Chadar Trek (Frozen Zanskar River)
An extraordinary winter expedition traversing the frozen Zanskar River gorge between 1,000-meter canyon walls
The High-Altitude Journey
The Chadar Trek (Frozen Zanskar River) is one of the world’s most unique high-altitude wilderness expeditions. During peak Himalayan winter, the turbulent Zanskar River freezes into a sheet of ice—the "Chadar"—creating the only winter route linking remote Zanskar villages to Leh. Trekkers navigate over shifting ice formations, sleep in rocky canyon caves, and witness the monumental frozen waterfall of Naerak under sub-zero temperatures (-25°C to -35°C). Ridge Recon Unit leads this demanding winter traverse with military-grade cold-weather gear, experienced native Zanskari ice-scouts, and rigorous continuous hypothermia and pulse-oximetry protocols.
Key Route Highlights
Day-by-Day Expedition Itinerary
Arrive Leh; transfer to guesthouse
Arrive at Leh Airport (IXL). Transfer to heated guesthouse. Complete rest for initial high-altitude acclimatization.
Acclimatization & medical check-up in Leh
Mandatory 24-hour acclimatization rest day with pulse oximetry, blood pressure checks, and mandatory local authority medical fitness certification.
Drive to Tilad Do via Chilling; trek to Shingra Koma
Scenic drive following the Indus and Zanskar rivers to Tilad Do roadhead. Step onto the frozen Chadar ice and trek to Shingra Koma campsite.
Shingra Koma → Tibb Cave (~15km)
Sustained ~15km trek across varying ice textures—from transparent mirror ice to deep snow-covered shelves. Reach the historic shelter of Tibb Cave.
Tibb Cave → Naerak (frozen waterfall)
The most iconic day of the expedition. Trek past sheer rock walls and prayer flags to the dramatic frozen waterfall of Naerak.
Naerak → Tibb Cave (retrace)
Retrace steps back along the Zanskar gorge. The ever-shifting ice creates an entirely new landscape and walking experience on the return route.
Tibb Cave → Shingra Koma
Continue downriver trek towards Shingra Koma. Enjoy hot tea and hearty meals prepared by native Zanskari support crews.
Shingra Koma → Tilad Do; drive to Leh
Final morning on the Chadar. Complete the walk to Tilad Do, board private heated transport, and drive back to Leh.
Departure from Leh
Transfer to Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport for homeward flight over the snow-capped Himalayan range.
Expedition Support & Inclusions
- All Leh wildlife permits, Chadar regulatory conservation clearances, and environmental fees
- Veteran RRU expedition guide alongside native Zanskari ice-pathfinder lead
- Dedicated heated camp logistics, Arctic-grade 4-season tents, and sub-zero sleeping mats
- All meals on trek, hot drinking water, pulse-oximetry screening, and satellite evacuation comms