires and discourage others from doing so on your behalf Especially porters.

Where water is heated by scarce firewood, use as little as possible. When possible, choose accommodation that

uses kerosene or fuel-efficient wood stoves.

• Remove litter. Burn or bury paper and carry out all non-degradable litter.

• Graffiti is a permanent form of environmental pollution.

• Keep local water clean. Avoid using pollutants such as detergents in streams or springs.

• If no toilet facilities are available, make sure you are alt least 30 meters away from water sources, and bury or

cover wastes.

• Plants should be left to flourish in their natural environment. Taking cuttings, seeds and roots is illegal in GHNP.

• Help your guides and porters to follow conservation measures.

• As a guest, respect local traditions and cultures, and maintain local pride. When taking photographs, respect

privacy. Ask permission and use restraint.

• Respect holy places. Preserve what you have come to see. Never touch or remove religious objects. Remove

shoes when visiting temples.

• Giving to children encourages begging. A donation to a project, health centre or school is a more constructive

way to help.

• You will be accepted and welcomed if you follow local customs.

• Use only your right hand for eating and greeting.

• It is polite to use both hands when giving and receiving gifts.

• Respect local etiquette. Loose, lightweight clothes are preferable to revealing shorts, skimpy tops and tight

fitting "action-wear". Hand holding or kissing in public is disliked by local people.

• Remember, when you're shopping, that the bargains you buy may only be possible because of low income to

others.

• Visitors who value local traditions encourage local pride and maintain local cultures.

• Please help local people gain a realistic view of life in Urban Cities.

BE PATIENT, FRIENDLY AND SENSITIVE. REMEMBER - YOU ARE A GUEST

Environment, Ecological & Cultural Codes

• Protect natural environment.

• Limit deforestation. Make no open fires. Where water is heated by scarce firewood, use as little as possible.

When possible, choose accommodation that uses kerosene or fuel-efficient wood stoves.

• Remove litter. Burn or bury paper and carry out all non-degradable litter.

• Graffiti is a permanent form of environmental pollution.

• Keep local water clean. Avoid using pollutants such as detergents in streams or springs. If no toilet facilities

are available, make sure you are alt least 30 meters away from water sources, and bury or cover wastes.

• Plants should be left to flourish in their natural environment. Taking cuttings, seeds and roots is illegal.

• If a trail is already existent then do not walk on any other ground. Follow predetermined path and trail.

• Do not trample on fresh grass / growth.

• Do not disturb wild animals.

• If any natural resources are used then if possible replace them back to their original position

• Help your guides and porters to follow conservation measures.

Tourism code reflects the fact that our focus is more on the human issues of tourism rather than on

ecological/conservation issues.

• Support the local trades- and crafts-people. Buy only locally made souvenirs where possible.

• Recognize land rights. When in tribal lands, tourists should behave as they would on private property.

• Learning something about the history and current affairs of a country helps you understand the attitudes

and idiosyncrasies of its people and help prevent misunderstandings and frustrations.

• Respect local traditions and cultures, and maintain local pride. When taking photographs, respect privacy.

• Respect holy places. Preserve what you have come to see. Never touch or remove religious objects. Shoes

should be removed when visiting temples.

• Giving to children encourages begging. A donation to a project, health center or school is a more

constructive way to help.

• You will be accepted and welcomed if you follow local customs. Use only your right hand for eating and

greeting. Respect local etiquette. Loose, lightweight clothes are preferable to revealing shorts, skimpy tops

and tight fitting "action-wear".

• Observe standard food and bed charges but do not condone overcharging. Remember, when you are

shopping, that the bargains you buy may only be possible because of low income to others.

• Visitors who value local traditions encourage local pride and maintain local cultures.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1. Odati Adventures makes the utmost efforts to make the trips as safe and comfortable to the participants. However participants will enrol

for these trips at their own risk and Odati Adventures is not responsible for any illness, injury or accident caused.

2. You will be required to adhere to the environment/ecology codes. These are attached herein.

3. Odati Adventures will not be responsible for any damage caused to the environment by any participant/s. Fines/penalties thus levied by

local authority/forest department on any participant/s, towards any incidence, deemed illegal, will be borne by that/those participant/s

respectively.

4. In case any individual/s decides to withdraw his/her/their participation, after departure for the trek, the decision to continue will lie with

the remaining members of group. The individual/s opting out of the trail, will themselves be responsible for their accommodation and

return to the location of departure, which in this case can be organised with the help of local porters. However the individual/s will have

to bear any additional cost of hiring the porter/s and/or take them from existing batch of porters on condition to pay their daily wages as

agreed at the beginning. Odati Adventures will in no case be responsible for any conveniences and provisions to be provided in case of

abandonment of the activity by one or more members of the group. Any provisions to be provided to such individuals withdrawing their

participation for the return will be solely at the discretion of the other group members who decide to proceed on the trail further.

5. Do not travel with items like jewellery, expensive watches, electronic goods etc. These items often catch the attention of locals and may

induce them into theft, stealing etc. Participants are advised to take utmost care of their personal belongings like cameras, binoculars,

etc. Participants are themselves responsible for such items. Odati Adventures will not be responsible towards any loss or damage of

personal items during the course of the activity.

6. Participation will be confirmed only on receipt of 50% of the trek charges along with the signed participation form. Payment must be

made in accordance to the “Mode of Payment” only.

7. The applicable rate in USD or Euros maybe arrived at by converting the (INR) charges in Rs. (INR) at the rate prevailing during the time of

confirmation.

8. Balance payments must be made by bank transfer as mentioned in “mode of payment” at least two weeks prior to departure as indicated

in the itinerary.

9. Cheques should be drawn in favour of “Odati Adventures”. (For participants already in the country)

10. Participants will have to carry a valid passport with valid Indian Visa for receipt of permits on trek routes.

11. Cancellations: The following cancellation charges are applicable in case any participant is unable to undertake the trip:

Cancellation Period Charges per head

No Show 100%

Less than 7 days 50%

7 - 13days 25%

14 - 20 days Rs.2000/-

21 days or more Rs.1000/-

In the event of cancellation of the trip due to any act of God, such as earthquake, floods or any other natural calamity, act of enemy, war or

any other cause beyond the control of Odati Adventures, the entire sum will be refunded to the participants less the administrative and

handling expenses.

12. Odati Adventures reserves the right of admission of any participant to the trips.

13. Odati Adventure reserves the right to change the itinerary in the best interest of the all participants.

14. Basic first aid box will accompany the organisers

15. Participants are requested to help in various activities like erecting tents, digging trenches, other activities whenever asked for.

SOMETHING ABOUT THE HIMALAYAS

11. The Himalayas are less than 25 million year old, amongst the youngest mountain ranges in the world!

12. The chain of mountains lying in between the Brahmaputra and the Indus constitute the Himalayas.

Some tips for a safe and great time:

1. Do ask for the destination details. 2. Ask for the nature of terrain and level of difficulty of the terrain.

3. Ask for requirement of any technical skills required before setting out for such activity.

4. Ask for specific requirements and items before commencement of any trail. 5. Ask for details of flora and fauna and hence dangers and precautions from the same. Respect Nature. 6. Be prepared for any emergency or urgency. Clarify any doubts about rescue techniques before executing them.