Winter is the best time to plan a trek to Chadar Lake as during winters the Zanskar River freezes which is best for adventure sports such as skiing. The temperature here ranges between -5 degrees Celsius to -25 degrees Celsius this fluctuation of temperate causes broken trails so you have to be careful while waking on the sheet of ice, you might dip your feet in numbing water.
The beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayas will encourage you to fight all the difficulties and complete the trek. It is a bit difficult to go trekking in winter but this trek is only possible in this season. Do remember to carry proper winter clothes and other essential types of equipment according to the guidelines. The best time to plan this trek is during January and February as they are the peak winter months you will find a thick sheet of ice on the Zanskar River.
Chadar Trek best time
Trekking in January
The best time for the Chadar trek is in January as the temperature drops down to negative but you should wait till the middle of January because at the beginning of the month, the ice sheet is not so thick and it will not be able to hold your weight. The ideal time for planning for the trek is mid-January so that you can enjoy your trek and create some memorable moments.
Trekking and February
The Zanskar River freezes completely at the beginning of the month which makes it the best time to plan a trek. This is one of the toughest treks in India, the temperature ranges between -5 degrees Celsius to -25 degrees Celsius this fluctuation causes broken trails which can be dangerous while trekking. Do not plan a trek at the end of February because at this time the snow starts to melt and the sheet is not so thick it can hold your weight.
Do remember you have a skilling guide by your side otherwise, it can be difficult to walk on the frozen river.
The average temperature during night and day
During the day time, the temperature ranges between -5 degrees Celsius to -15 degrees Celsius which drops to -25 degrees Celcius during the night time. Due to this fluctuation, the ice sheet on the Zanskar River melts in some places which causes broken trails but it refreezes at night.
The Chadar trek is one of the most difficult winter treks so make sure you have an experienced guide by your side and you are carrying all the essential types of equipment. You need to be prepared physically and mentally for any kind of difficulty.
