The Chadar Trek or the Zanskar Gorge is a winter trail in the Zanskar region of Ladakh, in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Traditionally the only means of travel in the area during the harsh winter months, the trail has become popular with international adventure tourists.

If you are an ardent trekker, then the following information should appeal to you. Are you looking for a new adventure to undertake this holiday season? You should try to find out more about the Chadar trek. It is the name of a one hundred and five kilometer-long route along the frozen Zanskar River. ‘Chadar’ is a Hindi word, and it means a ‘blanket.’ Such a name came from the fact that you have to walk along a bed of ice. The thrill of this trek hits you when you spot the flowing waters of the river under your feet below the ice-sheet.

1. Getting there:

   This topic is an Intro of Chadar Trek that will inform you of everything that you need to know. First of all, you have to reach the Zanskar River, as that is where you will begin your journey. There is no other way to get to the river except through air. The closest airport is Leh and all the flights to Zanskar land before noon. Reaching Chadar Trek won’t be a problem if you prepare yourself well. The temperatures are cold enough to chill your bones. After getting off the aircraft, you will travel to Chilling by road. Once you reach Chilling, you will trek for two hours to get to Tilat Sumdo, the initiation point.

2. Accommodation:

   Since you will be hiking along a frozen river, it is understandable that you won’t find any hotels. Of course, you can enjoy a luxurious Stay at Chadar Trek on the mainland before the adventure begins. As already mentioned, you will cover a total distance of one hundred and five kilometers. You will be walking around fifteen to seventeen kilometers every day and staying in tents. As the trek goes on, the arrangers will set up campsites in caves. Since the climate there is harshly cold, you need to prepare yourself before leaving.

3. The best time:

   The Best time to go to Chadar Trek is in January and February. The trekking season starts on the 15th of January and continues to the end of February. Naturally, you are on a short leash. It is the time when the river’s surface freezes and becomes an exquisite walkway. Snow covers up the surrounding areas turning it into a pristine white hiking trail. However, there are a couple of things that you must know. This trekking expedition happens to be one of the toughest that India has to offer. Snowfall in the winter causes all routes into the Zanskar Valley to shut down. As a result, you have to rely on the frozen river’s pathway to get to your destination.

4. More information:

   Undoubtedly, the best among all the Things to do at Chadar Trek is witnessing the marvels of Mother Nature. Regardless of that fact, you need to prepare yourself well to face the unsettling temperatures. You have to cover most of the distance on foot. Occasionally, you have to climb some slippery rocks and boulders. You must make sure to bring the warmest jackets, sturdiest shoes, and sleeping bags. This trekking trip is challenging but equally rewarding due to the incredible experience it bestows upon the trekkers. The camping conditions will be excruciatingly harsh, and you must prepare yourself both mentally and physically before leaving.

5. Taking care of your tongue:

   It goes without saying that the trek will detach you from the rest of the world. Your fellow trekkers will be the only human beings you will see during the journey. You will be eating everything that you will carry with you in your backpack. However, before and after the trek, you will spend some time in the heavenly Leh Ladakh. You can taste some exquisite and delectable dishes there. Don’t forget to try Thupka, Khambir, Momo, Teemo, etc. These are some of the best Local food at Chadar Trek. You shouldn’t make the mistake of skipping meals during the hike. The temperature will be way below zero-degrees and you need to conserve energy for the walk.

Living on the edge

Yes, it is safe to assume that you’re someone who doesn’t fear living on the edge. That is why you are bold enough to go on the Zanskar trek. You have everything that you need to know on this topic. These include the Tips for viewing Chadar Trek and enjoying it to the fullest. You shouldn’t let the difficulties of the journey to hamper your confidence. You will fall and fail at times, but that is normal. The Other famous places near chadar trek are, of course, Leh and Ladakh. Don’t forget to explore these two picturesque spots before you leave for home.