On Hold : Chadar Karsha Trek Odyssey: A 22 Day
Looking for a unique and immersive experience? Look no further than the Chadar Trek, a 22-day adventure through the isolated and untouched Zanskar region. With a maximum elevation of 3850m, this trek is graded as moderate and requires a minimum of six people.
Zanskar is one of the last remaining cultural satellites of Tibet, with its isolation and esoteric Buddhism allowing its inhabitants to preserve their cultural identity. Due to heavy snowfall, the region is inaccessible for nearly eight months of the year, making the Chadar Trek a truly rare opportunity to witness the lifecycle of the region during winter.
This trek takes you through some of the villages along the Zanskar River, providing a glimpse into the unique way of life in this region. You'll also have the chance to visit the ancient monastic establishments of Karsha and Zangla, offering insight into the mysteries of this Shangri-la.
Chiling and Lingshed are the only significant villages along the trek until Hanamur and Pidmo, before reaching Pishu and Zangla in Zanskar. The rest of the trek takes you through various places and caves along the route, providing a truly immersive experience.
Don't miss this opportunity to experience one of the last remaining untouched cultural satellites of Tibet. Join us on the Chadar Trek and discover the unique beauty of Zanskar in winter.
Day 01:
We'll start our journey with an early morning flight from Delhi to Leh, where we'll transfer you to your hotel and give you some time to rest.
Day 02:
After breakfast, we'll embark on a sightseeing tour of Leh, visiting the Shanti Stupa and Sangkar Gompa. After lunch at the hotel, you'll have the afternoon free to rest and explore on your own.
Day 03:
We'll take a day trip to the Shey and Thikse monasteries, where you'll have the opportunity to learn about the region's rich Buddhist history and culture.
Day 04:
We'll start our trek by driving from Leh to Chiling, a journey of around five hours. Here we'll meet our porters from Zanskar and visit the local coppersmithing workshops.
Day 05:
The real adventure begins as we start walking on the frozen Zanskar river, known as the Chadar. Our first stage takes us from Chiling to Zaribago, a journey of around five hours.
Day 06:
We'll continue our trek from Zaribago to Deepyokma, a journey of around four hours.
Day 07:
We'll trek from Deepyokma to Nyrakpulu, a journey of around four to five hours. We'll camp below Nyarak village, just ten minutes up along a small stream.
Day 08:
We'll trek from Nyarakpulu to Lingshed, starting with a one-hour walk on the Chadar before a steep ascent to the village. We'll stay in a private house and relax in a heated room.
Day 09:
We'll spend a full day in Lingshed, one of the most remote villages in Ladakh. You'll have the opportunity to visit the monastery, school for monks, and explore the village.
Day 10:
Our final day of trekking will take us from Lingshed to Deepkongma, giving us a final chance to soak in the stunning scenery of this region.
Day 11.
Embark on a challenging trek from Deepkongma to Warsangdo, crossing several narrow gorges along the frozen river, and take in stunning views of the Zanskar mountains.
Day 12.
Continue your adventure on the frozen river, trekking from Warsangdo to Pishu, a small village with a few traditional Ladakhi houses and barley fields.
Day 13.
Today's trek takes you from Pishu to Karsha, one of the largest and most important monastic settlements in Zanskar. Along the way, you will pass through several small villages and cross the frozen river several times.
Day 14.
Take a well-deserved rest day in Karsha and visit the Karsha Gompa, which dates back to the 10th century and houses an impressive collection of Buddhist art.
Day 15.
Trek from Karsha to Zangla, a small but charming village with a beautiful palace and an ancient Gompa perched on a hilltop. En route, visit the Zangla Gompa, a spiritual center of the region.
Day 16.
Trek from Zangla to Sarakdo, a small village situated at the confluence of the Tsarap and Zanskar rivers. Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscapes and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Day 17.
Resume your trek from Sarakdo to Nyrakpulu, a small village nestled in a narrow valley. The route passes through several narrow gorges, and you'll witness the unique beauty of the frozen river.
Day 18.
Trek from Nyrakpulu to Tsomopaldar, a high altitude campsite, and take in breathtaking views of the Zanskar Range.
Day 19.
Trek from Tsomopaldar to Tilatdo, a small village where you will find the confluence of the Tilatdo and Zanskar rivers.
Day 20.
On your final day of trekking, hike from Tilatdo to Chiling, where you will say goodbye to your porters and transfer back to Leh by jeep. Enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains and reminisce about your incredible adventure.
Day 21.
Relax and explore Leh at your leisure. Visit the local markets, museums, and monasteries, or simply unwind in your hotel and reflect on your amazing journey.
Day 22.
Depart Leh and return to Delhi, where you'll catch your international flight back home. Say goodbye to India with unforgettable memories of your journey to Zanskar.
IMPORTANT:
If you are interested in taking part in the above tours to Ladakh, please be aware that you will be trekking into altitudes above 4,500 meters/14,000 feet. It is important that you are familiar with the prevention, recognition, and treatment of altitude illness including shortness of breath, restlessness, sleeplessness and headaches, as well as other health dangers that may arise from trekking at high altitude.
To learn more about this topic, you can contact us at +91 9419178747 or write to [email protected].
Please note that for some of our treks, we may require proof of your medical fitness, including a thorough physical exam and certification from your doctor that you have no general medical problems that could result in potentially serious medical consequences while on a trek.
Trekking at high altitudes is strenuous and requires you to be in top physical shape in order to endure up to eight hours of trekking over steep, often rocky terrain as well as snow. To sustain and hopefully enjoy such a demanding exercise, you need to possess good cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength.
In order to prepare yourself for your trekking tour, we recommend undertaking regular aerobic exercise or training that includes jogging, cycling, or swimming, exercising 3-5 times per week for at least six months prior to your trip.
