Chadar Trek
Duration
8 Nights / 9 Days
Maximum Altitude
11,123 ft
Best time to visit
Jan - Feb
Minimum Age
8+
Base Camp
Leh
Accommodation type
Tents
Chadar Trek - What if
you have the opportunity to trudge on the frozen ice sheets along an icy
emerald green river running beside you? How will it feel to sip tea and devour
Maggi at almost blood-freezing temperature? What if you have the rarest chance
to cuddle a waterfall and feel the pointed tips of it?
Amidst the scenic and stunning at chadar trek altitude of 11,400 feet, there flows the splendid Zanskar River which stays frozen all throughout the December – February. Chadar which translates into ‘Blanket’ in English depicts the frozen river, and is also widely famous with the name ‘The Frozen River Trek’. Unlike any other treks in India, this Himalayan trek is not where you have a set trail or the itchy forests around you but it brings you the opportunity to venture out to an unparalleled experience of trekking amidst the vast mountains and sporadic slippery trail. You won’t be pitching your tents in wild and thick meadows or dense forests but right under the umbrella of erratic meteor showers.
The best time
for Chadar Trek Ladakh is ideally
between late December and early February. Most of the usual treks have
around 3 to 10 degree Celsius average temperature but Chadar trek temperature will ask you to hold yourself and your
clothes tight for – 15 to – 20 degree Celsius. Candid moments such as
occasional visits of the sun during the trek or the singing songs during the
bonfires will elate you and discover a marvelous life. Chadar Trek Leh Ladakh is one of in a lifetime experience of
trudging on an outstanding trek route full of almost transparent ice sheets and
massive yet breathless mountains. The trek invites out of the world experience
of uncertainty, astonishment, adventure, and the quest to conquer your fear.
One of the added advantages to Chadar best trek is the extra stay at Leh, Ladakh. You have got two extra days to explore, while your body is acclimatizing to the new environment. Walk through the local markets, historical sites, learn local culture and unique cuisine. As many have recounted their experiences in Leh in January, we too believe that Ladakh is simply nothing less of a winter paradise. The vast barren lands full of flawless white-coloured snow botched with blue coloured rare lakes and rivers are true delight to the travelers. Unlike other places, Ladakh is a town where you will find warm and genuine hearted people in local homestays. If you have got enough energy and zeal left even after the trek, you must make plans to drive through a few of the most prominent places such as the ever famous ‘Pangong Lake’ and Thiksey Monastery. Fancy racing your friends across a river? Ladakh’s got plenty of frozen rivers for you!
Along with all
the sightseeing opportunities and befriending some locals to savour the
tastiest local food, if you are lucky, you might also get a chance to witness
some extravagant local festivals such as Ladakhi Losar, Matho Monastery
festival, Thiksay Gustor and Spituk Gustor. Well, the way Ladakh is full of
surprises and gifts, you too can stuff in some vivid coloured local dresses for
yourself and your special friends! Wouldn’t it be so amazing to wear them and
remember your relished memories of Chadar
Winter Trek and unbelievable Ladakh? But despite all the benefits which
Ladakh gives you over any other place, don’t forget about your ‘THE’ moment –
The Chadar Lake Trek. What better
deal would give you a blended experience of a trek and local sightseeing all at
one place!
Moustache Escapes treks
will ensure that that 54 km over the Zaskar frozen river and in one of the most
beautiful valleys will not only be safe and accommodative but also be the
most adventure trek of
your life. We hope, the Chadar Trip
& Trek brings you a large bouquet of vivid and flamboyant memories. Are
you already feeling the cold? The thrills? The shivers down your bones?
Place your faith on us and give us the chance to take you a parallel paradise of ice, music and adventure while trekking on thef Frozen Watterfall Chadar Trek India.
·
The only means to travel to Leh in
the winters is through the air. Take this opportunity to peak your view of the
stunning snow-topped mountains and the serenity of the Zanskar Region. ·
Depending on the place you are
travelling from, embrace yourself to a sudden burst of cold. It is advisable to
keep your extra warm clothes ready to adjust your body to the new climate. ·
Get sorted with your arrival
formalities at the airport. Later, check-in to your pre-arranged hotel or guest
house. ·
First day is entirely to adjust your
body and acclimatize with a different kind of atmosphere. Keep yourself warm
and cozy and relax for the rest of the day. ·
Today’s day is again an important day
for your body to adjust to the oxygen level and the climate density. ·
Start your day with a delicious
breakfast watching scenic mountains peeking through the windows. ·
Afterwards, head outside for a walk
around the city's popular spots. Proceed strolling towards Shanti Stupa, a
sacred Buddhist stupa. It's a beautiful viewpoint for witnessing sunrise and
the panoramic glimpse of white-washed Leh in snow. ·
Keep yourself hydrated through the
day trip. Moreover, it is prudent not to wander off to any high-altitude place
during your rest days at Leh. ·
Today will be your third and final
day before starting with the trek. After eating the breakfast, enjoy the walk
to the government medical camp led by the trek guide which goes through some of
the local markets. Get to befriend some of the locals too. ·
The government officials will examine
your oxygen saturation, blood pressure and BPM. Once you have passed the
medical test, you will receive your medical fitness card, issued by the ALTOA
designated medical camp. ·
Only after passing all the medical
tests, you will be alloted with the permit for Chadar trek. Keep the permit safely throughout the trek because it
certifies you that you are capable and have the required capacity to undertake
the trek. ·
Scan through all your vital items
required during the trek. See if there is anything essential you are missing
out on. Prepare and get excited to start with your adventure from the next day.
Sleep well at night. ·
Finally, your body has acclimatized
to the environment. It's time for a heavy breakfast and then a thrilling ride
to Shingra Koma. ·
This ride is not for the faint of
heart, as bumpy roads and hairpin bends are common on this route. Look out to
stay calm. As the surrounding high mountains will take your breath away. ·
After the drive, deboard from the
vehicle and trek towards the Tsomo Paldar campsite. Your Chadar trek best time expedition starts here, offering your first
touch on the frozen Zanskar river. ·
Those who are new at Chadar Trek Route, might feel
challenged walking in gumboots. Try judging the fragile paths while keeping in
mind the overall weight (your weight + luggage). Alas! A few meters into the
trek you will be able to catch the hitch to walk over the frozen river. ·
After walking on numerous icy
surfaces, you'll gradually begin to understand the walking pattern. You'll
arrive at the campsite soon. Dinner is followed by an overnight stay at the
Tsomo Paldar campsite. ·
Begin your day with a cup of hot tea
and breakfast. Following that, we will begin our trek toward Tibb Cave, our
next campsite. ·
En route, you will see some of the
most beautiful frozen waterfalls, as well as ravines and gorges. You'll notice
rock patterns and sedimentations as you continue hiking to the campsite. Your
packed lunch will be served on the way. ·
Upon arrival at Tibb Cave, we will
set up camp under a large cave. Spend the rest of the day relaxing with butter
tea and then followed by dinner. ·
Post dinner, spend the night at the
campground. ·
Today, we'll trek to the most
anticipated campsite. Head to the Nerak Frozen Waterfall campsite. ·
The 13km trail passes through Chadar
Trek's most famous landmark, the Frozen Waterfall. On your way to the Naerak
campsite, you will be served a hot lunch. ·
Visit the village of Naerak and
interact with the residents to learn about their way of life. Trekkers are
advised to dress appropriately for the cold weather. ·
Set up your camp in the close
proximity (15-20 minutes away) from the frozen waterfall. ·
Dinner will be followed by an
overnight stay at the Nerak campsite. ·
We will begin the return trip after
breakfast and proceed to Tibb Cave. ·
The return path would be difficult,
and the river reacts quickly to temperature changes. You'll find the mystical
frozen Zanskar river has now taken on an entirely new appearance. ·
Admire the natural beauty of the
area, take photos, and interact with the locals, who can be seen wearing
traditional woollen Gonchas (robes). We'll spend the rest of the day relaxing
at the Tibb campsite. ·
Dinner is followed by an overnight
stay in Tibb. ·
Wake up early. It's time to head out
of Tibb. Have your breakfast and move towards Shingra Koma, crossing Gyalpo. ·
Careful on the way. You might find
the footprints of Leh’s untamed creatures. As the region beholds creatures like
snow leopards, ibex, and foxes. ·
In the evening, we will drive back to
Leh. ·
Enjoy overnight stay at the hotel. ·
Today, the Chadar Frozen River Trek
ultimately came to its conclusion. ·
Check out from the guesthouse after
breakfast. ·
Depart to the Leh airport
·
End of the trip.Chadar Trek Itinerary :-
Day
1: Arrival at Leh. Acclimatize – Rest day
Day
2: Acclimatization Walk in Leh
Day
3: Medical Checkup
Day
4: Ride to Shingra Koma & Trek to Somo Paldar Campsite
Day
05: Trek to Dib Cave/Tibb
Day
06: Dib Cave/Tibb to Naerak Frozen Waterfall Camp
Day
07: Trek from Naerak to Tibb
Day
08: Trek back to Shingra Koma & Drive To Leh
Day
09: Departure from Leh
•
According to the itinerary, Leh Guest House is where you'll stay on Days 1, 2,
3 and 8 , you'll camp on Days 4,5, 6, and 7 of your trek. • All
Vegetarian Meal from breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be served from day 4's
breakfast through day 8's breakfast. •
While staying in Leh, breakfast will be provided. •
Celebratory meal on Day 8 in Leh to commemorate your successful Chadar Trek. •
Trekking gear, including sleeping mats, air-breathable four-season tents,
mobile kitchens, and utensils for meals. • For
Safety, the First aid, Medical kits, Oximetres, and Oxygen cylinders is
included. •
Trekking leaders, guides, and support workers that are skilled and
knowledgeable are available to assist trekkers. •
Transfer from Leh Guest House to Trek Base Camp on Days 4 and 8. • INR
5,500 is required to be paid to the government (on the spot) for tentative
permits (LAHDC, ALTOA, Adventure Insurance Premium). • All
personal expenses of any type. •
Payment for medical check-up at SNM Hospital or wherever the ALTOA group
recommends. •
Porters for personal luggage. They can be booked for INR 4750/- for the entire
trek days, from Day 4 to Day 8 (5 Trek Days), with a maximum of 10 kg of
luggage. •
Airport transfer from Leh Airport (Govt. Pre Paid Taxi Charges @ INR 500/-) •
Everything that isn't specifically included under inclusions. • A
mandate report on Negative COVID-19 is required. The Check-In time is 12 PM
noon, where Early Check-In is the subject of room availability. • We
and the participating partners/hotels disclaim any liability for any additional
costs (hotel stays, meals, etc.) incurred as a result of poor weather or any
other event without the tour operator's control. • We
are not responsible for any itinerary change due to force majeure (such as
rescheduling/cancellation of flight or train, political disturbances, natural
phenomena, etc.). • In
any circumstances, group members can leave the trek. Condition being
he/she/they has to pay the trek cost of transportation from the point of
aborting trek till the trek end. • It
is mandatory for all trekkers to carry a Valid ID proof. •
Trekkers are responsible for their own luggage safety from being damaged,
missing, or getting lost. We'd advise you to travel carrying a small daypack
for your expensive things. • You
are solely responsible for paying any damage/accident by you to other
property/person on the trek. •
Non-Indian trekkers are allowed to pay separately for Khardungla and Pangong Tso
Permits. • We
advise each trekker to travel with a Basic First Aid Kit along with
his/her/them medicines as per their physical condition/prescription. • It
is advised to follow your trek leader for a successful trek. As your trek
leader is responsible for managing the group with all the safety measures.Chadar Trek Inclusion and Exclusion :-
Inclusions
Exclusions
Notes :-
1. If Cancellation is done before 30 days of travel, 100% refund of the total package amount will be done.
2. If Cancellation is done before 10 days of travel, 50% refund of the total package amount will be done.
3. If Cancellation is done within 10 days of the travel, No Refund will be done.
4. On any condition, if your tour/trek/activity remains incomplete or uninitiated due to "force majeure," medical emergency, government policy changes, local strikes, or personal choice after reaching starting point; you are ineligible to refund, reschedule, or replace any services that remain unutilized by you.
5. Cancellations are strictly subject to the cancellation policies stated on the website, regardless of the date of booking.
6. Refund procedure will be completed within 10 business days.
The months of January and February are the only months best for the Chadar Tek. It is that time when the Zanskar River freezes into a thick sheet of ice due to the extreme temperature drop, setting the Chadar Trek for the adventurous ice trail that you were looking for.
Daytime lows are often about minus 10, on average. Evening lows range from 20 to 25 below zero.
No. Chadar frozen river trek only demands experienced trekkers with prior experience in extreme physical and mental endurance.
High endurance, good stamina, and above-average health, both physically and mentally are required on this exhilarating trek. Though the trek does not have much elevation, the extreme temperature and the walk over the frozen river make Chadar Trek the toughest trek in India. The trek is challenging yet fun as it moves you out of your comfort zone and makes you trek in the snow desert. While walking on this trek is a daunting task, it can be done well if you plan for it rightly. Make sure you start preparing yourself physically and mentally two-three months before the trek. Not to forget acclimatization, it helps the body to adapt to extreme weather.
Exercise :- Staying
physically fit is very important to get through this trek. One must start
preparing for it 2-3 months in advance, or at least work out daily for a month.
Other important things to do on Chadar Trek include walking practice for 5 km
in 25-30 minutes daily. Combine walks with climbing, holding your breath for 40
seconds, and lunges/squats.
Proper clothes :- It is
of utmost importance to buy proper gear and layers. Surviving in the cold is
not easy and having proper layers to cover yourself is very important. Without
proper clothing to cover yourself, it becomes very risky to survive on this
trek.
Pack efficiently : - As
mentioned earlier, you would have to walk a lot each day on this trek. If you
are lightweight and carry a lighter bag, this will help you in walking quickly
and a longer distance without getting your back and shoulders strained.
Prepare yourself mentally :- Chadar trek is a mentally challenging trek and it is not for the faint-hearted. Prepare your mind that you have to be in cold weather for a very long time which is challenging. You have to act responsibly here with little things like washing your utensils, bearing the cold, and setting up the camps. You have to be mentally fit also to accomplish this trek as this trek offers adventures that are mentally challenging.
Yes, there are sanitary facilities available on the Chadar trek. One can use our dry toilet tents for nature calls.
30 degrees comfortable double-layer Siachen sleeping bags, sleeping mats, and air-breathable 4-season camping tents are provided during the trek.
While trekking in snow, gumboots are the best option to walk in and they can be availed on rent at Leh market.
Due to severe climatic conditions, we avoid solo batches for Chadar frozen river trek. Any solo woman traveller or solo trekker, in general, can join our batches of 6-8 trekkers. It's safe and comforting.
Zanskar river water will be used as
drinking water after boiling. You must fill your thermal flask and only drink
hot water while trekking. Hot water supply time will be communicated with the
trekkers by the trek leader. It will not be possible to make hot water every
time a trekker asks. So, we recommend every trekker fill their thermal flask
when hot water is ready. Do carry your insulated water bottle.
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