Nubra Valley Trek AMS Risk Calculator

Sleeping at 15,800 ft carries massive risk. If severe AMS symptoms present at South Base, the only option is immediate descent back to Phyang. Do not attempt the pass.

The primary risks on Nubra Valley Trek are: High Altitude Pulmonary/Cerebral Edema (HAPE/HACE), Hypothermia from freezing river crossings, Dehydration and Sunstroke, Ankle sprains on moraine. Your operator should brief you on each of these before departure.

Diamox (Acetazolamide) is worth discussing with your doctor if you plan to attempt Nubra Valley Trek (17,841ft). It is not routinely required for healthy trekkers but is recommended if you have had AMS symptoms on a previous high-altitude trip. Never start Diamox without medical advice — it has side effects including tingling fingers and increased urination.

At 5,438m, a resting SpO2 below 80% is a medical emergency and requires immediate descent. Between 80–85% — monitor closely and do not ascend further. Most acclimatized trekkers maintain 85–92% at this altitude. Carry a pulse oximeter and check readings morning and night.

Strictly prohibited. The terrain is unmarked, and a solo emergency at 17,000 ft with no communications is almost certainly fatal.