Best For: Solo Travelers, Couples, Groups of Friends, and Families
Best Season: June to September
11 Days Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Leh (3,500m)
Leh, located at over 3,500 meters above sea level, is the second-largest district in India. Due to winter conditions, most passes to Leh are closed, so you will be flown to Leh Airport, the highest airport in the world. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by the dry, cold air, and the majestic snow-covered mountains that surround the town. After completing the arrival formalities and collecting your luggage, take a taxi to your pre-arranged hotel. Enjoy a restful overnight stay.
Day 2: Acclimatization Walk in Leh
Start your day early and begin the process of acclimatizing to the high altitude. Head to the Shanti Stupa, a sacred Buddhist stupa that offers breathtaking views of the sunrise and a panoramic view of Leh town. Stay hydrated and take it easy as you spend your first day adjusting to the altitude.
Day 3: Medical Check-up at SNM Hospital
Due to the challenging nature of the Chadar trek, it is mandatory for all participants to undergo a medical check-up. Visit Sonam Narbu Hospital in Leh, where you will be issued a medical clearance certificate if you are deemed fit and acclimatized for the trek.
Day 4: Shingra Koma and Somo Paldar
After enjoying tea and breakfast, begin your journey by driving to Shingra Koma. This route, known for its bumpy roads and sharp bends, offers incredible views of the towering mountains. Once you reach a certain point, you’ll continue your journey on foot to the Somo Paldar campsite. Your Chadar trek adventure officially begins here.
Day 5: Trek to Dib Cave/Tibb
Today, trek towards Dib Cave (also called Tibb). Throughout the day, you’ll encounter ravines and gorges, and the steep cliffs may prevent much sunlight from reaching you. Upon reaching Dib, you’ll discover a large cave where you’ll rest for the night. Butter tea will be served, and it’s highly recommended to try it. Enjoy your overnight stay at the campsite.
Day 6: Dib Cave/Tibb to Naerak
Today, you will trek through one of the most scenic parts of the region, passing the largest frozen waterfall and colorful prayer flags. A bridge near the waterfall is used during the summer to access Zanskar from Leh. Continue on towards the village of Naerak, where you can interact with the locals and learn about their way of life. Spend the night in the village camp.
Day 7: Naerak Pullu to Lingshed (12 km | 7-8 hours)
The trek from Naerak is more demanding, as it includes hiking on snow and ice, along with some steep climbs. After two hours of flat terrain, you’ll reach the confluence of two rivers. From here, leave the Zanskar River and follow the tributary toward Lingshed village. The trail is narrow, so be cautious. Once in Lingshed, you’ll visit the local monastery, which belongs to the Gelug sect of Himalayan Buddhism. The monastery houses idols of Mahakala and Lord Buddha, and also features six temples and monks’ apartments.
Day 8: Lingshed to Tibb via Naerak Pullu
The return phase of the trek begins today. This will be a long day as you will bypass Naerak Pullu and continue towards Tibb. You’ll pass the massive frozen waterfall again, providing another opportunity to take photos. After reaching Tibb, relax and enjoy a much-needed rest in the cave.
Day 9: Naerak to Tibb
Today, you’ll continue your return journey towards Tibb. The trail is unpredictable, as the frozen river may have changed due to temperature fluctuations. Along the way, admire the stunning scenery, capture memorable photos, and meet locals wearing traditional woolen Gonchas. Once you reach Dib Cave, relax and spend the night at the campsite.
Day 10: Tibb to Shingra Koma & Return to Leh
In the morning, depart from Tibb and head towards Shingra Koma, passing through Gyalpo. The trail offers a chance to spot wildlife tracks, including those of snow leopards, ibex, and foxes. If you’re lucky, you might even see a leopard. In the evening, return to Leh and stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 11: Departure from Leh
Today marks the end of your unforgettable journey to one of India’s most beautiful destinations. The experience will leave you with a profound sense of achievement and satisfaction. In the morning, check out from the guesthouse and head to Leh Airport for your departure.
Price: Starts at INR 28,500 per person
Service Includes:
- Accommodation during the trek in tents (twin/triple sharing) and in a Leh guesthouse (triple/quad sharing) on Day 1, 2, 3, and Day 10 as per the itinerary
- Vegetarian meals during the trek
- Trekking equipment (sub-zero temperature sleeping bags, mattresses, tents, etc.)
- First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinders
- Experienced trek leader, guide, and support staff
- Transportation from the base camp to Leh, as per the itinerary
Service Excludes:
- Wildlife Fees (if any)
- Local Union Fees (ALTOA, LAHDC, etc.)
- Medical expenses (beyond first aid) and insurance
- Mineral water and other beverages
- Airport pick-up and drop
- Expenses due to unforeseen circumstances like flight delays, cancellations, strikes, natural calamities, or emergency evacuation costs
- Meals in Leh
- Insurance
- Porter for personal luggage (Available for Rs. 750 per day, up to 9kg)
- Anything not specifically mentioned under ‘Inclusions
How to Reach Leh:
By Air:
Flights to Leh are available year-round, including winter. The Leh Airport, a military airport, has stringent security checks. Ensure you have a printed copy of your e-ticket to avoid entry denial. Taxis are available at the airport for transport to your hotel or resort.
By Bus:
If traveling by bus from Jammu and Kashmir or Manali, be prepared for a thrilling and bumpy ride that takes at least 4 days (starting from New Delhi). It will be a once-in-a-lifetime journey!
By Train:
The closest railway stations to Leh are Pathankot and Chandigarh, but both are still a 3-day bus ride away. This route is less commonly used by travelers.
By Road/Self-Drive:
For adventure enthusiasts, driving to Leh is a dream. You can choose to travel by motorbike, jeep, SUV, or bicycle. The route can be taken either from Jammu and Kashmir (lower road) or from Rohtang La via Keylong and Sarchu (higher road).
Cancellation Policy
- After the Group-Naming list has been submitted for the permit, any cancellations will incur a fee of USD 500 per person. (The permit application is made 60 days prior to the travel date).
- If the Yatri cancels the tour 45 Days before the date of departure, 75% of total payment will be refunded.
- If the Yatri cancels the tour 30 Days before the date of departure, 50% of total payment will be refunded.
- If the Yatri cancels the tour 15 Days before the date of departure, NO payment will be refunded.
Emergency Departure and Associated Costs
In the event of an unforeseen emergency requiring a Yatri to depart the Yatra prematurely and seek to return, the Yatri will be fully responsible for any additional costs incurred due to this early departure. These expenses may include, but are not limited to:
- Permit and visa cancellations
- Transportation costs (e.g., return travel)
- Meals and lodging
- Medical care
- Emergency rescue services
- Any supplementary nights spent on the Nepal side of the journey
- The Yatri will bear the full financial responsibility for these costs.