Chadar Trek adventure is one of its kind experience where you get a chance to enjoy a thrilling walk upon the frozen Zanskar valley. The Zanskar river passes through the deep valleys covered by mountain ranges on both sides. This gives you a feel as if you are trespassing high walls of a royal castle. Blessed with rivers, mountains, and glaciers, Ladakh’s Chadar trek never falls short of surprising you at every step. Here’s how to have a full-fledged experience of this frozen river trek –
When to plan your Frozen River adventure?
As this is a winter trekker’s paradise, plan your Chadar trek experience anytime between January and February. This is the period when the Zanskar River freezes itself in a beautiful piece of ice, and the surroundings remain snow-clad, thereby presenting a pristine experience. As you start trailing, the snow-clad mountain ranges will accompany you so that you don’t feel lonely on your way.
Is it difficult?
Yes, it is. In fact, this winter trek of the Zanskar valley is rated amongst the most challenging treks of the world.
What fitness should you observe?
Fitness is on the top priority here, as this is one of the most challenging treks. You can call it extremely arduous and tasking. Admittedly, it is going to test both your physical and mental well-being. It is therefore recommended that you are at your best health to enjoy this adventure. A thorough medical examination should be your top priority before participating in this trekking experience.
Some common trekking mistakes to avoid –
Lack of physical fitness – One must be fit for Chadar Trekking. All the trekking groups who take people for trekking first ask you to prepare yourself according the weather of Chadar Trek.
Poor Packing- You must checkout you packing list properly. Remember that there won’t be any facility of anything once you reach there.
Dehydration- Most people avod water in cold. However, this could be you biggest flaw here. You must keep yourself hydrated. This is not only about Chadar Trek but even if you are booking for Ladakh Packages, you must keep this in mind.
Get your outfit right- The temperature of Frozen River Trek is even less than 0 degree C, it sometimes tend to -15 degree celcius sometimes. So, you must keep your outfit right.
Things to Carry-
Trekking boots
Fleece jackets
Insulation gloves
Lip Balm
Sunglasses
Personal medication
Emergency first aid kits
Toilet paper
Hand sanitizer
Emergency food items (protein bars, energy bars)
Sunscreen
Rainproof jackets
Water purification pills