Location
Ladakh | India
Average Trekking
62 km
Duration
8 Days
Difficulty
Difficult
Altitude
11,100 Ft
A FROZEN RIVER TREK WITH THE BREATH-TAKING VIEWS
Ladakh | India
62 km
8 Days
Difficult
11,100 Ft
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01 Fri
29 Fri
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01 Sun
29 Sun
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29 Wed
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Kashmir
62 Km
8 Days
Difficult
11,100 Ft
Trek Name: CHANDRA Trek
Days: 8
Adventure Type: Trekking
Base Camp: Leh
Season: Winter |
Month: January | December |
Distance: 62 Km.
Trail Type: Point-to-Point Trail | Camping at the same location upon returning.
Country: India
Location : Ladakh
Altitude: 11,100 Ft.
Grade: Difficult
Stay: Hotel(Separate male & Female) & Camping
Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg & Eggs)
Walking on a Frozen River : The trek involves walking on the frozen Zanskar River, which is a surreal experience. The river forms a thick sheet of ice (the “Chadar”) that trekkers walk on.
Spectacular Scenery : The trek offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains, frozen waterfalls, and the rugged terrain of the Zanskar Valley.
Camping in Caves : Trekkers camp in natural caves along the riverbank, experiencing the raw beauty of nature in a remote and isolated environment.
Interacting with Local Villagers : The trek provides an opportunity to meet and interact with the local Zanskari people, who have a unique way of life adapted to the harsh winter conditions.
Frozen Waterfalls :One of the highlights is the frozen Nerak waterfall, a massive cascade of ice that is awe-inspiring and a major attraction of the trek.
Physical Fitness :The Chadar Trek is physically demanding. Prepare with cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and endurance-building activities.
Acclimatization :
Spend a couple of days in Leh to acclimatize to the high altitude before starting the trek to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Layering : Wear multiple layers of clothing to adjust to varying temperatures. Avoid cotton as it retains moisture and can cause hypothermia.
Hydration : Stay hydrated, even if you don’t feel thirsty. The cold can dehydrate you without noticeable symptoms.
Follow the Guide’s Instructions : The terrain and conditions can be unpredictable. Listen carefully to your guide and follow their instructions for your safety.
Use Proper Footwear : Gumboots are necessary to prevent slipping on the ice. Ensure they are of good quality and fit well.
Keep Electronics Warm : Cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly. Keep cameras and phones close to your body to preserve battery life.
Emergency Situations :Be prepared for emergencies. The trek is remote, and evacuation can be challenging. Carry a satellite phone or ensure your group has one.
Environmental Considerations : Practice “Leave No Trace” principles. Do not litter, and be mindful of the delicate environment.
CHADAR TREK PACKAGE
Batch – November – 2023
Batch – December – 2023
Batch – January – 2023
Reach Ladakh via flight or by car after reaching you’ll check in your hotel rooms and later in the afternoon, you’ll be called for a small introductory meeting where you’ll get the knowledge of the trek. Also, carry your ID proofs as they will be needed for permission in the coming days.
Consumption of alcohol and smoking is prohibited.
Take proper rest in your hotel room as your body adjusts to the climatic conditions of Ladakh. Network and ATMs are available in Leh.
Acclimatization Day
Explore the city of Leh as your body acclimatises itself. Visit the Hall of Fame, Shey Monastery and Thiksey Monastery.Two days of acclimatisation is necessary as per the new regulations.
Avoid higher altitude places and prepare yourself for the actual trek.
Medical test Day
Wake up early and visit the medical camp. Today your body will be examined through various tests to see if you’re eligible for the trek or not. These tests will include height & weight, blood pressure and oxygen level. Oxygen and BP readings. Make sure to reach early as there is a long queue and during peak season a simple test may take 3-4 hours. Come back after your tests and spend a chill evening in Leh.
Today is the day when you will start the trek. Start your day by having breakfast at the hotel premises and then leave for Shingra Koma (the drive to Shingra Koma is around 3-4 hrs) The actual trek will start from Shingra Koma.
Wear your gumboots and start your trek, Carry two thermos for hot water. Remember that walking in gumboots May pose some challenges initially and you may slip a lot on the ice. Carry a backpack to protect your back while falling and always be cautious. After adventurous hours of trekking, you’ll reach Tsomo Paldar, the first campsite of the trek.
The trek is a gradual but challenging one.
Be prepared for slipping and falling and slipping again. Verify before leaving that you have your theorems filled with hot water. Unlike other treks, the Chadar trek is different and presents different types of picturesque views. You’ll be passing through frozen waterfalls. Trekking along with the river Zanskar you’ll have your lunch on the way.
A few more hours of trekking and you’ll spot the caves, these caves are used by the potters at night for resting. Your campsite for the day is adjacent to the Tibb cave.
Altitude Gain - 10,950ft to 11,100ft
Nerak is the first village of the Zanskar region and will be the coldest among all the campsites. Watch the beautiful frozen waterfall which is the major attraction among the tourists. Have a warm lunch on your way and don’t forget to fill your thermoses with hot water before leaving the Tibb cave campsite. Proper clothing according to the temperature is recommended to avoid frostbite or any serious health issues. If you can reach the campsite right in time our trek leaders will take you to visit the Nerak village. The campsite for today will be a cold one be mentally prepared, don’t forget to sulk in all the beauty that you can.
Returning to the Tibb cave from Nerak you’ll be surprised to see the changing colors of the Chadar trek as there is a high chance that the ice bed may have melted and new ice beds formed.
The Chadar trek is unpredictable but gorgeous, the changing hues always present a good challenge for the trekkers.
Stay at camps in the Tibb cave and replay all the exciting past 7 days.
Today is the final day of your trekking expedition, wake-up up and bid adieu to the frozen river.
Because of the changing nature of the Chadar, you may find the trail going back as a new one, new Chadar formed and old ones melted.
Our vehicle will be waiting for you (If booked in advance) at Shingra Koma hop into it and leave for Leh.
Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 90 beats per minute).
Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 70 – 90, SYSTOLIC 100 – 140 mm Hg).
Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute).
Should not have Liver and kidney issues.
Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension, etc.
No pacemaker implant.
People with Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek.
If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.
It is essential for everyone to arrive at Leh (01:00 pm)
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.
It’s quite convenient to secure a cab from outside the airport to reach our hotel. Alternatively, you can inform your coordinator to arrange a cab for you. Upon booking the trek, your trek coordinator will furnish you with the hotel details.
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
For your return journey from Leh, you have to choose only air transport options. Please ensure an early check-out in the morning, as all flights operate during the morning hours.
It’s highly advisable to keep 2 buffer day in your travel plan. If the buffer day is not needed, it can be used to explore Leh.
We get that a travel and adventure enthusiast like you will be as bumped about cancelling a trek as us but we also understand that you may have to cancel the trek for any unforeseen reason and therefore the Cancellation Service of The Mountain Vibes does not return the advance amount paid by the trekkers instead we provide a voucher for the exact amount which is equivalent to the amount paid by you.
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Terms & Conditions for the cash voucher:
Backpack with rain cover | (50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
Day pack with rain cover | 20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
Small size tiffin/lunch box | 1 Nos |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electoral/ors |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Full & 2 Half sleeves |
Fleece T-shirt | 1 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Pair |
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 2 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece Pant | 1 Nos |
Waterproof gloves | 1 Pair |
Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
Sun Cap | 1 Nos |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | 1 Nos. |
Buff / Neck-gaiters | 1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen |
Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle, good grip) |
Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woollen socks | 1 pairs |
Gaiters | 1 Pair (TTH provides when required) |
Micro spikes | 1 Pair (TTH provides when required) |
Sunscreen | 1 Nos |
Moisturiser | 1 Nos |
Chap-stick / Lip balm | 1 Nos |
Toothbrush and toothpaste | 1 Nos |
Toilet paper & Wipes | 1 Nos |
Soap / hand sanitizers | 1 Nos |
Antibacterial powder | 1 Nos |
Quick dry towel | 1 Nos |
• An identity card-original (MANDATORY)
• Bagpack and Rain cover(50-60 liter )
• Day pack And Rain cover (if you hire mule or porter)
• 1liter of Water Bottle
•Slipper and TrekKing Shoes (Waterprof is Preferred)
•LED Torch/Headlamp(With extra batteries)
•Poncho, Raincoat or Umbrella any one is must.(Poncho is preferred, since it is light weighted)
• 2 pairs of Quick Dry T-shirt and Trek Pants (DENIM ARE NOT RECOMMENDED FOR TREKS)
• 1 pairs of T-SHIRTS for (Full Sleeves or Half Sleeves)
• 3 Pair of Cotton Socks And 2 Pair of Woollen Socks
• 2 weater OR 1 Fleece Jacket
• Thermals (1 is must 2 if going on a long trek)
• Sun Cap, Scarf, Light Towel, Snow Gloves
• Woolen Cap or Balaclava that cover Your ears (For the protection from coldwaves)
• UV sunglasses
• Carry few plastic bags incase your clothes get wet.
• Wind sheeter, Snow Jackets, One Down Feather Jacket (Carry any one from the mentioned)
• Personal Toilet kit, Toilet Paper, Sanitizer, Tooth Brush and Paste
• Lip balm , Cold Creame , Mistiriser and Sun Screen Lotion(SPF 40)
•Personal Medicine Kit (With basic First Aid kit and your regular medicine)
•Anti Fungal Creame : Carry an Anti Fungle Creame if you are sensitive to Sweating and prone to skin irritations around genital or groin area due to lack of bathing.
Sunscreen | 1 Nos |
Moisturiser | 1 Nos |
Chap-stick / Lip balm | 1 Nos |
Toothbrush and toothpaste | 1 Nos |
Toilet paper & Wipes | 1 Nos |
Soap / hand sanitizers | 1 Nos |
Antibacterial powder | 1 Nos |
Quick dry towel | 1 Nos |
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, TMV 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.