Chadar Trek

Chadar Trek Postponed: River Yet to Frozen 

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Written by: Divya Dwivedi
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The awaited Chadar Trek, which was set to begin on 7th January 2025 has been postponed for approximately up to 13th January. Recently on 3rd January, the recce team inspected the entire trek route and found out that the Zanskar river, on which the trekkers move is not frozen completely. 

Hence the Recce team suggested the postponement by submitting the report to the District Administration of Leh. According to the experts of the Recce team, it’s not safe to allow trekkers in a semi-frozen river. Because the trekkers move on riverbanks over the ice sheet, it might lead to any accident. 

The President of Ladakh Mountain Guides Association (LMGA), Skalzang Rigzin shared that mainly, the river stretch between Tar and Tsomo is yet to freeze. According to him, there is a high chance of the trek commencing from 13th Jan. 

Frozen River
Frozen Zanskar River

In this matter, the ADC of Leh, Ghulam Mohammed also broke the silence and informed about postponing the Chadar trek as of now. He further expressed his concern about climate change and global warming, which ultimately is leading to this consequence of the unfrozen river. Though the temperature is touching about (-24°C), it will still take a few more days to become thick ice sheets. The GHG emissions are a big reason behind the increase in global temperature. Overall, the pollution is impacting the ecology of our Himalayas and Trans Himalayas. 

In earlier times, this river used to get fully frozen on both sides in early January, but due to global warming, this time period is gradually shifting to mid-January. 

The Inspector of UT Disaster Response Force (UTDRF), Tsering Angchuk stated about the next recce survey in the second week of January. Besides this, he also said that at present the river is frozen scarcely.

According to the sources, the infrastructure and administration are fully ready to begin the Chadar trek. The Recce on this Chadar trek route was executed by collaborative efforts of LMGA, UTDRF, ALTOA, Wildlife Department and a few other important organizations. 

The General Secretary of All Ladakh Tour Operator Association (ALTOA), Tsewang Namgyal conveyed that the Zanskar river remain frozen for almost a month starting from early January. 

Every year, hundreds of trekking enthusiasts hike on this heavenly trek amid the Zanskar valley of Ladakh. On average, 1000 trekkers go for the Chadar trek every year. In 2023, about 1500 people went on this trek. While in 2024, comparatively fewer trekkers participated. There were a total of 584 trekkers, out of those 65 people were foreigners. 

About the Chadar Trek

Zanskar river
Riverbank of Zanskar River

Located at an altitude of 11,100 ft, the Chadar trek of Ladakh is one of the most adventurous and incredible winter treks. Due to its uniqueness, foreigners also come here to take joy in the challenging and phenomenal experience of walking on ice sheets over the river. 

Along with being an awe-inspiring trek, it throws challenges also. However, when trekkers walk over the ice sheet of the Zanskar River, it gives such a rush of endorphins and feel each step is worth it. Besides this frozen lake, the Chadar trek has more surprising snow landscapes like ice caves, high-altitude waterfalls, and eye-catching scenic views.

Best time to do the Chadar Trek 

The best time to do the Chadar trek is early January to early February. At this time, the water of the Zanskar River froze and so it became a beautiful ice sheet over the river. This ice sheet on the Zanskar River acts as a trekking trail for the trekkers embarking on the Chadar Trek.  Hence, the authorities responsible for Ladakh tourism pay great attention to the status of the Zanskar river. 

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Divya Dwivedi

Divya Dwivedi

Divya Dwivedi, a nature lover, enjoys exploring Earth's hidden treasures. Her writing reflects her deep love for the beauty of the Himalayas. As a writer, she gets more opportunities to discover and learn about these hidden gems. She hopes to continue following her passion for nature and sharing it through her words.

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