Chadar Trek - Ladakh

Zanskar is an unforgiving mountainous terrain in Jammu and Kashmir's eastern section. The entire area is bordered by the Zanskar River's two branches. Thousands of people from all around the nation and outside flock here throughout the colder months in quest of great adventures. The 'Chadar Trek' starts throughout this difficult journey through the Zanskar Valley.

In this post, I'll explain to you about the 'Chadar Trek', which represents one of India's most challenging hiking routes, accessible only to expert trekkers.

Chadar Trek is a thrilling and challenging trekking path in India that is only accessible during the wintertime when snow blankets the landscape. In the native dialect, Chadar is referred to as a "snow layer" iced on the river. In the cold season, a coating of snow tends to spread on the Zanskar river, making this trip much more fascinating.

Travellers prefer the Chadar trekking path since it opens up the possibility of snowy trekking in the cooler months and river rafting in the warmer months. The Zanskar river is streaming at high throttle throughout this time, which excites river adventure seekers. If you appreciate exciting adventures, you will have a great time here over the summertime.

Due to being connected with Leh, an in-and-out passage opens here when the river freezes in the cooler months. Locals use this route to get from Leh to Zanskar. The river is indeed a popular travel route.

Chadar Trek has become a well-known tourist attraction as its allure has grown in the winter and summer. By walk, the full trekking route is around 105 kilometres long. This entire icy drive between the mountains is quite thrilling. Natural beauty, as well as adventure, can be encountered here.

If you love camping, Chadar Trek is the best place for you because here you may spend your night relaxing in front of a bonfire while enjoying your meal. 

For photographers, Chadar Trek is no less than a paradise because from here the photographers can take some great shots of the landscape. 

When to visit Chadar Trek? 

The months of January and February are ideal for exploring Chadar Trek. Since the temperature dips to extremely low levels during these months, the entire river appears to be made of glass, and the ice turns extremely thick. Visit there around this period if you intend to get the most out of Chadar Trek. Also, make sure to pack warm clothing and other necessities when going to the chadar trek.

How to reach Chadar Trek? 

By Air: The closest airport to Chadar Trek is 'Leh,' which is around 105 kilometres away. From Delhi, Jammu, and Srinagar, regular flights to Leh are offered. Taxis are available from Leh to Chadar Trek. 

By Train: If you prefer, you can also travel to Chadar Trek by train; the nearest railway station is Jammu-Tawi, which is accessible to India's major cities.

By Road: Reaching Chadar Trek by road is also a great option. The NH1 connects Delhi and Leh and is 1,266 kilometres long. The distance between Leh and Chilling is 64 kilometres. To reach the Chadar Trek, one must first travel to Leh. The trip starts in Leh and continues to the frigid Chadar Trek.

Other Tourist Attractions near Chadar Trek. 

Do not miss exploring these wonderful sites when visiting Chadar Trek as these places are quite picturesque in terms of photography. 

Tilat Sumdo: Tilat Sumdo is a Chadar trek campground with panoramic views of the Himalayas. 

Shinra Koma: Shinra Koma is 10 kilometers from Tilat sumdo, a picturesque area with a large crowd. 

Tibb: Tibb is home to a stunning waterfall and cave.

Nerak: Nerak is the trek campsite and a great place to watch the sunset. 

Gyalpo: Gyalpo is a campground nestled in a curve in the Zanskar River, surrounded by peaks and artificial-looking rock faces.

Dibyokma: Dibyokma is yet another campsite with spectacular Himalayan scenery. 

Lingshed: Lingshed is one of Ladakh's ancient villages and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. The Lingshed Monastery, one of Ladakh's oldest monasteries, is also found in this village.

Where to stay in Chadar Trek? 

A common en route accommodation alternative Cave camping is available near Chadar Trek. Eating and residing in caves is undoubtedly an incredible experience. Aside from the thrills, you'll also find several affordable accommodations on the route to Chadar Trek.