Chadar Trek

Overview:

Imagine walking on a frozen river at an altitude of 11,000 ft. for around 6 hours a day. Fascinating, isn’t it? That’s the Chadar Trek - one of the must-experience Himalayan treks in the world! During your 9 days journey, you will have one of the most thrilling experiences ever, starting from trekking on hard ice & fresh snow to camping in sub-zero temperatures. A trek leader will be there to guide you during the trek and help you with insightful tips to enhance your experience. Surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas, the frozen river Chadar trek offers some of the most breathtaking views and provides you with an experience that you will cherish for life.

Quick Info:

• Chadar River Trek Duration: 9D/8N
• Chadar Trek Distance:  62 km
• Maximum Altitude: 11,123ft
• Difficulty Level: Difficult 
• Chadar Trek Temperature: -5 to -15 degrees (during the day) and -15 to -25 degrees (during the night)
• Chadar Trek Best Time: Early January - Early February.
• Start and End Point of the Trek: Guest House in Leh.
• Nearest Airport: Leh airport. (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport)
• Last ATM: Leh Market and Airport.

How to Reach Leh :

The easiest way to travel to Leh is by air. The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) located in Leh. This airport is connected with many international airports in India like Delhi. It also receives flights from Srinagar, Jammu, Chandigarh, and other common destinations in India.

About Chadar Trek:

• Arrive at Leh as per your scheduled date and get ready for the exhilarating Chadar Trek experience.
• Spend 2 days in Leh and get ample rest to let your body acclimatize to the harsh cold weather. You can use this time to explore the local markets and experience the Ladakhi culture.
• Once your medical check-up and all the necessary precautions are taken, you will begin your journey from Leh to Shingra Koma, which is the starting point of the trek.
• During your journey from Leh to Shingra Koma, you can pass by some of the popular tourist spots like Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, and the confluence of the Zanskar & Indus.
• Your car will drop you where the road ends and this is where the fun begins. Trek for around 11 km, checking the steadiness of the ice with your walking stick and planning every step with cautiousness.
• Reach your first campsite at Gyalpo, where you will get the chilling experience of camping in sub-zero temperatures. The breathtaking view of the snow-covered mountains will leave you waiting in excitement for the next day.
• The next day, trek for about 12 km from Gyalpo to Tibb Cave. The picturesque landscapes of frozen waterfalls and the emerald green waters of the Zanskar flowing right beside you are the highlights of the day.
• Then comes the most awaited day of the trek. Hike your way up to Naerak - one of the most scenic landmark of the frozen river Chadar trek and see the beautiful frozen waterfalls.
• Camp overnight in the most spine-chilling weather that goes as below as -30 degrees.
• The trek will continue for 2 more days wherein you will head back from Naerak to Tibb Cave and Tibb Cave to Shingra Yokma.
• Your trek will end at Shingra Yokma with the last glimpses of the majestic Chadar. From here, you will be driven back to Leh, where you can spend the night in a warm guest house with the chilling memories of Chadar. 

Chadar Trek Inclusions:

1. 4 Night Accommodation in Leh, that is 2 Night Room and 2 Night Camping at Leh guest house on Double/Triple sharing.
2. Camp stay and Vegetarian Meals while on trek (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner). Breakfast on day 4 to celebratory dinner on day 8 in Leh.
3. We believe that roughing it out necessarily doesn’t mean sleeping in smelly sleeping bags, compromising on safety by using low-quality equipment, and having unappetizing meals. We focus on your safety, basic comforts, and the environment while camping.
4. First aid medical kits, Oxy Meter, because anyone can get hurt during an adventure (our guides are certified in handling first aid situations)
5. Qualified & experienced trek Leader, Guide, and Support staff to help trekkers.
6. Transport from Leh to Road ahead (on Day 4) and return (on Day 8).
7. Porters for carrying common equipments (like rations/tents/utensils/groceries)
8. The facility of keeping extra luggage at Leh when leaving for Chadar Frozen River Trek.
9. Handpicked Supporting Staff of multiple guides/helpers for the group. This will ensure high safety, accurate information, and personal attention which is necessary for this trek. We will be putting you in the hands of qualified & professional trek leaders, guides, and support staff with multiple years of experience.
10. An option to opt for an alternate experience "Flavour of Ladakh" on a first come first basis for the first five trekkers in the group. The option can be availed between Day 1 to Morning on Day 4.
11. As the Chadar winter trek takes place at a high altitude, a big oxygen cylinder (15 ltr) will be carried throughout the trek for any kind of emergency.
12. Keeping this in mind, the following equipment is provided on the trek:

• Sleeping Bags ( Multi-layered Sleeping bags capable of upto -25 Degree )
• Good Quality Sleeping Tents so the cold doesn’t bite.
• Thick Camping Mattresses provide good insulation between your body & cold ground.
• Kitchen Tents with proper dining arrangements, so you can eat in peace.
• Toilet Tents pitched at the campsite.

Tips for Chadar Trek:

• Acclimatize to the high altitude before starting the trek.
• Wear multiple layers of warm clothes to combat sub-zero temperatures.
• Carry good quality trekking shoes with excellent grip to walk on the icy surface.
• Use crampons to avoid slipping and sliding on the ice.
• Stay hydrated by drinking water and hot fluids frequently.
• Carry a sleeping bag and use it to stay warm at night.
• Avoid overexerting yourself, as it can lead to fatigue and altitude sickness.
• Follow the guide's instructions carefully, and do not stray from the designated route.
• Carry a small first aid kit and any necessary medication.
• Respect the environment and do not leave any trash or waste behind.