Chadar Trek

Chadar Trek

Region
Uttarakhand
Duration
7 Days
Max Altitude
3,850 meters (12,631 feet) at Nerak Waterfall
Trekking Km
62 KM
Grade
Difficult
Season
Winter
  • (3 Review)

Chadar Trek

₹11999 / Per Person

The Chadar Trek, also known as the Frozen River Trek, is one of the most thrilling and adventurous trekking experiences in the world. Set in the remote region of Ladakh, India, this journey takes you along the frozen Zanskar River, an icy trail flanked by towering cliffs and magnificent ice formations. For seven days, trekkers walk on the frozen surface of the river, navigating through sub-zero conditions, where temperatures can plummet to as low as -30°C at night. The Chadar Trek is not just a physical test but also a mental one, demanding resilience and adaptability in one of the harshest environments on the planet. Despite these challenges, the trek offers a truly unique experience, with awe-inspiring views of the pristine winter landscape, frozen waterfalls, and the occasional glimpse of exotic wildlife such as snow leopards or blue sheep. The journey is both spiritual and physical, connecting trekkers with the raw, untouched beauty of Ladakh’s wilderness while offering a deep sense of accomplishment and adventure.

Key Highlights

  • A surreal experience of trekking on a solid sheet of ice, surrounded by towering cliffs and pristine wilderness.
  • Trek Name Chadar Trek Adventure Type Difficult Base Camp Leh Season Winter Month January to February

Itinerary

  • Altitude: Leh 3,500 m/ 11,500 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 15 km by road
  • Accommodation: Tent

After arriving in Leh, the capital of Ladakh, the day is dedicated to resting and acclimatizing to the high altitude. Leh, located at 11,562 feet above sea level, requires you to give your body time to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels to prevent altitude sickness. Spend the day exploring Leh’s vibrant markets, known for their Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and woolen goods. You can also visit Shanti Stupa, a white-domed Buddhist structure perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas. As the day progresses, the golden hues of the sunset against the snow-capped peaks create a magical setting. Acclimatization is key for a successful trek, so avoid strenuous activities and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Highlights:

  • Explore the bustling Leh Market, known for traditional Ladakhi crafts and souvenirs.
  • Visit Shanti Stupa for a tranquil sunset view over Leh and the surrounding mountains.

  • Altitude: 3,524 m (11,562 ft)
  • Trek Distance: 4-5 km
  • Accommodation: Tent

Day 2 is designed to further acclimatize your body while allowing you to explore the cultural and historical landmarks of Leh. Start the day with a visit to Leh Palace, a nine-story palace built in the 17th century, offering stunning views of the Indus Valley. Next, visit the Hall of Fame, a museum dedicated to the bravery of Indian soldiers and Ladakh’s military history. The day is also important for your mandatory medical check-up to ensure you are fit to undertake the trek. This is a government requirement, given the extreme conditions trekkers face on the Chadar Trek. The rest of the day can be spent leisurely, strolling through Leh’s streets and trying traditional Ladakhi or Tibetan cuisine.

Highlights:

  • Explore the historic Leh Palace and learn about Ladakh’s royal heritage.
  • Visit the Hall of Fame Museum to understand the region’s military significance.
  • Clear the mandatory medical check-up to be approved for the trek.

  • Altitude: 3,200 m (10,500 ft)
  • Trek Distance: 75 km
  • Accommodation: Tent

The adventure truly begins today as you leave Leh and drive to Shingra Koma, the starting point of the trek. The drive is a scenic journey through Ladakh’s winter landscape, passing snow-covered peaks and the frozen Indus River. Once you reach Shingra Koma, you’ll begin your trek on the frozen Zanskar River. The sight of the river, frozen solid underfoot, is surreal. The initial stretch introduces you to the icy path, where every step crunches on the hardened ice beneath you. Surrounded by the towering cliffs of the Zanskar Gorge, the sense of adventure deepens as you make your way to Tsmo Paldar, your first campsite. The temperature drops significantly in the evening, and you’ll sleep in tents under a sky full of stars.

Highlights:

  • Experience your first steps on the frozen Zanskar River, a thrilling and surreal walk on ice.
  • Marvel at the dramatic cliffs and icy formations of the Zanskar Gorge.

  • Altitude: 3,350 m (10,950 ft)
  • Trek Distance: 14 km
  • Accommodation: Tent

The trek from Tsmo Paldar to Tibb Cave takes you deeper into the Zanskar Gorge, where the scenery becomes even more spectacular. The frozen river, with its varying textures of ice, combined with towering cliffs and occasional patches of flowing water, creates an ethereal landscape. As you trek further, the path becomes more challenging, with smooth ice requiring careful footing. Along the way, you may encounter frozen waterfalls suspended mid-flow, adding to the mystical beauty of the journey. The possibility of spotting wildlife, such as blue sheep or even a snow leopard, keeps you alert and excited. By the end of the day, you’ll reach Tibb Cave, a natural shelter where you’ll camp for the night. The cave provides a sense of warmth and security amidst the icy wilderness.

Highlights:

  • Trek through the awe-inspiring Zanskar Gorge, surrounded by frozen waterfalls and icy cliffs.
  • Camp at the famous Tibb Cave, a unique natural shelter along the trek.

  • Altitude: 3,400 m (11,100 ft)
  • Trek Distance: 13 km
  • Accommodation: Tent

Today is one of the most awaited days of the trek, as you make your way to the iconic Nerak Waterfall. The journey continues along the frozen Zanskar River, with the path becoming more rugged and the ice formations more intricate. As you approach Nerak, the sight of the completely frozen waterfall, with its icy blue hues, is breathtaking. The waterfall looks like it’s frozen in time, a towering formation of ice cascading down the cliffs. The campsite near Nerak offers an otherworldly view of the surrounding frozen landscape, with the night sky often clear enough to see thousands of stars. The day ends with an unforgettable night camping near this frozen wonder.

Highlights:

  • View the magnificent Nerak Waterfall, a natural wonder frozen in icy blue.
  • Spend the night camping under a starry sky near the waterfall.

  • Altitude: 3,400 m (11,100 ft)
  • Trek Distance: 13 km
  • Accommodation: Tent

Retrace your steps as you trek back from Nerak to Tibb Cave. While the path is familiar, the changing light and the varying ice formations make it feel like a new experience. The frozen river reveals new details you might have missed on the way up, and the return journey allows you to appreciate the beauty of the Zanskar Gorge from a different perspective. The serenity of the landscape, combined with the clear night sky, creates a sense of peace as you spend another night at Tibb Cave.

Highlights:

  • Enjoy a serene trek back through the Zanskar Gorge, with changing lights revealing new details.
  • Capture stunning photographs of the frozen river and cliffs.

  • Altitude: 3,500 m (11,500 ft)
  • Trek Distance: 16 km
  • Accommodation: Tent

The final day of the trek takes you back to Shingra Koma, completing the last stretch of your journey on the frozen Zanskar River. The return trek offers one last opportunity to soak in the incredible beauty of the gorge and the icy landscapes. Once you reach Shingra Koma, you’ll drive back to Leh, where the comforts of civilization await. Reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed as you return to Leh, carrying with you memories of one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the world.

Highlights:

  • Complete the final stretch of the trek and bid farewell to the frozen Zanskar River.
  • Enjoy a scenic drive back to Leh, reflecting on the adventure of a lifetime.

How to Reach?

Nearest Airport - Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) Airport
Nearest Railway Station - Jammu Tawi Railway Station
By Road -
Pickup & Drop Information - Leh to Leh

Inclusion

  • Accommodation: Hotel (Leh) and tents (on trek)
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner throughout the trek
  • Trekking Equipment: Tents, sleeping bags, and necessary trekking gear
  • Support Staff: Experienced guides, cooks, and porters to ensure safety and comfort
  • Transportation: Transfers between Leh and the trek start/endpoints

Exclusion

  • Personal Expenses: Snacks, drinks, and any other personal items
  • Travel Insurance: Coverage for the trek and potential emergencies
  • Medical Expenses: Any medical treatment required during the trek
  • Tips and Gratuities: For guides, porters, and support staff

Things to Carry

At Seven Heaven, we prioritize your safety and comfort during trekking adventures. To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, we recommend packing the following essentials:

1. Clothing

  • Outerwear:
    • Lightweight windproof & waterproof jacket (essential for unexpected weather).
    • Down jacket (for cold conditions).
  • Layering:
    • Fleece jackets (2) for warmth.
    • Thermal wear (1 set) for layering during the night.
  • Trekking Apparel:
    • Trek pants (2) and full-sleeve T-shirts (2).
    • Warm nightwear set.
  • Accessories:
    • Woolen cap, sun cap, and neck warmer.
    • Waterproof gloves and woolen gloves.
    • Woolen socks (2 pairs) and hiking socks (5 pairs).

2. Footwear

  • Waterproof Trekking Shoes: High-quality shoes with a strong grip are mandatory for safe and comfortable trekking.

3. Accessories

  • Rain Protection:
    • Rainsuit or poncho (mandatory) to stay dry.
  • Trekking Essentials:
    • Trekking pole (mandatory) for support and stability.
    • Backpack (45L) to carry your belongings.
  • Personal Items:
    • Sunglasses (2 pairs) to protect your eyes.
    • Energy bars and dry fruits for quick energy boosts.
    • Water bottle (1L) and a flask for hot drinks.
    • Head torch with extra batteries for night use.

4. Toiletries

  • Cold cream, sunscreen, and lip balm for skin protection.
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, and personal toiletries.

5. Documents

  • Personal ID (Aadhaar, Passport, or equivalent).
  • Medical insurance (if applicable).

Important Notes

  • Pack light but ensure you have all the essentials to make your trek safe and comfortable.
  • Label your belongings for easy identification.
  • Always test your gear and shoes beforehand to avoid discomfort during the trek.

Prepare well and embark on a memorable adventure with Seven Heaven. Let’s make your trekking experience unforgettable!

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Policy

Payment Policy for Seven Heaven

We value your trust and strive to make your payment process transparent and hassle-free. Please review our payment policy to ensure a seamless experience:

1. Payment Methods

  • Online Payments: We accept payments via credit/debit cards, UPI, net banking, and digital wallets.
  • Offline Payments: Payments can be made through cash, cheque, or bank transfer.
  • EMI Options: EMI facilities may be available for certain services/products (subject to eligibility and terms).

2. Booking Confirmation

  • To secure your reservation, a minimum deposit of [X%] of the total amount is required at the time of booking.
  • Unless otherwise specified, payment must be made [X days] before the service date.

3. Cancellation and Refund Policy

  • Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing or through our official communication channels.
  • Refunds will be processed as per our cancellation terms:
    • Cancellation before X days: Full refund (minus processing fees, if applicable).
    • Cancellation within X-Y days: Partial refund ([Z%] of the total amount).
    • Cancellation within less than Y days: No refund.

4. Late Payments

  • Late payments may incur additional charges of [X%] of the total outstanding amount per day/week.
  • Non-payment beyond [X days] may lead to service cancellation without refund.

5. Taxes and Additional Charges

  • All prices are inclusive/exclusive of applicable taxes. Any additional charges (e.g., service fees) will be mentioned during booking.

6. Dispute Resolution

  • In case of disputes regarding payments, please contact our customer support team at [email/contact details].
  • Disputes unresolved through mutual agreement may be subject to resolution as per local governing laws.

7. Updates to Payment Policy

  • This policy may be updated periodically to comply with regulations or improve transparency. Updates will be communicated via our official website or email.

For any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to us at Seven Heaven.

 

Cancellation and Refund Policy

At Seven Heaven, we understand that plans may change, and sometimes you may need to cancel your trekking adventure. Our cancellation and refund policy aims to balance fairness and flexibility while ensuring the sustainability of our operations. Please review the refund options based on the number of days prior to the trek:

1. Cancellation 30 Days or More Prior to Trek

Refund Options:

  • 5% deduction from trek fees.
  • 100% cash voucher for another trip, valid for one year from the date of cancellation.

2. Cancellation Between 29 to 15 Days Prior to Trek

Refund Options:

  • 40% deduction from trek fees.
  • 80% cash voucher for the same trip, valid for one year from the date of cancellation.
  • 60% cash voucher for another trip, valid for one year from the date of cancellation.

3. Cancellation Between 14 to 7 Days Prior to Trek

Refund Options:

  • Transfer your booking to a friend or family member.
  • 70% deduction from trek fees.
  • 50% cash voucher for the same trip, valid for one year from the date of cancellation.
  • 40% cash voucher for another trip, valid for one year from the date of cancellation.

4. Cancellation Less Than 7 Days Prior to Trek

Refund Options:

  • Transfer your booking to a friend or family member.
  • No refund will be provided.
  • 40% cash voucher for the same trip, valid for one year from the date of cancellation.
  • 30% cash voucher for another trip, valid for one year from the date of cancellation.

Important Notes

  • Cash Vouchers: These can be redeemed for any of our trips within one year from the date of cancellation.
  • Cancellations and Refund Requests: Must be initiated by contacting our customer service team at [email/contact details].
  • Transferable Bookings: In cases where you transfer your booking to another individual, the same trip details and conditions will apply.

We encourage you to carefully plan your trek and review the available refund options before making a cancellation. Our goal is to provide you with maximum flexibility while maintaining the quality of our trekking experiences.

Thank you for choosing Seven Heaven for your adventures!



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Frequently Asked Questions

The Chadar Trek is a moderately challenging trek requiring good physical fitness and stamina due to the icy terrain and sub-zero temperatures. Regular cardio, endurance training, and flexibility exercises are recommended at least 6-8 weeks before the trek.

Pack layered clothing to trap body heat, including thermals, fleece jackets, waterproof and windproof outerwear, and warm accessories like gloves, socks, and a woolen cap. Carry insulated boots with good grip and bring high-energy snacks to maintain energy levels.

Yes, acclimatization is crucial due to Leh's high altitude and low oxygen levels. The first two days in Leh are dedicated to rest, hydration, and light exploration to prepare your body for the trek and prevent altitude sickness.

Walking on ice can be tricky due to the slippery surface. Trekkers are provided with crampons (spiked soles) to ensure a good grip on the frozen river. Guides assist in navigating challenging sections to ensure safety.

Trekkers must undergo a mandatory medical check-up in Leh to confirm their fitness for the trek. It is recommended to carry a personal medical kit with items like pain relievers, altitude sickness medication, and ORS packets for hydration.