Chadar (frozen river) trek vs Lamayuru
Pick Chadar (frozen river) trek for
snow, adventure, a real challenge
Pick Lamayuru for
culture and heritage, a spiritual journey, peace and quiet, an easier walk, a smaller budget, fewer days
| Chadar (frozen river) trek | Lamayuru | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Ladakh, Zanskar, Leh | Ladakh, Leh–Kargil road |
| Highest point | 3,400 m | 3,600 m |
| Difficulty | Difficult | Easy |
| Trek distance | about 62 km | No trek needed |
| Days on the ground | 9–10 | 4 |
| Best months | Jan, Feb | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Snow likely | Jan, Feb | Dec, Jan, Feb |
| Crowds in season | Moderate | Moderate |
| Daily spend | about ₹4,000 | about ₹3,000 |
| Gateway | Leh | Leh |
| With kids | Not advised | Good |
| With seniors | Not advised | Possible |
| Permits | Mandatory acclimatisation days, medical check and insurance in Leh, plus fees — confirm current LAHDC rules; the trek has been restricted in some years. | None. |
Chadar (frozen river) trek: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Lamayuru: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely