Hey Himalayas

Chadar Trek

Chadar trek overview.

Situated in the Leh region of Ladakh, the Chadar trek is one of the most magnificent treks in the Himalayas that allows you to cover a distance of 62 kilometers in just nine days. It is one of the most popular and longest trekking trails that provides a dream come true experience to the trekkers while hiking along the dramatic mountains. The Chadar lake trek feels like a journey to the North Pole as the temperature drops to -30 degrees Celsius, thereby grading it high on the difficulty level.

The Chadar trek Ladakh lets the trekkers walk on a thick layer of ice that covers the Zanskar river. It is not the only reason that draws thrill seekers to this fantastic attraction, but people are attracted to several other fascinating and ethereal sights. This trek brings you close to the natural wonders of the world, such as the frozen Nerak waterfall, white sand, and knee-length snow, and all these beautiful sights in your trekking experience will ignite your senses and will create a mark down your memory lane.

The landscape and the overall experience of the Chadar frozen river trek will also leave an imprint on the heart of the trekkers. So, if you are looking for a remarkable trekking experience, the Chadar trek should be on the top of your bucket list.

Book Chadar Trek Package

Chadar trek, ladakh - frozen river trek, quick facts of chadar trek.

chadar trek

  • Maximum altitude: 11150 feet
  • Grade: Difficult
  • Duration: Nine days
  • Trekking distance: 62 kilometers
  • Trail type: One-way trail. The trek commences and ends at Shingra Koma.
  • Rail head: No rail head
  • Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh)
  • Snow Season: January and February
  • Service from: Leh Airport to Leh Airport (Transport included)
  • Base camp: Leh
  • Best season: Winter season (January and February)
  • Region: Ladakh

Who can Participate: - Serious trekkers who are fond of experiencing freezing temperatures.- Should have a minimum age of 15 years.- People with enough stamina to cover a distance of five kilometers in just 30 minutes.- Has an experience of at least one high-altitude trek of 5000 meters or 16400 feet.- Should have the capacity to carry a 12 to 16 kg backpack.

Why to Go for Chadar Trek?

Chadar trek is one of the best trekking experiences that you should have at least once in a lifetime. Walking on the frozen sheet of ice on the surface of the river with dramatic snow-capped mountains on either side is indeed a remarkable experience in itself. This trekking experience allows you to witness the Nerak waterfall which is completely iced from top to bottom. There is also a possibility that you may encounter exotic wildlife, like snow leopards, blue sheep, and ibex in the chilling surroundings of your trek. Thus, it is a do-before-you-die adventure that lets you witness the in-depth Zanskari cultures, jaw-dropping scenery, and bone-chilling climates.

Short Itinerary for Chadar Trek

Day 1 : The Chadar trek Ladakh starts with your arrival at Leh. Rest for the day or explore the attractions of Leh.

Day 2 : The second day of your Chadar Lake trek will be your acclimatization day when you will be adapting to the cold weather conditions of the surroundings.

Day 3 : Go to the Government Medical Camp to get all your medical tests done. Complete all your insurance formalities and other documentation work before moving forward for the Chadar winter trek.

Day 4 : It is the actual day of the Chadar trek Ladakh when you will move from Leh to Gyalpo through Chilling and then to Tilad Do.

Day 5 : On the next day, the journey included in the Chadar trek package will continue to the Tibb Cave.

Day 6 : It is an iconic day of the Chadar winter trek as you will reach Nerak from Tibb Cave, where you can witness the Frozen Waterfall that garners the interest of tourists from across the globe.

Day 7 : The seventh day included in the Chadar trek package will be a return day from Nerak to Tibb Cave.

Day 8 : Moving forward, you will return to Shingra Koma through Gyalpo and then take an adventurous ride back to Leh.

Day 9 : It is officially the last day of the Chadar Lake trek when you will be returning to your homes with tons of memories of the trek.

Chadar Trek Detailed Itinerary

Chadar Trek

  • The Chadar trek commences after you arrive at the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh.
  • On your way to your hotel on the outskirts of Leh, you will experience gorgeous snow-capped mountains that will definitely leave you awestruck with their striking beauty.
  • It is advisable to keep your woolen caps and gloves handy as you may feel an immediate drop in temperature when you arrive at the Leh airport.
  • After you reach Leh, you can rest for the day and acclimatize to the cold weather conditions.
  • The weather in Leh will give you a taste of what it will be like when you go for the Chadar trek.
  • In the evening time, you can go window shopping on the streets of Leh market to grab things that you would require in the trekking expedition.
  • You are not allowed to start your trekking journey on the same day of your arrival because it is extremely necessary for your body to adapt to the cold weather condition as the temperature may drop even further when you start climbing towards the Zanskar River.
  • Now, get back to your rooms and have a good night's sleep to revitalize your body for the trip.

Chadar Trek

Rest and Acclimatize in Leh

  • Considering the health conditions of the trekkers and according to the new regulations, trekkers who are willing to go on the Chadar trek are required to acclimatize their bodies completely to the cold weather conditions in Leh for two days.
  • In order to acclimatize, you can either spend the day visiting the nearby attractions of Leh or rest in a centrally-heated room at your hotel.
  • Every trekker is advisable not to go to places with higher altitudes on this day.
  • The second day gets completed by packing your travel backpack with all the essentials and rest for the day.

Chadar Trek

Undergo Medical Checkup in Leh

  • The third day is the most significant day of the trek. This day decides whether your body is eligible for continuing the Chadar trek or not.
  • For this, you need to wake up early in the morning and drive or walk to the Government Medical Camp.
  • You must reach the location as early as possible because the tests get delayed due to the rush of tourists. It will not take more than three to four hours to complete all your checkup depending on the rush.
  • After the tests, you must proceed further to finish any insurance formalities, wildlife permits, and other significant documents.
  • By any chance, the tests state that you are unfit for the Chadar trek, you can take a physical wild card and select the ‘Flavor of winter Ladakh’ tour without any additional cost.

chadar trek

Move from Leh to Gyalpo via Chilling and Tilad do

  • This is the actual day of your Chadar trek. On this day, you will head towards your first campsite in Shingra Koma through Chilling.
  • The day will start with a drive from Leh that will let you spot some scenic attractions in Ladakh.
  • On your way, you will come across plenty of remarkable sights, like Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, and the convergence of the Indus and Zanskar river.
  • After a short drive of 90 minutes along the Zanskar River, you will reach Chilling.
  • It is the place where the car will drop you at the end of the road. From there, you will start your walk on the Zanskar river.
  • Initially, it may be difficult for you to walk on the ice with your gumboots on as the sheet may be thin, but you will understand the ice patterns slowly and gradually.
  • It is advisable to plant your foot and walking sheet on the ice to check the steadiness before moving on it wholeheartedly.
  • You must also ensure that the weight of your backpack is not heavy so you can carry it yourself effortlessly.
  • After a walking struggle of about one and a half hours, you will reach your first campsite at Gyalpo, where you will experience your first sub-zero temperature camping.
  • Rest for an overnight sleep in Gyalpo.

Chadar Trek

Gyalpo to Tibb Cave

  • Chadar trek is one of the treks where you will not be able to see altitudes in quick succession. But, when you slowly move to Tibb Cave from Gyalpo after five to six hours, you will find yourself rising at an altitude of 300 feet.
  • After spending a chilling night in your tent at Gyalpo, you are required to have a sumptuous breakfast to regain energy for the further trekking expedition. A hot cup of tea will also revitalize your senses in this cold temperature.
  • After breakfast, the trek will resume, and the next campsite is Tibb Cave.
  • While trekking, you will come across plenty of attractive frozen waterfalls, but the emerald green water of the Zanskar river will keep on flowing all along the trail.
  • Midway to Tibb Cave, you can have your lunch.
  • Post lunch, you will continue your trek, where you will discover varied rock patterns that shine uniquely as the rays of the sun fall on them.
  • Finally, the day ends when you reach the campsite at Tibb Cave which is completely covered with dry sand.

chadar trek

Tibb Cave to Nerak

  • The destination of Day 6 will be Nerak, which is a 13 kilometers long trail that takes you to the exemplary landmark of the Chadar trek named the Frozen Waterfall. The Frozen Waterfall is one of the beautiful attractions that garner the interest of tourists from around the globe.
  • You will be served with hot lunch on your way to Nerak.
  • It is by far the coldest campsite where the temperature drops to -30 degrees Celsius at night. Hence, you must wear appropriate clothing to keep the chilling atmosphere at bay.
  • Day 6 ends with reaching Nerak campsite, which is situated around 15 to 20 minutes from the Frozen Waterfall.
  • If the trekkers reach the Nerak campsite on time, they can also pay a visit to the Nerak village.
  • The day ends with an overnight sleep in the Nerak camp.

chadar trek

Nerak to Tibb Cave

  • Day 7 will be the returning day of your Chadar trek. It is indeed your last chance to embrace and relive the moments on the Zanskar River near the Frozen Waterfall.
  • Chadar trek is completely a unique experience in itself. The weather conditions are very unpredictable in this region. You may find that the layer of Chadar has completely vanished from where you have come. However, at the same time, you will find that a new layer has been formed in some other place. Thus, it is advisable to take back all the memories in your backpack before returning from the trek.
  • Say goodbye to the locals and start your trek on your way back to the Tibb Cave.
  • On your way back, you will find locals negotiating the conventional woolen Gonchas at the Chadar where the monks are returning to Leh from the monastery at Lingshed. You may also find the young students returning to school after their vacation in Leh. This sight of local people is heartwarming to see as they are surviving in such a cold climate yet keep a long smile on their faces.
  • You can sign off for the day after reaching Tibb Cave.

Chadar Trek

Tibb Cave to Shingra Koma via Gyalpo and then to Leh

  • On Day 8, it is time to go back home and you need to wake up early to cover a long distance from Tibb Cave to Shingra Koma.
  • While moving down to Shingra Koma, you will discover high walls of mountains rising on the sides of the river that almost looks like a castle.
  • You will also notice the steps and footprints of foxes, ibex, or snow leopards on the Chadar trek.
  • If you are lucky, you may even spot snow leopards. But you must rest assured that someone will keep a watch on you all the time on your way back to Gyalpo.
  • You will not get a chance to retrace the steps while going back as the way might have changed a lot. The layer of chadar has melted and become thin. You may also see the formation of rocks on your way down to Shingra Koma.
  • After reaching Shingra Koma, you will be asked to board a bumpy ride back to Leh at around 6.30 pm in the evening.
  • You can rest after the tiring day at Leh in the warm guest house and get ready for your way back home on the next day.

Chadar Trek

Depart from Leh

  • Day 9 will officially be your last day of the Chadar trek as you move back to your home, taking all the memories of the trek with you.
  • The day starts with a delicious breakfast, and then you can get ready for checkout from the guesthouse by packing all your belongings.
  • Say goodbye to your guesthouse and reach the Leh airport, from where you can head towards your destinations further!
  • Your Chadar trek experience ends here.

General Trivia About The Trek

Chadar Trek

  • Chadar trek does not include any kind of ascending and descending paths similar to the other Himalayan treks as you will be walking on a frozen sheet of ice on the Zanskar river all the time.
  • Although Himalayan waters are considered safe for drinking, the trekking experts advise purifying the water by boiling it with chlorine tablets during the trek.
  • The trade route between Zanskar and Ladakh regions that has existed for more than 1000 years is known as ‘Khado Sanglam’ in the local dialect.
  • Zanskar river freezes completely during the months of January and February to form a walkable path of ice.
  • There must at least be a group of six to seven people to go on the Chadar trek with a maximum of 15 to 18 people.
  • February is considered to be the toughest time to go on the Chadar trek as the fluctuating temperatures during the day and night can cause broken trails along the way.
  • The temperature on the Chadar trek drops to as low as -30 degrees Celsius, and thin air keeps flattering your skin at every inch of your walk.
  • Chadar trek is unique as it is a complete surprise package of slippery ice sheets, occasional cave stays, unusual campsites, and brisk-changing weather conditions.
  • If you are lucky, you may spot an old snow leopard or other wildlife on your trekking expedition.
  • Pictures of the beautiful frozen Nerak waterfall are surely a remarkable way to account for the memories.

Know Before You Go to Chadar Trek

chadar trek waterfall

When you are going on a trekking expedition, it is essential to keep the do's and don’ts in mind. These tips will help the trekkers stay connected with their fellow travelers and prevent them in case of an emergency situation. Here are some of the important tips that trekkers should consider on the Chadar frozen river trek:

  • Inform your friends and family about the trek and give the number of your trekking organization to them so they can contact you in case of any emergency.
  • Wear warm clothes at all times and carry stuff that can keep you warm at all times as the temperature may drop drastically and unexpectedly during your trek.
  • Do not forget to carry your first aid kit and all the necessary medications as bruises and cuts are relatively common during treks and hikes.
  • Keep yourself hydrated at all times. People are more likely to skip drinking water due to the cold climate.
  • Walk actively and carefully as the sheet of ice may be slippery.
  • Do not litter everywhere as it is strictly prohibited to throw plastic and biodegradable stuff on the trekking trails.
  • Avoid contaminating the waterfalls while bathing with chemical soaps because villagers use this water for drinking purposes.
  • Remain polite towards your trek leader and co-trekker at all times.
  • Do not skip your meal under any circumstances.
  • Always be together with your trekking group, and do not wander anywhere on your own.
  • Ensure that you carry all the trekking essentials in your backpack.
  • Follow the instructions given by the trekking leader to ensure safety and security at all times.

trekking gear

Basic Gear: - Backpack (50 to 60 liters) with appropriate shoulder straps and raincoat- 2 thermos flask water bottles of one liter each- Medical kit after consultation from the doctor- A walking stick- Snacks, like dry fruits, energy bars, electoral / ORS, and much more.

  • 1 full sleeves non-cotton T-shirt
  • 2 fleece T-shirts
  • 1 fleece jacket
  • 2 pairs of thermal inners (both upper and lower)
  • 1 down feather or hollofil jacket
  • 1 pair of fleece or wool gloves
  • 1 pair of waterproof gloves
  • 1 pair of waterproof jackets and pant
  • 1 pair of Windstopper pant

Personal Utilities:

  • Antibacterial powder
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Chapstick or Lip balm
  • Moisturizer
  • Quick dry towel
  • Sunscreen cream
  • Toilet paper and wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

Hand Gears:

  • 1 balaclava
  • 1 head torch
  • 1 neck-gaiters
  • Dark sunglasses with side cover, UV protected (do not wear contact lenses)
  • 1 woolen cap

Foot Gears:

  • 6 pairs of cotton socks
  • Gaiters (optional)
  • Floaters or flip flops (optional)
  • 1 pair of gumboots (it is advisable to buy them from Leh)
  • 1 pair of trekking shoes (optional yet highly recommended)
  • 6 pairs of woolen socks
  • Chadar trek route map
  • Sleeping bag
  • Hot water bag
  • Valid ID proofs (passport & driving license) and their copies
  • 4 passport size photographs

chadar trek

By Air- The easiest way to travel to the starting point of the Chadar trek Ladakh is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport located in Leh. This airport is situated about 4 kilometers from the city's center and receives daily flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Srinagar, Chandigarh, Jammu, and several other places in India. Even if you are traveling from beyond the geographical boundaries of India, you can take a connecting flight from Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata to Leh. Go Air, and Air India are some of the airlines that operate frequently on this route. Traveling to Leh by air is an amazing experience, and it makes for a wonderful start for the trekking expedition.

By Train- You can also board a train to Leh. The train used to travel to Leh is New Delhi Jammu Tawi Rajdhani Express, which travels from New Delhi to Jammu. After reaching Jammu, you can take a bus to Srinagar and then to Leh.

By Road- After you reach the Leh airport, you will be traveling through two road routes, namely the Manali-Leh highway and the Srinagar-Leh highway. The visitors will discover beautiful snow-clad mountains and gorgeous roads while driving their way to the hotel. If you are visiting this place in extremely cold conditions (i.e., between October and November), these routes remain closed due to heavy snowfalls. From the airport, your trekking authorities will take you to your hotel so you can relax and start your trek afresh.

chadar trek

  • The best and the only time to go on the Chadar trek is during the winter season, i.e., when the Zanskar river freezes. These winter months of January and February are best suited to admire the natural beauty of the Himalayas that has been preserved for centuries.
  • If you are thinking of which month to plan your itinerary for Chadar frozen river trek, it is advisable to do it during the month of February as the ice is the most stable at this time.
  • With temperatures ranging between -5 and -25 degrees Celsius, trekkers feel that February is the toughest winter time for Chadar trek.
  • The fluctuating temperatures during the day and night in the month of February makes the trekking experience even more difficult as you may encounter broken trails along the way.
  • On your trekking expedition, Nerak is the coldest among all the campsites, where the temperature drops down to as low as -30 degrees Celsius at night. You may also get a chance to visit the Nerak Village if you manage to reach the waterfalls on your trek.
  • The heavy snowfall of the Pensi La Pass creates a thick sheet of ice on the surface of the Zanskar river and cuts the place from the rest of Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Even the locals wait for winters to come so they can create a walkable path of ice and go back home. Hence, the winter season, i.e., January and February are the best months to go on a Chadar trek with your friends.

You May Also Book

Kedarnath Trek

FAQ's of Chadar Lake Trek

How difficult is the chadar trek.

The Chadar trek is regarded to be one of the most difficult treks in India. It gives you a larger-than-life feeling with its extreme weather conditions amidst the natural surroundings. What makes the trek even more difficult is that trekkers are required to walk on the surface of the thick layer of a frozen river. Hence, a trekker should have enough stamina to cover a distance of five kilometers in just 30 minutes is a good fit for the Chadar trek Ladakh.

You can also check your body mass index (BMI) to find if your fitness level matches the difficulty of the trek. If your BMI is normal, you can plan your fitness regime for trekking. On the contrary, if your BMI is not normal, you are required to consult your trusted physician before adopting any fitness regime. Moreover, consultation from a medical practitioner is recommended if you are suffering from any chronic illness.

What are the best months to visit this trek?

The best months to visit the Chadar trek are between the first week of January to the second week of February. During these months, a thick sheet of ice gets formed on the Zanskar river, which makes a great trekking path for adventure lovers.

What is the minimum and maximum age limit of the Chadar trek?

The minimum age limit of the Chadar trek is 13 years, but children between 13 to 17 years of age should always be accompanied by their parents or guardians. For people above 60 years of age, you need to carry a detailed medical certificate that states you are perfectly fit for an adventurous activity like trekking.

What is the cellular network connectivity of the trek?

The cellular network connectivity of the trek is relatively nice upto Leh. But, it becomes difficult to find any network connectivity once you proceed to elevate on your trekking expedition to the Himalayas.

When will there be snow on this Chadar trek?

You will always find snow on this Chadar trek as the trek takes place during the months of January and February when the place experiences extreme snowfall.

What is the cost of the Chadar trek?

The cost of the Chadar trek starts from 17000 to 28000 per person. However, this cost may be subject to change if you may wish to rent a porter or mule. The hospitalization or emergency fees also need to be borne by the trekker apart from the general charges. Hence, you must get all the terms clear with your traveling authority before booking your expedition. On the contrary, if you book your trekking tickets online, you may avail yourself of the additional deals and discounts to make your trip cost-effective.

Is Chadar trek for beginners?

Chadar trek involves walking over a thick sheet of ice on the surface of the Zanskar river. This nine-day trek includes extreme weather conditions with snow all around. It becomes difficult to walk on ice because of the uneven formation. Surviving in the extreme temperatures of -30 degrees Celsius is a remarkable experience in itself. Hence, the Chadar trek is not for beginners as a beginner would not know the knick-knacks of handling the extreme situations of the trek.

What kinds of tents or sleeping bags will be provided to us on the trek?

On the Chadar trek, each trekker is provided with four-season tents and the sleeping bags are rated to prevent people from temperatures between -15 to -20 degrees Celsius.

Are there any toilet facilities on the trek?

No, there are no toilet facilities on the Chadar trek. You need to work in compliance with the rules and regulations of the villagers.

Is it safe for a solo woman traveler to travel in fixed departures?

Yes, it is completely safe for a solo woman traveler to travel in fixed departures. The trekking organization takes complete care of the safety and security of women in the group.

Will I get a certificate of trek completion?

Yes, you will get a certificate of Chadar trek completion once you return from your expedition. This certificate for trek completion will not be available if you return from the trek midway.

Treks in Himachal

Treks in uttarakhand, treks in ladakh, treks in nepal, treks in north-east, treks in kashmir.

chadar trek 2022

The content and images used on this site are copyright protected and copyrights vests with the respective owners.

© 2024 www.heyhimalayas.com All rights reserved.

  • River Rafting
  • Rock Climbing
  • Scuba Diving
  • Wildlife Safari
  • View All Tribes
  • Ajeet Bajaj
  • Amit Chowdhury
  • Gayatri Sawhny
  • Latika Rana
  • Rajesh Kalra
  • View All Gurus

activity guide

  • Bungy Jumping
  • Hot Air Ballooning
  • View All Activity Guides

destination guide

  • Lahaul and Spiti
  • Lakshadweep
  • Nubra Valley
  • View All Destination Guides

drop-down-img

NORTH INDIA

  • Himachal Pradesh
  • Uttarakhand

SOUTH INDIA

  • Western Ghats

INTERNATIONAL

  • South Africa
  • United Kingdom

drop-down-img

LAND ACTIVITIES

  • Camel Safari
  • Horse Safari
  • Jeep Safari
  • Mountaineering
  • Motorsports
  • Photography

AIR ACTIVITIES

  • Bungee Jumping
  • Paragliding

WATER ACTIVITIES

  • River Cruising
  • Family Outings
  • Fixed Departures
  • Weekend Getaways

drop-down-img

` 24,999   ` 17,499   per person

Duration: 9 days, talk to an expert, 0120-6907340.

Proud winner of Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2020. Encapsulated within the range of the Great Himalayan Mountains –with peaks as high as 7,000m – India’s Zanskar valley aka Chadar Trek  has stayed isolated for centuries. But with boosted tourism in recent years in Leh and Ladakh, the Zanskar valley has garnered immense attraction from people all around the globe. After footage of school children walking 100 km to the study goes viral, now as many as hundreds of visitors go to Zanskar for Chadar trek every year. The journey embarks at the mountain town of Leh. The best way to reach Leh is by a flight, and honestly, a glimpse of snow-drenched mountains looks so surreal from the plane. The trek is over the frozen river of Zanskar , and it is a huge favourite among Indians and travelers from abroad. At just 11,078 feet, the walk on the frozen river feels like a small expedition to the North Pole. The ration is carried through sledges, tents and extra stuff by the porters and the kitchen wealth by the cooks. Due to its remoteness to the modern world, Chadar Trek is one of the most uninhabitable regions in the world, and also one of the World’s most beautiful place to see once-in-a-lifetime.

The best time to take Chadar Trek is in January or February as the ice sheet is sturdy and solid to walk for long kilometers. The temperature, in general, is twenty degrees below the freezing point and sometimes goes even below. Due to the harsh circumstances on the trek, one finds refuge in the caves, life works on instincts, and camping on the river banks, make the destination ‘do before you die” trip.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or a novice in trekking, Chadar Trek can be experienced by all. The extreme challenge of this trek is not the terrain but the extreme cold weather that tends to challenge people of all age. Proper clothing, trekking shoes, hydration and food is enough for your body to endure the challenging lifestyle of Zanskar that thrives in sub-zero temperature.

The most rewarding sight of the trek is the spectacle of a frozen cascading waterfall called Naerak from a height. The formations of frozen water will give your eyesight a new perspective to visualize a waterfall. Most of the people get overwhelmed to see nature’s finest creations on the trek. The landscapes and overall experience will leave their imprints on your hearts forever.

And if all this information piqued your interest, let us give you an insight into how the Zanskari people survive in these arduous conditions. Did you know Zanskari people can walk to and fro from their village in just 24-35 hours? They spend the nights in the caves, camp at the river banks and walk miles and miles without proper trekking shoes. They are so used to the climate, that even without the proper attire, the locals can endure the harsh weather conditions.

Lastly, the Chadar frozen river the trek is an experience for the brave-hearted that seek thrill through responsible eco-tourism. The weather and terrain might shake your confidence a bit but if you can surpass that then the journey to the marvellous and exhilarating frozen river trek will be the most enriching experience of your life. Know more about Trekking in Leh Ladakh .  

Detailed Itinerary for Chadar Trek:

Day 01: Arrive in Leh (3500m) Team Briefing, Day at Leisure Leh, which lies at an altitude of 3500 metres above sea level, is one of the largest districts in the country. In winters, as most passes leading to Leh are closed, you can only reach the city by taking a flight to Leh airport which has the distinction of being the highest airport in the world. As soon you land at the airport, you will be greeted by dry and cold air, but what will take all your attention is the lofty, snow-capped mountains all around; a sight that will remain with you forever. After completing the arrival formalities and picking up your bags from the baggage counter, take a taxi and proceed towards the pre-arranged hotel. Get acquainted with your co trekkers and the Adventure Nation team members and rest in the hotel. Stay overnight. Day 02: Acclimatization Walk in Leh Acclimatization Walk, Leh Exploration Get up early in the morning and begin the process of acclimatization at high altitude. Proceed to walk towards Shanti Stupa, a sacred Buddhist stupa, from where you will get an opportunity to witness a beautiful view of the sunrise and a panoramic sight of the town of Leh. Staying hydrated is extremely important so make sure you drink at least 3-4 litres of water everyday. Day 03: A Visit to the Hospital Medical Check-Up Due to the challenging nature of this particular trek, the government has made it mandatory for participants to acquire medical certification before they undertake this Himalayan Expedition. A clearance certificate upon a health check-up is mandatory and will be issued by the positioned medical centre. One will get a certificate only when adequately fit and acclimatized for the trek. The basic medical examination is done at the SNM Hospital. Day 04: Leh - Shingra Koma - Tsomo Paldar (3200m) Distance/Duration: 70km Drive (4 Hours), 3km Trek (2 Hours) Grade: Moderate This is the day you’re going to start the extraordinary journey, known as the Chadar Trek. Enjoy breakfast in the morning and start your journey by driving to Shingra Koma. This ride is not for the faint-hearted as bumpy roads and hairpin bends are quite common on this route. The sight of the surrounding high mountains will give you a sense of awe. After reaching, you will have to deboard from the vehicle and prepare to start the trek. Initially, you may find it a bit difficult to walk on the ice but after a few minutes (and a few falls ;-)) you will get comfortable. Reach the first campsite after trekking for a couple of hours. Have some fresh cooked food and stay overnight. Day 05: Tsomo Paldar to Tibb Cave (3300m) Distance/Duration: 14km / 6-7 Hours Grade: Moderate Today, you will set out to trek to Tibb Cave/. You need to cover a rather long distance so starting early is very important. During the day, you will behold the breathtaking beauty of the region including ravines and gorges. You might not see sunshine properly as the cliffs in this area obstruct them. Once you reach Tibb, you will see a large cave. This is the place where you will halt for the night and rest. Butter tea would be offered and we recommend you to try it. Enjoy overnight stay at the campsite. Day 06: Tibb Cave to Naerak (3400m) Distance/Duration: 13km / 7 Hours Grade: Moderate Today, you will trek the most scenic part of the expedition and get a chance to witness the largest frozen waterfall in the valley. The bridge built next to the site of the waterfall is used in summers to reach Zanskar from Leh. Thereafter, you can proceed towards the village of Naerak to mingle with the locals and understand their way of living. The temperature in Naerak can get as low as negative 30 degree celsius during the night so you will need to take extra precaution in regards to the clothing. Stay overnight at the village camp comfortably. Day 07: Naerak to Tibb (3300m) Distance/Duration: 13km / 7 Hours Grade: Moderate On this particular day, start your return trip and proceed towards Tibb. The return trail would not be easy and the river quickly reacts to any change in the temperature. By now the frozen river might have taken an entirely new form. On the way back, admire the beauty of the region, click pictures and meet locals, who can be seen wearing traditional woollen Gonchas (robes). Upon Dib Cave, relax and stay overnight at the campsite. Day 08: Tibb - Shingra Koma - Leh (3500m) Distance/Duration: 14km / 7 Hours Grade: Moderate In the morning, get ready to leave Tibb and proceed towards Shingra Koma, crossing Gyalpo. The trail today will give you a chance to witness high mountains and pugmarks of wild animals like snow leopards, ibex and foxes. If lucky, you just might spot a leopard; even if you do not, then at least be sure, you would be watched by them. After trekking through the day, make your way to Shingra Koma which is technically the finishing point of the trek. Take some rest after arrival and manage your luggage accordingly for the ride to Leh.

Later, drive back to Leh and stay overnight at the hotel. Day 09: Departure from Leh Today, the mesmeric journey to one of the most scenic destinations in India will ultimately come to an end. The entire experience, we are sure, would give you an unmatchable feeling of achievement and satisfaction. In the morning, check-out from the hotel and depart for Leh airport.

FAQs for Chadar Frozen River Trek  

1) What is the best time to go?   January to February is the best and the only time to go for the Chadar trek because this is when the Zanskar River is frozen and is considered safe for walking across it.   2) What is so unique about the Chadar trek? Marked as one of the most unique treks of the country, Chadar trek exhibits beauty nowhere to be found. The extreme climate, the ever-changing weather, sledges, walking on ice with water underneath it, the frozen waterfall view, and camping near the frozen river will give you the experience of a lifetime.   3) How are the weather conditions on Chadar Trek? Dealing with low temperatures is what makes this trek challenging. Temperatures vary between +5 to -5 degree celsius during the day and -20 to -30 degree celsius during the night. The oxygen level is really thin, as the onset of winter brings harsh weather that causes temperatures to go below freezing point.   4) What kind of shoes should I buy? We recommend that you have trekking shoes which are waterproof and have high-ankles, as your shoes might get drenched while walking on the frozen river. You can also buy gumboots from the local market in Leh, which would be helpful when crossing stretches of the river that is not frozen. 5) Is Chadar Trek dangerous? Every trek has its difficulties, challenges and dangers, Chadar is no exception. This trek happens in one of the remotest gorges of mighty frozen River Zanskar, in Leh. The important and unique challenges and its solutions are as below:

6) Is Chadar Trek closing? Nobody wants the Chadar trek to get closed, obviously. The Chadar formation and the trek itself is very important for the local people living in this region.  But climate change is real: glaciers melting, polar ice covers shrinking, are some of the factors which are to be looked at to assert the future of this trek. This part of the world is very sensitive to pollutants and disturbance, it is in our hand that we conserve our nature and sustainably do the trek so that the trek is open for the upcoming years too. 7) Is Chadar trek suitable for beginners? Considering the extreme conditions of Chadar, it is definitely not an easy place to go trekking. Yes, even the beginners can complete this trek successfully if the preparation of the trek is strong. However, prior experience in high altitude trekking enhances the experience of Chadar Trekking.  8) What should I pack for the trek? You can see the detailed packing list here. You can also watch our Chadar trek packing video here. 9) Will bonfires be possible on the trek? No, we do not recommend having a bonfire on a trek like Chadar. Leh and the Zanskar region where the trek happens is a high altitude cold desert. You will rarely see any trees throughout your trek. The sparsely available wood supports the livelihood and extreme survival of the local people. Being a socially responsible organisation, we prefer to not disturb the local lives by doing something for our creature comforts. 10) What about the cell reception and the electricity, on the trek? There is no mobile network availability or the possibility of charging batteries during the trek. Yes, you can use your phones as a camera to click the wonderful moments. In this extreme high altitude and low temperatures, the batteries tend to drain very fast. So ensure you keep your gadgets inside your warm jackets and sleeping bag when not clicking photos.   11) Is hot & safe water available during trekking? Yes, hot and safe drinking water will be provided during the trek every morning and evening. Please bring insulated water bottles to fill and use it while on the trek and during sleep.    12) How should I prepare physically?  A 30 min workout session which should gradually be built up to a 1hr session, for a minimum of 45 days and four days a week, before the start of the trek, is what we recommend. The work out sessions should majorly consist of cardio like swimming, jogging, cycling, etc. Closer to the trek, if you can jog for 4KMS continuously without taking any major breaks, you are good. Remember, “A Fit Body Means a Fit Mind”, to complete this trek in extreme conditions it is mandatory to have both mind and body to be extremely fit.   13) What kind of sleeping bags are required? We recommend not to bring sleeping bags as we provide you with a very good quality sleeping bag. If you are concerned about hygiene, the best thing to carry is a good sleeping bag liner. Sleeping bags used in the Chadar trek must withstand a minimum temperature of -30 C and must have been personally tested in similar conditions before using it on the trek.   14) Are there any markets open in Leh during the winters? Yes, some of the markets remain open throughout the year. Big ventures close in winters, however, small eating shops are open. You can easily get gumboots, trekking equipment, shawls, carpets, masks, etc. in the market. Simple Indian and Tibetan foods are available for the trekkers even in winters. 15) Can I visit Nubra Valley/Pangong Tso during the time in Leh? No, traveling to any of these places is absolutely not recommended in peak winters. There are great chances of avalanches and road blocks due to heavy snowfall. 16) Can I bring my medicines for the trek? Yes, you must bring all your prescribed medicines enough to last the number of days you will be in and around Leh and maybe for a couple of more days just in case of any delays. Leh is a small town and in winters very few medical shops open, sometimes it may not be easy to find your medicines or the desired brands in Leh.   Although we carry a basic first aid kit during the trek and even in Leh, it does not have any prescribed or over the counter medicines. It will only have the first aid materials which are supposed to be used in case of any emergencies.   Women must bring their menstrual-related materials and medications even if the trek duration does not fall in their cycle as sometimes the menstrual cycle gets slightly changed due to extreme weather conditions. 17) How hygienic are the sanitary facilities? Dry pit hygienic toilets will be available in all our campsites which can be used for sanitary purposes. We also follow a ‘leave no trace on the trail’ policy, so make sure you are not littering sanitary napkins or wet wipes. 18) Is the trek safe for solo female travelers? Yes, our main priority is the safety of our trekkers, be it male or female. To make it better and safe for girls, we even have segregated tents for males and females. We always create a friendly environment for our trekkers so that they are comfortable and feel secure during the trek expeditions.

slide 1

Package Details

Chadar frozen river trek, price (per person):   ` 24,999, duration:   9 days, cancellation policy   |   payment policy.

In case the Chadar is not formed your local operator shall offer you the alternate trek for same duration. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to the following events, then the cost of delays and/or other changes are normally the responsibility of the participant.

  • Bad weather
  • Road conditions
  • Transportation delays,
  • Government intervention
  • Airline schedules

If Minimum group strength is not met, we have the right to cancel the departure.  Should you wish to customise the trip as per your preferred date, separate charges will apply. Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. Tour operator reserves the right to change expedition dates or itineraries as conditions warrant.

You need to bring the Medical certificate from your respective city

Chadar Trek is surely going to be one of your most thrilling experiences of a lifetime. So, get ready for this exhilarating adventure and bring back home some embraceable memories. Cherish each and every moment of this trek and also share your amazing stories with the world

COVID 19 related Terms & Condition Adventure Nation shall follow Covid 19 Protocols as per the government guidelines applicable to it. However, it is made clear, that the individual participants are responsible for maintaining all such protocols and guidelines that are applicable at his/her own level towards the prevention and spread of Covid 19. If any participants develop any symptoms around Covid 19, it shall immediately inform the Adventure Nation's team who shall then follow and adopt all such measures as it deems fit under the situation. Adventure Nation's decision shall be final and all participants shall abide by the above conditions to ensure safely of himself/herself and the people around.

Adventure Nation shall not be liable for any loss, cost, expense, damage, delay, missed connections, or any other consequential damages or losses which may be the direct or indirect result  of any actions taken by it as stated above.

Inclusions:

Exclusions:.

  • Welcome & Greeting on Arrival at the hotel
  • Accommodation in Leh - Stays in Guest Houses on triple sharing basis in Leh on Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, and Day 8 (Double Sharing for couples).
  • Stay in Alpine/Dome Tents on triple sharing the basis on Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, and Day 7 (Double Sharing for couples).
  • Breakfast when in Leh on Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, and Day 9.
  • Celebration Dinner on Last Night in Leh.
  • Skilled local staff who has ample knowledge of the route.
  • Transportation from Leh to Trekking Point on Day 4 and Trekking Point to Leh on Day 8.
  • Vegetarian meals on the trek (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) starting on Day 4 Packed Lunch to Day 8 Lunch.
  • Common Kitchen/Dining/Toilet tents will be used during the trek.
  • Cooks/Helper and other requisite staff.
  • Porters for carrying common equipment’s (like rations/tents/utensils/groceries).
  • Equipment –  Sleeping bags / Sleeping Mats.
  • Basic First aid Kit with a portable oxygen cylinder.
  • The Facility of keeping extra luggage at Leh when leaving for the trek.

1. GST @ 5% 2. Personal trekking equipment – like Gum Boots, trekking poles or sleeping bag liners 3. Personal insurance or the cost of emergency evacuation 4. Purchases of personal natures (like mineral water bottles/bottled or canned beverages/chocolates/dry fruits etc) 5. Shared Porters for luggage offloading upto 10kgs (back pack or duffle bag only) is Rs. 4500/- and Private Porter max 20kgs will be Rs. 9000/- Potrers are subject to availability & need to check at the time of booking. 6. Room Heaters at Guest House in Leh(We suggest not to use the room heaters as the same dehydrate the body and your body won’t get acclimatize to gear up for the Chadar trek) 7. Cost of transport, meals and stay if in case you leave the trek in between and return to Leh before the scheduled arrival on Day 8 8. Wildlife permit fee/Medical check-up & Rescue/ALTOA NOC Cost and Adventure Insurance ; an approx. amount of 8000/- (subject to change without prior notice) 9. If your trek remains incomplete or uninitiated for any reason we will not refund, reschedule or replace any services that remain unutilized by you. 10. Any additional cost incurred due to do changes in Government Guidelines related to travel/trek/COVID-19 will be borne by the Guest. 11. Insurance of any kind.

12. Anything notmentioned under 'Inclusions'

Reviews for Chadar Frozen River Trek

img

It was amazing. Your management was very good. The best thing I liked about the trek was the people there. The guide, porters, their work as at the top, without them we couldn't trek.

Being an adventure enthusiast, Chadar trek had always been on my bucket list. But it wasn't until February 2018 that I ticked this off my list, and I am extremely proud of myself for completing it. The trek was challenging because of the below freezing temperatures, but kudos to the trek leaders, porters, cooks and organisers, who kept the camp running like a well-oiled machine. The trek leader especially kept me motivated throughout the entire trek. I couldn't thank them enough for their sheer efforts. A hearty thanks to Adventure Nation for fulfilling my dreams. I had the time of my life!

I saw the pictures of the frozen Zanskar river on a Facebook post by Adventure Nation, and I was awestruck by its beauty. I have always wanted to have an experience of this kind, so I enquired about the Chadar trek. I booked through Adventure Nation itself-which was an incredibly smooth process, and then started packing to leave for my epic adventure. The trek leaders were quite knowledgeable about the do's and don'ts and guided everyone cheerfully and patiently through the challenging terrain. All my tiredness was over when I saw Zanskar River with my own eyes. I was mesmerized by the beauty of the frozen river with the high mountains in the back drop. I had a phenomenal experience on this trek, and would recommend Adventure Nation to everyone!

The Famous Chadar Trek-what a paradise on Earth! Whether it's the trail, the high mountains surrounding you, or the frozen river, the entire trek keeps you on your toes with excitement. Walking on the frozen river and viewing the frozen waterfall were the best highlights of my trek. Whenever we camped, I was really pleased with the arrangements that had been made. And to put a cherry on the top, the hot food made by the cooks was a blessing. The trek guides were very responsible with the team, giving us time to acclimatise. The trek was amazing, and I am happy to have booked with Adventure Nation.

What a trek!!!! The best winter experience one can have is on Chadar Trek. From walking on the ice to camping at the riverbank, Chadar Trek holds nature?s one of best creation in its true form. Though it seemed difficult at the beginning but with constant support from the Adventure Nation?s team, I completed the entire 52 km walk. Also, I salute to the sturdiness of Zanskari people, they were a great inspiration.

It took me a while to convince my friend to book Chadar Trek. We had been on many treks but since Chadar is a little tough due to cold temperature and extreme climate, it took me time to convince him. After a lot of discussions, we decided to call Adventure Nation. We did not regret at all. To be fair trek was tough and little scary at some parts, but it was totally worth it. The team of Adventure Nation was phenomenal. The trek leader was inspirational, and the way he took care of the entire team was commendable. Thanks!

Almost a dream that turned into reality, the journey of Chadar Trek gave us moments that will stay fresh in our memories. Almost 5 of us were there. Thanks for the amazing service. The tents were in great shape and the food and other arrangement were also taken care of in the best way possible. Will choose Adventure Nation for another trek as well.

2019 was like a dream come true. I did Chadar trek in Jan which was way too cold for a trek. It was nothing I had ever seen. The still and frozen waves of the Zanskar River seemed like a race against time. I had great fun with other companions as well and made new friends. The service and the on-ground operation was great. Kudos to team Adventure Nation.

Chadar trek aka frozen Zanskar River is an amazing escape into nature if you are looking for a unique and out-of-the-box experience. Frozen in time, Chadar give people a dozen of memories that stays fresh for a lifetime. I would recommend this place to each and every trekker. Our group had great fun while walking - many of us slipped and spending time in the tent talking about travel. Also, I am grateful to Adventure Nation for giving us such amazing trek leaders for whom we were the first priority. Thanks a lot for this.

Similar Adventures

Cancellation policy.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellation charges per person

30 days or more before departure: 25% of total cost 29 - 20 days before departure: 50% of total cost Less than 20 days before departure: 100% of total cost

IF WE CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR ADVENTURE HOLIDAY

We do plan the arrangements in advance. It is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your travel arrangements. Occasionally, we may have to make changes due to Force Majeure Events and we reserve the right to do so at any time before or during the trip. If there are any changes, we will advise you of them at the earliest possible date before or during the trip based on the Force Majeure Events. We also reserve the right under Force Majeure Events to cancel your travel arrangements / offer alternative dates / revise the itinerary before or during the trip. Any additional cost incurred due to the above-mentioned reasons will have to be borne by the traveller himself. There shall be no refund to the traveller under Force Majeure Events.

Force Majeure Event shall mean and include any circumstance beyond the reasonable control of Adventure Nation, including without limitation, any act of nature or the public enemy, accident, explosion, fire, storm, earthquake, flood, drought, perils of the sea, casualty, strikes, lock-outs, labour troubles, riots, sabotage, terrorists acts, embargo, war (whether or not declared), governmental actions, delay in issuance or processing of Visa/permit, change of laws and regulations, orders, or decrees, or other causes of like or different character beyond the control of Adventure Nation.

IF YOU WANT TO CHANGE YOUR ADVENTURE HOLIDAY PLAN

After you make full or partial payment, if you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way (e.g. your chosen departure date or accommodation), we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes must be in writing from the person who made the booking. All cost incurred due to amendment will be borne by the traveller himself.

Payment Policy

46 Days or more before date of departure: 25% of total cost. 31 - 45 Days before date of departure: 50% of total cost. 30 days before date of departure: 100% of total cost.

Important: The booking stands liable to be cancelled if 100% payment is not received less than 30 days before date of departure.

  • Submit Query

Provide your details, we'll call back

EMI Options

*Including GST

Sign in to your adventurenation account, login to your account, invalid email address or password, sign up and get the best adventure deals, sign up & get best deals.

  • Accessible Adventures
  • Adventure Running
  • Off Roading
  • Outdoor Photography
  • Wind Surfing

Invite your friends.

Sent you a adventure nation request.

You have been invited to join adventurenation.com, a community for outdoors enthusiasts where you can join Tribes, interact with Gurus and get up to speed on adventure activities and destinations

Suggested Friends

chadar trek 2022

  • Login Sign Up
  • CHADAR TREK 2022
  • Chadar Trek

The Chadar is a lifeline to Zanskari people from the rest of the world, the Chadar is the pride and prestige of the Zanskari which connects them from different cultural and traditional background people to exchange the life saving techniques during harsh winter climate which goes up to -40 C. Chadar is mostly walking on ice sheets formed from the flowing water river of Zanskar, which connects them from the outside world and in fact the Ladakh region and its people. Zanskari people praise the Chadar trail rather than complaining to Almighty for remaining isolated from the rest of the countries, because it gives them an opportunity to spend most of their time with the family and friends, cheering Local butter tea and playing local games during winter. The Chadar also gives them an opportunity in income generation and livelihood, the Zansakri feel proud in leading the trekkers for Chadar, which also makes them the finest guides in exploring and experimenting with new and challenging routes. The Zanskari will tell you the mountain ghost stories and the deities which protects the Zanskari from failing during the winter harsh climate.

 “SPIRIT OF KEEP GOING”, it is well said “FAILING IS NOT A CRIME BUT LACK OF EFFORT IS”.

EVENT DURATION: 10D9N

Event date: 04jan-13jan2022  , event costing: sgd1150/pax (*international group), do contact vijay +6592700908(whatsapp) or email :  [email protected].

VACCINATION AND COVID19 REGULATIONS

  • All participants need to be vaccinated to join this event.
  • Pre and Post covid19 test need to be paid by clients
  • Get Covid19 Travel Insurance coverage to protect yourself / Travel Insurance also needed which covers mountaineering above 4000m.

ITINERARY OVERVIEW:  

  • Day 1: Arrival at Leh

Day 2: Acclimatization Day

  • Day 3: Getting a medical check-up at SNM Hospital

Day 4: Trek from Shingra Koma to Tsomo Paldar

  • Day 5: Trek Tsomo Paldar to Tibb (15kms / 7-8 hrs)
  • Day 6: Trek Tibb to Naerak Camp (13kms/ 6-7 hrs.)
  • Day 7: Trek Naerak to Tibb (13kms / 5-6 hrs.)
  • Day 8: Tibb to Shingra Koma & Back to Leh
  • Day 9: Free and Easy – Leh
  • Day 10: Departure from Leh

DETAILED ITINERARY

For Flight suggestions kindly contact us via WhatsApp +65 92700908.

Day 1: Arrival to Leh

Day 3: medical check-up at snm hospital, day 5 – trek tsomo paldar to tibb (15kms / 7-8 hrs), day 6 – trek tibb to nerak (13kms/ 6-7 hrs), day 7- trek naerak to tibb (13kms / 5-6 hrs), day 8 – tibb to shingra koma & back to leh (9kms trek 5-6kms/ 75kms drive, 4-5 hrs), day 9 – free and easy -leh, day 10- departure from leh.

Pack your thing & get ready to fly back home. Check out and depart to Leh KBR Airport.

Cost Includes: –

1. Accommodation in Guest house/ Hotel in Leh on the 1st to 3rd Day and the last 2 days and rest camping in Dome Tents during the treks according to the itinerary (Twin/ Triple/ Quadruple sharing as per availability) 2. All Meals during the trek (only Veg). 3. Well experienced and qualified local Guide/Trek leader and the support staff. 4. First aid kit plus oxygen cylinder.

Cost Excludes: –

01. Airport pickup and drop. 02. Any kind of Personal expenses viz. packaged water bottles, Soft drinks, Laundry, etc. 03. Meals during stay at Leh 04. Travel insurance. 05. Porters to carry personal luggage. 06. Tips, Local Sightseeing and anything which is not specifically mentioned in the cost inclusions. 07. Any additional Expenses/ cost incidental to any change in the itinerary / stay caused by reason beyond our control such as Natural Calamities (Land Slides, Floods etc.), any accidents, medical evacuations, riots, strikes, evacuation costs, flight cancellation, etc. 08. Participants who returns in the middle of trek for any kind of reason whatsoever once we leave for same from Leh, shall bear all the cost including transportation back to Leh, stay at Leh, food etc. 09. Any kind of refund for unutilized tour plan services. 10. Any other tax or service charge, stay charge that could be enforced during this period will be extra and need to be borne by Participants. 11. Any service not specifically mentioned in the Includes sections. 12. International / Domestic Flights 13. Covid19 Pre/Post Test 14. Covid19 Travel Insurance

Note: It is expected to carry your personal luggage on your own during the trek as you are challenging yourself against the odds, but in some cases if someone fell tired, the porters can carry your extra personal luggage for a fee of Approx. INR 800 per bag per day (Limit 12Kg/bag). You can let us know early we can make arrangements.  

Please Note Its Important:

  • If you don’t want to continue Chadar Trails once you arrived in leh – or you are not physically well and wanted to Stay in Hotel – (*Accommodation/Food cost should be paid by the clients)
  • During Chadar Trail Trekking Days (4 th to 8 th day as per scheduled) – if you wish to come back to Leh Hotel – Remember Car Charges – Hotel Charges Extra as actuals

Note: due to natural calamities or poor ice layer formation on the Zanskar River for the Chadar, no refund will be made, but We will try our best to could organize a substitute tour in Leh around only.

Medical fitness certificate: * If the local doctor reject’s your medical certificate you will not be allowed to hike for safety reasons. Do take note on this. There shall be no refunds for the trip, full amount will be forfeited. Also do take note we do not there will be no replacement trek, or any sightseeing trip will be organized. Client should bear all the expenses.

How to make this Chadar a memorable one?  

SGTREK Pte. Ltd. always aim for responsible and sustainable tourism, and as a team we also believe your participation and cooperation in achieving our goal, since you will be trekking in an eco-friendly zone with varieties of flora and fauna, make sure that you do not litter this environment which are home for many endangered species and also make sure to bring back the waste produced during the trek for proper disposal. Educate yourself about the environment, ecology, customs and traditions of Ladakh.

  • Minimize your carbon footprint by avoiding and not using plastics of any kind.
  • Keep all pollutants away from the river, streams and other water sources.
  • Do not urinate or defecate near water sources or camping ground.
  • Ladakh is rich in monasteries, other religious and historical sites, keeping in view the sanctity, abide by the guidelines and follow the instruction set by the local authorities.
  • Do not interfere, interrupt or disturb the locals you encounter during the trek, respect the privacy of the host; always seek permission before taking their pictures.
  • Do not carry any sort of drugs or alcohol, refrain from these activities.
  • Take happy memories and leave nothing but your footprints.

Note : abide and follow the instructions given by the trek leader/guide in order to make this trek a lifetime memorable.

Equipment’s we provide:

  • Dome shaped tents.
  • Thick mattress.
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Dinning tent.
  • Toilet tent
  • Kitchen tent.
  • First aid kit.
  • Oxygen cylinder.
  • Professional trek leader.
  • Professional local route guide.
  • Professional local cook.
  • Professional local Porters and staff.

Participants/trekkers to carry things:

  • Personal bag/belonging, waterproof backpack with a capacity of 70ltr.
  • Personal sleeping bag Inner
  • Water bottle.
  • Walking stick/trekking pole.
  • Head torch with spare batteries.
  • Trekking/hiking shoes.
  • Minimum 2-3 pair waterproof trek pants.
  • Woolen thermal inner vest and lower.
  • Woolen 6-7 pair socks.
  • A woolen and a waterproof glove.
  • Woolen monkey cap.
  • Woolen Mufflers.
  • Waterproof/windcheater jacket.
  • Woolen full sleeve sweaters.
  • Woolen socks.
  • Trekking socks.
  • U/V protected sun glass.
  • Sunscreen lotion SPF40+.
  • Cold cream and body lotion.
  • Water purifying tablets.
  • Toiletries (Towel, Toilet paper, hand sanitizer, hand wash soaps, toothpaste etc.).
  • Hot water bottle.
  • Dry fruits and chocolate bars/ energy bars.
  • Medicines: Like, Avomine, Avil 25mg, Betadine, Band aid, Cotton, Crepe bandage 2 roll, Crocin, Combiflam, Diamox, Disprin, Digene, Norflox, Gauze cloth, Leukoplast, Oral dehydration Salts like Electral/Enerzal, Pain relieving spray like Volini/Moov.
  • ID proof like passport, voter’s card, Adhar card, driving license etc. / Medical fitness certificate.
  • Self-declaration / Indemnity certificate /Passport size photos 04 nos.
  • Any Medical Emergency or Accident – Please note: Its complete your responsibility and Expenses

CHADAR TREK FAQ  

By Joining this trip, YOU:

  • Acknowledge all the TERMS & CONDITIONS:  https://sgtrek.com/terms-conditions/
  • Acknowledge that  YOU  have read and agreed to RELEASE OF LIABILITY, WAIVER OF CLAIMS, EXPRESS ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT FORM of (SGTREK) :  https://sgtrek.com/sgtrek-indemnity-form/
  • YOU  have read all the above paragraphs and  YOU  know, understand, and appreciate these and other risks that are inherent in The Activity.  YOU  hereby assert that your participation is voluntary and that  YOU  knowingly assume all such risks.
  • YOU  acknowledge the agreement freely and voluntarily, and intend by completing this form and unconditional release of all liability to  SGTREK PTE. LTD.

TERMS & CONDITIONS:   https://sgtrek.com/terms-conditions/

For any queries related to the event do contact below person: Phone: +65 92700908 (WhatsApp) Email :  [email protected]

This trip is organized by:  SGTREK PTE. LTD . Reg. No. 201816267K STB License No. 03160

Address: 28A, Kandahar Street Singapore 198889 Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +6592700908 Website: https://sgtrek.com

  • Ticket & Prices
  • Related Events
  • Start Date January 4, 2022 08:00
  • End Date January 13, 2022 23:00
  • Remaining Ticket: 8
  • Status Expired
  • Location Ladakh
  • Venue India
  • Address Leh
  • Event Expired
  • The Frozen River Trek
  • Winter Trek

View Cart Checkout

www.tempesttreks.com

  • Mcleodganj Triund Trek
  • Dharamshala Holiday Package
  • Mcleodganj Bir Billing
  • Bir Billing trip
  • Kasol Kheerganga Tosh(KKT)
  • Manali Holiday package
  • Pangi valley Sach pass
  • Dharamshala Pragpur Masroor
  • Shimla Manali Kasol Tour
  • Spiti Valley
  • Leh Ladakh Tour
  • Explore Zangskar
  • Ladakh bike tour
  • Golden Temple Tour
  • Dharamshala Dalhouise Holiday Tour
  • Sikkim Darjeeling Tour
  • Kashmir Tour Package
  • Sari Pass Trek
  • Himachal tour

Adventure sports

  • Paragliding
  • Trout fishing
  • Mountain biking
  • Bird watching
  • Bungee jumping

Mountain Climbing

  • Moon peak Expedition
  • Dhauladhar Matterhorn
  • Friendship Peak -Burw
  • Mount Ladakhi peak
  • Stok Kangri Expedition
  • Kanamo peak

Dharamshala

  • Triund trek
  • Snowline Laka Glacier
  • Indrahar Pass
  • Seven Lakes of Dhauladhar
  • Minkiani pass trek
  • Bhagpura trek
  • Bir Billing Rajgundha trek
  • Bhim Ghasutri Pass
  • Bara Bhangal
  • Talang pass
  • Dhauladhar Circuit
  • Baleni Pass
  • Dehnasar lake
  • Jalsu Pass trek
  • Tatapani Hot Springs trek
  • Shinghar pass trek
  • Waru pass trek

Manali & Chamba

  • Kheerganga Trek
  • Hampta pass
  • Friendship Peak
  • Pin Bhabha Pass
  • Pin parvati trek
  • Malana Chanderkhani
  • Sara Umga pass
  • Deo Tibba Trek
  • Bhuranghati Chandernahan lake trek
  • Kalicho pass trek
  • Manimahesh Kailash Peak
  • Pangi Valley trek
  • Kalindi Khal Trek
  • Dyara Bugyal Trek
  • Harki Dun Trek

Latest Treks

  • Upcoming Treks
  • Parang La Trek
  • Miyar valley trek
  • Trekking in ladakh
  • Zanskar trek
  • Trekking in Bhutan
  • Sikkim Goeche la trek
  • Kashmir great lakes
  • Chadar Trek
  • Kedarkantha trek
  • Chobia Pass
  • Dev Roopa Trek
  • Blog Listing
  • Blog Single

CHADAR TREK

The chadar expedition 2024-25.

Mountains, Trekking on ice, the frozen Zanskar River, on an average five to seven hours daily at an easy pace. But a reasonable degree of physical fitness is needed to sustain walking for nine days during winter

conditions.The trek commences from the village of Chiling located not far from the confluence of Indus and the Zanskar River. The trek follows the river gorge through a spectacular landscape, a photographer’s paradise,offering occasional sightings of wildlife. Although pleasant on clear, sunny days, the weather conditions can change abruptlywith winds & temperatures falling up to minus 20 to 25 degree Celsius.

Frozen River Chadar Trekking Tour Highlights

  • Trek along the traditional winter trading route connecting Padum to Ladakh along the frozen Zanskar river.
  • This is a real adventure with only a couple of groups making the trek every year. The conditions on the river can be variable so a flexible approach is required!
  • Gain insight into the remote cultures of Zanskar and Ladakh and you will have the chance to stay with local Zanskaris along the way.
  • Go for a sightseeing tour to explore the Gompas and forts around Leh as you let your body acclimatise to the altitude.
  • Spot rare Ladakhi animals like snow leopard, ibex, Himalayan Thar, blue sheep, etc.

Where is the Frozen River?

Best time to do frozen river trek.

January to February : This is the time when the upper layer of the Zanskar River freezes. The river looks like a sheet of ice; hence, it is referred in the local language as ‘Chadar’.

DAY 01:FLIGHT DELHI TO LEH:-

Day 02: leisure day/ visit local market:-, day 03: medical checkup.

After the breakfast visit Leh SNM hospital for medical check up and to get a medical certificate. Overnight in Leh

DAY 04: LEH TO TALID SUMDO(DRIVE) TREK TO TSOMO PALDER:-

Day 05: tso mo palder to neyrac pulley:-, day 06 : neyrak pullu to tibb:-, day 07 : tibb to shingrakoma:-, day 08 : shingra koma to tilt do back to leh:-.

Today is the last day of this amazing unique trek. We finally return back to the road head where our vehicle will be waiting to take us back to our hotel at Leh. A huge goodbye to the supporting staff, thrie absolute dedication and support is

nothing short of amazing. Finally on reaching Leh the hotel room of Leh after some 8 days is most welcome, yet the

experiences of this ice trek linger and will be remembered forever. Overnight at Leh.

DAY 09 :DEPART LEH (FLY OUT):-

Tour concludes. Travel To Himalaya thank you for your patronage and ensure a punctual transfer to Domestic Airport to catch flight to Delhi.

INCLUDED IN THE TREK

  • Expert Mountaineering Guide
  • Skilled local staff who has ample knowledge of the route
  • Transportation from Leh to trek start point on day 4 and back to guesthouse to leh on day 8
  • Vegetarian meal on the trek (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner ) starting on day 4 pack lunch to day 8 Breakfast
  • Stay in guest House on triple/Quad sharing basis in leh on day1, Day2, day3, and day8.
  • Daily Breakfast starting from day1 to day9
  • Hot water in buckets shall be provided on request while staying in guest house in leh

● Stay in alpine / Dome tents on double

triple/quad sharing basis on day 4,

day5, day6, and day7

● Common kitchen / Dining / toilet

tents will be used during the trek

● Cooks / Helper and other requisite

● Cost of transport , meals and stay if

in case you leave the trek in between

and return to leh before the

scheduled arrival on day8

● There is no centralized heating and

portable heater provided.

● Anything not mentioned in the

inclusions.

List of Essential items to carry for Chadar trek

● Backpack (Min60 Ltr ) with Rain

● Gum Boots

● 4 Pair of full sleeve shirt/t-shirt and

track pants( 1 should be

waterproof/windproof)

● 4 pair of cotton socks , 3 pairs of

woolen socks

● 2 full sleeves sweater

● One heavy down jacket, thermal

inner-2 pair

● 2 pair waterproof hands gloves, 2

pair woolen gloves,sun cup,one scarf

● Light towel, lip balm, cold

cream,Hand lamp or torch with

fresh pair of batteries, personal toilet

kit and toilet paper, personal

medical kit

● Dark sunglasses ( u/v protected)

● Walking stick ( at least one0

● People who wear spectacles-should

avoid contact lenses and use

photochromic glasses instead.

chadar trek 2022

Chadar Frozen River Trek: A Trek Filled With Wonders

  • Chadar frozen river trek
  • Ofcourse the frozen Zanskar rive

Peace in freezing cold

Discovering the unseen, into the unknown, into the uncomfortable.

Chadar Frozen River Trek  is by far one of the most intriguing adventures in India. Who could have imagined that humans would evolve so much that someday we would literally walk on water? Well, at least on the  frozen rive r while the water is still flowing beneath the frozen ice.  Chadar Frozen River Trek  is the gateway to an extreme and unconventional adventure in Ladakh.

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the beautiful  Zanskar Valley  in such a unique way simply makes you feel extraordinary.  Chadar Trek  is truly a wonder of nature and for good reasons. Wondering what makes the  Chadar trek so magical? Here’s what:

Ofcourse the frozen Zanskar river

Zanskar River  is located in the Ladakh region, home to a vast array of natural wonders but one of the most magnificent beauties of Ladakh is the  Zanskar River  and it is most appealing when it is in its frozen form. The  Chadar trek  starts from  Chilling to Shingra Koma . During the harsh winter months, the  Chadar trek   offers connectivity between the remote villages in the  Zanskar Valley .

Although a fairly challenging trek, the beauty of the  Zanskar Valley  is breathtakingly beautiful and Chadar adds a lot of charm to it. Walking on the  Zanskar River is truly a surreal experience.

Nature stands still, frozen in time

It’s not just the thrill of  walking on frozen water , the  Chadar trek   offers many other surprises. There are not one but many  frozen waterfalls along the trek that will leave you awestruck by their beauty. Every now and then you will come across these frozen beauties, looming over you, as if standing still in time. You may even get a feeling of being in the Ice Age itself! Stumbling upon these wonders, you will feel as if you have journeyed into a different world altogether.

You can only imagine the magnitude of the cold that keeps everything still in time. The temperatures are remarkably extreme ranging from -10 in the daytime to -30 degrees at night. Nerak will be the coldest place where you will spend the night. You will quench for warmth, but any degree of warmth will not suffice. Try wearing layers, covering up, you will always be cold. Nights will be the worst. Despite all this, the mystical aura and the surreality of  Chadar Trek will make up for all the cold your body bears.

However cold it may be, the night sky in Chadar is breathtakingly beautiful. In the backdrop of the starlit night sky, the mountains seen from Chadar are stupendous. Nowhere on Earth will one find such a spectacle. While most of Ladakh is filled with barren lands, it is only in the  Chadar trek , you will get to witness the authenticity, serenity of the arid mountains. Brown, barren mountains under the shining blue sky and its reflection on the thin ice of Chadar. You have discovered the unseen!

Mountains are unpredictable, we know that but what if the trek route itself disappears? How surprising is that? Right, sometimes the Chadar breaks and your only path to walk on the river vanishes. If this happens, you have to walk over the rocks and sometimes even cross the cold river. That is why we say nature is unpredictable. Even if Chadar does not break, the ice structures keep moving and the beauty of Chadar is that the trail of Chadar is never the same. While it’s inconvenient at times, it is what adds to the thrill. You are not only walking into the wild, but you are also walking into the unknown.

Walking on ice is no cakewalk and you cannot even stand straight if the ice is too slippery, even with gumboots on. It takes time and adaptation to master walking on ice and while it’s uncomfortable, it is one of the most rewarding experiences.

Everything freezes, your water, contact lenses, food, tents, socks become hard. The cold slows down your every movement. Sometimes when Chadar breaks, you will be asked to walk through the river, which is spine-chillingly cold!

Well, the  Chadar Frozen River trek  is not only walking into the unknown but also actually walking into the uncomfortable. But that is the whole point of going on an adventure like Chadar if it doesn’t test us, teaches us to fight our weaknesses, and to discover the comfort in the discomfort?

With the primal thrill of walking through the  frozen river and sleeping in ice caves in extremely harsh weather conditions, you will get the experience of a lifetime.

Doodhpathri Trek

Doodhpathri Trek

Chopta Chandrashila Tungnath Trek with Deorital

Chopta Chandrashila Tungnath Trek with Deorital

Uttarakhand

Ranthan Kharak Trek

Ranthan Kharak Trek

Nafran Valley Trek

Nafran Valley Trek

Bhrigu Lake Trek

Bhrigu Lake Trek

Himachal Pradesh

Dayara Bugyal Trek

Dayara Bugyal Trek

Twin Peak - Kang Yatse II, Dzo Jongo, Markha Valley Trek

Twin Peak - Kang Yatse II, Dzo Jongo, Markha Valley Trek

Sar Pass Trek

Sar Pass Trek

Valley of Flowers Trek

Valley of Flowers Trek

Tarsar Marsar Trek

Tarsar Marsar Trek

Jammu and Kashmir

Rupin Pass Trek

Rupin Pass Trek

Sandakphu Trek

Sandakphu Trek

West Bengal

Markha Valley Trek

Markha Valley Trek

Leh Ladakh Multi-Sports Trip

Leh Ladakh Multi-Sports Trip

Kedar Tal Trek

Kedar Tal Trek

Kang Yatse II Peak Trek Expedition

Kang Yatse II Peak Trek Expedition

Har Ki Doon Trek

Har Ki Doon Trek

Hampta Pass Trek

Hampta Pass Trek

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Gaumukh Tapovan Trek

Friendship Peak Expedition

Friendship Peak Expedition

Dzo Jongo Peak Trek Expedition

Dzo Jongo Peak Trek Expedition

Buran Ghati and Rupin Pass Two Mesmerizing Treks in Himachal

Buran Ghati and Rupin Pass Two Mesmerizing Treks in Himachal

Top 8 Reasons That Will Make You Fall in Love with Har Ki Doon Trek

Top 8 Reasons That Will Make You Fall in Love with Har Ki Doon Trek

Where Adventure Meets Culture & Heritage

Where Adventure Meets Culture & Heritage

MY TREK TO ROOPKUND

MY TREK TO ROOPKUND

My First Trek Chopta-Chandrashila with TTH

My First Trek Chopta-Chandrashila with TTH

A Tale of Har Ki Doon Trek

A Tale of Har Ki Doon Trek

Bramhatal Trek

Bramhatal Trek

How to measure Chadar trek (and perhaps some bit of life)?

How to measure Chadar trek (and perhaps some bit of life)?

My First Himalyan sojourn…a dream come true!

My First Himalyan sojourn…a dream come true!

How it feels to celebrate your birthday at Chadar

How it feels to celebrate your birthday at Chadar

social icon1

Rent A Gear

Trek Articles

Quick Links

Trekking & Hiking

Mountaineering

Multi Sports

Himalayan Pilgrimage

Website Privacy

Terms & Condition

Contact Info

Get in touch with us. E-mail us Monday-Saturday (10 AM to 6 PM)

Address: Trek The Himalayas, Kaintura Plaza, Badrinath Road Tapovan, Rishikesh - 249201 Uttarakhand

Phone: 8191004846

Email: [email protected]

2010 Trek The Himalayas. All rights reserved

Go2Ladakh

CHADAR TREK 2022

CHADAR TREK 2022

8 Nights / 9 Days | Group Departure Package

Includes in Package

Spread over 62 kilometres, Chadar Trek is a favourite winter trial of the Ladakh region that starts from Leh and takes you through the snow-clad mountains of the Himalayas. The trek?s highlight is the frozen Chadar river and you cross it to continue the trail. It is nothing less than a life changing experience that will change your perspective on life and nature. Book 08 Nights 09 Days Chadar trek tour 2020 with Go2Ladakh.in.

Reach Leh in the morning by air or road. It is located at an altitude of 11,400 feet, so you will need two days to relax and acclimatise with the change in weight and elevation. Since you will be visiting during winter, wear gloves, a woollen jacket, and a thick pair of socks to keep yourself warm. We recommend you to take a plane to Leh Rinpoche Airport as your view will be filled with snow-dusted mountains of the Himalayan and Karakoram range. When you exit the airport, crisp and cool air will welcome you to Leh. Check into your hotel and rest for the remaining day. Drink enough water to avoid altitude sickness. Take a stroll in the nearby market in the evening to get acquainted with the local food and flavour.

Spend the second day of your trip traveling to nearby tourist attractions to help you adjust the temperature and weather. Avoid visiting places that are located at a higher altitude as it might induce altitude sickness. The Ladakh Government Authorities has set strict rules to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness among trekkers going on the Chadar Trek. According to the rules, trekkers need to rest for at least two days. You can get some shopping done in the Leh market. It has a number of textile shops from where you can buy souvenirs for your friends and family back home. Try walking everywhere you go because during the trek, you will be walking for most of the day.

Another mandatory rule set by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir is that all trekkers must undergo a medical check up at the Sonam Norbu Memorial Hospital. Only after the medical officer approves your report, you will be able to start your trek. You will be issued wildlife permits and insurance among other documents that are required to commence the trek. We recommend you to get medical tests done before booking the trek as it would be disappointing to not get the approval. Start training for the trek 10 days before, so you swiftly pass the medical check up.

On the first official day of the trek, you will trek from Leh to Shingra Koma via that Chilling & Tilad do pass. Shingra Koma is the actual starting point of the Chadar trek. It is 11 kilometres away from Leh and takes five hours on foot. On our way, we will stop at multiple tourist attractions including Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, and the meeting point of rivers Zanskar and Indus. We also offer car services until Chilling to give you a headstart but it is completely optional. Most of the land will be covered in frozen water or snow, so wearing gumboots is mandatory. Carry a light backpack, so you don?t have any trouble balancing yourself on a variety of surfaces. You will reach Gyalpo in the evening where you will camp for the night. It is one of the most scenic halts of the trek as it is located at the confluence of the rivers and surrounded by snowy mountains.

On the fifth day of the trip, you will leave Gyalpo for Tibb Cave early in the morning. The trek is 12 kilometres long and takes about six hours. We will gain an elevation of 300 feet and come across some beautiful frozen waterfalls. The gorgeous emerald green waters of the Zanskar river will accompany you all along the trek. Around noon, you will stop for lunch at a local dhaba known for its delicious momos. This place has some very attractive rocks that shine glamorously when sun rays directly fall over them. You will reach Tibb Cave in late evening and camp there for the night.

You will experience another 300 feet increase on the sixth day of the trek. It is longer trek and lasts for 13 kilometres, which you will easily cover in seven hours. During the trial, you will come across the most beautiful frozen waterfall of Ladakh and its origin will completely fascinate you. our team will take you to Hot lunch. Naerak is the coldest of all campsites as the temperature can drop below minus 30 degree Celsius. Carry enough warm clothing with you to protect yourself from the extreme cold. Since you will reach the Naerak early in the evening, you will have enough time to explore the village and meet the locals. You will camp overnight in Naerak.

The seventh day marks your return journey to Leh. While you might think the trek will start getting easy, you are entirely wrong. Zanskar River keeps freezing and melting but when you reach there, it will be completely frozen. If you want, you can walk on the frozen waters. It is a fun and unique experience you won?t get to experience anywhere else. You will come across several locals who will convince you into wearing the local gear called Gonchas. You will get a chance to meet monks and monk school children returning to their school for the next semester. The temperature starts getting warmer as you descend the trial. Zero degree Celsius will now feel comfortable as you camp overnight at Tibb Cave.

On the eighth day, you trek in the first half from Tibb Cave to Gyalpo and then take a car to reach Shingra Yokma. The total journey lasts for eight hours and you cover a distance of 18 kilometres. It will all be fascinating to see the tall mountains surround the cascading river as you make your way down to Shingra Yokma. At around 6.30 pm, you will reach Leh and check into a guest house. Call room service and relax in the warm bed after spending four days outdoors. You can fly the same evening but we recommend you to catch a flight the next day. Take a day off to relax and get some last minute shopping done.

Get up early in the morning and check out of the guesthouse after having a heavy breakfast. Travel to the airport and catch a flight back home with happy memories of the nine-day trek.

Inclusions:

  • Assistance on arrival.
  • Trek Coordinators
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Evening Tea on the Trek.
  • Camping charges.
  • Trek permits, Tents.
  • Sleeping bags, Safety equipment.
  • Kitchen & Dining.
  • Guides, Cooks.
  • All Taxes / Tolls.
  • Drivers Allowances, Parking.

Exclusions:

  • Additional costs for Hotel accommodation, transport services due to flight cancellation, road blocks etc.
  • Personal items like mineral water, phone calls, laundry etc.
  • Monastery entrances fee.
  • Camel riding fee.
  • Domestic airfare.
  • Medical & Travel insurance.
  • Chadar trek 2020 wild life
  • Private Porter @800 per day on demand

Start Your Trip --> Start Here -->