Planning your treks to Chardham? And what about the secret risk of oxygen deficiency in Chardham trekking and other high-altitude activities?
Lots of people prepare for the Holy Chardham Yatra a few months before. They book hotel rooms, travel and pack warm clothes. But really, there is one very important thing that most people tend to forget — the oxygen level at Kedarnath.
How low oxygen can impact your body First, before heading on to information about the Kedarnath Trek, let’s understand how low oxygen can affect our body. Kedarnath is some 11,700 feet above sea level. The air seems thinner up here. You can be short of breath even after walking only a few feet.
Let’s get started. Our many yatris say, “Sir, bas 10–15 minute chala, phir saans phoolne laga. This is because your body is not accustomed to a reduction in the amount of oxygen that it receives. You could experience a headache, dizziness, nausea or severe fatigue. Sometimes, they may think it is simply normal tiredness. But it can actually be altitude sickness.
That’s why awareness is so important. If you recognise the symptoms early, you can rest up, keep hydrated, walk slowly and try not to panic. On the other hand, if you turn and force yourself ahead, your spiritual adventure may get dangerous.
So, before you go on the Kedarnath trek, prepare your body — and not just your rucksack. Take a walk each day before the trip, practice light breathing exercises and consult your doctor if you have heart or lung problems.
If you are looking for a hassle-free journey, you can also opt for our Chardham Yatra package 2026, where we organise the registration, accommodation, medical support guidance and proper acclimatisation planning for you so that you focus only on your darshan and not worry.
You have to understand one basic principle first: simply as you go higher, your oxygen level goes down. Your lungs get thinner.
Pilgrims visit the high-altitude shrine during Chardham Yatra.
1. Kedarnath
2. Badrinath Temple
3. Yamunotri
4. Gangotri Temple
For example, Kedarnath is over 11,000 feet high. At this elevation, there is less oxygen than on the plains. As a result, an individual may be short of breath and become very tired.
Kedarnath being at the lowest level with respect to oxygen. Reportedly, many pilgrims suffer from minor respiratory issues when they try to undertake the arduous 16 km climb. Which is why old people and BP patients have to trek really slowly.
Since Badrinath is situated at a lower altitude than Kedarnath, oxygen content too is marginally better here. But heart patients need to remain cautious.
The route to Yamunotri needs steep climbs. Between the exercise and the height, there's also an increased need for oxygen. So, walk carefully.
The route is motorable up to Gangotri. However, hajjis, especially at night, may suffer from hypoxic symptoms because of the moderate altitude.
Now, here is where we get into that issue of “warning signs.”
If oxygen levels drop, your body will send the following signals:
Shortness of Breath
Headache
Dizziness
Fast heartbeat
Nause
Extreme tiredness
If symptoms increase, altitude sickness may develop. Hence, never underestimate any symptom. Considering all these vital safety measures Epic Yatra’s family Chardham Yatra package has been designed. We organize the trip safely and comfortably which is also friendly for elders/kids.
Risk is greater for some during Chardham trekking:
Heart patients
BP patients
Older People pilgrims
Asthma patients
Individuals with low hemoglobin
higher-weight person travelers
For example, if someone is already having difficulty breathing, obtaining oxygen at Kedarnath could be difficult.
So check with your doctor before heading off on a trip.
But now for “What you should do.”
Firstly, don’t rush yaar. Most pilgrims attempt to ascend quickly in hopes of reaching for early, only to find themselves winded just a short way up. Instead, stroll at a leisurely pace, and take short breaks as necessary. Your body has to become accustomed to the altitude.
And if the idea of trekking is not your thing, or perhaps you can’t walk very far, no stress. You can go through our detailed Char Dham by helicopter package. It’s so much more comfortable, time-saving, and particularly useful for older citizens or those with health problems.
Drink plenty of water. Dehydration aggravates the problem. Cold water, then warm should be used.
Alcohol hampers oxygen intake. Smoking hurts the lungs. Avoid these two during yatra.
If you can, maybe spend one night lower before going higher.
A portable oxygen cylinder is advised for most of the pilgrims, as this may be used in case one faces an emergency respiratory problem.
Have plain food, khichdi, roti, fruits and dry fruits.
Which fruit will give more oxygen?
Blood is circulated with the help of pomegranate, apple, banana and beetroot. These are fruits that naturally promote oxygen supply.
Occasionally the issues are very bad. In this case:
Continuous breathlessness
Chest Pain
Confusion
Vom
Fainting
Avoid attempts at heroism. Record what happened and report to your group leader or the relevant authorities quickly.
At the height of the season, officials set up portable oxygen chambers and medical camps near prominent temples.
You can find:
Oxygen Base Kedarnath Helipad is the Oxygen Point lying between Kedarnath Ji Temple and Mandakini Guest House, which has been established by UCBPO to provide oxygen at an affordable price.
Medical Centers near Badrinath
Emergency services – Yatra Season
But you shouldn’t just depend on them. Your personal security is paramount.
Yes. The oxygen is lower because of the elevation. A few pilgrims have mild symptoms.
Heart patients should consult with their doctors before travelling. Some doctors even recommend that patients carry a portable supply of oxygen.
Go for a nice stroll, stay well hydrated, eat good food and don’t overexert yourself. Getting enough sleep is also an excellent method to
Milder forms of AMS are frequent with the Kedarnath trek. Pilgrims should take all due precautions in serious cases.
Preparation is key – particularly when such travel happens at extremely high altitude, like the Kedarnath temple or any other Char Dham site.
You will receive, when you book the Chardham Package Booking 2026 from our side:
Priority assistance with registration
Appropriate altitude counseling before departure
Health and safety brief, in particular oxygen safeguards.
✔️ Experienced local guides
Emergency coordination support
Older citizen-friendly planning
Proper acclimatization schedule
We don't just reserve hotels – we prepare your path.
Book now in advance to reserve your seat for Chardham Yatra 2026 before the government quota gets over.
Limited dates. Limited helicopter seats. There are better hotels now.
Contact us now and travel safe with professional planning! Last Words The Chardham Yatra is a soulful journey to the divine. But at the same time, it is a physically demanding journey. So, one has to have physical fitness as well as spiritual. Prone to oxygen deficiency, the Chardham trekking route may cause an issue, and preplanned follow-up will be key. Travel smart! Walk slowly! Respect the mountain!