Pangarchula Peak Trek

1. Physical Preparation (Pre-Trek)

Conditioning your body is the best way to prevent injuries like sprains or extreme fatigue.

• Cardio & Endurance: Focus on leg-based cardio such as cycling, swimming, and brisk walking. Aim for 30–45 minutes, 4–5 times a week.
• Leg & Core Strength: Squats, lunges, step-downs, and calf raises help build strength and balance.
• Weighted Training: Start 4 weeks before the trek. Walk with a backpack similar to your trek load. If offload service is availed, you must still carry 3kg or more.
• Footwear Preparation: Never wear brand-new boots on a trek. Break them in with local walks to avoid blisters.

2. High Altitude Awareness (AMS / HAPE / HACE)

If your trek goes above 2,500m (8,000 ft), altitude sickness is a risk regardless of fitness.

HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema)

HAPE is a life-threatening condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs due to low oxygen pressure at high altitude.

Common Symptoms:

• Extreme fatigue
• Breathlessness even at rest (major red flag)
• Persistent cough with frothy or pink sputum
• Chest tightness
• Bluish lips or fingernails (cyanosis)

Prevention & Action:

• Climb high, sleep low
• Ascend gradually (300–500m per day)
• Drink 3–4 liters of water daily
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco
• If symptoms persist → descend immediately

HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema)

HACE is the most severe form of altitude sickness, caused by swelling of the brain due to low oxygen.

Key Warning Signs:

• Loss of coordination (ataxia)
• Confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behavior
• Severe headache not relieved by medication
• Loss of consciousness

Immediate Treatment:

HACE is a medical emergency. Immediate descent and hospitalization are critical.

3. Prevention Tips

• Climb high, sleep low
• Gradual ascent above 3,000m
• Stay hydrated and avoid sedatives
• If confusion or balance issues occur, descend immediately

4. On-Trail Health & Safety

• Hydration & Nutrition: Carry ORS and high-energy snacks.
• Sun & Eye Protection: Use SPF sunscreen, hat, and polarized sunglasses.
• Medical Kit: Carry personal medication as advised by your doctor.
• Hygiene: Use sanitizer and drink only filtered or boiled water.
• Slowest Hiker Rule: Always match the pace of the slowest trekker.

5. Environmental Awareness

• Weather Monitoring: Mountain weather changes rapidly; carry layered clothing.
• Leave Only Footprints: Respect nature. Pack out all trash and stay on trails.