What to Do to Prevent Altitude Sickness in Tibet
First, skip the last-minute intense workouts—your body needs energy to adjust to thin air, not recover from a marathon. Instead, focus on getting plenty of sleep in the week leading up to your trip; fatigue makes AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) symptoms worse. If you're prone to motion sickness or have pre-existing health conditions (like high blood pressure), check with your doctor about medication options—some travelers find acetazolamide helpful, but it's not for everyone, so professional advice is a must. Also, cut back on alcohol and caffeine a few days before departure; both dehydrate you, and dehydration is a major AMS trigger.
The biggest mistake I see travelers make? Rushing to tick off attractions as soon as they touch down in Lhasa (3,650 meters). Give your body 1 to 2 full days to acclimatize—this is non-negotiable. Spend your first afternoon wandering slowly around Barkhor Street, sipping butter tea, and avoiding stairs or fast walking. Skip the hot shower on day one—steamy bathrooms can lower oxygen levels and trigger dizziness. Instead, unpack, rest, and let your lungs get used to the thinner air. Our guides always meet travelers at Lhasa's airport or train station, and we'll gently remind you to slow down—no pushing to get to the Jokhang Temple before sunset on day one.

Stay Hydrated, Eat Well, and Dress for Success
Hydration is your best defense against AMS—aim to drink 3–4 liters of water a day. Carry a reusable water bottle with you everywhere, and sip regularly. When it comes to food, opt for light, high-carb meals like tsampa or rice—heavy, greasy food puts extra strain on your body. Also, dress in layers! Tibet's sun is intense during the day, but temperatures drop fast, and a cold can quickly worsen AMS. A moisture-wicking base layer, a warm fleece, and a windproof jacket will keep you comfortable and healthy.

Know the Signs and Travel with Experts
Even with perfect preparation, mild AMS symptoms (like a headache or fatigue) can pop up—and that's okay. Rest, drink more water, and avoid ascending higher until you feel better. But if you experience severe symptoms—confusion, difficulty breathing, or swelling in the face—you need to descend immediately. This is where traveling with a trusted local agency makes all the difference. Our guides are trained in AMS first aid, carry oxygen tanks and emergency kits, and know the nearest hospitals with English-speaking staff. We also design our itineraries with acclimatization in mind: we'll start in Lhasa, then move to lower-altitude spots like Nyingchi before heading to higher areas like Everest Base Camp, so your body never gets overwhelmed.

Conclusion
Never underestimate altitude sickness, but don't let it stop you either. View it not as a barrier, but as a stepping stone. Overcoming it is your first act of courage in conquering the world's highest plateau.


35 Comment ON "What to Do to Prevent Altitude Sickness in Tibet"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash