Chadar trek in Zanskar valley is one of the most thrilling treks in India. This out-of-the-world walk on the frozen river at icy cold weather actually poses challenge for the trekkers. But the real excitement lies in the path to meanders through the spectacular ravines and mesmerizing canyons of Zanskar. But to enjoy the true essence of this overwhelming trek, you need to understand some important things. Following are some tips that will make your dream trek less taxing.
Clothes - Take enough though not too much - The normal temperature in Zanskar vally is subzero. Your body will get accustomed to the temperature as you walk and get exerted. But the problem comes when you are at the camp and not exerting yourself. The chilly cold literally gets into the bones. To keep yourself warm, you must be covered in layered clothes. Warm sweater, woolen thermals and trekking jackets should be inevitable part of the trek.
Gumboots and hiking shoes are necessity – Though you will walk on the frozen river, at times you may need to wade through knee-deep chilly cold water. And to tackle watery walk you need to wear gumboots to keep your shoes as well as feet from the water. Basically it’s not possible to dry anything in Chadar. And thus gumboots are a must while in the campsite, you keep the feet safe in hiking shoes. You need to wear hiking shoes throughout the journey. You don’t need to carry slipper or sandals as they are of no use in subzero temperature.
Slipping, falling, shoe bites are part of the trekking - Chadar is all about slippery ice sheet that never lets you walk sketchily. However, as it comes to Chadar frozen river trek in India, even being the most careful person in the world, you are very likely to fall and slip several times on the frozen lake. It will be good to walk in areas where the ice sheet is covered with fresh snow. If you fall, roll on the knees and get back up, again start walking confidently. Gumboots may give shoe bites. But that won’t be an issue as you get used to wearing them.
Carry sleeping bags – You should carry sleeping bag to counter freezing weather. The bag must have a temperature rating of at least -25 degree Celsius. It will be even better to carry a bag liner to add extra comfort and warmth.
Help keeping the eco-system intact – Zanskar region boasts a fragile yet pristine eco system. The valley faces alarming threats each with rising population of trekkers and their insensitive activities. But as a trekker, you must be sensitive and responsible toward maintaining the eco-system of the place. Don’t litter here and there. If you find any wrapper strewn, just pick it up and drop in the trash bin.
These are only a few tips to ensure a great Chadar frozen river trek in India. It’s a challenging trek that needs special guidance. So it will be always better to talk to a tour operator to planning a suitable trek trip that ensures maximum contentment. In this regard, you can also get some tips to prepare for the ultimate adventure.