Chadar Trek Guide
The Chadar Trek is one of the most extreme winter treks in the world, done on the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh. Temperatures drop to -30°C, and trekkers walk on thick ice sheets (Chadar) surrounded by towering gorges.
🏔 Trek Overview
RegionLadakh (Zanskar)
Altitude11,100 ft
Total Distance62 km
Duration8–9 Days
DifficultyDifficult (Extreme Winter)
Base TownLeh
🗓 Best Time for Chadar Trek
Jan – FebFrozen river (ideal)
Late DecRisky (thin ice)
March❌ Ice starts melting
Apr – Nov❌ Not possible
🧭 Trek Route & Camps
📍
Start PointChilling Village
🏕
CampsTilat Sumdo, Shingra Koma, Tibb Cave
⛰
Highest Point~11,100 ft
🧊
TerrainFrozen river, ice plates
🗺 Day-wise Chadar Trek Itinerary
📅
Day 1Arrive Leh, rest & acclimatization
📅
Day 2Leh acclimatization & medical check
📅
Day 3Leh → Chilling → Tilat Sumdo
📅
Day 4Tilat Sumdo → Shingra Koma
📅
Day 5Shingra Koma → Tibb Cave
📅
Day 6Return trek on frozen river
📅
Day 7Exit Chadar & return to Leh
💪 Difficulty & Fitness
DifficultyVery Difficult
Temperature-15°C to -30°C
Daily Walk5–6 hrs on ice
Experience NeededPrior trekking essential
🎒 Essential Packing List
-30°C rated down jacket
Waterproof trekking boots
Thermals (multiple layers)
Crampons / microspikes
Balaclava & snow gloves
Headlamp & power bank
🛂 Permits & Safety
🪖
PermitMandatory Ladakh authority permit
🧭
GuideMandatory (no solo trek)
🚑
MedicalHealth check compulsory
📵
NetworkNo signal after Leh
💰 Chadar Trek Cost
With Operator₹22,000 – ₹30,000
DIY Trek❌ Not allowed
IncludesGuide, tents, safety gear
ExcludesFlights to Leh
🙋 Who Should Do Chadar Trek?
✅
Experienced trekkersExtreme winter lovers
✅
Adventure seekersOnce-in-a-lifetime trek
❌
BeginnersHigh risk trek
❌
Heart / asthma patientsNot recommended
🚗 How to Reach Chadar Trek Base
✈️
Nearest AirportLeh (IXL)
🚖
RoadLeh → Chilling village
🧊
Winter RoadsWeather dependent