Chadar Trek: Wildest Trek in India

The Chadar trek or Zanskar George is a winter trail in the Zanskar region of Ladakh, the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Perched at an altitude of 11,150ft a walk on the frozen river will give you a lifetime experience. 

Chadar Trek is walking on the Frozen Zanskar River, is top on the list of every seasoned trekker. It is one of the famous winter treks and also one of the longest trekking trails in the Himalayan region. You will witness pristine white snow, turquoise blue waters, and the red canyon walls all around. The region is also a prime territory for Snow leopards.

The best time to do the Chadar trek starts from mid-January to Mid February. During this time, The Zanskar river freezes and you will walk on the ice spreading miles to miles. Experience the ravishing landscapes of the Himalayan mountains. The temperature drops down to -30 degrees and trekking with chilly breezes and snow-covered mountains will be a breathtaking adventure.

It is a 10-day long trek which starts from Leh and ends back at Leh.

The adventure journey starts with a drive from Leh to Shingra Koma (the starting point of Chadar Trek), the drive will cover the Leh to Zanskar River distance. You will see the majestic sights the cold desert and the confluence of Zanskar and the Indus River. Also the magnetic hill and the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. The trek starts from Gylapo, the first campsite of Chadar trek. Along the way, you will pass by Tilad do and Shingra Koma.

The next destination will be to Tibb Cave from Gylapo( 11,800ft). You will come across some amazing frozen waterfalls and most fascinating rock formations. The trek will give a chance to explore the local life of Zanskari and Leh people. Then, from Tibb Cave to move higher to Nerak (11,150ft). It will be a 13km long trek that will take around 7 hours to complete.

Here, you will see the most awaited sight of the trek: The Nerak Frozen Waterfall, as well as the Nerak Village for some exploration.

Further, the trek will go to Nerak to Tibb Cave at the height of 11,800ft where the trail goes moderate. The beautiful Zanskar River will give you a freezy experience and you feel some slightest change in the temperature. While trekking, avoid slippery patches and be sure of your footing. Choosing the correct camping spot is also extremely important for a safe and enjoyable experience of trekking in Chadar!

 Again Back from Tibb Cave to Shingra Koma and a drive back to Leh. 

From 2019, the local administration of Leh has made some important rules and procedural changes to save human lives, environment and ecology of the fragile region that says, it is mandatory for a trekker, tour operators, tourists  to undergo a medical examination at SNM Hospital before undertaking this difficult yet thrilling adventure in the Himalayas. One should have all the permits to do trekking in the region. As, Chadar trek is brilliantly beautiful yet a challenging one.

Transportation Facilities available to reach Chadar Trek are:-

The road connectivity is not good in Leh and Zanskar and expected to be maintained in the next couple of years. In Winters, it is impossible to reach Leh via roadways or railways. Traveling by air will be a good choice. You will get a direct flight from Delhi, Srinagar, and Jammu to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh. 

Chadar Trek is not an easy trek So, one has to take proper measures and should have knowledge about the trek. 

• Beginners are not allowed to do this trek. As it is difficult yet dangerous trek only experienced trekkers can do this trek. 

• Start exercising before several weeks of the trek. Mountain sickness is one of the major issues trekkers face while trekking in higher altitudes. Do yoga make your lungs strong. You should have good stamina and strength for this trek. 

• Everyone as I mentioned above has to undergo the medical examination. This will help the administration to know that you are fit to do this trek or not.

• If anybody falls ill in between the trek, then he/she should be taken back safely by the rescue team of your tour operator but it includes extra charges.

• Carry minimum weight when you trek into the mountains and keep the necessary things with you. Gum Boots, all-important trekking gears.

• It is advised that people who are suffering from any kind of disease or medical issue like asthma, not to do this trek.

• Keep an adequate amount of water and always something to eat like chocolates, chikki, energy bars, etc.

• Do this trek with a certified and experienced trek leader. And strictly follow their instructions.

• Do not litter keep the environment.

Do this Adventure Trek and Have an amazing thrilling experience. A frozen walk into the Himalayas will give you goosebumps. Trekkers, take out time from your busy schedule and plan this adventure trek.

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