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Embarking on the trek to frozen river Ladakh, known as the Chadar Trek Expedition, is an ultimate experience for true adventure lovers. The traditional name “Chadar” translates to “frozen sheet,” referring to the solid ice blanket that forms over the Zanskar River during winter. Historically, this frozen river served as the only route in and out for the Zanskaris when all other mountain passes were blocked by heavy snowfall. For centuries, it was their vital trade link - a lifeline through the harsh Himalayan winter.
Today, this route has become one of the most thrilling and sought-after winter trekking adventures in India. We have been organizing this Frozen River Chadar Trek for several years, offering three customized expedition options led by expert local Zanskari porters, guides, and highly experienced staff.
Zanskar remains isolated and inaccessible for nearly eight months of the year due to heavy snowfall. This geographical isolation has preserved its ancient Buddhist traditions and rich cultural identity, making it one of the last untouched enclaves of Ladakh and Tibet.
The Chadar Trek Expedition offers a rare opportunity to explore this hidden Himalayan world, witnessing the lifestyle of its ten thousand resilient inhabitants and visiting centuries-old monasteries like Karsha and Zangla. Along the route, trekkers pass through small villages such as Chilling and Lingshed, as well as remote caves and campsites like Hanamur, Pidmo, and Pishu, before reaching the mystical Zanskar region.
Best time for Frozen River Chadar Trekking tour in Ladakh: Mid-January to the end of February - when the Zanskar River freezes solid, creating a spectacular sheet of ice perfect for trekking.
Take a morning flight from Delhi to Leh. Upon arrival, check into your guesthouse and rest for the entire day to acclimatize to the high altitude.
Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
Begin your sightseeing tour of the ancient monasteries around Leh.
Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
In the morning, drive to Chilling, the starting point of your Chadar Trek Expedition, accompanied by local porters from Pishu village. Visit traditional coppersmith workshops known for their unique craftsmanship.
Dinner and overnight stay at the guesthouse.
Begin your trek to frozen river Ladakh by walking on the icy surface of the Zanskar River from Chilling to Zaribago. The trek takes approximately 5 hours.
Overnight stay at the campsite.
Continue trekking for about 4 hours on the frozen river from Zaribago to Deepyokma. The breathtaking landscapes and frozen waterfalls along the way make this stretch unforgettable.
Overnight stay at the campsite.
Walk for about 4 - 5 hours to reach Nyarakpulu, located below the Nyarak village.
Overnight stay at the campsite.
Leaving Nyarakpulu, it's about an hour's walk to the small village of Lingshed. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of a traditional Ladakhi home with central heating.
Overnight stay at a private home.
Spend the day exploring Lingshed, one of the most remote villages in Ladakh. Visit the monastery, interact with the friendly locals, and experience the unique lifestyle of people living in such isolated conditions.
Overnight stay at a private home.
Trek back from Lingshed to Nyarakpulu, a journey of about five hours.
Overnight stay at the campsite.
Walk for about 4 hours to reach Tso Mopoaldar. The icy terrain and frozen formations offer mesmerizing views along the way.
Overnight stay at the campsite.
Continue trekking for another 5 hours from Tso Mopoaldar to Tilatdo.
Overnight stay at the campsite.
Walk from Tilatdo to Chilling village, where a jeep will be waiting to take you back to Leh. Arrive in Leh by evening.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Early morning transfer to the airport for your return flight to Delhi.
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