I want to travel to Tibet and want advice about alitude sickness?

Question

I would like to hear from people who went to Tibet and share their experience with me.

Answer 1

There are two main medications that you can ask your doctor about: DIAMOX and DECADRON.

Diamox is best started about 24 to 48 hours before you reach an altitude of about 10,000 feet. Continue it for the duration at or above that altitude - for upto 1 - 2 weeks. Some people get symptoms of altitude sickness at much lower altitudes - even as low as 5000 feet above sea level. I don't know what physical condition you are in, but if you are more of a couch potato than a weekend warrior - be forewarned that you will be more easily affected at lower altitudes.

Decadron is a potent steroid (no - not the kind that body builders use) that reduces inflamation in the lungs at high altitude. This is more for use as a treating medicine than a preventative medicine - like the Diamox that was mentioned.

Both of these medicines are relatively cheap and available at pharmacies with a valid prescription. GO to your doctor and ask him if going to high altitudes will not be excessively dangerous to you, then ask him to give you a prescription for these two drugs. Better to spend $10 and not need them than to need them and not have them.

I suggest that if you do take decadron, that you also take PRILOSEC OTC. which is protective against ulcers (which can be caused by taking steroids, such as decadron, orally).

Answer 2

Actually I just had some clients return from Tibet back to the US this week. They spent about 10 days in Tibet visiting Lhasa/ Gyantze / Xigaze, which is a great triangle to cover the highlights of Tibet.

We arranged for them to stay in a suite at the Kyichu Hotel in Lhasa; the decor there is very Tibetan and it is also in the best location. You can walk to Barkhor Street, the business center of Lhasa. The highlight of the hotel is the wake up call from the clattering of passing lama early in the morning! :-)

The scenery in Tibet is absolutely extraordinary! I talked to my clients both when they were in Tibet and after and they said they didn't feel the altitude sickness very much, other than when you walk upstairs you feel a little bit labored breathing.

There is train now that can take you directly to Lhasa from Beijing, which takes 48 hours. This rail service started in July 2006. However because of the harsh Winter weather, there is no train in November. It will start running again next Spring.

If you have anymore questions we would be happy to help. You can contact me through our website:http://www.jiasdreamtours.com/

Answer 3

I've been there this September,and i didn't fell any uncomfortable,so i think u need not afraid about it .if u have any question about traveling in Tibet ,u can connect with me by E-mail.

Answer 4

check out the local tour agency of the chinese govt. ei, check this out, more destinations in asia..
http://philippine-destinations.blogspot.com/