Chadar Trek

Chadar a frozen river trek 2024 9-day

Chadar a frozen river trek 2024 9-day
7 min read
#Chadar Trek

Overview

In the heart of Ladakh lie enchanting natural wonders, but amidst its magic, the most treasured gem is the Chadar Trek. This expedition weaves a tale of resilience and survival—mastering the art of enduring frigid terrains, engaging with locals, delving into their unique way of life. Imagine traversing one of the world's harshest landscapes, a frozen gorge with cascading waterfalls, where the icy Zanskar trail resembles a surreal "Chadar," mirroring the heavens above! Experience the primal exhilaration of slumbering in caves, pondering by crackling fires in sub-zero temperatures. Yet, emerging unscathed, this becomes the odyssey you must embark on a "once in a life time" experience.


At a glance

The Ultimate Winter Odyssey Chadar Trek 2024 – A Journey once in a life time experience, trek through the Frozen river of Zanskar, Ladakh.

DATESERVICEACCOMMODATION
DAY 1Meet an greet at Leh Bakula Rinpoche airportGuest House - Meals: BB
Day 2Acclimatization day and local attractions around LehGuest House - Meals: BB
Day 3Medical Check up and Health AssessmentGuest House - Meals: BB
Day 4Drive Leh to GurudhoCamping - Meals: FI
Day 5Gurudho to Shingrayokma - Trek 5-6hrsCamping - Meals: FI
Day 6Shingrayokma to Tsomo - Trek 6-7hrsCamping - Meals: FI
Day 7Tsomo to Shingrayokma - Trek 5-6hrsCamping - Meals: FI
Day 8Shingrayokma- Gurudho, Drive back to LehGuest House - Meals: BD
Day 9Departure

GLOSSARY

  • BB = Bed and breakfast
  • BD = Bed and dinner
  • FI = Fully inclusive

Chadar Trek Quick Facts.

  • Chadar River Trek Duration: 9D/8N
  • Chadar Trek Distance: 62 km.
  • Maximum Altitude: 11,123ft.
  • SATELLITE PHONES NOT ALLOWED
  • Difficulty Level: Difficult
  • Chadar Trek Temperature: -5 to -15 degrees (during the day) and -15 to -25 degrees (during the night)
  • Chadar Trek Best Time: Early January - Early February.
  • Start and End Point of the Trek: Guest House in Leh.

Detail Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive Leh

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Prepare for an unforgettable altitude experience with an overnight stay at a cozy guest house in Leh city. Ensure you have your woolen cap and gloves at the ready for the crisp mountain air. As you embark on your journey, enjoy a scenic flight over the snow-draped Himalayan peaks, showcasing why Ladakh is inaccessible by road during winter. Upon landing in Leh, embrace the cold, refreshing air, signaling the awakening of the city. With only a few shops open, witness the serene beginnings of Leh emerging from its slumber.

The chilly air serves as a prelude to the temperatures awaiting you during the Chadar river trek. Take ample rest to acclimatize to the weather, stay hydrated, and revel in the tranquil night spent in a comfortable guest house. Acclimatize for the day and prepare for the upcoming adventure amidst the breathtaking landscapes.

Day 2 - Acclimatization Day

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Prioritizing Trekker Health: Acclimatization Guidelines for Zanskar River Trek In light of the health challenges posed by Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), the Ladakh Government Authorities have instituted new regulations for Zanskar river trekkers. It is now mandatory for all participants to spend a minimum of three days in Leh, allowing their bodies to fully acclimatize to the prevailing weather conditions.

This crucial measure is non-negotiable and demands strict adherence from every trekker. Utilize the time in Leh wisely by exploring the local market and acclimating to the cold temperatures, a crucial preparation for the Zanskar river trek. The weather, reaching sub-zero even during daylight, necessitates gradual adjustment.

Exercise caution by avoiding visits to higher-altitude places during this acclimatization period. Additionally, it is strongly recommended to meticulously check and crosscheck all essential items before retiring for the night, ensuring a safe and prepared start to your Zanskar river trekking adventure.

Day 3 - Medical Check up

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In compliance to UT Leh government guidelines, all trekkers are required to undergo a thorough medical checkup. Approval by the medical officer is a prerequisite for obtaining the green signal to embark on the Chadar the Frozen River trek. This comprehensive process ensures the well-being of each trekker and is a crucial step in the journey.

Upon successful clearance, trekkers will be furnished with wildlife permits, insurance coverage, and other essential documents. These documents play a vital role in ensuring a seamless and secure trekking experience through the frozen landscapes.

Day 4 - Leh to Gurudho

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Post breakfast, we take a beautiful drive through the beautiful scenery with your first views of the Indus river and later the Zanskar river at their confluence at Nimoo. From Nimoo you follow road heading towards Gurudho. De-board the vehicle after a point and short trek towards Gurudho Campsite.

Optimize your backpack by keeping it light and compact, allowing for effective self-management of its weight. This marks your first encounter with camping in sub-zero temperatures, offering a unique and immersive experience.

Day 5 - Gurudho to Shingrayokma

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Your trek to Shingrayokma begins today. Trek through the deep gorges of the Zanskar valley with sheer cliffs on both sides. The lack of direct sunlight keeps the snow well packed for the trek. We end the day at the Shingrayokma here which is used by the locals when traversing this valley and set up camp for the night.

Trek 5-6 hrs

Day 6 - Shingrayokma to Tsomo

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Post breakfast, we continue the walk through the gorges to Tsomo. Enroute, we pass many beautiful gorges.

Today is the day of Summit Point at Tsomo Spring waterfall. Overnight camp at Tsomo.

Day 7 - Tsomo to Shingrayokma

From Tsomo on this day, we retrace the same route and stop at Shingrayokma.

Day 8 - Shingrayokma to Gurudho, drive back to Leh

Today is your last day of the trek. Post breakfast we trek back towards Gurudho walking on the thick ice of Chadar. You will be trekking for about 5 hours with a couple of breaks in between. We will leave towards Leh and transport everyone towards Leh.

Arrive Leh around 6 in the evening, concluding your chadar trek. Revel in the warmth of a guest-house stay in Leh, reflecting on the extraordinary experiences etched into the fabric of your Zanskar River adventure. Overnight in Leh, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.

Day 9 - Departure

Today on time transfer you to Leh airport for your flight back to Delhi.

What’s included

  • Guest House & Meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Double occupancy or triple occupancy in-room or tents
  • Day 4 to Day 7: Tented accommodation
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (vegetarian) during trek.
  • Qualified & experienced trek Leader, Guide, and Support staff Day 4-8.
  • Transportation for Leh to Road head (on Day 4) and return (on Day 8).

What’s not included

  • Any Airfare / Airport taxes
  • Any change in tax structure resulting from the hike in published tariff.
  • Any expenses of personal nature including alcohol, laundry, gratuities etc.
  • Medical /Travel Insurances
  • Gratitude and tips that you wish to pay happily
  • Any expenses arising due to unavoidable circumstances beyond our control.

Enquiry

  1. email ecoindiajourneys@gmail.com
  2. call +91 8800777421
  3. what's App