Walk across the legendary frozen Zanskar River, surrounded by towering canyon walls and the breathtaking winter wilderness of Ladakh.
The Chadar Trek is one of Ladakh’s most extraordinary winter adventures, taking trekkers across the frozen surface of the Zanskar River through a dramatic landscape of icy canyons, frozen waterfalls and towering snow-covered cliffs. This 12-day expedition offers a rare opportunity to experience the remote Zanskar Valley during the harsh Himalayan winter.
Beginning in Leh, the journey includes essential acclimatization before descending towards Chilling, the gateway to the frozen Zanskar River. The trek then follows the legendary ice trail through spectacular sections such as Zaribago, Deepyokma and Nyrak Pulu, where changing ice formations create an ever-evolving winter landscape.
A highlight of the journey is reaching the remote village of Lingshed, where trekkers can explore the local monastery and experience traditional life in the isolated Zanskar region. With temperatures dropping as low as -30°C, the Chadar Trek demands excellent fitness, proper preparation and suitable winter equipment.
Covering approximately 105 km, this difficult high-altitude winter trek is a unique combination of adventure, wilderness and cultural exploration, offering an unforgettable journey across one of the world’s most remarkable frozen river routes.
Trek at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Duration | 12 Days / 11 Nights |
| Maximum Altitude | 3,800 m / 12,467 ft |
| Total Distance | ~105 km |
| Region | Ladakh • Zanskar |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Altitude Range | 3,200 m – 3,800 m |
| Temperature | -30°C to -5°C |
| Trek Type | High-Altitude Winter Trek |
| Main Highlight | Frozen Zanskar River / Chadar |
| Key Locations | Chilling, Nyrak Pulu & Lingshed |
| Landscape | Frozen River, Ice Canyons, Waterfalls & Snow-Covered Mountains |
| Cultural Highlight | Lingshed Village & Monastery |
| Starting Point | Leh |
| Trek Gateway | Chilling |
| Best For | Experienced Trekkers & Winter Adventure Seekers |
| Best Season | Peak Winter / Frozen River Season |
Highlights
- 🧊 Frozen Zanskar River – Walk directly on the legendary “Chadar” ice sheet
- 🏔️ Dramatic canyon landscapes – Massive cliffs, narrow gorges & frozen caves
- ❄️ Blue ice formations – Stunning transparent ice patterns & frozen waterfalls
- 🌌 Extreme winter adventure – Experience one of the coldest treks in the Himalayas
- 🏕️ Riverside winter camps – Camp beside the frozen river under star-filled skies
- 🕌 Remote Buddhist culture – Visit ancient villages & traditional Ladakhi settlements
- 🏞️ Lingshed village & monastery – Explore one of Ladakh’s most isolated monasteries
- 🔥 Survival experience – Trek through changing ice conditions & snow-covered terrain
- 🐾 Wildlife sightings – Himalayan ibex, blue sheep & winter mountain birds
- 📸 Unique photography expedition – Incredible opportunities for winter landscape photography
- 🥶 Sub-zero temperatures – Experience temperatures dropping below -30°C
- 🚶 World-famous winter trek – One of the most iconic frozen river treks on Earth
Itinerary
Arrival in Leh, complete rest & acclimatization at 3500m due to high altitude conditions.
Explore Leh Market, Shanti Stupa & nearby monasteries. Short walks for better acclimatization.
Scenic drive along the Indus River to Chilling village, the starting point of the Chadar Trek.
Begin trekking on the frozen Zanskar River through icy canyon sections & snow-covered cliffs.
Trek across frozen river stretches with dramatic ice formations & frozen waterfalls.
One of the most scenic sections of the trek featuring blue ice landscapes & narrow gorges.
Trek towards the remote village of Lingshed surrounded by snow-covered mountains.
Visit Lingshed Monastery, interact with local villagers & enjoy a rest day amidst Himalayan winter scenery.
Return trek across frozen river sections with panoramic canyon views.
Long trekking day over changing ice trails & frozen river terrain.
Final trek section followed by drive back to Leh. Evening free for rest.
Departure from Leh and return journey to Delhi.
