Quick Answer
The Chadar trek on the frozen Zanskar river: when it runs (January to February), the mandatory acclimatisation and medical check in Leh, difficulty, cold, gear and how to prepare.
In the coldest weeks of winter, the Zanskar river freezes along stretches of its gorge between Zanskar and the Indus. For generations, this sheet of ice, the chadar, was the only winter route in and out of Zanskar. Today it is one of the most famous winter treks in India: several days of walking on ice and camping in caves and tents below cliffs, at night temperatures that can drop to minus 20 to minus 30 degrees.
Quick answer
The Chadar trek runs from mid-January to February, depending on the ice. Expect about 6 to 9 days in total including mandatory acclimatisation in Leh, where trekkers have to complete a medical check and register before setting out. It is moderate to difficult because of the cold, not the climbing. Go only with an experienced, registered operator.
How the trek works
- 1Fly into Leh (the road is closed in winter).
- 2Rest in Leh for the required acclimatisation days; complete the medical check and registration.
- 3Drive to the road head on the Zanskar river near Chilling.
- 4Walk on the ice for several days, camping on the banks; many itineraries aim for the frozen waterfall near Nerak.
- 5Walk back the same way, then drive to Leh.
Rules for the trek, including acclimatisation, medical checks, insurance and permits, are set by the Ladakh authorities and have tightened in recent years. Check the current season's regulations before booking anything.
How hard is the Chadar trek?
The walking itself is mostly flat, at around 3,100 to 3,400 m. What makes it hard is the cold, the uneven ice that can crack or flood, and sleeping in sub-zero tents. Trekkers need good general fitness, experience of cold, and the patience to follow the guide's lead on where to walk.
What to pack
- Thermal base layers, fleece, down jacket rated well below freezing.
- Insulated waterproof trousers and warm gloves with liners.
- Gumboots for walking on wet ice (usually bought in Leh) and warm socks.
- A sleeping bag rated for minus 20 or colder; operators often rent them.
- Head torch, spare batteries kept warm, sunglasses, sunscreen.
Is it safe?
The main risks are hypothermia, frostbite, altitude sickness, and ice conditions changing with weather. Choose a registered operator with experienced local guides and rescue arrangements, buy insurance that covers high-altitude winter trekking, and never walk on the ice without a guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Chadar trek?
From about mid-January to February, depending on how well the river freezes.
How many days is the Chadar trek?
About 6 to 9 days in total, including the acclimatisation days in Leh.
How cold is the Chadar trek?
Night temperatures can fall to minus 20 to minus 30 degrees; days are often around minus 10.
Is a medical check required for Chadar?
Yes. Trekkers must acclimatise in Leh and pass a medical check before setting out; check current rules each season.
Can beginners do the Chadar trek?
Fit beginners with good cold-weather preparation can, with an experienced operator. The difficulty is the cold, not technical climbing.
Written by Via Kashmir Editorial Team
Last checked 2026
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