Drive to Chilling stop at the Indus – Zankar river confluence on the way.After cross Zanshkar river to reach Tilat Do a small settlement the marks the beginning of the Chadar Trek. Walk to Zari Bago. O/N in a Tents.
Chadar trek is a very unique winter trek and it is perfect for adventure seekers. The river of Zanskar transforms into a thick white blanket of ice which enables people to walk on the frozen water, following a path which is inaccessible in summer. Walking on the frozen river is the only way for the people of Zankar to access rest of Ladakh during winter when the roads are closed because of heavy snow on the passes.
The trek can usually be done from January until the end of February, when the temperature drops down to -25 to -35 degrees. The trek follows the river gorge through dramatic landscape and you might catch sight of wildlife on the trail. Be prepared to stay in caves, villages and camps.
Drive to Chilling stop at the Indus – Zankar river confluence on the way.After cross Zanshkar river to reach Tilat Do a small settlement the marks the beginning of the Chadar Trek. Walk to Zari Bago. O/N in a Tents.
The trail goes through narrow gorges where you might to scramble up the steep rocky bank. There are beautiful frozen water on the way. O/N in a Tents.
Today we walk through deep ravines where many caves can be seen. Reach Nyerak and its fantastic frozen waterfall the largest in Zanskar. O/N in a Tents.
Walk on the Ice 1-2 Hrs and then there is a steep hike up to Lingshed village. Home stay at Lingshed.
Today full day rest at Lingshed.Visit the beautiful monastery of Lingshed Belonging to te Gelupa order, it is home to more than 60 monks. Walk around the charming isolated villages of Lingshed and discover the life of the local people during the cold winter months. Home stay at Lingshed.
Today we back to Nyeral Pulu.
Follow the same trail to reach Dib Yokma.
Walk back to Zari Bago.
Walk back to Chilling and drive to Leh. TREK END.
Weather Details
Spiti Valley has a cold desert climate, with dry air, clear skies, and dramatic temperature shifts between day and night. Summers (May to September) are the best time to visit, with daytime temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C, though nights can still drop below 5°C. The skies stay mostly clear, offering perfect trekking and sightseeing conditions.
Winters (November to March) are extremely harsh, with temperatures plummeting to -20°C or lower, and heavy snowfall often cutting off road access. Spring and autumn bring crisp air, beautiful light, and fewer tourists—ideal for offbeat travelers.
Due to its high altitude (above 10,000 ft), weather can change quickly, so it’s important to be prepared for sudden cold winds or light snow even in summer months.
The Chadar Trek is a high-altitude winter trek over the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh, India. It offers a unique experience of walking on a sheet of ice (“chadar” in Hindi) and is considered one of the most thrilling treks in the Himalayas.
The trek is typically open from early January to mid-February, when the Zanskar River is fully frozen and safe to walk on. Weather conditions change rapidly, so this window is the most reliable.
It's a moderate to difficult trek. While there are no steep climbs, walking on ice at sub-zero temperatures (often -20°C or lower) requires good physical fitness, mental toughness, and acclimatization.
Prior high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory. However, good physical conditioning and the ability to endure extreme cold are essential.
The trek typically covers about 60-70 km over 7 to 9 days, including acclimatization and return.
Yes. 2-3 days of acclimatization in Leh is mandatory due to the high altitude (over 11,000 feet). This helps prevent altitude sickness and is a government requirement.