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(click to read detailed route briefing, elevation graph, altitude time info and photos from the day)
▼ Day 1Arrival DayLeh 3500m
Arrive In Leh
Overnight In: Leh (3500m )
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Cost Of Transport Included: NO
Checkin to the guest house. Meet for evening Snacks. Team introduction and brief about the trek. Dinner.
- Day 1
- 220 - Delhi
- Day 1
- 3500 - Leh
2 - 3hrs.▲ Day 2Acclimatization DayLeh 3500m
Walk To Tsemo Monastery. Return To Leh. Explore Shanti Stupa & Nearby. - 5 -6 Hrs.
Overnight In: Leh (3500m )
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Today is a very important day for the team. After confronting the extreme weather of Ladakh, we today venture outside and also try and get used to both the weather and walking on these conditions. This will allow us for better acclimatization and comfort during the trek. It also gives us the time to enjoy the unbelievable beauty of Ladakh in the winters
- Day 2
- 3500 - Leh
- Day 2
- 3600 - Tsemo Monastery
- Day 2
- 3500 - Leh
- Day 2
- 3600 - Shanti Stupa
- Day 2
- 3500 - Leh
5 -6hrs.▲ Day 3Exploration Day - TrekLeh 3500m
Excursion to Shey, Thikshey Monastery & Nearby.. Return To Leh - 5 Hrs. 5 Kms
Overnight In: Leh (3500m )
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Morning tea, Breakfast
Morning excursion to Shey Palace and Thikshey Monastery. Medical Check from SNP hospital and resolve Permit from Wildlife District Administration
- Day 3
- 3500 - Leh
- Day 3
- 3500 - Leh
- Day 3
- 3600 - Shey, Thikshey Monastery
- Day 3
- 3500 - Leh
5Km, 5hrs.▲ Day 4Trekking DayTsomo 3150m
From Leh (3500m ) To Tsomo (3150m ), Via - Chilling (3200m ), Bakula (3170m ) - 3 Hrs.
Overnight In: Tsomo (3150m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
A picturesque and thrilling drive fro some 3 hours brings us to the trekking point after crossing Tilad Do and Bakula.
There we are, about to put our first step on the frozen river !! Its time to get excited but also to go on.. We get down from the roadhead to the Zanskar river bed, and walk on its sides to reach our campsite. As we put our steps and try walking, we do have a little problem and needs getting used to it. After some swaying, balancing and slipping act, we stand up and learn to walk on the Chadar. Its small walk for the first day.
Once we reach there, the day is for us to relax and enjoy the amazing and magical beauty surrounding us. The trek leader and the guide briefs about the techniques required to be used to walk safely and properly for a successful trek. They also pass on important information regarding the Chadar and safety practices.
- Day 4
- 3500 - Leh
- Day 4
- 3200 - Chilling
- Day 4
- 3170 - Bakula
- Day 4
- 3150 - Tsomo
3hrs.▲ Day 5Trekking DayTibb Cave 3190m
From Tsomo (3150m ) To Tibb Cave (3190m ) - 3 Hrs. 7 Kms
Overnight In: Tibb Cave (3190m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Today is a slightly longer but a day where you will witness lots of incredible beauties of nature and an interesting story too !!
As we finish our early morning activities and hit the trail, we take us deep in the gorge of the river Zanskar. Today we see lots of waterfalls and caves which are delight for to the eyes and to a photographer's lens. The interesting story is better to be heard on the trail from the locals itself, as the way have to say it is also worth experiencing !!
Hot lunch on the way keeps us comfortable and replenished. We reach campsite quite easily and the relax for the day.
- Day 5
- 3150 - Tsomo
- Day 5
- 3190 - Tibb Cave
7Km, 3hrs.▲ Day 6Trekking DayNaerak 3350m
From Tibb Cave (3190m ) To Naerak (3350m ) - 5 - 6 Hrs. 13 Kms
Overnight In: Naerak (3350m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Everyday waking up seems to be a challenge, but the same motivation factors of hot coffee, breakfast and the trek for the day works. Added to that, today we have slightly more motivation to be even more excited, as today is regarded as the most rewarding day of the entire trek !!
A huge frozen waterfall take our imagination to fly and the curiosity and a 'silent excitement' created by it within your heart gets you on your toe.. The reflections off it is even more abstract making it a fantasy..
We near the Naerak village. We dont climb upto it and camp beside the river. Interested folks may visit the village for photography.
- Day 6
- 3190 - Tibb Cave
- Day 6
- 3350 - Naerak
13Km, 5 - 6hrs.▲ Day 7Trekking DayTibb Cave 3150m
From Naerak (3390m ) To Tibb Cave (3150m ) - 4 - 5 Hrs. 13 Kms
Overnight In: Tibb Cave (3150m )
Accommodation: Camping
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
Today we start retracing our trek route back to Tibb Cave.. If you hadn't had enough of the trek last time, its time you fulfill it today.. however, the Chadar keeps motivating you as you head back.
- Day 7
- 3390 - Naerak
- Day 7
- 3150 - Tibb Cave
13Km, 4 - 5hrs.▲ Day 8Trekking DayLeh 3500m
From Tibb Cave (3190m ) To Leh (3500m ), Via - Tsomo (3150m ), Bakula (3250m ) - 5 - 6 Hrs. 14 Kms
Overnight In: Leh (3500m )
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Morning Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea Snacks, Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Hot Drinks
We head back to the road head of this trek today - Bakula, from where we drive back to Leh tomorrow reach by evening
- Day 8
- 3190 - Tibb Cave
- Day 8
- 3150 - Tsomo
- Day 8
- 3250 - Bakula
- Day 8
- 3500 - Leh
14Km, 5 - 6hrs.▲ Day 9Departure DayDelhi 200m
From Leh (3500m ) To Delhi (200m ) - 2 Hrs. 1100 Kms
Accommodation: None
Meals Included: Morning tea, Breakfast
Cost Of Transport Included: NO
Itinerary and our service ends. You will be dropped to the airport as per plan.
- Day 9
- 3500 - Leh
- Day 9
- 200 - Delhi
1100Km, 2hrs.
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Chadar Trek - An Elaborate Description
Chadar Trek – The Frozen River Trek is one of the most unique and thrilling trekking experiences in the world. This incredible journey takes you across the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh, where temperatures can plunge to as low as -30°C. Walking on the icy sheet of a once-raging river is surreal, offering an unmatched adventure in the cold desert of Ladakh. The name "Chadar," meaning "sheet," refers to the thick layer of ice formed on the river during winters, creating a natural pathway for trekkers and locals alike. Historically, this frozen route was the only means of connectivity for the people of Zanskar during the harsh winters, adding cultural depth to this trek. The landscape is a photographer’s dream, with dramatic gorges, snow-dusted mountains, and frozen waterfalls along the way. Beyond the natural beauty, the trek offers a chance to interact with Zanskari locals and understand their resilient way of life. While modern road construction may soon replace this tradition, the Chadar Trek remains a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, combining cultural heritage, extreme conditions, and breathtaking landscapes.
Read The Below For More Information
HOW DO WE ENSURE SAFETY AND COMFORT ON OUR CHADAR TREK GROUPS
HOW SHOULD YOU PREPARE FOR THE CHADAR TREK
WHAT ARE THE DIFFICULTIES OF THE CHADAR TREK?
Chadar Trek - Why Its A Must-Do
Here’s an improved version of the highlights:
- Explore the enchanting beauty of Ladakh: Known as the "Land of High Passes," Ladakh captivates with its surreal landscapes, snow-covered peaks, and unparalleled serenity.
- Trek through one of the coldest regions on Earth: Experience the thrill of trekking in extreme winter conditions, with temperatures ranging from -9°C to -30°C—truly a one-of-a-kind adventure!
- Walk on the frozen Zanskar River: Traverse the incredible ice sheet of the Zanskar River gorge, surrounded by towering cliffs and breathtaking frozen waterfalls.
- Spot fascinating Himalayan wildlife: Witness mountain goats, who roam fearlessly in the wild, and if you're fortunate, catch a glimpse of the elusive snow leopard—an unforgettable experience for any nature lover.
- Immerse yourself in Zanskar's local culture: Meet the warm and resilient Zanskari locals, learn about their unique traditions, and gain a profound appreciation for their way of life in such harsh conditions.
Altitude and Acclimatization Profile For The Chadar Trek
- Day 1
- D1Delhi
- Day 2
- D2Leh
- Day 2
- Tsemo Monastery
- Day 2
- Leh
- Day 2
- Shanti Stupa
- Day 3
- D3Leh
- Day 3
- Leh
- Day 3
- Shey, Thikshey Monastery
- Day 4
- D4Leh
- Day 4
- Chilling
- Day 4
- Bakula
- Day 5
- D5Tsomo
- Day 6
- D6Tibb Cave
- Day 7
- D7Naerak
- Day 8
- D8Tibb Cave
- Day 8
- Tsomo
- Day 8
- Bakula
- Day 9
- D9Leh
- Day 10
- Delhi
Frequently Asked Questions
How Is The Chadar Weather And Temperature In Winters?
Winter is very harsh in Ladakh. Day time temperature stays between -6 to -9 degrees Celsius, while after sunset, it goes below -18 degrees. Waterline remains frozen and the city suffers tremendous water shortage. Over 70% of the shops and hotels remain shut and local people move to warmer cities. On the trek too, heating ice to make water becomes a big deal. Fresh vegetables and meat are flown in from Delhi and Srinagar. Serving good meals cooled with fresh vegetables becomes an expensive affair.
Which Is The Best Time To Do The Chadar Trek?
The best time to do the Chadar Trek depends upon temperature, wind and snow conditions. Chadar is the frozen top layer of the river water and a strong Chadar is preliminary requirement for a safe and good trek experience. Formation of strong Chadar is dependent upon good wind and subzero temperatures. Snow isn't good for the Chadar trek. Considering all these points, best time to do the Chadar trek varies by year. However, January mid to February mid can be considered as the best time.
How Cold Is The Chadar Trek?
-9 to -25 degrees Celsius
Thursday, June 12, 2025 2:32:51 AM
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