The word ‘chadar’ translates to a sheet, which is the sheet of ice that forms over the Zanskar River in the winter months. When the winter arrives, all motorable routes are blocked, and this is when the frozen Zanskar river allows the inhabitants of this remote valley to reach the world in an emergency.
The Chadar trek starts in the middle of January to late February. The hike usually takes a week, and one has to cover a distance of at least sixteen to eighteen kilometers a day.
During the day, the temperature in Leh ranges from -10 to 0 degrees Celsius, depending on the weather conditions. Temperatures start to drop after sunset and drop to -25 degrees Celsius.
A warm jacket is a must, not only during the hike but also in Leh Town, with warm gloves and a warm hat. When visiting a monastery, it is essential to take off your shoes and have a thick, warm pair of socks.
For extreme weather conditions, one must have proper trekking equipment to protect against cold winds and unexpected snowfall.
Let us look at a detailed itinerary of the Chadar trek.
As soon as you arrive in Leh, you will be transferred to the designated hotel. The first day will be spent in the room, getting used to the altitude. This is very important for the next few days.
The next day, you can go for a walk and explore the highlights of Leh or relax in a hotel. You will stay overnight at the hotel.
On the third day, you will be taken to a local hospital in Leh for a medical check-up. Obtaining a medical certificate before going to the Chadar trek is a mandatory process as mandated by the government.
After the medical check-up, a clearance certificate must be obtained, issued by the hospital. This certificate will only be issued if you are deemed fit and appropriate for the trek.
The next day, after breakfast, you will be driven through the beautiful valleys and catch a glimpse of the Indus and Zanskar at the Nimoo confluence.
There, you can start the journey towards the Shingra Yokma. At this point, you will get off the vehicle and start the trek towards TsomoPaldar Sumo Palder camp, where you will spend the night.
The following day, you will start your journey to Dibb cave. As you pass through the deep valleys of the Zanskar Valley, you will find cliffs on both sides and old snow. You will reach a cave that is a passing place for the locals. The camp will be set up here for the night.
The following day after breakfast, you will cross the beautiful valleys and head to Nyerak village. Along the way, you will pass a large frozen waterfall that is a stopping point for a rafting trip from August to September. You will stay overnight in the village.
The following day, you will start from Nyerak towards Hosting. Enjoy overnight stays in tents.
On the final day of the trek, you will head to Shingra Yokma after breakfast. Walking on thick snow, the hike will last around nine hours. When the trek ends, you will be taken back to Leh and stay overnight at the hotel.
After that, it is up to you if you want to explore what more the Ladakh plateau has to offer or head back home with unforgettable memories of the trek.