Conquering Chadar: Ladakh's Most Difficult Trek

During the winter season, everyone has some excuse to stay snuggled in a blanket. While some prefer staying under the covers during the bitter cold, there are a few of us who are daring enough to brave the chilly winter season. These adventure freaks seek outdoor ventures to say hello to the snow clad mountains. And as Wilfrid Noyce once said “If man ceases to paddle rivers, climb mountains and plunge into the depths of the ocean, he is no longer a man”.

Are you one of those who believe in pushing the limits? Imagine, how exciting would trekking in temperatures ranging from -15 to -20 degrees be? If you haven't yet visited the amazing Ladakh, this is the time to do it. We give you detailed information on the most difficult trek in Ladakh, the Chadar Trek, which takes place in January and February.

The word Chadar means sheet and is named so because the trek takes place along the frozen Zanskar river. This scenic river usually freezes amidst sub-zero temperatures offering the lionhearted trekkers a spectacular view. While trekking, you may feel as if you might slide over the icy ground, but then that's the beauty of it.

The picturesque glimpse of frozen streams and icy glaciers makes the overall experience even better. The overall atmosphere, the cold temperature, and the caves make the trek one of a kind. It may help to note that the Chadar Zanskar Trek is considered to be the most difficult trek of all. However, it isn't really too difficult to beat the extreme weather conditions prevailing along the trek. All you need to do is be prepared before hand and carry multiple layers with you.

The total distance of the trek from Ladakh is 105 km one way and it usually takes 9 days to complete this marvelous journey. Each day, a distance of 15 to 20 km is covered. The day temperatures usually remain between -15 to -20°C, whereas the night temperatures range between -25 to -35°C. If you fall down over the glossy sheet of ice, don't be embarrassed. Simply rise up and continue with your trek, even the local porters and guides accompanying you take a fall every now and then. It is just another part of the experience.

You surely will be carrying cameras to shoot the picturesque location. Make sure to carry enough number of batteries. Also, when not in use keep those batteries inside warm jackets or mittens since cold drains batteries faster. You may be spending your nights either in a cave or in the houses of Zanskari locals. The food provided is mostly Indian, though make sure you do not eat heavy meals, as it may get difficult for you to continue with your trek.

Additionally, make sure you carry your own sleeping bag since it gets extremely cold as well as windy during the night. Carry enough warmers, gloves, a few pairs of socks, and most importantly a pair of good hiking shoes. Lastly, be sure to not litter. Keep all candy and food item wrappers with you instead of simply throwing them around. After all, you aren't the last person trekking on the frozen Zanskar. Keep all these things in mind and set off without a care in the world. Go ahead, a wonderful trek awaits you!

You may also like:

6 Exciting Snow Sports in India

8 Lesser-Known Adventure Sports to Enjoy in Indian Winters