Chadar Trek: Walking in the footsteps of Adventures

Vacation usually means having to relax on the hills or enjoy the pristine waters of the beaches, but how about some adventure soaked holiday that will bring the thrill in you? How about facing some of your fears while enjoying the mountains?

If you like the idea then do not waste any time and start planning to experience Chadar Trek right away. There is no other life-changing experience than the Chadar Trek. Chadar Trek will add all the fun, thrill and adventure in your life.

It is one of the most unforgettable experiences that you will ever seek. This is not an easy trek and many trekkers even come back halfway. So if you wish to test your strength and endurance of your mind and body, this is the right way to do. Here are all the things that you need to know before embarking upon this wonderful trek.

Why go on a Chadar Trek?

Chadar trek is carried out in Leh Ladakh region, where the unusually the sub-zero temperature freezes the Zanskar River. Also known as the Frozen River Trek, this is one of the toughest treks in India that many people embark upon. Since it is only for the brave hearts, one also has to be physically and mentally strong to cover it. You will be covering a distance of 105 km on foot. Every day you will be walking around 10-15 km with your backpack on that will consist of all the crucial things that you will require on the trek. Crossing the icy boulders and the frozen river itself is a thrilling task. You will be camping in the caves at night. Before you set out, it is best to have a physical examination done by your doctor. Since you will be trekking through dizzying heights where the oxygen levels aren’t high, acclimatization is one thing that you will need to do. The bone-chilling experience that you will seek on this trek goes beyond words.

The major destinations that the trek covers

Many prominent regions fall upon the route of this trek.

• Tilat Sumdo: This is a campsite for the trekkers. Sumdo means ‘confluence’ as there is a small stream, which meets the Zanskar River.
• Shinra Koma: This destination is about 10 km away from Tilat Sumdo. This is a scenic spot that will show you the beauty of the place, which is why you need to carry your camera along.
• Tibb: This picturesque location is an abode to waterfalls and caves. The Tibb cave serves as a campsite who can stay the night before embarking on their journey ahead. You must witness the beautiful sun-kissed mountain ranges during the sunrise.
• Nerak: This is a base camp for the trek. You will witness the best sunset here, which will be a treat to your eyes.
• Gyalpo: This campsite is located at the bend in the Zanskar River where you will see peaks and walls of rocks.
• Dibyokma: This campsite will feel like heaven where you will get panoramic views of the Himalayas.
• Lingshed: This is one of the oldest villages in Ladakh. You will find the Lingshed Monastery, which is the oldest monastery in the region.

Difficulties of the trek

• The most difficult part about this trek is that you may or may not get acclimatized to the harsh climate.
• You will be trekking at an altitude of 13,000 feet above the sea level.
• You will be trekking through a distance of 105 km, which in itself is a feat. So, exhaustion is bound to happen through the course. You must have proper stamina and agility to cover this trek. It is said that many trekkers fail to cover the entire distance and return from halfway due to exhaustion.
• You will also be carrying your heavyweight backpack that will contain all necessary elements such as food and warm clothes for the trek. The nightmare arrives when you will be walking on the ice sheet that forms over the Zanskar River.

Things to do on Chadar Trek

You must let your loved ones know in advance of the trek so they know about your whereabouts. You will not be getting any network on your mobile phone so inform your family and friends back home about the same. You will find network only when you descend on your way.

• Keep a lot of warm clothes in your bags as the temperature will keep dropping as you go higher and higher.
• Scarcity of food on your trail will happen. Stock up enough food in your bag.
• Bring a first aid kit to treat any injuries.

Things to not do on a Chadar Trek

• Do not litter the place.
• Do not use soaps and shampoos in the waterfall as they are a source of fresh water for the inhabitants living in the region.
• Follow the tips given by the guides.
• Do not skip any of your meals as they are a source of energy.
• These tips are to be followed while embarking upon a Chadar Trek.

The best time to visit is during the winter months of January and February when the river freezes entirely. If you wish to experience this journey of a lifetime, write to us on support@adventourist.in

Also Read: The Little Tibet  – Spiti Valley