Chadar Trek in Ladakh – Conquer the Frozen River in the Heart of Winter
The Chadar Trek is a one-of-a-kind winter adventure in Ladakh, India. It takes you on a walk along the frozen Zanskar River, often called the Frozen River Trek. This trek combines thrilling challenges, stunning landscapes, and a chance to experience the local culture, making it a dream trip for adventure lovers.
In winter, the Zanskar River turns into a solid ice sheet, creating a magical view of whites and blues. The word “Chadar,” meaning “blanket” in Hindi, perfectly describes the thick layer of ice covering the river. During the trek, you’ll cross icy trails, narrow gorges, and frozen waterfalls, surrounded by towering cliffs and snow-covered mountains.
What Makes the Chadar Trek Special?
The Chadar Trek isn’t just about testing your stamina; it’s also about connecting with the unique culture of Ladakh. Local Zanskari people, who live in these harsh conditions, share their knowledge, traditions, and survival skills, giving you a deeper understanding of their way of life.
The trek usually lasts seven days and is known for being challenging. With temperatures dropping as low as -30°C, it demands both physical and mental preparation. Despite the challenges, the journey is incredibly rewarding. You’ll witness untouched landscapes, intricate ice formations, and a peaceful isolation that leaves a lasting impression.
Key Information About the Chadar Trek
- Best Time to Visit: January to February, when the ice is most stable.
- Duration: 7–9 days, including time to adjust to the altitude.
- Difficulty: Difficult—best suited for experienced trekkers.
- Cultural Experience: Meet local Zanskari communities and explore remote villages.
Why Should You Try the Chadar Trek?
This trek is more than just walking on a frozen river—it’s a journey of self-discovery and resilience. The icy trails, stunning views, and chance to learn about Ladakhi culture make the Chadar Trek an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you’re seeking a thrilling challenge, breathtaking natural beauty, or a connection with a unique culture, this trek promises memories that will last forever.
Trip Itinerary
Arrival in Leh KBR airport where you will be greeted by our representative and they will transfer you to your hotel. You will spend the day in the room itself to acclimatize to the high altitude. This is absolutely necessary and is most important for the days ahead and it is a mandatory rule by UT Ladakh Govt. to stay 2 days in Leh for acclimatization. Overnight stay at Hotel.
On this day we will go to explore some of the famous winter sports in Ladakh like Ice Skating and Ice Hockey matches, Transportation will be provided. Towards Guphuks pond For Ice Skating experience or Ice Hockey Match depending upon the Match Schedule. Skates you need to hire (skates cost 150-200 per hour).
Please Note: We will take the group at only one destination and in group we will take everyone and no separate transportation will be given if someone didn’t want to go for the decided place by company.
Overnight stay at Hotel.
Today we will take you to TAC Leh for the Medical fitness check-up. It is mandatory from the government to get a medical certification before the Chadar trek. A clearance certificate given to the trekkers after the medical check up NOC will be issued by the Medical Team. This will be issued only after the participant is acclimatized and fit for the trek.
Overnight stay at Hotel.
Post breakfast, we take a beautiful drive through the beautiful scenery with your first views of the Indus river and later the Zanskar river at their confluence at Nimoo. From Nimoo you follow road heading towards Lhar. De-board the vehicle after a point and short trek towards Laar Campsite.
Overnight stay in trekking tent.
Your trek to Lhar begins today. Trek through the deep gorges of the Zanskar valley with sheer cliffs on both sides. The lack of direct sunlight keeps the snow well packed for the trek. We end the day at the Bakula Cave here which is used by the locals when traversing this valley and set up camp for the night.
Overnight stay in trekking tent.
Post breakfast, we continue the walk through the gorges to Tsomo. Enroute, we pass many beautiful gorges. Today is the day of final destination which is Summit Point at Tsomo Spring waterfall.
Today we camp at Tsomo. Overnight stay in Camspite of Tsomo tent.
From Tsomo on this day, we retrace the same route and stop at Bakula Cave. Overnight stay in Trekking tent.
Today is your last day of the trek. Post breakfast we trek back towards Lhar walking on the thick ice of Chadar. You will be trekking for about 3 hours with a couple of breaks in between. We will leave towards Leh and transport everyone towards Leh.
Overnight stay in Leh Hotel.
Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
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