Leh sits at 3,500 metres, and the single biggest mistake travellers make is doing too much, too soon. Your first 48 hours decide whether the rest of the trip is joyful or a headache — literally.
Day one: do almost nothing
Land, check in, and rest. No sightseeing, no climbing stairs two at a time, no celebratory exertion. Drink water constantly — three to four litres across the day — and skip alcohol and heavy meals. A short, flat evening stroll is plenty.
Day two: go gentle
Now you can explore Leh at a slow pace — Shanti Stupa, the old bazaar, a monastery or two. Keep ascents minimal and listen to your body. A mild headache is common; a worsening one is your cue to slow down further.
Reading the signs
Headache, breathlessness and poor sleep are normal in the first day. Persistent vomiting, confusion or a cough that won't settle are not — descend and seek help. We build a mandatory rest day into every Ladakh itinerary and carry oxygen in each vehicle for exactly this reason.
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