Ladakh is no less than a heavenly kingdom for all the nature lovers. It is blessed with the most exotic trekking destinations. Chadar Trek is one of them in the Himalayas at an altitude of 11150 ft. Chadar Trek feels like an expedition to the North Pole, where the temperature drops down to – 30 degrees at night. This Trek offer you with every element of Zankari traditions which is close to the local people you meet on the journey and experience their welcoming. Blessed with the picturesque mountain peaks, azure lakes, glaciers, rivers and due to the formation of thick blanket of snow as we can see with the name “Chadar Trek” it is considered to be the most challenging treks in the world. This trek will also lead you to other several points on the way like Tibb Cave and the Naerak where you will see the frozen waterfalls which looks stunning and mesmerizing. The most attractive thing about the trek is its calm and peaceful environment.
The ideal time to visit for Chadar trek in Leh Ladakh is from January to mid-February, that is when the Zanskar river freezes and you get to walk on massive slabs of ice spreading for miles and miles. The serene and the whole experience will make you stun and fill your hearts with amazement Chadar Trek beats this creativity of mind to produce something which is far more incredible and astonishing than a regular mountain trek.Thus, the journey to Chadar Frozen River Trek is very appealing and shall entice your heart and mind forever.
Chadar Trek Itinerary
Day 1 – Reporting Day at Leh
So here starts the trekking journey of Chadar Trek Leh Ladakh. If you are taking a flight to Leh then you can explore the mesmerizing beauty all around surrounded by snow-covered mountains. The temperature will go down as you land at the Leh Airport. You will experience a grand welcome at the hotel. Then, rest, adapt and acclimatize yourself before indulging in any physical activities and mainly the climate of the high altitude region. Staying overnight at Leh.
Day 2 – Acclimatization in Leh
Today is the Acclimatization Day because of the high altitude sickness and health issues of travellers. Before you proceed to Chadar Trek, spend 2 days in Leh to adapt, acclimatize yourself before doing any physical activities. Also, the temperature goes down and chilly weather conditions it is advised for every trekkers to follow this rule. You can explore the nearby locations. Overnight at Leh.
Day 3 – Medical Test in Leh
The next day is your medical test which will decide whether you move forward or not. Early morning reached the Medical Camp because of the rush of travellers there. Insurance formalities will also be completed by afternoon. Please note that if your medical test results shows that you are not fit enough then you can’t travel to Chadar Trek.
Day 4 – Drive to Shingra Koma and Trek to Bakula Cave ( 4-5 hrs drive and 1 hr trek)
After having breakfast we will move to Bakula Cave. The name of the Shingra gets it’s name from plenty of plants known as Shingra. Enroute, pay a visit to Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, Magnetic Hills, convergence of Zanskar Sangam and Sindhu River. As we continue our journey passing through Shingra Koma, we will arrive at our campsite in Gyalpo. You will see many camps, snow-capped high peaks, beautiful scenery all around. Spend night at campsite at Shingra/Bakula and enjoy dinner.
Day 5 – Bakula Cave to Tibb Trek ( 7-8 hrs )
Early morning by 7 AM, have breakfast and get ready for the long trail from Zanskar range and it’s dazzling beauty. You will witness many caves in these mountain ranges. You can explore these caves along with frozen waterfalls and popular fables. Soon you will close to Tibb Trek, it is a shelter of all the porters, enjoy butter tea with them. This will be the most memorable experience one can have. Staying overnight at camps allotted to you.
Day 6 – Tibb Cave to Naerak Camp Trek ( 6-7 hrs )
We will proceed to Naerak Camp Trek which is 13 kms long and will take you to the Chadar Frozen River Trek. It is a paradise for the trekkers not in India but all over the world. In the afternoon lunch will be provided at Naerak.
Naerak is the coldest among all the campsites as the temperature goes down to – 30 degrees at night. It is recommended to bring warm clothes, inners and caps to manage in this cold situation. Once you reach the waterfall on time, you will also get a chance to explore Naerak Village which is at a distance of 15 to 20 minutes from the waterfall. Staying overnight at Naerak Camp.
Day 7 – Naerak to Tibb Cave Trek ( 6-7 hrs )
The next day we have to go to Tibb Trek. The journey of coming back will be quite different as the river react to any changes in temperature. You can enjoy stunning views of the valleys and take photographs for the memories. Exploring local culture we will move to Tibb and staying overnight in tents.
Day 8 – Tibb Cave to Shingra Koma and then drive to Leh ( 70 kms )
Early morning you will witness the incredible beauty of Chadar Trek which is now melted, the layers got thin, rocks are visible. We will move back to Shingra Koma and way back to Leh. Overnight stay at Leh.
Day 9 – Departure from Leh
This is the last day of the Chadar Trek expedition. Go to the airport and board flight. You will fly back to home after such an extraordinary journey of Chadar Trek Leh Ladakh with Spiti Adventure.
Chadar Trek FAQ
What is the ideal time to go for Chadar Trek?
The ideal time to visit for Chadar trek in Leh Ladakh is from mid-January to mid-February, that is when the Zanskar river freezes and you get to walk on massive slabs of ice spreading for miles and miles.
What is the difficulty level of Chadar Trek?
The difficulty level is easy to moderate as compared to other high altitude treks.
How much distance we have to cover each day on the Trek?
We will cover approx 9 to 14 kms each day between our camp locations.
How cold the temperature gets in Chadar Trek?
The toughest challenge for every trekkers is to go through the extremely low temperature in day and night as well. The minimum temperature goes down to – 30 degrees Celsius. During day the average temperature goes down to – 18 degrees Celsius. On a bright sunny day it will goes down to – 5 degrees Celsius. The temperature ranges from – 10 degrees Celsius to – 15 degrees Celsius.
What is the status of network connectivity and accessibility of communication at Chadar?
You will only get network connectivity in Leh Ladakh. The small villages of the region have satellite phone installed by the government. Minimal charges have to be paid for this services. Though, the connectivity is not reliable.
What are the essential items to carry with us?
It is very essential to bring the medicines as prescribed by your doctor. You have face chilly weather so bring warm clothes, inners and caps. For your gadgets carry your own charger or camera batteries. Also you bring energy drinks, dry fruits, chocolates that gives you energy.
What kind of accommodation facilities are available during Chadar Trek?
There are numerous accommodation facilities available that includes various guest houses, hotels, hostels, camps, homestays. You don’t have to face much difficulty finding the perfect accommodation ad per your own wish and it is also mentioned in the Itinerary.
Is alcohol and smoking allowed during the Chadar Trek?
No, It can make you sick. In any such situation we need to go down to Leh. So it is advised not to take in alcohol and no to smoking.
What type of shoes are recommended for the Trek?
It is advised to bring good trekking shoes because it is very important to wear during the Trek.
Do I have to carry a fleece jacket or a down jacket for the Trek?
Yes, you have to carry both a fleece jacket and down jacket for the Trek. It is going to be extremely cold during the trekking journey. In the evening you will definitely need a good down jacket.
Should we prepare for physical fitness or what are the challenges that we might face there?
One should be fit enough, for that you can start working out that includes some cardio, swimming, running, yoga. If you are an office person and have to sit for hours at the desk then make sure that your heart and lungs get used to working out so that you might not face any sudden variations for your body.
