Introduction
India is a beautiful country that offers great trekking. The Chadar Route is a lifeline for Zanskar, who is isolated from the rest of the country during the cold season due to heavy snowfall. These hikes will give you a great adrenaline rush. Finding the best treks in India is no easy task. India’s beautiful landscapes make it a perfect trekking destination for trekkers around the world. The Himalayan region has many hiking trails. Simply select your favorite according to your fitness level. However, this article will cover some of the best treks in India.
Leh is a very beautiful place. You can experience snow anywhere. On the second day, you should drive towards Chillen. After reaching Chilling, you should start your trek on the Zanskar River. This river is 64 kilometers from Leh. Keep walking towards Tilat Sumdo. On the third day, drive from Tirat Sumdo to Shinla Koma.
The distance between Tilat Sumdo and Singra Koma is 9.5-10 km. It takes 5.5-6 hours. The next day you will have to drive to Tibu, which is about 15 km away from Xingla Coma. It takes 7.5-8 hours. The next day you have to start your journey from Tib to Nerek. The total distance is 12 km and can be traveled in 6.5-7 hours.
Chadar Trek
- Location: Ladakh
- Duration: 9 to 10 days
- Difficulty: moderate to extreme
- Timeframe: 9 days
- Difficulty Level: tough
The Frozen River Trek, known as the Chadar Trek, is also one of the most difficult walking trips in the Ladakh region. In the background there are active and rugged trails winding through hills and mountains, mountain caves and icy waterfalls as they fall. Down along the ice-covered river under clear winter skies. It is one of the most difficult treks in the Indian Himalayas, challenged by a rare alternative climate condition as trekkers wind their way through jagged rocks.
The Chadar Route is a lifeline for Zanskar, who is isolated from the rest of the country during the cold season due to heavy snowfall. The Chadar Trek has evolved over time into Ladakh’s ‘next big thing’. It’s easy to see why. A trekker’s endurance is tested in crossing the 105 km frozen Zanskar River in rising temperatures (-25 to -35 degrees). Not many hikes cling to icy trails that pass through canyons of frozen crystal clear water and turn into mirrors that reflect the sky. Documentaries have been made about the Chadar trek, especially his 2011 BBC series Human Planet
Time and temperture
The straight is led by the All Ladakh Tour Operators Association. This is a very nice hike. 5-6 days is enough for this hike. The temperature during the day is around minus 10 degrees. You will need to arrive in Leh on the first day of the Chadar trek and stay overnight in Leh upon arrival.
10 days of difficult trekking in the vast land of Ladakh at an altitude of 3500m. Also known as the Frozen River Trek in the Zanskar Mountains, he is one of the most challenging and popular winter treks in India.
The total distance for this hike is 105 km, which speaks to the difficulty. It is one of the hikes that are open and accessible to hikers in the winter. The best time to visit Lake Chadar for winter trekking is January to February.
No other climb in the Himalayas can match the track, also known as the Zanskar Valley or the Benefit River. The term “charr” means “white cloth”. Chadar’s journey, which began at an altitude of 11,150 feet, was like a journey to the North Pole. Temperatures drop to 30 degrees at night, so shelter must be found inside the cave, and all food and drink must be brought in by push train.
The winter trek
It seems that many people have a trip to Channa on their to-do list, especially those who want to gain weight. The inhabitants of this area, known as Zanskali, mainly process and raise livestock. Chadar Trek encourages you to step out of your comfort zone. I often catch colds when I am far from civilization. Spend a few days at the mercy of nature and try the controversial butter tea.
Gain a new perspective on life away from the city and become one with nature. Learn a lot about Ladaken and its difficulties. As a result of this simple experience, you become more respectful of the comforts and pleasures of everyday life.
During the winter, the landscape of Ladakh undergoes an amazing transformation. The Zanskar River, especially the rivers along the river valley, offer the most spectacular views of this high-altitude desert. Build towering walls of ice and find frozen waterfalls. Air bubbles from the frozen river are visible under the ice. At various points along the way, you’ll walk over thick layers of ice covered in swirling water. Chadar was constantly changing around her.
Tour Highlights for the Frozen River Chadar Trek
Trek all along the icy Zanskar River, which forms part of the historic winter trade route from Padum to Ladakh. Only a few groups make the journey each year, making it a truly amazing journey. A versatile strategy is required because the river’s conditions can change.
Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stay with local Zanskaris and gain some insight into the distant societies of Zanskar and Ladakh. As you let your body adjust to the altitude, go on a city tour to see the Gompas and garrisons in the area of Leh. See rare Ladakhi wildlife such as the blue sheep, Himalayan Thar, snow leopards, and ibex.
Where To Find
Leh must be reached via air because getting there by road during the cold season is practically impossible due to the amount of snow.
Jet Airways, Air India, and Go Air offer daily flight services between New Delhi and Leh. To avoid expensive fees, it is generally a good idea to purchase your tickets in advance.
Why You Should Do The Chadar Trek
Among the most distinctive treks inside the world is the Chadar Trek. On a frozen river’s exterior, you are hiking. Other hiking trails in India take place through mountains, hills, and valleys while passing through passes, caves, and historic forts. This one drifts all along the Zanskar path, where you can walk just on ice because it is so deep.
Visit locations you’ve never been to before While on The Chadar Trek
The Ladakh landscape undergoes dramatic changes during the winter. The Zanskar River, particularly in the river valley, provides the most breathtaking views of this high-altitude desert.
Discover attractions that have frozen over now and created towering icicle walls. Under the ice, you can see air pockets from the frozen river. You walk on such a thick sheet of ice that is covered by a swirling river in some places along the trail.
Even a small increase in temperature causes the ice to melt, break, as well as freeze. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see mountain goats climbing the challenging terrain. The around trees lack leaves, and their weather-blackened branches stand out against the surrounding area’s white backdrop.
The Chadar Trek Is The Only Trek In India
Since it took place on an iced river’s exterior, the Chadar Trek is distinctive. Side treks in India pass through valleys and old forts, as well as through passes and caves. The Zanskar River winds its way somewhere along the trek. You will be able to walk on the ice where it is thick enough. You will climb on the iced riverbanks where the guides feel the ice is too thin. You’ll make a stop to set up camp and take in the tranquility of the river and the starry sky.
Other trekking groups’ bonfires are visible downstream. Appreciate vocal lessons and eat hearty meals to help you get through the chilly night. Tibb Cave has been one of the highlights of a Chadar Trek and is a well-liked destination for hikers of all levels.
Boastful Rights
As long as you are in good physical shape, the Chadar Trek hike is not challenging. There are no technical requirements, and there are no steep slopes. But one must not yet take it lightly. This trek is difficult because of the terrain and altitude. If you ignore your guide, the harsh conditions could endanger your life.
An excursion like this has a way of boosting your self-esteem and making you feel more accomplished. You’ll also become a part of an exclusive group of Tschadar trekkers who have accomplished everything once the Chadar hike is over. When you become this same hero of your circle, be ready for shocking glances and lots of inquiries.
Waterfall in Nerak
The Nerak Waterfall, a large waterfall that is entirely covered in ice from top to bottom, is a highlight of one of the Zanskar River hikes.
The Zanskar River is formed by massive ice sheets that look similar to a white sheet called “Chadar.” The Chadar Trek is the most well-known Zanskar River excursion. Even though This could appear to be a difficult hike, it’s not the hardest. The hike all along Chadar seems to be flat. with only a few slight inclines. When you can hike for several hours without feeling too stressed, you are already in good hands.
Conclusion
Every ardent trekker from India and around the world has this as their ultimate goal. At 11,123 feet above sea level, you must be prepared for some frozen surprises. The nine-day walk travels around 75 miles, the majority of which is on the “Chadar.” Walking on the ice over an extended time causes the frosty coating to thin down or, in some spots, even crack. The river’s lovely trickling sound is soothing to the ears and a sign of the adventure that awaits.