Chadar Trek
The Chadar Trek: Walking on Frozen Zanskar
The Chadar Trek, or the Zanskar Gorge, is a legendary winter trail in the Zanskar region of Ladakh, in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Its walls rise as near-vertical cliffs up to 600 meters high, while the Zanskar River—a tributary of the Indus—narrows to just 5 meters wide in places.
The Chadar Trek follows the frozen Zanskar River, providing an access route to the remote Zanskar Valley. For centuries, this icy pathway has been used by locals as a lifeline during winter, and today it attracts adventurers from around the globe.
In the local language, “chadar” means “blanket,” describing the thick sheet of ice that covers the river like a frozen quilt. In summer, the river transforms into a paradise for rafting enthusiasts; in winter, it becomes the stage for one of the most thrilling treks in India.
This challenging journey spans approximately 105 km on foot, with trekkers covering 15–17 km each day. Despite its difficulty, the Chadar Trek has long captivated travelers, offering both adventure and cultural immersion.
Best Season: January to February. During these months, temperatures can plunge to -30°C or even -35°C, turning the Zanskar into a mesmerizing crystal expanse—an unforgettable sight and experience.
