Bhutan and its high-altitude valleys offer some of the most scenic views, which can mesmerise anyone. Just imagine the feeling of travelling or trekking in high altitudes amidst breathtaking mountains and valleys in Bhutan. As wonderful as it sounds, there is a major issue with altitude sickness, especially for people living in low-lying areas, elderly people, children, or people having medical conditions related to the lungs or heart.
Thus, tourists visiting Bhutan seek the services of the Best Bhutan Tour Operator to gain knowledge and take precautionary steps before travelling to Bhutan’s high-altitude valleys. Avoiding or managing altitude sickness holds the key in this regard. The term altitude sickness refers to a medical condition that occurs when you move from low altitudes to significantly higher altitudes within a short span of time.
List of the most popular high-altitude valleys in Bhutan:
1. Paro Valley: This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bhutan. The lush green hills and the presence of ancient monasteries make it a favourable tourist destination. The valley also has a national museum and is considered to be one of the best valleys to hike in Bhutan.
2. Thimphu Valley: This valley has almost all the modern amenities, ranging from restaurants and clubs to luxurious hotels and transportation. The stunning natural view of this valley adds to its attraction, which draws tourists from all over the world.
3. Haa Valley: This valley has an elevation level of more than 3900 metres, which is also known for its rich culture and stunning landscape. If you are travelling to Bhutan during the summer, then the Haa summer festival is something that you should not miss. During this festival, a collection of Yak items is displayed amidst nature, which is an incredible spectacle.
4. Phobjikha Valley: This valley is known for its hiking trails and wildlife sanctuaries. The landscape of Phobjikha Valley offers a perfect combination of peace and adventure. At the top of Phobjikha Valley, a famous monastery named Gangtey Goempa Monastery is located, which is a major religious site and tourist attraction.
5. Punakha Valley: The elevation level of this valley is more than 4000 metres. In addition, two prominent rivers, named Po Chhu and Mo Chhu, flow through this valley, which adds to its scenic beauty. There are several tourist attractions in Punakha Valley, along with adventurous activities such as hiking and river rafting.
Now, let us look at some of the common reasons behind altitude sickness if you are travelling to such high-altitude valleys:
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You reside at a lower altitude: This is one of the most common reasons behind altitude sickness because your body is used to higher oxygen levels and more air pressure. Thus, while travelling to higher altitudes, the body is unable to adjust to a drastic reduction in oxygen levels and air pressure, which leads to altitude sickness.
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Indulging in excessive or unwanted physical activities at a higher altitude: Since your body is not used to lower oxygen levels, increased physical activities can lead to a feeling of breathlessness, fatigue, or nausea. Your body will demand more oxygen with increased physical activities, which is not found in an adequate percentage at high altitudes.
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Underlying or existing medical conditions: Lung-related diseases such as asthma and COPD can lead to severe altitude sickness. In addition, medical conditions such as blood pressure (BP) issues and heart diseases can cause high levels of altitude sickness.
Essential Tips for Avoiding Altitude Sickness While Travelling in Bhutan
Allow your body to acclimatise slowly: Break your travel to high altitude valleys into two days. This holds tremendous significance because altitude sickness is triggered by a drastic shift of the body from lower altitudes to higher altitudes. Thus, taking a night's rest after travelling to a certain high altitude allows the body to adjust to the oxygen level and air pressure, which prepares the body for further elevations.
Refrain from excessive physical activities: It is a well-known fact that excessive physical activities lead to the lungs requiring a higher oxygen level. In the high altitude valleys of Bhutan, the oxygen level remains low, and this makes it mandatory to avoid walking fast. This tip can allow your lungs to breathe properly in low oxygen levels.
Keep yourself hydrated: Hydration holds the key in terms of keeping your body resistant to altitude sickness. Thus, it is advisable to avoid alcohol or coffee, which can lead to dehydration. Drinking water and fluids can allow you to travel to high-altitude valleys without any feeling of altitude sickness.
Remain equipped with knowledge of altitude sickness symptoms: Before travelling to Bhutan’s high altitude valleys, having relevant knowledge about potential symptoms can help in taking immediate actions, which is crucial because delay in identification of symptoms can be fatal.
Take the doctor’s advice
This is a critical preventive measure because your doctor will have the best knowledge about the current condition of your existing health condition, such as blood pressure issues, asthma, COPD, or heart disease. In addition, your doctor can also prescribe relevant medications that can support your travel to high altitudes without feeling altitude sickness.
Final Thoughts
You can choose the tour or travel packages of RS Travels for travelling to the high altitude valleys of Bhutan because they have several years of experience and knowledge in terms of helping tourists enjoy safely at high altitude valleys. The best Bhutan tour operators in Jaigaon and Bhutan prioritise responsible and safe travel plans, which are crucial for mitigating risks of altitude sickness.
Bhutan travel packages are specifically customised to ensure that you get adequate rest at comfortable stays while travelling to high altitude valleys, along with providing expert guidance to address symptoms of altitude sickness.
