Walk on frozen Jhanskar River
  • What – 6N7D Walk on frozen river (Hence the name “Chadar” meaning blanket of ice) in Leh-Laddakh, India
  • When – Feb’2013
  • Travel – Flight to Leh. During winters roadways are closed
  • Campsites – Shingara Koma, Tsomo Palder, Tibb Cave, Nerak Village and back
  • Highlights
    • Extraordinary experiences with unpredictable climate and extreme low temperature ranging from -10C to -30C
    • Experiences at makeshift tents due to extreme cold.
    • Changing landscape with Sun, Clouds, Valley Shadows doing its magic
    • There are also local festivals happening during winters, which essentially keep people engage during winters, however gives us wonderful opportunity to see local culture close and carry wonderful memories with you. Do visit if you can during your Leh stay
  • Lowlights
    • Doable, however fitness (both mental and Physical) is a must
    • Dependent on Weather god, snow storm, little high temperature, avalanche somewhere else can increase the river water etc. – Do plan everything, however dont disappoint if you cant complete trip for any reasons. There is always next year
  • Suitable Time Period – Has to be done in Winters – Dec to mid Feb
    • Summer same place is incidentally used for river rafting sport as chadar turns into bursting Jhanskar river
  • ArrangementsIndiahikes – They no more conduct these expeditions, contact other operators
  • Caution
    • Plan to travel to Leh at least two days in advance to acclimatize. That would be at higher altitude than Jhansar river, so perfect opportunity to get accustom to cold weather and high altitude.
    • DO NOT travel to places like Khardungala pass increasing the risks of AMS, stick to the plan for which you have come.
    • During two days, walk in the lanes of Leh as much. Must visit Leh palace and Shanti Stupa during this two days, which are very beautiful during winters.
  • STAR Rating – 5/5 – Must do, a lifetime experience if there are no medical issues.
  • Cost – Primary cost is Air travel, Total <40K
Slip and Fall
Beautiful Leh Palace in Winters
View of Leh City
Magnetic hill
Starting Point of Chadar trek
Trek Group
Maggi Time in middle of river
Frozen Waterfall, just before Nerak Village
View from Nerak Village
And the aftereffects — Swollen face, skin pilling, but all worth it !!

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