Chadar trek is one the most captivating yet challenging treks in the Himalayas. You need to prepare yourself mentally and physically before going on this trek if you have a strong will then you can face all the challenges that the Chadar trek throws your way. The beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayas will encourage you to fight all the challenges and complete this trek. The adventures and landscapes of this place will leave you wondering that you’ve been transported to some other planet. The Chadar trek can be conquered with the right preparation and experience. Here the temperature ranges between -5 to -25 degrees Celsius in winter, 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. Despite all the challenges you might face during the trek it will be the most heavenly experience of your life.
Difficulty level of the trek:
According to the Bikat Rating scale, the trek is a level 5. BRS rates the difficulty level of all the treks.
If you are a beginner, unsure about the challenges you might face on the trek then a trek-rated 1 on this scale will be good for you.
If you are someone who liked your first trekking experience and want to test your limits then a trek rated 2 or 3 on this scale will be best for you.
If you believe in yourself and you are sure about your fitness level then you can go for level rated third on this scale.
If you are an experienced trekker you can try a trek rated 4 on the BRS. It is important to have the experience to move on to the next level.
The frozen trails of Chadar
Zanskar River freezes and a thick layer of ice spreads all over it making a trail for trekkers, that's the reason it is called Chadar Trek. the unbearable cold weather and an icy trail make this trek the most difficult one. Walking on this trail is not easy you need to have an experienced guide by your side and you should know how to handle the challenges that you might face while trekking. You just need physical and mental strength to complete this trek easily.
Here’s a list of challenges you might encounter on the trek:
Extreme temperature:
The temperature on the Chadar trek drops down to -30 degrees Celsius. Imagine if this temperature can freeze the whole zanskar river then what it can do to your bones. To keep yourself warm in this freezing weather make sure you are carrying thermals, furr jackets, windcheaters, gloves, and a thick pair of socks. Layer yourself with as many layers as possible it will keep you warm and comfortable.
Do carry all the essential things according to the guidelines of your organizer.
Unpredictable weather:
When planning a trek in the mountains you have to be prepared to deal with any kind of weather. Make sure you are carrying rain cover, proper walking shoes, and windcheaters to deal with unexpected rainfall and snow on the trail.
Water and food:
Due to the temperature being so low water freezes quickly and if you carry a packed lunch it will turn cold in no time. Chadar trek is the only trek where we carry all the cooking supplies and cook fresh & hot meals before heading back to the trails. You will have to find the right water spot to fill your water bottles.
Mountain sickness:
While trekking you can experience headaches, nausea, or rightlessness so make sure to stay hydrated and allow your body to adapt to the environmental conditions before starting the trek.
