Have friends who have done the Chadar Trek and spoken highly of it? Have you wondered why it's such a popular trek in India and different from other Himalayan treks? We will tell you more about why doing a Chadar trek offers such an unique experience!
As you embark on this challenging trek, you must adapt to its ever-evolving needs. While certain elements such as an icy Chadar and the intense cold are constants, other elements like sunlight glinting off its surface or slippery terrain remain constants - no wonder the Chadar trek is considered one of India's toughest treks. Though home to several challenging Himalayan trails that will push your limits while offering rewards along the way - none compare with this unique one that will push beyond them to leave you feeling accomplished once done!
"In the Chadar" perfectly sums up the vast expanses of ice that cover the turquoise Zanskar River during winter. Trekking along one of these frozen rivers offers an unforgettable adventure unlike any other found elsewhere in Himalayan Mountains.
Experience with the Chadar trek is extensive, as we have completed it multiple times. Yet it still amazes us. Below we have selected some highlights that make Chadar so remarkable, hoping that upon reading it you too will find yourself completely charmed by it!
local culture
Residents experience significant difficulties due to harsh living conditions; this is especially evident during winter months when snowfall makes travel impossible on other routes; residents in these circumstances rely upon dangerous Chadar Trail routes in order to reach civilization across frozen Zanskar River, creating strong cultural links between Zanskar and its people; caves provide shelter and are known locally as 'bau'.
As they wear Goncha traditional robes with colourful beaded neckpieces to add colour and style, it's admirable how they manage to combine their need to stay warm with dressing up as though attending a celebration. You'll experience their welcoming culture which blends both Indian and Tibetan influences; each morning when facing cold conditions they greet their trekkers with hot steaming butter tea which lifts spirits and provides healthful glows for their days ahead.
Nerak Waterfall
On day five, adventurers will find Nerak Falls. Its frozen beauty will enthrall you, like something out of time; water cascading down steep cliffs reveals glimpses of blue beneath their frozen surface; in sunlight this waterfall sparkles like an enormous crystal chandelier; making for a magical addition to Chadar Trek and providing much-needed respite after five days of hiking.
As you contemplate the waterfall's mysterious past, chills will run down your spine. Local legend tells of an old sage who, when its waterfall ceased flowing, traveled to Mount K and was given a vessel filled with water and two small fish which leapt once released; creating the waterfall itself! According to legend, its source lies somewhere deep within Tibet's distant mountains giving it a mysterious aura.
explores the animals found along the Chadar Trail
Snow leopards can often be seen skulking around in shadows and dodging human detection, drawing crowds from faraway lands to see this majestic feline. Mountain goats and ibex can often be seen navigating along frozen river terrain with agility. However, due to being shy creatures they tend to avoid human contact so it can be difficult to catch a photo of one of these animals.
Scenic drive to Bakula
Bakula marks the starting point of Chadar Trek, located approximately 70km from Leh. The scenic drive alone makes this experience worthwhile - offering jaw-dropping views of mountains and valleys on all sides, along with colorful displays of colors and patterns found along this breathtaking journey. Indus River's lush waters can be seen, while steep winding roads lead us directly to Steepanskar River for the start of an exhilarating trek!
Caves along the route
Along the Zanskar River trek route you'll encounter many ancient caves that will transport you back in time to an earlier era, prehistoric even. Stepping inside these dwellings transports you back further still. A slow-burning warm fire offers welcome respite from harsh winds outside. As night fades into dawn and adventure unfolds around you, these caves bid farewell until next time.
Tibb Cave provides hikers a peaceful haven midway through their trek, featuring darkened walls marked by campfire ash from previous evenings. A massive cave can also be found along the trail leading to Nerak falls that provides shelter from the elements for lunch or rejuvenation - ideal places for reflection or relaxing under nature's caresses. Numerous caves along this journey give an insight into a primitive lifestyle which allows us to let go of our urban personas and connect with our wilder side.
