Chadar (frozen river) trek vs Leh
Pick Chadar (frozen river) trek for
snow, adventure, a real challenge, fewer people
Pick Leh for
culture and heritage, a spiritual journey, road trips, an easier walk, fewer days
| Chadar (frozen river) trek | Leh | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Ladakh, Zanskar, Leh | Ladakh, Leh district |
| 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 | 4–6 |
| Best months | Jan, Feb | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Snow likely | Jan, Feb | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar |
| Crowds in season | Moderate | Busy |
| Daily spend | about ₹4,000 | about ₹3,500 |
| Gateway | Leh | Leh |
| With kids | Not advised | Possible |
| 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 for Leh town. Trips beyond Leh (Nubra, Pangong, Tso Moriri) need the online Ladakh protected-area permit and fees — check the current LAHDC process. |
Chadar (frozen river) trek: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Leh: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely