Chadar Trek

Today is dedicated to acclimatisation and exploring the cultural treasures of Leh. Considering the chance of being affected by AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), you should spend at least two days in Leh before attempting the Chadar Trek. We request every trekker to strictly follow this irrevocable practice.

We will start our day with a warmup and stretching session, followed by a traditional breakfast. We will begin our sightseeing with a visit to Shey Palace, once the summer capital of Ladakh, where we can admire the giant Shakyamuni Buddha statue and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Next, we head to Thiksey Monastery, often compared to the Potala Palace in Lhasa. This beautiful monastery offers a deep spiritual experience and insight into Buddhist practices. Afterward, we will visit Sangam, the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers, where the contrasting colours of the rivers provide a striking sight. Our final stop is Hemis Monastery, the largest and wealthiest in Ladakh, known for its annual festival and rich collection of ancient artefacts. While river rafting on the Zanskar River is tempting, it’s best saved for after our trek.

Wake up early and engage in a refreshing yoga session. After breakfast, we will take a walk to the nearby government medical camp for a medical test. Various particulars, including height, weight, blood pressure, and oxygen level, will be checked. Even though the test takes less time, the whole process may take around 3-4 hours because of the long queue and rush of the tourists. After lunch, we shall finish the insurance formalities. If the medical test declares you unfit for the trek, you will not be allowed. In that case, you will have to reschedule the trek. For refund or rescheduling policies, please contact us directly. After enjoying the vibrant evening in Leh, rest well before the start of an adventurous journey the next day.

Our journey begins with a scenic drive from Leh to Shingra Koma, a quaint spot that marks the starting point of our trek. The 75-kilometre drive passes through Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and Magnetic Hill and goes along winding roads that run parallel to the frozen Zanskar River. As we drive past the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers at Nimu, the sight of the partially frozen Zanskar fills us with excitement. The river, encased in ice, glistens under the winter sun, offering a glimpse of the Chadar, the frozen path we'll soon tread upon.

Reaching Shingra Koma, we set out on a short trek to Tsomo Paldar, our first campsite. The crisp air, the crunch of snow beneath our boots, and the distant sound of the river flowing under the ice set the tone for our expedition. At the campsite, you will find yourselves surrounded by a pristine landscape, with snow-laden trees and shrubs adding to the charm. Along with a decent dinner, we will engage in conversations and explain to you about the journey ahead.

Rising with the sun, we begin our day with a warm-up and a physical training session. This is an important exercise to adapt to the climate. As we start our trek to Tibb, the morning light dances on the ice, creating a spectacle of shimmering patterns. Although the sun is up, the trail receives direct sunlight around midday, which helps to keep it frozen. The towering cliffs on both sides flank our path as we delve deeper into the gorge. Be extra careful while navigating the icy surface. Tibb Cave, our next campsite, welcomes us with its tranquil beauty. The serene ambiance, coupled with the surreal landscape, makes it an unforgettable day. Enjoy a bowl of soup while soaking into the incomprehensible beauty of the surroundings.

Wake up to a beautiful sunrise and engage in a rejuvenating power yoga session. Followed by a tasty platter of breakfast, embark on the most anticipated segment of our adventure, the trek from Tibb to Nerak. The landscape transforms into a series of narrow gorges surrounded by towering cliffs as we traverse the 13-kilometre stretch. We will pass by a massive waterfall that remains unfrozen, a rare sight in this icy wilderness. The greenish moss thriving on the rocks beneath the water adds a splash of colour to the monochrome landscape.

The frozen waterfall of Nerak, a natural marvel, awaits us. Its majestic icy cascade, framed by the rugged terrain, is a sight to behold. The vibrant prayer flags and the pristine white surroundings create a picturesque scene. If we manage to reach the waterfall well on time, we will pay a visit to the Nerak Village. We explore the area, soaking in the tranquil beauty before settling in the camp. At a distance of 15-20 minutes from the waterfall, Nerak is the coldest of all the campsites on the trek. The temperature drops down to -30 degrees at night. Beat the biting cold by wearing proper clothing in multiple layers and staying hydrated. The night in Nerak is filled with stories and camaraderie, with a stargazing delight under the shimmering sky.

Today's trek is a longer one, but it promises breathtaking vistas. As we make our way from Nerak to Tibb, you will be greeted by a series of small, frozen waterfalls. These icefalls, glistening like crystals, stand as silent sentinels along our path.

Prayer flags flutter in the breeze, indicating the reverence the locals hold for this place. As we continue, you will notice the hardy juniper shrubs and patches of lichen, thriving despite the cold. The day's journey culminates at Tibb, where we rest and prepare for the last leg of our adventure.

Retracing our steps, we embark on the return journey to Leh. The Chadar, ever-changing and dynamic, presents a different landscape on our way back. The ice formations may have shifted along with the texture of the frozen riverbed, giving us a fresh perspective of the landscape. The return journey, though familiar, feels like a new adventure. As we make our way back, you will get a chance to take in the sights and sounds of the Zanskar one last time.

The drive back to Leh is a reflective one, as we recount the incredible journey we've just undertaken. Leh, with its snowy charm, welcomes us back, marking the end of an unforgettable expedition through the frozen Zanskar.

Today marks the end of our adventure. It is always hard to say goodbye to our beloved trekkers after the adventure is over. But life goes on, and there is always a new adventure that awaits. As our trek concludes, we carry with us unforgettable memories and a deep sense of accomplishment, ready to share our stories and adventures with others. With the hope to meet soon again for another incredible mountain experience, we will drop you off at the airport after breakfast. If you choose to extend your stay with us to explore the remarkable destination of Ladakh, we would love to assist you further.

This day is set aside as a buffer in case of any unforeseen circumstances. If we don’t need this extra day for the trek, we can use it to explore the delights of Leh and its surroundings. Leh offers a myriad of activities, each providing a unique way to experience the beauty and culture of Ladakh. Options include rafting on the Zanskar River, mountain biking, a motorcycle tour, visiting Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world, a one-day trip to the stunning Pangong Lake, full-day sightseeing, or even trying the thrilling zip line.