Chadar (frozen river) trek vs Pangong Tso
Pick Chadar (frozen river) trek for
snow, adventure, a real challenge, fewer people
Pick Pangong Tso for
camping, road trips, nature, an easier walk, fewer days
| Chadar (frozen river) trek | Pangong Tso | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Ladakh, Zanskar, Leh | Ladakh, Changthang, Leh |
| Highest point | 3,400 m | 5,360 m |
| Difficulty | Difficult | Easy–moderate |
| Trek distance | about 62 km | No trek needed |
| Days on the ground | 9–10 | 4–5 |
| Best months | Jan, Feb | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Snow likely | Jan, Feb | Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr |
| Crowds in season | Moderate | Busy |
| Daily spend | about ₹4,000 | about ₹4,000 |
| Gateway | Leh | Leh |
| With kids | Not advised | Possible |
| With seniors | Not advised | Not advised |
| Permits | Mandatory acclimatisation days, medical check and insurance in Leh, plus fees — confirm current LAHDC rules; the trek has been restricted in some years. | Ladakh protected-area permit required. |
Chadar (frozen river) trek: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Pangong Tso: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- ❄︎Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- ❄︎Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely