Dagu Glacier in Western Sichuan: My Altitude Sickness Experience ｜ Easy Fun at 4860m, All Thanks to These Two Essentials

Before heading to Dagu Glacier, I was genuinely nervous. An altitude of 4860 meters is no joke. Even though I didn't experience altitude sickness at Yulong Snow Mountain (4500m) before, I know it's a matter of luck. Air pressure, exercise level, whether you ate and slept well – all can make your body act up. Luckily, I was well-prepared this time, wasn't hindered by altitude sickness the whole trip, and took plenty of beautiful photos of the snow-capped mountains and sea of clouds! 💊My Altitude Sickness Saviors: Gaoyuan'an + High-Altitude Probiotics First, I have to praise Gaoyuan'an. The fact that you don't need to take it in advance is so convenient; just keep it in your pocket and take it when you reach high-altitude areas. Climbing slopes and jumping for photos on the snowy mountain, I, who usually gets out of breath after a few steps, actually breathed very smoothly. The anti-hypoxia effect is truly excellent; my stamina was much better than expected, and it didn't hinder my sightseeing at all. I also have to recommend Gaoyuan'an Probiotics! The climate in Western Sichuan is dry, and the diet is very different from usual, making it especially easy to experience intestinal discomfort (i.e., intestinal altitude sickness). I brought it from Mount Siguniang to Dagu Glacier, supplementing it whenever needed. I tried all the local yak hotpot and Tibetan snacks without any stomach issues, so my foodie happiness wasn't lost~ 🔍A Little Science About Altitude Sickness: It's Actually Just Your Body Lacking Oxygen As the altitude increases, the oxygen in the air decreases. When your body lacks oxygen, symptoms like headache, nausea, and general weakness can appear. If you're not prepared, you won't be in the mood to enjoy even the most beautiful scenery, and you might even have to end your trip early. ⚠️Altitude Sickness Response & Prevention Tips, Personally Tested and Effective 1. Don't push yourself if you get altitude sickness: Immediately stop all activities, find a place to sit or lie down and rest. The more you move, the worse the symptoms will get. 2. Breathe slowly and steadily: Take slow, deep breaths. Don't shout, run, or jump. Conserve energy to allow your body to adapt to the low-oxygen environment. 3. Don't skimp on warmth: The temperature difference in high-altitude areas can be 20℃. Getting cold will directly worsen altitude sickness, so be sure to pack a down jacket, scarf, gloves, and snow boots. 4. Hydration matters: Drink warm water in small, frequent sips, at least 2000ml per day. Absolutely avoid carbonated drinks and alcohol, as they will increase your body's burden. 5. Don't ignore intestinal altitude sickness: The diet in Western Sichuan is different from inland areas. Bring some high-altitude probiotics to avoid stomach discomfort and loss of appetite. 6. Slow down: Don't rush when walking or climbing. Walking slowly allows you to enjoy the scenery and reduces the chance of altitude sickness. 🗺️Western Sichuan 3-Day Lazy Itinerary Reference Day 1: Chengdu → Shuangqiao Valley, Mount Siguniang (adapt to lower altitude first, give your body a buffer) Day 2: Mount Siguniang → Lixiao Road → Naizigou → Heishui Ga'er Manor (stay in Heishui, close to Dagu Glacier) Day 3: Ga'er Manor → Dagu Glacier → Chengdu (visit the glacier in the morning when there are fewer people and the light is beautiful) 💡Additional Small Reminder The Dagu Glacier cable car's terminal is the 4860m observation deck. Don't immediately run or jump when you get off the cable car; stand and acclimate for a couple of minutes first. Oxygen canisters are sold at the observation deck if you feel really unwell, but if you prevent it with Gaoyuan'an beforehand, you generally won't need one.