Ladakh’s mountains are extremely steep. During the winter, there is a lot of snow, and many of the passes are closed. In fact, some roads become extremely hazardous to travel on or altogether impassable. During the months of November to March, some settlements become completely inaccessible. If the roads are closed and you are unable to drive up, the only option is to trek to the settlements. The Chadar trek is one of the hikes that takes you to settlements deep in the mountains of the Zanskar valley. It runs between these villages and Chilling. You must journey along the freezing Zanskar River. It is, without a doubt, one of the most popular routes, and in February, vehicles can even travel all the way up into the mountains.
Walk
Before you go on the Chadar trek, one thing should be clear: it will not be an easy journey. In fact, the journey is not without perils. The Zanskar River is a large, fast-flowing river. You will also have to hike across steep canyons on your way between Chilling and Zanskar. You’ll be carrying a large bag with all of your essentials because you won’t be able to locate much in the communities.
Walking on frozen water while carrying a large suitcase could be difficult. The river hasn’t frozen fully. During the winter, only a few inches of the surface are frozen. So, when you’re trekking through the ice-cold water, keep in mind that the Zanskar River is only a few inches away, running quickly beneath your boots. Also have a look on Bali Pass Trek and Leh Ladakh Bike Trip .
You’ll need to be cautious. You’ll need to keep the items you’ll need in your bag. However, you can’t make it too hefty. The ice breaches occasionally, putting the trekkers in risk. On the walk, many individuals have died. However, it is mainly the locals who have little choice but to carry heavy objects for a living. Before reaching the towns, the Chadar ice river trip could take up to a week. You’ll have to sleep in the canyon’s caves, which are naturally formed into the canyon walls.
Also See: About Everest Base Camp Trek
Guide
It is best to travel with a guide who is familiar with the Chadar freezing trip. It could be frightening to walk across the thin coating of ice. Someone who is unfamiliar with the area may be unable to determine the thickness of the frozen ice. You may also have to travel through a very thin strip of ice flanked on one side by deep, fast-moving water and on the other by the canyon walls.
The Chadar Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You’ll be able to stroll across the frozen Zanskar River! What more could you possibly want? It is considered one of the must-do activities in the Indian Himalayas.
Chadar is derived from the Arabic term chadar, which means “white bedsheet,” and the scenery in the photographs is just that! A snow-white bedsheet, plain and simple!
Chadar Trek treks are only possible during the peak winter months (January and February), when the river freezes and the temperature drops below freezing. Chadar Trek has grown in popularity among trekkers all over the world in recent years.
