Max Altitude
11,100 FT
Grade
Difficult
Duration
8 Days
Trekking KM.
62 KM
Suitable for: | Serious trekkers who want to experience extremely cold temperatures |
Experience: | Experience of any high altitude trek, at least 1 treks of 3,000m/9,843ft. |
Fitness: | Sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes |
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Trek Info
The Chadar Frozen Trek, located in the northernmost part of India in the region of Ladakh, is one of the worlds most iconic and challenging treks. The trek takes adventurers on an extraordinary journey along the frozen Zanskar River offering a unique opportunity to explore the starkly beautiful and remote landscapes of Ladakh, complete with breathtaking ice formations and an incredible cultural experience.
The Chadar Trek takes place in the Zanskar region of Ladakh, India. The trek begins near the village of Chilling and extends through the frozen Zanskar River. The Chadar Frozen Trek occurs during the coldest months of the year, typically from January to February when the Zanskar River freezes over. This is the only time when its possible to undertake this unique adventure. Winter temperatures in the Zanskar region can plummet well below freezing, often reaching as low as -30°C (-22°F) during the night.
For those seeking a rare and challenging experience in the Himalayas, Chadar Trek is the ultimate choice.
The trek takes you through a surreal frozen wonderland, where the Zanskar River transforms into a solid ice sheet. Trekking on the Chadar, or frozen riverbed, is a remarkable experience.
Nerak Waterfall, often referred to as Nerak Waterfall Camp, is a significant milestone on the Chadar Frozen Trek. This awe-inspiring site is a cascade of frozen ice that has formed as a result of the chilling temperatures in the Zanskar region.
Tibb Cave is another remarkable feature along the Chadar Trek. It s a naturally formed overhang in the rocky cliffs along the frozen river. This natural shelter provides trekkers with a respite from the biting cold and wind, offering a place to rest, warm up, and even prepare meals.
Health Awareness
Government Employees {SCL}
Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when you join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and Ministry Of Tourism (MOT)
Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before trek departure date.
Note
You will be landing at the Leh airport which is one of the most picturesque airports that you would come across. Just before the touchdown time, youll be greeted with the entire range of snow-capped peaks that will surely get you wonderstruck. Its important to keep your warmies handy as youll fell the sudden drop in temperature as soon as you arrive at the Leh airport. A jacket, woolen gloves and a woolen cap is a necessity. After reaching the guesthouse you will be given enough time to relax and acclimatize to the conditions. Later in the evening, you can spend some time at the Leh market for last minute window shopping. It is very important that you get used to the cold temperature in Leh because the temperature will only tend to fall as you start walking on the frozen Zanskar. From the end of January to mid-February, the temperature can be anything between -10 to -15 degrees during the day. It is also important to keep your body hydrated by increasing the intake of fluids that will help to maintain your body temperature.
Keeping in mind the health problems that trekkers are facing (AMS), as per the new regulations applied, anyone doing the Chadar Trek should be atleast spending two days in Leh to get your body fully acclimatize to the weather conditions. It is irrevocable and it is important that it is strictly followed by every trekker. You can spend the day by visiting the places around the city. You can also join us while we conduct a small sight seeing session(included in the cost). It only for 3-4 hours, covering all the major spots of Leh. It is advisable that you avoid visiting places which are at a higher altitude. Crosscheck you essentials before going to bed.
Today is the big day. This day decides whether you continue further or not. Wake up early and to reach the Medical Camp as early as possible. Even though tests take less time, due to tourists rush it gets delayed. In the late afternoon we shall finish insurance formalities, if any. In case the tests declare you are not fit go for Chadar trek, you will not be allowed. For refund policies, please contact your Trek Coordinator.
Note: Walking in gumboots will take a while, so be prepared for some slips and falls! It’s advisable to carry a small backpack which will protect your back at the time of falls.
On this day, youll be headed to the first campsite which is Tsomo Paldar via Chilling & Shingra Koma. Shingra Koma is the most unique place of Chadar for it is placed at U bend of Zanskar. Forming a wonderful place with lots of views. Today, will be one of the most scenic drives which lets you witness some of the top spots in Ladakh. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill and the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus are some of the places where you can take a pit stop for clicking pictures. After 3-4 hours drive along the Zanskar will get you to Shingra Koma. The car will drop you right where the road ends, this will be your starting point of walking on the Zanskar.
The layer of Chadar may seem thin here, you can also see various rock formations. Walking with gumboots on will definitely be a challenge in the initial stage. Understanding the ice patterns will take time, slowly but steadily you will know which surface is fragile and which is trustworthy. There are multiple number of ice surfaces that you would come across while walking on the mighty Zanskar and as you start walking you will know more about it. Planting your foot will be important in most of the cases, you can check for the ice for its steadiness with your walking stick before stepping on it wholeheartedly. A small and light backpack will help as you will able to manage your body weight in an effective manner. After an hour and half of slipping, falling and trying to gather your balance youll be reaching your first campsite at Tsomo Paldar. This will be your first experience of camping under sub-zero temperatures.
Chadar is one such trek where your not gaining altitude in quick successions. Slowly but gradually from Tsomo Paldar to Tibb Cave (6-7 hours), you will be gaining an altitude of 400ft. (Tsomo Paldar: 11,400 to Tibb Cave: 11,800) After spending a cold night in the tent at Tsomo Paldar get done with you breakfast that will re-energize your senses in the morning. The much needed hot cup of tea will be special in such frosty conditions. As you start heading to the next campsite which is Tibb Cave, this trek route has some of the most eye-catching frozen waterfalls that youll see. Waterfalls that stand frozen in time. The source of some of these frozen waterfalls is still unknown and there are a lot of myths amongst the villagers. The mighty Zanskar will be flowing all along with you on the trail and the emerald green water will have a smooth soothing You will be served lunch midway to Tibb cave. After walking for a couple of hours youll come across different rock patterns along the way which look art looks when the sun rays fall on them making their way from behind the clouds. You will be camping near the Tibb cave which is surrounded by dry sand.
As you move on to the most awaited campsite of the trek which is Nerak, the 13km long trail will take you to the most iconic landmark of the Chadar trek. i.e. The frozen waterfall. The frozen waterfall is a natures masterpiece that attracts trekkers around the world. Hot lunch will be served on your way to Nerak. By far, Nerak will be the coldest of all the campsites on the trek where the temperature goes down to as low as -30 degrees during the night. It will be important that you wear proper clothing in layers to stay safe from the biting cold. If you manage to reach the waterfall on time, there are chances of paying a visit to the Nerak Village as well. You will be camping at a distance of 15-20 minutes from the waterfall.
You might have heard stories of how unpredictable the weather patterns can get here on the Chadar trek. There are instances where the formation of Chadar no longer exists on your way back from Nerak. In the same way, you will witness a new layer of Chadar formed at some. Even though its the same route, youll be amazed to see how different it appears while coming back. Chadar Trek is an experience of a lifetime that every trekking enthusiast should witness. And then, what if we told you that these eight days of your life are going to be some of the best days youve lived so far and that youll cherish these moments till the very end.
Today retrace your steps back to Tibb Cave. You get another last chance to cherish, relive and gather the memories. Wave goodbye to all the locals while you make your way back. Be careful and enjoy your last stay in tents.
Note: Distance, Altitude and Trekking hours are approximate and round off.
Again wake up early for a long walk back. It is not really retracing steps because you may observe a lot have changed. Chadar may have melted, layer of Chadar may have gotten thin, wonderful rocks are visible now. Wea ll, thats the beauty of nature and Chadar trek. Reach Shingra Koma and get ready to board on vehicles. Another bumpy ride and you will arrive in Leh.
The only way to travel is to fly to Kushok Bakula Rimpochi Airport located in Leh. It is just 4 km away from the main city. The airport is well connected to Delhi and also receives flights from Mumbai, Srinagar, Jammu, Chandigarh and other general destinations in India. Even international travellers can fly directly from major cities like Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi.
Travelling by both the road routes, the Manali-Leh Highway and Srinagar-Leh Highway, is not possible since they are not open in the snowy winters of Ladakh.
The Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh highways are generally closed by October-November
Pick up will be done according to flight timings
We will drop you at Leh Airport, Please check out early in the morning because all flights fly in the morning only.
Inclusion
1. Accommodation: (as per the itinerary).
• Guest house (centrally heated room)(attached washroom) in Leh on Day 1, Day 2, Day 3 & Day 8 (twin sharing basis, triple in very rare cases).
• Camping during the trek (Day 4 to Day 7).
2. Meals (Veg + Egg):
• Day 4 breakfast to day 8 lunch.
3. Trek equipment:
• Hight Quality High Altitude Sleeping bag, Mattress, Utensils.
• Trekkers tent (twin sharing), Kitchen & Dinning tent, Toilet tent, Ropes.
4. First aid:
• Medical kit.
• Stretcher.
• Oxygen cylinder.
5. Support:
• 1 Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader.
• Guide (Number of guides depending on the group size).
• 1 High Altitude chef.
• Support staff.
6. Transportation: (as per the itinerary)
• Leh (Guest house) to trekking point (Day 4).
• Trekking point to Leh (guest house) (Day 8).
7. Hot water
• Hot water in buckets on Day 1, Day 2, Day 3 .
• Running hot water in taps on Day 8 .
8. Leh Sightseeing is included in the cost (Hall of Fame, Shey Monastery, Thiksey Monastery).
9. Facility of keeping extra luggage at Leh when leaving for the trek.
10. Porters to carry the central luggage.
11. Services from Leh and Leh.
Exclusion:
1. Food in Leh.
2. Any kind of personal expenses.
3. Porter to carry personal luggage.
4. Pre Medical Check-up and Rescue fee, Wildlife/environmental charges, ALTOA NOC, and entry fees upto 6K to 8 K paid to the authority on the spot
5. Pickup and drop from Leh airport
6. Any kind of emergency evacuation charge, hospitalization fee or etc.
7. Any additional cost due to the final decision incurred by the Administrative
8. Insurance: It is mandatory to take high altitude risk insurance before joining this Expedition (as per the ALTOA guidelines)
9. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.
Things can be provided on demand and availability (participant has to pay extra for these things)
1- Satellite phone/setphone - a type of mobile phone that connects via radio links via satellites orbiting the Earth instead of terrestrial cell sites like cell phones. Therefore, they can operate in most geographic locations on the Earth's surface.
2- Gamow/PAC HAPO Bag (Portable Hyperbaric Bag) - is a unique, portable hyperbaric chamber for the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness.
3- AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) - are portable life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly
Porter Service Charges:
Normally TTH expects to carry your personal luggage on your own, if you don't want to carry your backpack so you can give it to the porter, but you have to inform us in advance and have to pay approx Rs. 5000 for the entire trip (subject to change)/- extra per bag.
The fee can be paid by online transfer/Check deposit/Cash deposit/Demand draft. Instruction for
payment will be forwarded along with your confirmation email. When your transfer is done, please
e-mail us a confirmation mail with your transfer details, so that we can follow up your reservation efficiently.
Cancellation terms:
For the cancellation of services due to any avoidable/unavoidable reasons, Trek The Himalayas must be notified of the same in writing at [email protected] At the time we receive your written cancellation, refunds based on the total fare are as follows.
Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek
Refund options
In the unlikely event that TTH cancels a trek prior to the scheduled departure date:
While it is extremely rare for TTH to cancel a trek, we understand that unforeseen circumstances or natural disasters may occasionally require us to do so before the scheduled departure. These circumstances could include continuous rain or snow, thunderstorms, snowstorms, landslides, floods, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that poses a risk to the safety of our trekkers. Additionally, unforeseeable events such as local riots, curfews, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders, or any similar situations that compromise the safety of the trekking experience may also necessitate a cancellation.
In the event of such a cancellation, TTH will provide you with a voucher equivalent to the amount you paid for the trek. This voucher can be redeemed for any of our treks within the next year, allowing you to still enjoy an adventure with us at a later date.
Note
In the rare event that TTH shifts a trek:
We would like to emphasize that weather conditions in high-altitude areas are highly unpredictable and can undergo sudden changes at any time, irrespective of the day. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, and lockdowns, may impact the feasibility of conducting a trek. In cases where we are unable to proceed with an event due to such circumstances that are beyond our direct control, we will make every effort to provide you with an alternative trek that is safer and more suitable.
In such situations, we will issue a voucher to offset the cost difference between the originally scheduled trek and the alternative trek. This voucher can be redeemed at any time within one year from the date of issue. Please note that a refund fee or reimbursement of the cost difference is not applicable in these cases.
Note:
Cash Voucher Terms:
Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. "Trek The Himalayas" reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which TTH or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. TTH reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.
Back pack & rain cover | (50 - 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
Day pack + rain cover | 15 - 20 ltr (If hire a porter) |
Walking stick | 1 Nos. |
Water bottle/Hydration pack | 2 thermos flask bottles of one litre each, Avoid hydration pack. |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
T-shirts | 1 Full sleeves (Non-cotton) |
Fleece T-shirts | 2 Nos. |
Fleece jacket | 1 Nos. |
Down feather / Hollofil jacket | 1 Nos. |
Waterproof (jacket & pant) | 1 Pair |
Windstopper Pant | 1 Pair |
Thermal inners (upper and lower) | 2 Pair |
Waterproof gloves | 1 Pair |
Fleece/woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
Sunscreen cream | Moisturiser |
Hand sanitizer | Antibacterial powder |
Toothbrush and toothpaste | Lip balm / Chapstick |
Toilet Paper & wipes | Quick dry towel |
Head torch | 1 Nos. |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | 1 Nos. |
Neck-gaiters | 1 Nos. |
Sunglasses | Dark with side cover, it should be U/V protected, avoid contact lenses. |
Gumboots | 1 Pair (Its advisable to buy it from Leh) |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Optional but highly recommended)) |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woollen socks | 6 pairs |
Gaiters | Not required |
Floaters/flip-flops Not required |
Fitness regime for:
Difficult |
Calculate Your BMI :
Congratulations, your body is in good conditions!
BMI Range | Category |
---|---|
Less than 16.5 | Serverely Underweight |
16.5 - 18.5 | Underweight |
18.5 - 25 | Normal |
25 - 30 | Overweight |
Customise Trek
Date | Status |
---|---|
07 Jan - 14 Jan 2024 | Full |
08 Jan - 15 Jan 2024 | Full |
09 Jan - 16 Jan 2024 | (Closing 5 Seats left) |
10 Jan - 17 Jan 2024 | Full |
12 Jan - 19 Jan 2024 | Full |
13 Jan - 20 Jan 2024 | Full |
14 Jan - 21 Jan 2024 | (Closing 1 Seats left) |
15 Jan - 22 Jan 2024 | Open |
17 Jan - 24 Jan 2024 | Full |
19 Jan - 26 Jan 2024 | Full |
20 Jan - 27 Jan 2024 | Full |
21 Jan - 28 Jan 2024 | Full |
25 Jan - 01 Feb 2024 | Open |
26 Jan - 02 Feb 2024 | Full |
27 Jan - 03 Feb 2024 | (Closing 5 Seats left) |
28 Jan - 04 Feb 2024 | Open |
Date | Status |
---|---|
7 Jan - 14 Jan 2024 | Full |
8 Jan - 15 Jan 2024 | Full |
9 Jan - 16 Jan 2024 | (Closing 5 Seats left) |
10 Jan - 17 Jan 2024 | Full |
12 Jan - 19 Jan 2024 | Full |
13 Jan - 20 Jan 2024 | Full |
14 Jan - 21 Jan 2024 | (Closing 1 Seats left) |
15 Jan - 22 Jan 2024 | Open |
17 Jan - 24 Jan 2024 | Full |
19 Jan - 26 Jan 2024 | Full |
20 Jan - 27 Jan 2024 | Full |
21 Jan - 28 Jan 2024 | Full |
25 Jan - 1 Feb 2024 | Open |
26 Jan - 2 Feb 2024 | Full |
27 Jan - 3 Feb 2024 | (Closing 5 Seats left) |
28 Jan - 4 Feb 2024 | Open |
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The Chadar Frozen River Trek is a popular winter trek in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It involves walking on a frozen river, the Zanskar River, which is transformed into a thick sheet of ice during the winter months. The trek is known for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain, as well as the unique experience of walking on a frozen river.
The best time to do Chadar Frozen River Trek is during the months of January and February when the river is frozen enough to support the weight of trekkers.
Chadar Trek Frozen River is a Difficult Grade Trek.
It is an 8 days long trek.
Yes, altitude-related concerns can be a factor on the Chadar Frozen River Trek. The trek starts at an altitude of around 3,300 meters and reaches a maximum altitude of approximately 3,850 meters. While this may not be extremely high, it is still significant enough to cause altitude-related issues for some trekkers.
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a common concern on the Chadar Trek. Symptoms of AMS can include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Trekkers can take several precautions to avoid AMS, such as acclimatizing properly, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking necessary medications.
It is also essential to be aware of frostbite and hypothermia, which can occur due to exposure to cold temperatures and wind on the trek. Trekkers should dress in layers, wear proper gear, and stay warm to prevent these conditions.
Overall, while altitude-related concerns are something to keep in mind, with proper preparation and caution, many trekkers are able to successfully complete the Chadar Frozen River Trek without any significant issues.
The Chadar Frozen River Trek is a challenging winter trek that requires specialized gear to ensure the safety and comfort of trekkers in extreme cold and icy conditions. Here are some essential gear items needed for the trek:
1. quality trekking boots with sturdy soles and good traction to provide
adequate grip on slippery ice.
2. Warm and waterproof clothing, including thermal layers, fleece jackets,
and down jackets, to keep you warm in sub-zero temperatures.
3. Waterproof gloves or mittens and socks to keep your hands and feet dry
and warm.
4. A warm hat and a balaclava or a face mask to protect your face from the
cold winds.
5. Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare of snow and ice.
6. Trekking poles to help maintain balance and stability on the icy
terrain.
7. Sleeping bags are rated for sub-zero temperatures to ensure a good
night's sleep in the extreme cold.
8. Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries to navigate in the dark.
9. First aid kit including altitude sickness medication, pain relievers,
and basic medical supplies.
10. Backpack with at least 60 liters capacity to carry all your gear and
supplies.
During the Chadar Trek, TTH provides all meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The meals are prepared by a team of experienced cooks, who use fresh and locally sourced ingredients to provide nutritious and tasty food to the trekkers.
While prior trekking experience is not strictly necessary for the Chadar Frozen River Trek, it is highly recommended that trekkers have some level of physical fitness and experience with hiking or trekking in challenging terrain. The trek is considered to be a moderately difficult trek, and the icy conditions can make it even more challenging.
It is important to note that the Chadar Trek requires trekkers to walk on a frozen river, which can be slippery and unstable. Trekkers must also navigate through narrow gorges, steep canyons, and frozen waterfalls, which can be physically demanding. Therefore, it is recommended that trekkers engage in regular physical exercise and prepare themselves mentally and physically for the trek.
Additionally, trekkers need to be prepared to face extremely cold temperatures, which can drop to as low as -25 degrees Celsius at night. Therefore, it is essential to have appropriate gear and clothing to keep warm and protect against frostbite and hypothermia.
It is recommended that trekkers engage in regular physical exercise and prepare themselves mentally and physically for the trek.
Here are some specific physical fitness requirements for the Chadar Frozen River Trek:
1. Cardiovascular endurance: Trekkers need to have good
cardiovascular endurance to tackle challenging terrain and high
altitude. Regular cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or
swimming can help improve endurance.
2. Strength training: Trekkers need to have strong leg
and core muscles to maintain balance and stability on the icy terrain.
Strength training exercises such as squats, lunges, and planks can help
build these muscles.
3. Flexibility: Trekkers need to have good flexibility to
prevent muscle strain and injuries. Regular stretching exercises such
as yoga or Pilates can help improve flexibility.
4. Mental toughness: The Chadar Trek can be mentally
challenging due to the extremely cold temperatures, long hours of
walking, and unpredictable weather conditions. Trekkers need to be
mentally prepared to face these challenges and stay motivated.
It is important to note that the physical fitness requirements for the Chadar Trek can vary depending on the individual's age, health, and fitness level. It is recommended that trekkers consult with a doctor or a fitness trainer before embarking on the trek to assess their physical fitness and determine any necessary precautions or preparations.
It is highly recommended. The Chadar Trek is a challenging trek that requires specialized gear, experienced guides, and support staff to ensure the safety and well-being of trekkers. Hiring an expert trekking organization can provide many benefits, including safety, specialized gear and equipment, and logistics and support.