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How to Prepare for the Chadar Trek

By Anusha

One of the most adventurous treks in the country, Chadar Trek is exciting, tough and life-changing! As with all trekking expeditions, Chadar Trek is also great fun for those who love exploring the outdoors. But unlike many other treks, Chadar is not just about fun outdoors, it is as much of a mental journey as it is of physical endurance. The journey is for those who are ready to challenge themselves in some of the toughest conditions in the country. The name has been given to the frozen Zanskar river, meaning a 'blanket' of ice. It used to be the only means of travel for those trapped in the Zanskar villages during the harsh winters.

The best time for the Chadar trek is between mid-January to February. Sub-zero temperatures, lack of proper sheltering, covering distances of around 104 km completely by foot, limitation to food and beverage, dangers of the thin ice, etc is something you should be prepared for. But, once you are prepared to understand the real challenges and joys of this journey, it sure will become the best travel experience of your life. A journey of discovering nature at its most intimate and yourself as well along the way. Some say it is more about being strong in the mind and we believe knowledge gives that power, so here are ten tips t prepare for the Chadar Trek.

Difficulty Level

Difficulty Level

It is listed among the most difficult treks in the country, so it pays to understand your body's compatibility with such intense workout. Are you physically active? Are used to being in the outdoors? Have already trekked and understood your body's limitations? This is the first key to answering if you can indeed do the Chadar trek. In fact check with your physician on your body's fitness levels before embarking on such a journey.

Photo Courtesy: Pradeep Kumbhashi

Distance Covered

Distance Covered

The total distance covered on foot is around 104 km. The daily distance is between 15 - 17 km. Get yourself ready by working out everyday. Strengthen your legs for the challenging seven-day trek.

Photo Courtesy: Partha Chowdhury

Temperatures

Temperatures

It is winter and you are in one of the coldest spots in the country; a frozen river! That means sub-zero temperatures. Prepare yourself, both in body and mind to experience temperatures of 15-20 degrees during the day and -25 to -35 degrees in the night.

Photo Courtesy: Sankara Subramanian

Plan in Advance

Plan in Advance

Keeping the above factors in mind, it is good to plan for this exciting but difficult trek, well in advance. This means you get more time to prepare your fitness levels, overall health and of course buy necessary equipment.

Photo Courtesy: Partha Chowdhury

Required Gear

Required Gear

Depending on the agency you choose to do the trek with, there are a few questions you need to ask about what is included in the cost and the items you need to buy. Getting these doubts cleared in advance will help you avoid last minute hassles.

Photo Courtesy: Pradeep Kumbhashi

Protective Clothing

Protective Clothing

Woollens, thermal clothing and other woollens can be purchased at the Leh Market. Body Warmers are available at only specific outlets, check options online and buy in advance. Carry sleeping bags, is your agency providing you with one? In that case, you could still carry a spare to keep you extra warm. Body Warmers are designed to last a specific time period, always carry extra.

Photo Courtesy: Christian Theede Christiansen

Protective Footwear

Protective Footwear

This is extremely important in a trekking journey, especially when you are walking on slippery inches of ice! Fancy trekking shoes may not help you, instead you can try gumboots. They help against slipping and also keep your legs warm.

Photo Courtesy: Darla Hueske

Packing

Packing

Every item you put in your travel sack counts, as you will be carrying your own luggage. Carry important items, avoid carrying unnecessary load. Less weight means less strain on the body. However, ensure a few items such as a small tool-kit, torch light, hot-water flask, Dettol, hand sanitiser, trekking pole are a part of your baggage.

Photo Courtesy: Partha Chowdhury

Food and Hyderation

Food and Hyderation

It is important to never skip meals, 104 km or more on foot is an arduous journey and you must ensure you eat right. Protein intake is extremely important to sustain energy. Water is just as important. Check with your trekking lead as to where you can re-fill your bottles and keep yourself well-hydrated through the entire journey.

Photo Courtesy: anneheathen

Medicine Kit

Medicine Kit

This is extremely vital. You know your medical issues better than anybody else. Carry all medication required, including tablets for allergy or any specific medical condition and a first-aid kit. Medicines for fever, pain-killers, energy bars, glucose and crepe bandage is also ideally carried.

Photo Courtesy: ProjectManhattan

Read more about: chadar trek ladakh trekking
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