The Chadar Trek or the Zanskar Gorge trek is a winter trail over the frozen Zanskar River, which lies in the Indian union territory of Ladakh. It is traditionally the only means of travel in the area during the harsh winter months
Chadar trek, Ladakh is one of the most popular winter treks in India and one of the most glamorous treks in the world. This trek is considered to be highly difficult as it requires to trek on the frozen Zanskar river in extreme temperatures ranging between -15°C and -30°C. The word “Chadar” means a blanket, referring to the white ice sheets of the frozen river. Zanskar river flows through a steep canyon between Chilling and Zanskar Valley. The locals have been traditionally using this route for trade in winters as the road to Zanskar Valley is blocked due to snowfall. Over the years, the adventurers started walking on the frozen river, making it one of the most beautiful winters treks in India.
Overview
The Chadar trek starts from a point where the current road ends, somewhere between Chilling and Tilad Sumdo. The 7-days trekking route (with a buffer day) goes upto a village called Nerak and back. Tilat Sumdo – Shingra Koma – Tibb – Nerak – Shingra Koma – Tilat Sumdo. The longer village Lingshed and back takea round 11 days of trekking from Tilat Sumdo. The trekking distance for Chadar trek from Chilling to Nerak and back is around 105 kms, requiring 15-16 kms of walk per day. This trek is almost a flat walk starting an altitude of 3170m and reaching the higher camp at Nerak at 3400m. However, it is considered to be a difficult trek due to the harsh weather conditions. Thorough physical as well as mental preparation for Chadar Trek is highly recommended. Climate Crisis is a reality and it is affecting our natural resources. Melting of the frozen Zanskar river in Ladakh in winters is posing a serious threat to trekkers each year, making it extremely difficult to complete the Chadar Trek.Trek Essentials
- Backpack with rain cover
- Personal Medical Kit
- 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter.
- Wind stopper / Fleece jacket
- Thermal inner (Upper and Lower)
- Head torch
- UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles - (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses
