The Chadar Trek is one of the world’s most challenging and exciting treks. It provides the ideal opportunity to discover a completely new environment in the Zanskar Valley. The Chadar Trek, also known as the Zanskar Gorge, is a winter trek that rises 11,123 feet above sea level. Throughout the summer, people flock to the lower region of this valley for river rafting excursions. During wintertime, the Zanskar River freezes, and hikers flock to this area to appreciate the scenery.
As part of the ‘Chadar’ (ice sheet) trek across the frozen river, visitors and trekkers from around the world enjoy the spectacular scenery and surprises it offers.
What is the ideal time to plan your trek to Chadar?
January and February are the best months to go on this beautiful trekking excursion. Specifically, if you schedule your trip between the 15th of January and the end of February, you will be able to appreciate the unparalleled splendor of Zanskar Valley. The river freezes into a gleaming sheet of ice, and the valleys create a pure white track for trekking adventures. Furthermore, the snow-capped mountains that accompany you all the way shimmer and sparkle in the first rays of the light.
During the day, the temperature in Leh varies between -10 & 0 degrees Celsius. At night, the average temperature is about -25 degree celsius. So, we suggest trekkers carry extra woolen clothing to be warm in this chilly weather.
Chadar Trek: How Difficult Is It?
According to the Chadar trek guide, this is among the country’s most challenging and toughest treks. During the winter, the Zanskar River freezes into a frozen sheet. Zanskar Valley can only be reached by the Chadar Trek. Due to snowfall, all mountain passes are closed, leaving the Chadar or the frozen Zanskar River as the sole options for travel.
January and February are perfect for this walk because the rushing river is harnessed in the bounds of blocks of ice, and the surroundings are all coated in the pure white splendor of snow.
The temperatures are extremely low all day and drop to extremely cold temperatures at night.
Cold weather and challenging camping conditions should be expected during the Zanskar trek. The walk covers around 105 kilometers, most of which is covered on foot. It is also possible that the trekkers will be needed to climb cold rocks and stones.
Because the evenings are spent in caves near the ice river, all participants should bring warm jackets, sturdy shoes, and sleeping bags.
What should you do before your Chadar Trek?
If you plan to do the Chadar Trek, here are a few things you must consider. That will contribute to your pleasure and make your winter trip to Ladakh unforgettable.
There is usually an experienced trekker known as the alpha. This individual takes on the role of trek leader, and you should always follow them. They are acquainted with the entire walk and are also provided with technical expertise that can help other trekkers.
Make sure your loved ones and family members are aware of the itinerary ahead of time. It is usually beneficial to have some company on this journey. If you decide to travel alone, make some friends along the way, so you don’t feel left out.
You must eat nutritious food most of the time so that your body can create the necessary warmth throughout the Chadar Trek. It is essential that you maintain your body hydrated throughout the trip.
To start, a fleece jacket and water-resistant sneakers are recommended. If your clothes become wet, move to a dry location as quickly as possible. Do not rely on others for support; instead, carry a first-aid kit before commencing your lovely winter adventure.
What should you not do on your trek to Chadar?
There are several do’s and don’ts that you must follow during your Chadar Trek. You should not leave any of your food packets in the valley. Keep all food packages in your bag to be a responsible traveler. Do not litter in any way. You should avoid stepping out alone or without telling others.
Make sure you are healthy, so whatever the reason, don’t skip meals or stop sipping water from time to time. Each of these factors is important during the Chadar trek. In any circumstances, never panic. If you believe your body can’t handle it any longer, take a break and then get back to walking. So keep your body comfortable and don’t overdo it. Eat light food on your trek.
Day by Day Itinerary for Chadar Trek in Ladakh:
1st Day: Reach Leh
After you arrive in Leh, you will be transported to the assigned accommodation. The initial day will be dedicated to acclimatizing to the high altitude while staying indoors. This will be important in the coming days. You can stay in a hotel for a night.
2nd Day: Acclimatization
The next day, one may go sightseeing and experience the local highlights of Leh or simply rest at the hotel. Spend the night in a hotel.
3rd Day: Full Body Checkup
You will be escorted to the local hospital in Leh for a health checkup today. It is mandatory to take a medical certificate before starting your Chadar Trek. In addition, following the medical assessment, one must obtain a clearance certificate from the hospital.
This certificate will be provided only if the participant is considered suitable and acclimatized for the trek. Then you can rest at the hotel overnight.
4th Day: Leh to Shingrayokma to Tsomopaldar
Following breakfast, you can drive to the magnificent valleys and see the Indus and Zanskar rivers, which meet at the Nimoo confluence. From Nimoo, you may begin the trip towards the Shingra Yokma road.
At this point, you will disembark and begin your hike to the TsomoPaldar campground; then, you can spend your night in a tent.
5th Day: Tsomo Paldar to Dibb Cave
On day 5, you can begin your journey to the Dibb cave. Going into the deep canyons of the Zanskar valley, you can see towering cliffs on all sides and unspoiled snow.
At the end of the day, you must have arrived in the cave, which is a popular site for locals to explore. Then a camp will be set up for the night here.
6th Day: Dibb Cave to Nyerak
After breakfast, you will pass the picturesque gorges to Nyerak village. The journey will take you through a big ice waterfall that acts as a rest stop for rafting expeditions that take place between August and September.
The tent for today will be put up in Nyerak village so that you can tour the area in the evening. Stay in the tents for the night.
7th Day: Nyerak to Hotang
Today you’ll follow the same route you followed yesterday from Nyerak to Hotang. Enjoy an overnight stay in the tents at the end of the day.
8th Day: Hotang to Shingra Yokma
This is the final day of the hike, and you will leave after breakfast for Shingra Yokma. The expedition will take 9 hours of walking over the hard ice, including a short stop. After the trek, you will be returned to Leh and spend the night at a hotel.
9th Day: Departure from Leh
On the final day of your journey, you will be taken to the airport, where you will begin your travel to your following location.
What types of foods are offered?
The food supplied throughout the expedition is carefully selected and prepared. On the journey, Indian vegetarian and egg meals are typically offered. It is essential that the participants’ food requirements are addressed throughout the walk. The region’s climatic conditions are harsh and distinct from those on the mainland.
Hence, to keep all trekkers in excellent health & energized for the journey ahead, well-cooked veggies and eggs are served. Throughout the walk, and especially when preparing the food, hygiene, and safety are top priorities. As a result, great attention is given when preparing food for the guests.
What items should be included in the Chadar Trek checklist?
Apart from everything else, creating a checklist is essential. Before you go, ensure you have everything in your backpack. Keep in mind that the entire journey takes around eight days. All of the items listed below should be on your Chadar Trek checklist.
- Spiked trekking boots
- Bottles of water
- A fleece jacket to keep you warm
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Hand Sanitizers
- A first-aid kit
- Bags for trash
- AMS medications
- Bars of chocolate
- Warm clothes
- Warm gloves
- A cozy hat
- UV-protection goggles
- Little Snacks
Conclusion
If you’re the type of explorer who ensures everything is noticed, the chadar trek should be on your bucket list. It is not only one of the most incredible winter treks in India, but it is also a fun thing to do. The things stated above should be considered while planning your vacation.
We hope that this comprehensive guide to the magnificent winter trek- Chadar- assists you in remembering all of the necessary details.
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