Chadar Trek: Itinerary, Tips, and Best Time To Go

Overview

Are you ready to embark on a beautiful journey through the Himalayas with Chadar Trek? The frozen river trek or the world’s wildest trek as it is known offers unparalleled adventure and views as you trek on the frozen Zanskar River while marveling at the surrounding landscapes.
It is known as the frozen river trek because during winters, the temperature drops dramatically, and with icy-cold wind blowing, the Zanskar River freezes. 

Thus, there is a ‘chadar’ of ice (thick layer) on it. So, the trek allows you to walk on the frozen lake as you trace an ancient route in Ladakh. The trek is not for the faint-hearted and doing it without a guide is not recommended. 

Any experienced trekker will love this trail with views of the mysterious caves, frozen waterfalls, and campsites. You will also be using snow sleds to go through the pass while getting a sneak peek into the life of Zanskari people who commute every day through this trek during winter times. 

Quick Facts

• Trek Duration: 8- 9 days
• Best time for the trek: January to Mid-February
• Difficulty level: Difficult
• Altitude: 3384m/111000 ft.

Why do Chadar Trek?

The unique experience of trekking on a frozen lake

The trek gives the tourists an interesting opportunity to walk on a frozen river in chilly weather. Trekkers will walk through the Zanskar Gorge, which is surrounded by formidable peaks and towering bridges where you can marvel at the best sights. It is a rare adventure that you must be a part of. It is so exhilarating to trek through tricky terrain and pass through snowy boulders, ice sheets, and riverbank paths. Once you complete this trek, you feel a sense of accomplishment and perseverance. 

It lets you sneak peek into the lives of the locals

The local community near the Zanskar River has a unique lifestyle, adapting to the harsh climate of the region. You will see how demanding and challenging their lifestyle becomes in the winter. You come to understand how they live in a region that comes across as uninhabitable. You also get to understand their culture, which will surely humble you.

To witness the beautiful Nerak Waterfall

Trekking through here, you also go past the Nerak Waterfall, a frozen waterfall. It is a natural wonder that happens due to the extreme chilly temperature.

Explore the Tibb Cave

The trek will also allow you to explore the Tibb Cave, a natural cave handing over the frozen clings. It is a shelter for all the trekkers, as it offers them relief from the cold and wind as they rest, warm up, and prepare hearty meals.

Tips for a Memorable Chadar Trek

• Work on getting proper acclimatization as the Chadar Trek is at a high altitude. So, ensure you spend some time in Leh and get adjusted to the height and climate of Leh.
• The weather on the trek can be unpredictable. Therefore, you have to layer up. It is necessary to bring adequate warm clothes with you, as it will help you protect yourself against the icy cold weather.
• Ensure you stay hydrated throughout the trip. You might not feel extremely thirsty, as the cold weather can mask this feeling. However, ensure you carry a quality reusable bottle and drink at intervals.
• Carry good-quality trekking boots with good support for your ankle. 
• The Chadar trek is best undertaken under the guidance of experts who are local to the region and understand the terrain. For a safe and enjoyable trek, you should always follow their instructions. 

What is the Best time to visit Chadar Trek?

A challenging and beautiful trek, you should plan a trek here between the months of January and early February. During this time, the river is frozen and it is cold too. Thus, it gives you a great advantage of walking on the frozen river while experiencing beautiful landscapes, small villages, frozen waterfalls, icy gorges, and more. 

Short Itinerary: Chadar Trek

Day 1: Acclimatization Day

After reaching Leh, head to your hotel and relax for the night. The next day, head to the campsite to check into your tents. There is a rule by the Leh government that before starting the trek, you have to stay in the camp for a day or two and get acclimatized to the altitude and weather of Leh. During this time, you can go ahead and check out the tourist places in Leh.

Day 2: Medical Check-up

On day 2, you will proceed for your medical checkup. Without completing the medical checkup, you will not get travel permits and other documents. Without these, heading for the trek is not permitted. 

Day 3: Trek to Tilat Do

On day 4, you start your trek to Tilat Do Campsite. Along the route, you will come across many small villages and chortens and you will also spot the Indus River.

Day 4: Trek from Tilat Do to Shingra Yokma

After refreshing yourself, you head to Shingra Yokrma. The trek towards Shingra is beautiful and you will come across multiple alpine lakes, glacial streams, and grassy fields. Also, the beautiful snowy Himalayan peaks will keep you company overnight. As you climb uphill, you will see clear views of the mountains while also coming across many local animals. 

Day 5: Start your trek towards Tsomo

On day 5, you will head uphill towards Tsomo. As you trek uphill, you will experience the culture of Tsomo which has many peaks, valleys, and Tibetan monasteries to its name.

Day 6: Start the downhill trek to Shingrak Yokma. 

Start your downhill trek towards Shingrak Yokma while admiring the views of beautiful alpine meadows. Cross the streams, rest and refresh, and reach your camp.

Day 7: Descent to Tila Do

Start your descent towards Tila Do amidst the beautiful views of the nearby mountains. As you pass through the Ladakhi villages, you can witness the local culture of Leh. After reaching Tila, you take a break before heading to the endpoint and ending your adventurous trek.

Conclusion

There is no doubt that Chadar Trek is not only challenging but also beautiful. Anyone who truly loves trekking and the adventure it bestows will find the ice formations and snow-laden landscapes appealing here. Trekking through the majestic Himalayas on the frozen river is nothing short of ordinary. It is a trek for you but for the locals, it is how they commute daily. So, during your trek, you will witness the beautiful culture of the locals, which will surely mesmerize you.