Chadar Trek Frozen River

Himalayan Trekking

Difficult

Chadar Trek Frozen River

Max Altitude

8 Days

28 Km

Ladakh

India

Overview

Trek Name: Chadar Trek Frozen River

Days: 8

Adventure Type: Trekking

Base Camp: Leh

Season:Winter |

Month:January |

Country: India

Altitude: 11100 Ft.

Grade: Difficult

Rail Head: –

Stay: Hotel(Separate male & Female) & Camping

Food: Meals while on trek

Location: Ladakh

Distance: 28 Km.

Trail Type: Point to point trail | Camping at the same location upon returning.

AirPort: Leh (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee)

Highlights:

Services Leh to Leh.
Centrally heated rooms in Leh
Attached washroom with running water available.
Local sightseeing is included on Day 2

Who Can Participate

Age Requirement:
- Minimum 16 years
First-timers are welcome, though prior trekking experience is preferred. Good fitness is a must.
Fitness Criteria:
- The Trekker should have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes without stress or 10 km of distance by jogging in 70 minutes without stress.
- If the trekker prefers cycling he/ she should be able to cycle 20 km of distance in 55 minutes.
If the trekker wants to carry a backpack then he/she should be able to carry a 10-12 kg backpack. If opt Off-load option then the Trekker should be able to carry 3-5 kg backpack.
If a trekker’s BMI is more or less than the normal range (18-26), please consult our Trek Coordinator before booking.

Itinerary

Day-1: Arrival at Leh

Altitude: Leh: 3505m / 11,500 ft
Accommodation: Hotel

Day-2: Acclimatization Day

Altitude (Leh): 3505m / 11,500 ft
Accommodation: Hotel

Day-3: Medical Test Day in Leh

Today is a Medical Check-up day and it is very important for every trekker to get checked.

Day-4: Drive from Leh to Dib/Tilado and trek to Shingra Yokma

Altitude:
- Tilado: 3300 m / 10800 ft
- Shinga Yokma: 3,300 m / 10,800 ft
Drive distance: 65 km | 3-4 hrs
Trek Distance: 3-4 km | 2-3 hrs

Day-5: Trek from Shingra Yokma to Shingra Goma

Altitude: Shinga Goma: 3,200 m / 10,500 ft
Trek Distance: 5-6 km | 4-5 hrs

Day-6: Trek from Shingra Goma to Tsomo Paldar

Altitude: Tsomo Palder: 3,300 m / 10,800 ft
Trek Distance: 5-6 km | 4-5 hrs

Day-7: Tsomo Paldar to Shingra Yokma

Altitude: Shingra Yokma: 3,300 m / 10,800 ft
Trek Distance: 11-12 km | 7-8 hrs

Day-8: Trek from Shingra Yokma to Dib/Tilado and drive back to Leh

Altitude: Tilado: 3300 m / 10800 ft
Trek Distance: 2 km | 1-2 hrs
Drive distance: 65 km | 3-4 hrs

Note:

Due to ongoing road construction, the visit to Nerak Waterfall is only allowed on Sunday and Wednesday. You will be taken to Nerak on whichever of these days falls during your trek itinerary.

(Nerak is one of the main highlights of the Chadar Trek. The frozen waterfall looks fully covered in ice, and is one of the most beautiful and popular photo points of the trek.)

Day 1: Arrival in Leh

Altitude: 3,505 m / 11,500 ft
Stay: Hotel

Arrive in Leh and transfer to your hotel. The day is reserved for rest as your body begins adapting to high altitude.

In the evening, meet your trek leader for briefing and gear check. Proper hydration and rest are essential.

Note: Visit to Nerak Waterfall is allowed only on Sunday or Wednesday as per administration guidelines.

Day 2: Acclimatization in Leh

Altitude: 3,505 m / 11,500 ft
Stay: Hotel

This day is dedicated to acclimatization. Light local sightseeing may be done at moderate altitude.

Avoid visiting higher passes. Rest well and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 3: Medical Check-up & Final Preparation

A mandatory medical examination will be conducted to ensure fitness for the Chadar trek.

After clearance, complete remaining formalities and prepare for departure to the frozen river.

Day 4: Drive to Tilado & Trek to Shingra Yokma

Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,800 ft
Drive: 65 km | 3–4 hrs
Trek: 3–4 km | 2–3 hrs

Drive from Leh to Tilado and begin trekking on the frozen Zanskar River.

Reach Shingra Yokma campsite beside the icy river and experience your first night on the Chadar.

Day 5: Shingra Yokma to Shingra Goma

Altitude: 3,200 m / 10,500 ft
Trek: 5–6 km | 4–5 hrs

Walk through narrow gorges and ever-changing ice textures along the frozen river.

Camp overnight at Shingra Goma under a star-filled winter sky.

Day 6: Shingra Goma to Tsomo Paldar

Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,800 ft
Trek: 5–6 km | 4–5 hrs

Continue trekking deeper into the valley with dramatic rock faces rising above the frozen river.

Camp at Tsomo Paldar in one of the most serene sections of the route.

Day 7: Tsomo Paldar to Shingra Yokma

Trek: 11–12 km | 7–8 hrs

Retrace your steps along the frozen Zanskar River with renewed confidence.

Reach Shingra Yokma for the final riverside camping experience.

Day 8: Trek to Tilado & Drive Back to Leh

Trek: 2 km | 1–2 hrs
Drive: 65 km | 3–4 hrs

Complete your final walk on the frozen river before driving back to Leh.

Check into your hotel and conclude the legendary Chadar Trek with unforgettable memories.

Trek Essentials

Backpack with rain cover	(50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps
Day pack with rain cover	20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted)
Walking stick	Advisable (At least one)
Water Bottle / Hydration pack	2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask.
Small size tiffin/lunch box	1 Nos
Snacks	Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors
Personal Medical Kit	Consult your doctor

T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry)	1 Half sleeves
Fleece T-shirt	2 Nos
Fleece jacket	1 Nos
Windproof Jacket	Not required
Down feather / Hollow jacket	1 Nos
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower)	1 Pair
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry)	Not required
Fleece Pant	2 Nos.
Waterproof gloves	1 Pair
Fleece / woollen gloves	1 Pair
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant	1 Nos

Head torch	1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch)
Sun Cap	1 Nos
Woolen cap	1 Nos.
Balaclava	1 Nos.
Buff / Neck-gaiters	1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen
Sunglasses	UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses \| (B)- Photo chromatic glasses

Trekking shoes	1 Pair (Gumboots)
Floaters / flip-flops	Not required
Cotton socks	3 pairs
Woollen socks	4 pairs
Gaiters	Not required
Micro spikes	Not Allowed

Sunscreen	1 Nos
Moisturiser	1 Nos
Chap-stick / Lip balm	1 Nos
Toothbrush and toothpaste	1 Nos
Toilet paper & Wipes	1 Nos
Soap / hand sanitizers	1 Nos
Antibacterial powder	1 Nos
Quick dry towel	1 Nos

FAQs

The Chadar Frozen River Trek is a famous winter trek in the union territory of Ladakh, India. It involves walking on the frozen Zanskar River, which turns into a thick sheet of ice during winter. The trek is known for its dramatic scenery, icy gorges, frozen waterfalls, and the unique experience of trekking on a frozen river.

The best time to do the Chadar Frozen River Trek is during January and February, when the Zanskar River freezes enough to safely support trekkers.

The Chadar Frozen River Trek is considered a difficult-grade trek due to extreme cold conditions, icy terrain, and long trekking hours.

The Chadar Trek is typically an 8-day adventure, including acclimatization and trekking days.

Yes, altitude-related concerns can occur during the trek. The trek starts at around 3,300 meters and reaches approximately 3,850 meters. While not extremely high, it can still cause altitude sickness for some trekkers.

Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) may include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and medication can help prevent AMS.

Trekkers must also be cautious of frostbite and hypothermia due to extremely cold temperatures. Wearing proper layered clothing and high-quality winter gear is essential.

The Chadar Trek requires specialized winter trekking gear to handle extreme cold and icy terrain.

High-quality trekking boots with strong grip for walking on ice
Thermal layers, fleece jackets, and down jackets for warmth
Waterproof gloves and woollen socks
Warm cap, balaclava, or face mask
UV-protected sunglasses to reduce snow glare
Trekking poles for balance on icy surfaces
Sub-zero rated sleeping bags
Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
Basic first aid kit and personal medicines
A backpack with around 60L capacity

During the Chadar Trek, NK Adventure provides all meals including breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner. The food is freshly prepared by experienced cooks using nutritious ingredients to keep trekkers energized in extreme cold conditions.

While prior trekking experience is not strictly mandatory, it is highly recommended. The trek involves walking on slippery ice surfaces, navigating narrow gorges, and enduring extremely cold temperatures.

Trekkers should have good physical fitness and some experience with hiking or trekking in challenging conditions.

Night temperatures can drop to as low as -25°C, so proper preparation and winter trekking gear are essential.

The Chadar Trek requires good physical fitness and endurance.

Recommended preparation includes:

Cardiovascular endurance: Running, cycling, or swimming to improve stamina
Strength training: Squats, lunges, and core exercises to improve stability
Flexibility: Stretching, yoga, or mobility exercises
Mental strength: Ability to handle cold temperatures and long trekking days

Trekkers should ideally train for 4–6 weeks before the trek.

Yes, hiring a professional trekking organization like NK Adventure is strongly recommended. The Chadar Trek requires experienced guides, proper logistics, specialized gear, and safety support.

Experienced guides help ensure safety on the frozen river, manage camps, prepare food, and assist trekkers in extreme conditions.

Payment & Cancellation Policy:

When you have firmly decided to undertake the Tour with New Knight Adventure, you will need to book the trip with us. We must allocate enough time to prepare, obtain necessary documents and permits, and book hotels and Transport for the trip.
25% advance during the time of booking for confirmation
50% Amount one month prior of arrival in India
25% Amount to be one week prior of arrival in India

Cancellation Policy:

• If the cancellation is made 30 days before the tour starts, 25% of the full payment will be deducted and 75% will be refunded.
• If the cancellation is made 20 days before the tour start, 35% of the full payment will be deducted and 65% will be refunded
• If the cancellation is made 10 days before the tour start, 80% will be deducted and 20% will be refunded.
• No refund is made if the trip is cancelled after the departure for Expedition.
• No refund is made during the running tour.
• The cost of travel permit or any other documentation charges will not be refundable

Note: New Knight Adventure do all the ground operations in advance (As soon as we received the confirmation request from the guest). We pay advance payment to all our vendors to ensure all the services that we promise with the guest.