Chadar Trek(The Crystal Path)

$1800 per person

Chadar Trek Ladakh – Frozen River Adventure in Zanskar Valley

The Chadar Trek Ladakh is one of India’s most iconic and thrilling winter treks, set in the remote Zanskar Valley of Jammu and Kashmir. What makes this trek truly unique is the opportunity to walk on the frozen Zanskar River, which forms a thick ice sheet or chadar during the harsh winter months.

Starting from Chilling village and extending deep into the Zanskar region, this 8-day trek covers approximately 60–70 kilometers. It offers dramatic views of frozen waterfalls, towering canyon walls, and ice-clad landscapes. Trekkers navigate across slippery ice sheets with temperatures often plunging to -30°C, making it a serious challenge for even experienced hikers.

The Chadar route has long been a traditional path used by Zanskari villagers to access Ladakh during winter. For centuries, this frozen highway has enabled communities to transport food, medicine, and essential supplies. Today, it stands as a bucket-list adventure for thrill-seekers around the world.

Trek Details:

Region: Zanskar Valley, Ladakh

Duration: 8 Days

Trek Distance: 60–70 km

Max Altitude: 3,475 meters

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Best Time: Mid-January to Mid-February

Trek Highlights:

Trekking over a frozen river – a once-in-a-lifetime experience

Witnessing the stunning frozen Nerak waterfall

Experiencing traditional Zanskari culture and hospitality

Breathtaking frozen landscapes, canyons, and ice formations

Camping in extreme sub-zero temperatures

A deep sense of stillness—punctuated only by the sound of snow crunching underfoot

Chadar Trek

9 Days

18+ Age

Trekking

Destination

Exploring Ladakh

From Our Gallery

Trekkers walking on frozen Zanskar River during Chadar Trek Ladakh

Day 01: Arrival in Delhi – Airport Pick-up & Hotel Stay in Delhi

Our representative will receive you at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and transfer you to your hotel in central Delhi. Relax, freshen up, and prepare for your Himalayan journey.
Stay: 4/5 star hotel in Delhi Altitude: 216m

Day 02: Arrival at Leh (3500m)

Acclimatize to the altitude
No strenuous activity
Explore local markets

Day 03: Acclimatization & Medical Check-Up

Mandatory health screening by the ALTOA and local government
Final gear check

Day 04: Leh ➝ Chilling(3200m) ➝ Tilad Do(3100m) ➝ Shingra Koma(3200m): 3–4 hrs

Drive from Leh to Chilling. The distance is approx. 105kms. along the Indus and then Zanskar River. Mountain roads, winding with scenic views of the Himalayan landscape and river valleys. The distance is 12 kms from Chilling to Told Do(mostly by jeep; sometimes partially trekked depending on road conditions). This is the point where trekkers begin the actual Chadar Trek by stepping onto the frozen Zanskar River. Vehicles cannot go beyond Tilad Do. From Tilad Do to Shingra Koma is approx. 5–6 kms and around 3-4 hrs depending on pace and ice conditions. The trek is slow and careful, requiring steady balance. Shingra Koma Camp is the first major campsite on the trek after crossing the frozen river. Team set up tents here, and trekkers rest for the night to acclimatize and prepare for the longer trek ahead. The area is surrounded by steep, icy canyon walls with stunning frozen waterfalls nearby.

Day 05: Shingra Koma ➝ Tibb Cave(3285m): (10 km trek):6-7hrs

It around 10–12 km on foot (depending on ice conditions and camp locations). The trail continues along the frozen Zanskar River, winding through a narrow gorge with towering rock faces on both sides. You will walk over varied ice surfaces: some sections are smooth and glassy, others covered in snow or showing water beneath. Ice patterns changes daily here like new cracks, frozen layers, and even flowing water in warmer sections. You'll pass by multiple small frozen waterfalls, ice caves, and rock formations along the way. A natural rock cave used as a rest point for porters (you'll sleep in tents nearby, not inside the cave). This is a sheltered and warmer campsite compared to others due to limited wind exposure. Water is usually sourced by melting ice. You may spot pugmarks of snow leopards, blue sheep, or Himalayan foxes (though actual sightings are rare). Temperatures can drop below -25°C; wind chill makes it feel colder. Nights are extremely cold — use thermal liners, hot water bottles, and double insulation in your sleeping bag.

Day 06: Tibb Cave ➝ Nerak (12 km trek): 6 - 7hrs:

This leg of the trek takes you deeper into the Zanskar Gorge, where the cliffs become steeper and the frozen river winds dramatically through narrow passages. This is one of the coldest and most scenic parts of the trek. The gorge narrows to towering cliffs, with little sunlight reaching the ice. Many small, mystical frozen falls line the cliffs—stunning for photography. Occasionally, snow accumulates to form natural bridges; you may also pass through icy rock overhangs. Nerak Frozen Waterfall is 25–30 ft tall. Its a massive, vertical cascade frozen mid-flow, with intricate icicles and blue ice sheets. This is the signature visual of the Chadar Trek is surreal and unforgettable. Trekkers often take group photos here as a memory of the trek’s pinnacle moment. Our Campsite today is located near the riverbank, slightly ahead of the waterfall. Some groups may also climb a steep trail to get a view of Nerak Village, though most camps remain near the river. Tents are set up with views of snow-covered ridges and frozen river stretches.

Day 07: Nerak ➝ Tibb Cave (Return trek)

Same as before

Day 08: Tibb Cave ➝ Shingra Koma ➝ Drive to Leh

Same as before

Certificate
Party

Day 09: Departure from Leh

Take Flight back to Delhi and from their way back home. END OF TOUR.

Chadar Trek(The Crystal Path)