The Chadar Trek is a winter trail over the frozen Zanskar River, which lies deep in the mountains of Ladakh. Zanskar is a high-altitude semi-desert and in winter, the temperatures drop to -30°C, freezing the Zanskar river and forming a sheet of ice (Chadar). For centuries, this has been the only way for Zanskari people to connect with Leh in winter. This trek is not just a physical challenge but a journey into a frozen world unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Experience the thrill of walking on a frozen river sheet, with water gushing inches below your feet in sub-zero temperatures.
Witness a massive 50ft frozen waterfall near Nerak village, a spectacular natural sculpture of ice.
Spend nights in caves (Tibbas) or tents on the river banks, warming up by the fire as the locals have done for centuries.
Interact with the warm and hospitable Zanskari porters and learn about their unique winter survival skills.
Fly to Leh over the snow-capped Himalayas. Rest and acclimatize to the cold and altitude. Walk around Leh market in the evening. Stay: Hotel
Visit Shanti Stupa and Leh Palace for acclimatization. A mandatory medical checkup is conducted by the ALTOA to ensure fitness. Stay: Hotel
Drive to Shingra Koma via Chilling. Take your first steps on the Chadar. Trek to the first campsite at Tsomo Paldar. Drive: 4 hrs, Trek: 2 hrs
Walk on the frozen river through deep gorges. The canyon walls rise vertically on both sides. Reach the large Tibb Cave. Trek: 6-7 hours
The most spectacular day. Trek to Nerak to see the famous frozen waterfall. This is the coldest point of the trek (-30°C). Trek: 6-7 hours
Retrace your steps back. The ice forms change daily, so the return journey feels new and challenging. Trek: 6-7 hours
Last day on the Chadar. Trek back to the roadhead at Shingra Koma. Say goodbye to the porters and drive back to the warmth of Leh hotel. Trek: 5 hrs, Drive: 4 hrs
A buffer day kept for potential roadblocks or weather delays. If not used, it's a free day to explore Leh. Stay: Hotel
Fly out of Leh with memories of the frozen river expedition.
Chadar is a Difficult trek, primarily due to the extreme cold temperatures ranging from -15°C to -30°C.
While the terrain is flat (river bed), walking on ice for 6-7 hours requires stability and endurance.
Surviving the bitter cold requires strong mental fortitude. It is a test of mind over matter.
You need to be agile to hop over cracks in the ice or climb rocky sections when the ice is broken.
Previous experience in sub-zero temperatures is highly recommended.
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