Chadar Frozen River Trek
The Chadar Trek is one of the most thrilling and unique treks in the world, offering an unforgettable journey across the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh. This challenging winter trek, also known as the “Frozen River Trek,” is a test of endurance, as trekkers navigate through sub-zero temperatures and walk on ice-covered pathways for days. Starting in Leh, the trek takes you deep into the dramatic Zanskar gorge, where towering cliffs and frozen waterfalls create a surreal landscape.
The highlight of the trek is reaching the iconic Nerak waterfall, a frozen cascade of ice that seems to defy time itself. Along the way, trekkers encounter the remote and isolated beauty of Ladakh’s winter wilderness, with stunning ice formations and the absolute silence of nature surrounding them. The trek requires careful acclimatization due to the high altitude and extreme conditions, but the rewards are immense—a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a profound sense of accomplishment.
Whether you’re an avid trekker or someone seeking a unique challenge, the Chadar Trek offers an unparalleled journey into one of the most remote and captivating regions of the Himalayas.
25,500 Per person + 5% GST (Leh to Leh)
Offloading service is available at a rate of ₹1000 per day per bag,
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Trek Itinerary
Altitude: 11,482 ft (3,500 m)
Trekking Distance: None (Arrival day)
Highlight of the Day: Acclimatization begins at Leh, a high-altitude city rich in history and culture.
Stay: Guest house in Leh
As you step out of the plane at Leh airport, the crisp mountain air and clear blue skies greet you, offering a sneak peek of the adventure ahead. Leh, nestled in the high reaches of the Ladakh region, feels like stepping into a different world—a mix of ancient Buddhist monasteries, bustling bazaars, and snow-capped peaks. After checking into your cozy guest house, you have the day to relax and let your body adjust to the altitude. As you stroll through Leh’s narrow streets, the excitement of the upcoming trek builds, but today is all about soaking in the local culture and resting for the journey ahead.
Altitude: 11,482 ft (3,500 m)
Trekking Distance: None
Highlight of the Day: Acclimatization is crucial for adjusting to the altitude.
Stay: Guest house in Leh
Today is your chance to truly prepare for the trek. Acclimatization might sound like a day off, but it’s vital to your success on the Chadar Trek. As your body slowly adjusts to the high altitude, you can explore Leh’s surroundings at a leisurely pace. Perhaps you’ll visit the serene Thiksey Monastery, perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the Indus Valley. The giant Maitreya Buddha statue inside the monastery brings a sense of peace. In the afternoon, sip a cup of hot butter tea while watching the snow-capped Stok Kangri in the distance. It’s a quiet day, but one filled with anticipation.
Altitude: 11,482 ft (3,500 m)
Trekking Distance: None
Highlight of the Day: Another day to fully adjust to the altitude.
Stay: Guest house in Leh
Your second full day of acclimatization allows you to continue adjusting to Leh’s altitude. The local markets buzz with activity as travelers and locals alike barter over woolen goods, prayer flags, and handcrafted items. You may decide to take a short drive to visit the ancient Spituk Monastery or wander through the Hall of Fame museum, honoring India’s brave soldiers. Today is your final day in Leh before heading into the frozen wilderness, so it’s a good time to double-check your gear, pack your essentials, and mentally prepare for the adventure that lies ahead. The evening sky over Leh, dotted with stars, seems to whisper promises of the frozen river trek that awaits.
Altitude: Leh (11,482 ft) to Shingra Koma (10,547 ft) via Bakula (10,547 ft)
Driving Distance: 65 km, approx. 3-4 hours
Trekking Distance: 1-2 km, easy walk to acclimatize
Highlight of the Day: First steps on the frozen Zanskar River.
Stay: Camping at Shingra Koma
Your adventure officially begins! A scenic drive from Leh through winding mountain roads takes you deep into the Zanskar region. As the rugged cliffs and frozen rivers come into view, the enormity of the landscape leaves you in awe. Upon reaching Bakula, you step out into a world unlike anything you’ve ever experienced—vast, frozen, and silent. The first steps on the Chadar, or “frozen river,” feel surreal. As you walk on the ice, the crunch underfoot becomes familiar, and the towering walls of the Zanskar gorge seem to guide you along. By evening, you reach your campsite at Shingra Koma, where you’ll spend your first night under the stars. The fire crackles softly, casting a warm glow as you tuck into your tent for the night, dreaming of the icy wonders yet to come.
Altitude: Shingra Koma (10,547 ft) to Tibb (10,728 ft)
Trekking Distance: 14 km, approx. 6-7 hours
Highlight of the Day: Stunning frozen waterfalls and towering cliffs.
Stay: Camping near Tibb Cave
The trek truly begins as you set out from Shingra Koma. The frozen Zanskar River stretches out before you like a glassy highway, surrounded by towering canyon walls. Every step brings you deeper into this frozen wilderness. Along the way, you pass magnificent frozen waterfalls, their icicles glinting in the sunlight, and narrow gorges where the ice seems to shift underfoot. The day is long, but the scenery keeps your spirits high. By late afternoon, you arrive at Tibb Cave, a natural shelter in the mountains. As night falls and the temperature drops, you huddle by the campfire, sharing stories and laughter under the vast night sky.
Altitude: Tibb (10,728 ft) to Nerak (11,154 ft)
Trekking Distance: 12 km, approx. 7 hours
Highlight of the Day: Iconic Nerak frozen waterfall.
Stay: Camping at Nerak
Today’s trek takes you to one of the highlights of the Chadar Trek—the famous frozen Nerak waterfall. The trail becomes more challenging as you navigate narrower sections of the river, with cliffs looming above and the frozen river shimmering below. As you approach Nerak, the waterfall comes into view, a majestic cascade of ice frozen in time. It’s a sight that leaves everyone speechless. After marveling at the waterfall, you trek a little further to the small village of Nerak, where you set up camp for the night. This is the coldest night of the trek, but the beauty of the frozen landscape makes it all worthwhile.
Altitude: Nerak (11,154 ft) to Tibb (10,728 ft)
Trekking Distance: 12 km, approx. 6-7 hours
Highlight of the Day: Retracing your steps along the frozen Zanskar River.
Stay: Camping near Tibb Cave
As you retrace your steps back to Tibb, the ice formations seem to have shifted overnight, reminding you of the ever-changing nature of the Chadar. You walk through the same frozen landscapes, yet everything feels slightly different. The silence of the gorge is almost meditative, broken only by the occasional crack of ice beneath your boots. By the time you reach Tibb, it feels like a familiar refuge, a place where the stories of the day are shared around a warm fire. The connection with the group and the bond with nature deepens as you prepare for the final stretch of the trek.
Altitude: Tibb (10,728 ft) to Bakula (10,547 ft), drive to Leh (11,482 ft)
Trekking Distance: 14 km, approx. 6-7 hours
Driving Distance: 65 km, approx. 3-4 hours
Highlight of the Day: Completing the Chadar Trek and the drive back to Leh.
Stay: Guest house in Leh
The final day of trekking is bittersweet. The ice beneath your feet feels more familiar than ever, and the towering cliffs seem like old friends. As you reach Bakula, the feeling of accomplishment washes over you—you’ve just completed one of the most unique treks in the world! The drive back to Leh feels almost like returning to civilization after a journey through another world. Back at your guest house in Leh, a hot shower and a warm meal await, offering a sense of comfort after days of adventure on the frozen river.
Altitude: 11,482 ft (3,500 m)
Trekking Distance: None
Highlight of the Day: Departure day.
Stay: None (Departure)
With memories of the frozen Zanskar River and the towering cliffs still fresh in your mind, you prepare to leave Leh. The adventure may be over, but the stories of the Chadar Trek will stay with you forever. As you make your way to the airport, the vastness of the Himalayas fades in the distance, but the experiences and friendships forged on this icy journey remain with you. You depart with a heart full of gratitude and a deep connection to Ladakh’s frozen beauty.
Inclusion
1.Accommodation in Leh on Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, and Day 8 in a hotel with twin/triple sharing basis.
2.Twin-sharing camping during the trek.
3.All meals from lunch on Day 4 to lunch on Day 8.
4.Trekking gear including dome tents (twin sharing), high-quality Siachen sleeping bags, and sleeping mattresses.
5.Safety equipment like helmets, gaiters, harnesses, and carabiners as required.
6.Certified and experienced trek leader with first aid training.
7.Professional guide, cook, and support staff throughout the trek.
8.Transport to and from the trek starting point from Leh.
Exclusion
1.Meals during your hotel stay in Leh.
2.Any medical examination expenses in Leh.
3.Gum boots are not provided; please bring your own or purchase them in Leh.
4.Inner Line Permit fee.
5.Personal expenses of any kind.
6.Outdoor insurance of any kind.
7.Porter services for carrying personal luggage.
8.Anything not explicitly mentioned in the “Price Includes” section.
9.ALTOA & Environmental/Wildlife Permit Fee, approximately ₹6,000 to ₹8,000, payable directly to the authorities on-site.
Cancellations made more than 30 days before the trek start date: 95% refund of the trek cost, minus any transaction charges or service fees incurred.
Cancellations made between 15-30 days before the trek start date: 50% refund of the trek cost, minus any transaction charges or service fees incurred.
Cancellations made less than 15 days before the trek start date: No refund will be provided.
Refunds will be processed within 7-14 business days from the date of cancellation.
Refunds will be made through the same mode of payment used for the booking.
Any transaction charges or service fees incurred during the booking process are non-refundable.
For bookings, you will have to pay 50% of the total amount as advance for booking the package.
Balance amount has to be paid at least 15 days before the trip.
After advance payment, you will receive a confirmation email on the same day of booking with all details and cancellation policy too.
Know more about Trek..
Clothing:
1. Base Layer (Moisture-wicking thermal wear):
- 2 pairs of full-sleeve thermal tops and bottoms (preferably wool or synthetic).
- Avoid cotton as it retains moisture, which can lead to discomfort in cold temperatures.
2. Insulation Layer (Fleece/Down Jacket):
- 2 fleece jackets or sweaters to provide warmth.
- 1 high-quality down jacket with a hood (essential for evenings and mornings).
3. Outer Layer (Waterproof and Windproof Shell):
- 1 waterproof, windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar material) to protect against snow and wind.
- 1 pair of waterproof pants (Gore-Tex or equivalent) to prevent freezing from moisture.
4. Trekking Pants:
- 2 pairs of warm, quick-drying trekking pants. You can wear thermals underneath for added warmth.
5. Gloves:
- 1 pair of inner gloves (wool or synthetic).
- 1 pair of insulated, waterproof outer gloves (high-quality to withstand freezing temperatures).
6. Headgear:
- 1 warm woolen or fleece beanie (covering ears).
- 1 balaclava or neck gaiter for face protection against the cold.
- Sunglasses (with UV protection, category 3 or 4) to shield eyes from the bright reflection of sunlight on ice.
7. Socks:
- 4-5 pairs of woolen or synthetic trekking socks (keep feet warm and dry).
- 2 pairs of liner socks (optional for added warmth and protection from blisters).
8. Footwear:
- Gum Boots: Essential for walking on the ice, they help keep your feet dry and warm. Buy them in Leh or carry your own.
- 1 pair of insulated trekking shoes (optional for use in Leh or camp areas).
- Comfortable sandals or flip-flops (for use at the campsite).
Trekking Equipment:
- Backpack (50-60L): Sturdy, water-resistant with good back support for carrying essentials.
- Daypack (20L-30L): A smaller backpack for personal items, water, and snacks during the day’s trek.
- Trekking Poles: Essential for balance and support on the ice.
- Microspikes or Crampons: Optional but helpful for added traction on slippery surfaces.
- Water Bottle or Hydration System: Insulated bottle to prevent water from freezing, or a water bladder with insulation. (Minimum 2 liters).
Personal Items:
- Water Purification Tablets: In case you need to purify stream water.
- Trekking Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, chocolates, or glucose-based snacks to keep energy levels up.
- Headlamp (with extra batteries): Essential for night use at the camps.
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+): UV rays are strong at high altitudes, even in winter.
- Lip Balm (with SPF): To prevent chapped lips.
- Wet Wipes and Tissue Paper: For hygiene in the absence of running water.
- Hand Warmers and Foot Warmers: These are extremely helpful during the cold nights.
First Aid Kit:
- Basic Medicines: For headaches, altitude sickness, colds, and stomach issues.
- Blister Kit: Band-aids, Compeed, or other blister treatment supplies.
- Personal Medications: If you have specific medical conditions, ensure you have enough supplies.
Toiletries:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and travel-sized toiletries (soap, moisturizer, etc.).
- Hand sanitizer.
- Travel towel (quick-dry).
Important Documents:
- Government ID/Passport: For permits and check-ins.
- Inner Line Permit: Usually arranged by your trekking operator.
- Copies of Permits and ID: Always have extra copies.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure it covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuations.
Miscellaneous:
- Camera (with spare batteries): Cold weather drains batteries quickly, so carry extras.
- Power Banks: For charging electronic devices.
- Extra Plastic Bags: For waterproofing items inside your backpack and for storing wet clothes.
- Notebook and Pen: Optional, but useful for journaling or recording your adventure.
- Trash Bags: To ensure you leave no waste on the trail.
Optional Items:
- Duct Tape: For any repairs or quick fixes on gear.
- Safety Pins/Needle and Thread: For gear repair or clothing emergencies.
- Book/Kindle: For some reading during rest days or evenings.
- Small Lock: For securing your bags in Leh.
Pro Tips:
- Layering is Key: Always dress in layers, so you can adjust your clothing based on the changing temperatures.
- Waterproofing: Ensure all your items are well-protected from snow or rain, as moisture can quickly freeze in these temperatures.
- Gum Boots are Essential: They will keep your feet warm and dry while trekking on the icy river.
1.This trek requires excellent physical endurance. Trekkers should be able to walk long distances on ice (12-15 km a day) while carrying their daypack.
2.Though not mandatory, previous high-altitude trekking experience is recommended. Trekkers should be familiar with walking on uneven terrain and handling the cold.
3.The temperatures during the trek can drop to -30°C, so participants must be comfortable in extreme cold conditions and able to maintain body heat.
4.Those with respiratory issues, heart problems, or severe asthma should avoid this trek due to the high altitude and extreme temperatures.
5.Trekkers should not have a history of altitude sickness and must acclimatize properly in Leh before the trek to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
6.The trek involves walking on ice sheets for multiple days, staying in remote camps, and dealing with harsh conditions. Mental strength is key to overcoming the physical demands and the isolation of the region.
The trek typically spans 8 days, covering about 80 km (50 miles) with altitudes reaching up to 5,260 meters (17,260 feet) at Kongmaru La. The journey involves 5-7 hours of trekking daily, with varying terrain, including ascents, descents, and river crossings.
Physical Fitness
To prepare for the trek, focus on building your endurance. Incorporate the following into your training routine:
Cardio Exercises: Aim for 30-45 minutes of running, cycling, or swimming at least 4-5 times a week.
Long Walks: Practice walking 10-15 km on weekends, gradually increasing the distance.
Strength Training
Strengthening your legs and core will enhance your trekking experience:
Leg Exercises: Include squats, lunges, and step-ups in your routine.
Core Workouts: Focus on planks, crunches, and back extensions to improve stability.
Flexibility
Incorporate stretching or yoga sessions to enhance flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness.
Acclimatization
Spend at least 2-3 days in Leh before the trek to acclimatize to high altitudes. Engage in light activities such as short hikes or exploring the local area. Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol during this period is crucial.
By Air:
Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL): The most convenient way to reach Leh is by air. Several airlines operate direct flights to Leh from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. The flight offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges.
By Road:
From Manali: The Manali-Leh highway is open from May to October. This scenic route is approximately 490 km and takes about 2 days to travel. It involves crossing high mountain passes, including Rohtang Pass and Baralacha La.
From Srinagar: The Srinagar-Leh highway is approximately 420 km and offers beautiful landscapes. It usually takes about 2 days to complete the journey, with overnight stops in places like Sonamarg or Kargil. This route is generally open from April to October.
By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: The nearest major railway station is Jammu Tawi (approximately 700 km from Leh). From Jammu, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Leh via Srinagar or Manali.
Local Transport:
Once in Leh, local taxis, auto-rickshaws, and bike rentals are available for exploring the city and nearby attractions.
Departure Dates
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F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Chadar Trek is a winter trek across the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh, India. The word “Chadar” means “blanket” in Hindi, referring to the thick sheet of ice that covers the river during the harsh winter months. This trek is famous for its challenging conditions and breathtaking landscapes of frozen waterfalls and towering gorges.
The Chadar Trek is considered challenging due to the extreme cold and the fact that trekkers walk on ice for several days. Temperatures can drop to -20°C or lower, and good physical fitness is required. Prior trekking experience is helpful but not essential, provided you are prepared for harsh winter conditions.
The best time for the Chadar Trek is between mid-January to mid-February, when the river is fully frozen, and the ice is stable enough for trekking.
The trek typically covers around 60-70 km over 6-7 days. Daily walking distances vary from 10 to 15 km, depending on ice conditions and altitude.
The highest altitude on the trek is around 11,150 feet at the Nerak waterfall, which is the trek’s main highlight.
Temperatures during the trek can drop to as low as -20°C to -30°C at night, while daytime temperatures hover around -10°C to -15°C. Proper winter gear is essential to handle the cold.
Accommodation during the trek is basic and consists of twin-sharing dome tents. In Leh, trekkers stay in hotels on a twin or triple-sharing basis. Campsites are set up along the Zanskar River, and all camping gear is provided.
Meals during the trek are simple and nutritious, typically including vegetarian food like rice, dal, chapati, and vegetables. Packed lunches are provided during trekking hours, and hot beverages like tea and soup are served at campsites to help combat the cold.
Yes, acclimatization is crucial due to the high altitude of Leh (11,500 feet) and the cold weather conditions. Trekkers should spend 2-3 days in Leh before starting the trek to properly adjust to the altitude.
Essential gear includes insulated clothing layers, gum boots (for walking on ice), a high-quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, thermal wear, gloves, woolen caps, and sunglasses to protect against the bright reflection of the sun on the snow and ice.
Yes, gum boots are essential for walking on the icy surface. The ice can be slippery, and there may be sections where trekkers need to wade through shallow water. Gum boots help keep your feet dry and warm.
Trek leaders are certified in first aid, and essential safety gear such as helmets, harnesses, and gaiters are provided. Additionally, emergency evacuation plans are in place if needed. It is advised to get comprehensive travel insurance before embarking on the trek.
There are no charging facilities during the trek. It’s recommended to carry extra batteries and power banks for your camera or phone, as batteries tend to drain faster in cold temperatures.
There is no mobile network coverage along the Chadar Trek route. Once you leave Leh, you will be out of signal range for the duration of the trek.
Yes, permits are mandatory for the Chadar Trek, including an Inner Line Permit and ALTOA (All Ladakh Tour Operators Association) fees, as well as an Environmental/Wildlife Permit. These are usually arranged through your trekking operator.
Dress in multiple layers, including thermal base layers, fleece jackets, down jackets, and waterproof outer layers. Carry high-quality gloves, socks, and a woolen cap. Use a Siachen-rated sleeping bag at night to stay warm in sub-zero temperatures.
