Tour Overview
The Chadar Trek — named after the "chadar" (sheet) of ice that forms over the Zanskar River in the depths of winter — is one of the most extraordinary and challenging treks in the world. Available only during January and February when temperatures plunge to -30°C, this is a journey that very few people on Earth have experienced.
For centuries, Chadar was the only lifeline for the Zanskari people, who would walk this frozen highway to Leh to trade goods and supplies when the high passes were buried under snow. Today, adventurous trekkers walk in their footsteps, navigating the frozen river on foot, camping in caves carved into the gorge walls and witnessing a landscape of extraordinary, raw, frozen beauty.
Temperatures are extreme — full winter trekking gear, high-quality sleeping bags rated to -30°C and experienced local guides are mandatory. All equipment is provided. This trek requires moderate fitness but no prior technical climbing experience. An unforgettable, life-changing experience.
Tour Highlights
Walk on Frozen River — Trek on the ice sheet of the Zanskar River at temperatures of -20°C to -30°C
Dramatic Gorge Scenery — Walk through towering canyon walls of frozen waterfalls and sculpted ice
Cave Camping — Sleep in natural caves in the gorge wall — just like the Zanskari people for centuries
Extreme Winter Experience — One of only two months per year when this trek is possible
All Equipment Provided — Thermal gear, -30°C sleeping bag, crampons, trekking poles all included
Expert Zanskari Guides — Local guides who have been navigating Chadar all their lives
Bucket List Achievement — Fewer people walk Chadar each year than summit Everest
Leh City Stay — Two nights in warm hotel in Leh before and after the trek
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Leh — Winter Gear Briefing
Arrive in Leh (winter temperatures -15°C to -20°C in the city). Hotel check-in. Equipment distribution — thermals, base layers, outer shell, -30°C sleeping bag, crampons. Comprehensive safety and weather briefing. Overnight in Leh (heated hotel).
Leh to Chilling — Trek Begins on Chadar
Drive to Chilling (start of the trek). First steps onto the frozen Zanskar River. Walk 8km along the ice sheet through the dramatic gorge. Temperature -20°C to -30°C. Set up camp in a cave for the night. Overnight in cave camp.
Deeper into Zanskar Gorge
Trek 10–12km deeper into the gorge. The canyon walls rise hundreds of metres above you. Pass frozen waterfalls and ice sculptures formed by the extreme cold. Lunch on the river ice. Cave camp again. Overnight in cave camp.
Return Trek — Back Towards Chilling
Begin the return journey. The ice changes every day — the route you came on looks different on the way back. 12km return trek. Hot soup and bonfire at camp. Final night on the frozen river. Overnight in cave camp.
Chilling to Leh — Departure
Final 6km back to Chilling. Drive to Leh. Warm shower at hotel. Certificate ceremony and celebratory dinner — you have completed one of the most extreme treks on Earth. Transfer to airport for departure.
Inclusions & Exclusions
✓ Included
- 1 night hotel in Leh + 3 nights cave camping on the river
- Daily breakfast & dinner
- All transfers by private SUV
- Chadar trek permits & forest department fees
- English/Hindi speaking guide throughout
- Full winter trekking gear & -30°C sleeping bag
- Emergency medical kit & evacuation plan
- All monastery & monument entry fees
- Welcome drink & traditional Ladakhi dinner
- Trek completion certificate
✕ Not Included
- Domestic / international airfare
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Lunches throughout the tour
- Tips & gratuities
- Personal shopping & expenses
- Optional activities (kayaking, etc.)
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions