Markha Valley Ladakh Q & A Responses:
RISK & RESPOND
High Altitude Treks: Risks and Responses:
A high altitude trek calls for an adventurous attitude, but embarking on an adventurous trip without calculating the risks is inviting potentially serious problems.
Here we have listed a few risks and the responses planned to minimise or address the risks in the best possible way.
Risk: Altitude:
Before you start the trek, it is important to understand the implications of high altitude on your body. Be aware of symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) like mild headache, nausea and general discomfort.
Response:
If you feel any of these symptoms, inform the trek leader imeditaely and follow his instructions. Every campsite has a stretcher, fully equipped first aid kit, and oxygen cylinders to address the situation.
Risk: Weather:
Weather is unpredictable in the Himalaya. Though we are always observant about the changing weather, no one can guarantee a snowfall, rain or sun. Do understand that your security is of utmost importance to us and we will not proceed any further from the campsite if the weather is not favourable.
Response:
The decision of the Trek Leaders and Guides to proceed or wait for the weather to get better will be final.
Risk:
Minor Injuries: while trekking over difficult terrain, you might have minor injuries like leg sprains, bruises etc. Serious injuries like fractures or major cuts are very rare.
Response:
All our Trek Leaders are Certified Wilderness First Aid responders. They are trained to handle emergencies and can tackle minor injuries with a well-equipped first aid kit. In the rare case of serious injuries, the patient is carried by stretcher to the nearest road-head and is transported to the nearest medical centre.
Risk:
Communication devices not connecting. Mobile networks do not reach to the remote areas of the Himalaya. On a trek, one is cut off from the world of calls, SMS or whatsApp etc.
Response:
We will be passing and crossing through many villages during the trek and every village has a satellite phone. in case of any emergency we can report directly to our Leh office for assistance.
