Mountain Tops is significantly challenging than other areas

I just reached MToG and I think it is very challenging straight up ran into Zamor ruins those mfs were straight up beasts (caught in the middle of three). But moving forward every place seems like a work even the catacombs. Any tips? Which talisman will help? And also should I do Mohg first or move on. I am focusing on Millicent's quest for Miquella's Needle. My stats: Vig: 46 Mind: 28 Int: 39 Weapons: Moonveil +9 somber