YamaTreks.com Trekking in the magic Himalayas
- STOK KANGRI WITH MARKHA VALLEY
- STOK KANGRI EXPEDITION AND LADAKH
- KANGYATSE EXPEDITION
- CHADAR - FROZEN RIVER TREKKING
STOK KANGRI WITH MARKHA VALLEY
Style of Trek: Camping
Best time: May-November
Duration: 21 Days
Days on Trek: 13 Days
Grade: Vigorous
INTRODUCTION
The Markha valley epitomizes the best of Himalayan scenery. With giant rock pinnacles, sheer cliffs, narrow defiles, prayer-flagged passes and evidence of a very old civilization, the history of which has been lost in antiquity. As you trek up the Markha Valley, you will see the ruins of many forts and castles, some built in some very unlikely places!
It is a fairly long trek, crossing a pass of over (5151m/ 17,000ft) and climbing (6300m/21000ft) stok.
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI, Our Local representative will greet you at the international airport and help you transfer to the hotel.
DAY 2: FLY TO LEH. You will have an early morning transfer to the domestic airport for the flight up to Leh. This surely is one of the most sensational scheduled flights in the world, taking you right over the top of the Greater Himalaya before dropping down in a series of steep turns, to land at the small military airport at Leh. Flight time is about 1 hour. You will be met on arrival and driven through Leh to check into your Hotel. Leh is at an altitude of 11,500 ft and therefore we recommend that the rest of the day is spent resting as it will be necessary to adjust to the altitude.
DAY 3: AT LEISURE IN LEH. Again we will take it easy today and your guide can show you around town. Leh is very Tibetan in many respects; the national dress, 'stove-pipe' hats and felt boots with turned-up toes are much in evidence. The Royal Palace which dominates the town is very reminiscent of the Potala in Lhasa and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, large chortens, prayer flags and mud brick houses with flat roofs are a dramatic culture change from the hot, teeming frenetic rush of Delhi. Don't try to do too much on this first day! Visit the palace, poke around the bazaars, and if you're feeling really keen and strong, walk out to one of the villages just to the north.
DAY 4: we drive to Khardong La, 5602 meters (18,486 feet) the highest road in the world to acclimatize. The drive is 75Km up and down.
DAY 5: DRIVE TO PHY, TREK TO ZINGCHEN . After breakfast we drive to Spitok Gompa (approx. 1 hours) for a visit. This monastery was built about 500 years ago by Gyalpo Bumlde, although one temple, dedicated to Mahakala was built about 900 years ago. About 125 yellow-hat sect lamas are considered Spitok Lamas, but at least half of them live and pray at Spitok's dependent monasteries at Sankar, Stok and Sabu. All the lamas do however gather together for major festivals. The name Spitok is probably derived from the Central Tibetan language and means, Effective as an Example, referring to the fact that this was the Tibetans first monastery in Ladakh. The head lama for Spitok was the head lama for Ladakh and represents Ladakh as a member of Parliament, spending much of his time in Delhi. Spitok Gompa contains both old temples and those built in the 1970s. Ancient thankas are preserved there, some having been taken from the Potala in Lhasa after the Chinese invaded Tibet. After leaving the gompa, we cross the bridge over the Indus river and meet up with the horseman. The trek begins here and follows the Indus for a short distance, before striking out for the mountains. You soon enter the narrow gorge that leads to the first camp at Zingchen. There is an option to drive to Zingchen and camp.
DAY 6: TREK TO YURUTSE. 6 hours. You will follow the trail beside the river till the valley widens at Rumbak, where you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Stok mountains. Take the right fork of the river and continue to the very small village of Yurutse. The purple and green rock formations are quite impressive. Continue past the village to the base camp of Ganda La.
DAY 7: TREK TO SKIU. (3000m/9,900ft). 7hrs. The climb over the Ganda La is not as steep as that up to the Stok La, but it is a bit longer. From the top of the pass there is a fabulous view of snow-capped peaks. The descent into the Skiu valley is steady. The wide pastures at the top of the valley close into a narrow 'waist' at Shingo, where there is a stream junction and a few houses and fields. From here the river swoops exuberantly down the tight narrow gorge choked with willow and wild rose, with the trail following, swapping from bank to bank as it goes. The village of Skiu is at only 9,900ft, and the Markha Valley here is narrow, so the temperatures can soar. We camp at Skiu, and at dusk it is worth climbing back up the valley to where the Skiu Nala meets the Markha river. Here there is a small monastery cared for by an old nun who comes every evening to light the candles at the altar of 'Chamba', the future Buddha.
DAY 8: TREK TO MARKHA. (3568m/11,776ft). 6 hrs. This day includes a very pleasant walk up one of the loveliest sections of the Markha valley. Woody bushes grow thickly along the river which is spanned by several bridges over which the trail marches to Thinlespa. The camp is beyond this small village on the right bank of the river, just before the village of Markha.
DAY 9: TREK TO THACHUGTSE. (3963m /13,078ft). 6-7 hrs. The trail continues eastwards climbing steadily up the valley through the picturesque village of Markha, which has a fascinating monastery well worth a visit. Coming in from the south is the trail from Rubering La, one of the routes from Zangla. From Markha the country changes and the warm, relatively heavily wooded section of the lower Markha is left behind. Between the twin villages of Lower and Upper Hankar is a ruined fort, the walls of which climb sharply up a crag to an aerie of a lookout tower - worth visiting for those with a good head for heights. Follow the Nimiling river up the narrow valley to the camp at Thachugtse. It will be considerably cooler here. OR
Option camp at Hangkar
DAY 10: TREK TO NIMALING. (4877m/ 16,097ft). 3 hrs. The trail continues to climb up the valley to a picturesque lake with a reflection of snow-capped Kang Yatse, the highest peak in the Zanskar range. From here the Nimaling plain is a broad undulating meadow which slopes upwards to the base of the ice-clad Kang Yatse which dominates the area. Nimaling with tiny ponds and rivulets flowing all over its meadows provides pasturage in the summer for an astonishing number of animals; yaks, sheep, goats, dzos and horses, not only from the Markha but also from villages all around. Himalayan marmots and white-tailed hares are seen in plenty and it is not unusual to spot the occasional blue sheep or wolf. You should reach camp in the early afternoon and have the rest of the day to relax and explore.
DAY 11: TREK TO CHOKDO. (3976m/13,123ft). 5- 6 hrs. After crossing the Nimaling River, climb to the top of the highest pass on the trek, the 17,409ft Kangmaru La with its wonderful views from the top. Snow peaks in every direction, and on a clear day the giants of the Karakorams, including K2 can be seen on the northwestern horizon. The trail descends steeply to the head of the Martselang valley past the sulfur springs of Chyushkarmo, camp at Chokdo
DAY 12: TREK TO SHANG PHO (4324m/ 14272ft) 6 hrs. The trail turn west through uncharted territory and crosses a few smaller passes to approach Shang pho. Where people from Shang village stay with their animals during the summer months.
DAY 13: TREK TO GANGPOCHEY. (4294m/ 14173ft) 6-7 hrs. The trail climbs up towards the Shang pass 16700 ft. this day is rugged terrain and superb open valley of Matho Phu the summer camp fro the shepherds from the village. You will be camping just below the Matho hanging Glacier.
DAY 14: TREK TO STOK BASE CAMP, (4871m/ 16076 ft ) 5-6 hrs. Climb the rocky sloping ground, with a lot of vegetation, where you might see blue sheep and other wild life including marmot, fox and rabbit. Cross the small river then up hill for another hour to the pass then slope on the right shoulder valley to the base camp.
DAY 15: REST DAY
DAY 16: SUMMIT STOK KANGRI (6120m/ 20196ft) Breakfast will serve very early morning at 3 Am then we head off for summit. We climb west up the obvious slope path to small pass at the top of the ridge. Traverse southwest along the side of the ridge before a short climb. Scramble over the terminal moraine heading southeast to the ridge. There is a faint path and several cairns marking the route. Then you cross the glacier, avoiding crevasses, and ascend its steep western arm. The easiest way to gain the southeast ridge early on is by climbing the moderate and loose rocks to the summit. You can scramble back to the base camp the same way.
DAY 17: BASE TO STOK VILLAGE en easy morning decent to Stok village where a taxi will be waiting to transfer you to Leh.
DAY 18: RELAX IN LEH. You will have a chance to relax in the relative luxury of Leh, and do any last sightseeing and exploring. There will no doubt be a chance to have a final celebration with your guide and crew before the flight tomorrow. In the summer there are often polo matches on a Sunday. Overnight in the hotel.
DAY 19: FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.
DAY 20: RELAX IN DELHI. International flights usually leave after midnight, so sleep in and relax. Leave for the airport about 10 pm.
DAY 21 : FLY HOME
Land COST : on Request
What’s Included
- All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
- Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
- All monastery entrance fees, wild life fees and Camping fees.
- English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the safari.
- Service of cook and attendants.
- Expert climbing Guide
- All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
- All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.
What’s not included :
Medical and evacuation insurance
Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
Air ticket to and from Delhi.
A single supplement
Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangements, please let us know.
To join the climbing trek, you will need the following equipment. If there is not much snow or ice then we do not need all the equipment but for sure you will need it in the spring: Ice Axe, Crampons, leather mountaineering boots, rope and four season sleeping bag.
TREK NOTES
IMPORTANT NOTE: Whilst every effort is made to keep to the above itinerary, clients will hopefully appreciate that this is Adventure Travel in a remote mountain region. There will quite likely be changes to the itinerary in terms of anything from on-the-spot choice of campsite to when a rest day is taken. Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns off the beaten track, local availability of, horses or yaks, can contribute to the need for changes. The Trek guide will do everything in his power to see that you are inconvenienced as little as possible in such circumstances. Timings are approximate.
STOK KANGRI EXPEDITION AND LADAKH
Style of Trek: Camping
Best time: May-November
Duration: 23 Days
On Trek: 14 Days
Grade: Vigorous
INTRODUCTION
The Stok Kangri expedition isa suitable objective for fit trekkers, without previous climbing experience, who would like to summit their first Himalayan peak. To help with your acclimatisation for the Stok Kangri climb, we start with a beautiful trek in Ladakh, exploring the high and arid landscape and crossing several high passes. We will see some truly spectacular, rugged country and then continue to base camp for the climb of Stok Kangri (6,123m).
Ladakh - the land of high passes – is also known as Little Tibet. It is one of the most remarkable regions of India. Although politically part of India, geographically and culturally Ladakh is actually an extension of western Tibet.
Ladakh has fervently retained the tradition of monastic Buddhism that is being forcefully suppressed within Tibet.
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: ARRIVE DELHI Upon your arrival at Delhi airport our representative will transfer you to your hotel. Please provide travel plans on booking and we will arrange the pick up and transfer. Overnight hotel.
DAY 2: FLY TO LEH (3,505m/11566ft), Transfer to the airport for an early morning flight to Leh. The rest of the day you can rest and get used to the altitude or start exploring Leh, including Leh palace and old town. Overnight hotel.
DAY 3: SIGHTSEEING AROUND LEH. Leh is the ancient capital of Ladakh and has many hilltop forts and palaces to visit including the Royal Palace which overlooks the town. The town is situated on the old Silk Route and still has a trading tradition- it is well worth wandering around the colourful bazaar. Overnight hotel. View of Leh and surrounding mountains including the Shanti stupa
DAY 4: SIGHTSEEING AROUND LEH. The two most well known monasteries are Shey and Thiksey. Shey gompa was constructed by the first king of Ladakh and was the seat of power for the pre- Tibetan kings. Thiksey gompa is a very impressive monastery containing numerous stupas, statues, thankas, wall paintings and a large pillar engraved with the Buddha's teachings. Overnight hotel.
DAY 5: DRIVE TO LAMARAYU (3,450m/11385ft) - 6 hours driving. Today we drive along the Indus river to the trek starting point at Lamarayu village. There is a stop en route to visit Alchi village which is home to one of the most beautiful gompas in Ladakh, it is also a World Heritage site. Overnight camping.
DAY 6: TREK TO WANLA (3,200m/10560ft)- 4 hours walking. We start trekking today- after a gentle ascent we go down a valley to the Prinkitla pass at 3,750m which is crossed after another small climb. The village of Shilla is reached after a descent down a narrow gorge. We then cross a river and continue on to Wanla. Overnight camping.
DAY 7: TREK TO HINJU (3,750m/12375ft)- 7 to 8 hours walking.The trail follows the Yapola river to the village of Phanjila, from here we follow a small valley until reaching the camp at Hinju. Overnight camping.
DAY 8: REST DAY AT HINJU (3,750m/12375) A good opportunity to explore the area around Hinju and rest before crossing the Konzke pass tomorrow. Overnight camping.
DAY 9: TREK TO SUMDAHA (3,900m/12870ft)- 7 to 8 hours walking. We go up the main valley towards the Konzke pass at 4,900m where, on a clear day, there are superb views of the surrounding peaks. There is a long descent from the pass to the river and our camp at Sumdha. Overnight camping.
DAY 10: TREK TO THE BASE OF DUNDUNCHEN LA (4,400m/14520ft)- 5 hours walking. From Sumdha we continue up the main valley to the base of the Dundunchen la where we camp for the night. Overnight camping.
DAY 11: TREK TO CHILLING (3,250m/10725ft)- 6 hours walking. Today we walk up the Dundunchen la at 4,800m and then descend steeply through a narrow valley to the village of Chilling. Overnight camping.
DAY 12: TREK TO SHINGO (4,150m/13695ft)- 6 hours walking. Today we follow the Zanskar river upstream to the village of Skui where we turn away from the main river and follow a beautiful gorge up to Shingo. Overnight camping.
DAY 13: TREK TO RUMBAK (3,800m/12540ft)- 7 hours walking. From Shingo village we follow a long gradual ascent to the Ganda la at 4,850m. We pass through Yurutse and then continue to our camp near the village of Rumbak. Overnight camping.
DAY 14: TREK TO KHILCHAY (4,200m/13860ft)- 5 hours walking. From Rumbak we start the the steep climb to the Stok la at 4,900m where we have views of the Stok Kangri range. The camp is at Khilchay which is a short descent from the pass. Overnight camping.
DAY 15: TREK TO STOK KANGRI BASE CAMP (4,800m/15840ft)- 5 hours walking.
Today we walk to Stok Kangri base camp and in the afternoon prepare for tomorrow’s climb to the summit. Overnight camping.
DAY 16: TREK TO ADVANCE BASE CAMP (5,300m/17490ft) We use an advanced base camp on the climb because it shortens the summit day and increases
everyone’s chance of reaching the summit- this tactic has worked well in the past.
The route starts by climbing the moraine above base camp and then descends gently to the glacier beyond. The camp is located at 5,300m near the top of the glacier on the south face.
DAY 17: CLIMB STOK KANGRI Summit (6,123m/ 20205ft)Our summit day begins before dawn, the route climbs over scree and boulders to reach the south
ridge which continues to the summit. The ridge is quite exciting with a certain degree of exposure-it is never too steep, although there is some scrambling in places. The biggest challenge is the altitude with everyone becoming out of breath as we approach the summit. The summit views are superb in every direction with Leh visible way down in the valley below- after the summit celebrations and maybe a bite to eat we retrace our steps back to base camp. Overnight camping.
DAY 18: SPARE SUMMIT DAY, We have included an extra day in the program in case of bad weather or other reasons. Overnight camping.
DAY 19: TREK TO STOK- 4 to 5 hours walking. We descend to the village of Stok where we meet the jeeps for transport back to Leh. Overnight hotel.
DAY 20: RELAX IN LEH. You will have a chance to relax in the relative luxury of Leh, and do any last sightseeing and exploring. There will no doubt be a chance to have a final celebration with your guide and crew before the flight tomorrow. In the summer there are often polo matches on a Sunday. Overnight in the hotel.
DAY 21: FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.
DAY 22: RELAX IN DELHI. International flights usually leave after midnight, so sleep in and relax. Leave for the airport about 10 pm.
DAY 23 : FLY HOME
Land COST : on Request
What’s Included
- All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
- Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
- Expedition with expert leader
- All monastery entrance fees, wild life fees and Camping fees.
- English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the safari.
- Service of cook and attendants.
- All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
- All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.
What’s not included :
Medical and evacuation insurance
Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
Air ticket to and from Delhi.
A single supplement
Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.
To join the climbing trek, you will need the following equipment. If there is not much snow or ice then we do not need all the equipment but for sure you will need it in the spring:
Ice Axe, Crampons, leather mountaineering boots, rope and afour season sleeping bag.
TREK NOTES
IMPORTANT NOTE: Whilst every effort is made to keep to the above itinerary, clients will hopefully appreciate that this is Adventure Travel in a remote mountain region. There will quite likely be changes to the itinerary in terms of anything from on-the-spot choice of campsite to when a rest day is taken. Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns off the beaten track, local availability of, horses or yaks, can contribute to the need for changes. The Trek guide will do everything in his power to see that you are inconvenienced as little as possible in such circumstances. Timings are approximate.
KANGYATSE EXPEDITION
Style of Trek: Camping
Best time: May-October
Duration: 15 Days
On Trek: 13 Days
Grade: Vigorous/ challenging
This sensational climb offers you an opportunity to reach a height of 6200m/20460ft without technical skills, and 6400m/21120ft with technical skills. Climbing Kangyatse is challenging and interesting. It is ideal for someone in search of his/her first Himalayan summit.
If you choose to scale the primary summit (6400 m), you will need to be experienced and well prepared, as it requires a traverse of a very difficult and technically challenging ridge.
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: ARRIVE DELHI. Upon your arrival at Delhi airport our representative will transfer to the hotel. Please provide travel plans on booking and we will arrange the pick up and transfer. Overnight hotel.
DAY 2: FLY TO LEH (3,505m/11566ft) Transfer to the airport for an early morning flight to Leh. The rest of the day you can rest to adjust to the altitude and the early start. You may also start exploring Leh, including the Leh palace and old town. Overnight hotel.
DAY 3: SIGHTSEEING AROUND LEH. Leh is the ancient capital of Ladakh and has many hilltop forts and palaces to visit including the Royal Palace, which overlooks the town. The town is situated on the old Silk Route and still has a trading tradition- it is well worth wandering around the colourful bazaar. Overnight hotel includes a view of Leh and the surrounding mountains, as well as Shanti stupa.
DAY 4: SIGHTSEEING AROUND LEH. DRIVE TO START THE TREK AT CHILING, This day includes a stop a the well known monastery is Thiksey. Thiksey gompa is a very impressive monastery containing numerous stupas, statues, thankas, wall paintings and a large pillar engraved with the Buddha's teachings. Overnight camping.
DAY 5: TREK TO SKIU. (3000m/9,900 ft) 4 hrs. We begin this day by crossing the Zanskar River in a cable car located upstream a short distance from Chilling. We follow the well worn path to the village of Skaya. From here it is a short walk to the lush green campsite at Skiu. The village of Skiu is at only 9,900ft, and the Markha Valley here is narrow, so the temperatures can soar. We camp at Skiu, and at dusk it is worth climbing back up the valley to where the Skiu Nala meets the Markha river. Here there is a small monastery cared for by an old nun who comes every evening to light the candles at the altar of 'Chamba', the future Buddha.
DAY 6: TREK TO SHINGO (4,150m/13695ft)- 6 hours walking. Today we follow the Zanskar river upstream to the village of Skiu where we turn away from the main river and follow a beautiful gorge up to Shingo. Overnight camping.
DAY 7: TREK TO RUMBAK (3,800m/12540ft)- 7 hours walking. From Shingo village we follow a long gradual ascent to the Ganda la at 4,850m. We pass through Yurutse and then continue to our camp near the village of Rumbak. Overnight camping.
DAY 8: TREK TO KHILCHAY (4,200m/13860ft)- 5 hours walking. From Rumbak we start the the steep climb to the Stok la at (4,900m/16170ft) where we have views of the Stok Kangri range. The camp is at Khilchay which is a short descent from the pass. Overnight camping.
DAY 9: TREK TO STOK KANGRI BASE CAMP (4,300m/14190ft)- 5 hours walking.
Today we walk to Stok Kangi base camp. Overnight camping.
DAY 10: TREK TO MATHO PHU (4,480m/14,700ft)- 5 hours. We cross the river in the morning and walk up in the valley and cross Stok pass (4850m/16005ft) then continue with a gradual walk on the rocky slope to Matho phu. Overnight camping.
DAY 11: REK TO SHANG PHU, (4502m /14856ft) 6-7 hours. We leave in the early morning to negotiate the steep slope of Matho phu. Just passed Matho phu, people leave in the summer with their cattle. Cross shang la (5100m/16830ft) the steep down to the other side of the pass to camp. Overnight ccamping.
DAY 12: TREK TO SHANG SUMO (3600 m/1090ft)- 4 hours. We follow the shang river via shang Gonpa up in the rock cliff. Then walk down to Shang sumdo. Overnight camping.
DAY 13: SHANG SUMDO – LARTSA (4600 m/ 15180ft) 6-7 hrs. We will begin the day climbing through the spectacular gorge of Shang, which is rife with magnificently hued rock formations that provide dramatic evidence of the collision between the Indian and Tibetan plates. The trail crosses rivers several times before we reach our campsite, Overnight Camping.
DAY 14: LARTSA – NIMALING VIA KONGMARU LA ( 5200 m/17160ft)
A steep 3-hour climb will lead us to Gongmaru La (5200 m), where there are jaw-dropping views of Kangyatse, the Zanskar and Karakoram Ranges. After satisfying ourselves with the surrounding views, we will make our descent toward the pasture of Nimaling, where the villagers of Marka Valley tend their sheep, goats and yaks during the summer. Overnight camping.
DAY 15: NIMALING– HIGH CAMP (5500m/18150ft) 3-4hrs. This day is crucial, so we will spend the morning recuperating from the last few days' fatigue. After sufficient rest, we will embark on a steep 2–hour climb then continue with another hour or two up the slope to High Camp at 5500 meters. Although the distance is quite short, the altitude makes the hike quite strenuous. Overnight camping.
DAY 16: HIGH CAMP – SUMMIT – BASE CAMP (10-12 HRS) The final push, beginning at 2 am, will be both physically and mentally challenging. But once atop the summit (6200m/20460ft and high summit 6400m/21120ft), with the surrounding, awe-inspiring scenery of Tibet, and the Zanskar and mighty Karakoram ranges, all of our numbing pains will melt away in a warm glow of success! After spending an hour on top of the world, we will descend to Base Camp, where we will while away the afternoon, relaxing and congratulating each other on a job well done.
Overnight camping.
DAY 17-18: BASE CAMP - SHANG SUMDO – MARTSELANG – LEH
We will spend these last two days retracing our footsteps, strolling casually downward while taking in the otherworldly beauty. Now is the time for us to enjoy the rare wildlife, unique scenery, and each other's company. On the final day of our adventure, we will travel by jeep back to Leh,
DAY 19: RELAX IN LEH. You will have a chance to relax in the relative luxury of Leh, and do any last sightseeing and exploring. There will no doubt be a chance to have a final celebration with your guide and crew before the flight tomorrow. In the summer there are often polo matches on a Sunday. Overnight in the hotel.
DAY 20: FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.
DAY 21: RELAX IN DELHI. International flights usually leave after midnight, so sleep in and relax. Leave for the airport about 10 pm.
DAY 22 : FLY HOME
Land COST : on Request
What’s Included
- All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
- Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
- Expedition with expert leader
- All monastery entrance fees, wild life fees and Camping fees.
- English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the safari.
- Service of cook and attendants .
- All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
- All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.
What’s not included :
Medical and evacuation insurance
Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
Air ticket to and from Delhi.
A single supplement
Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Whilst every effort is made to keep to the above itinerary, clients will hopefully appreciate that this is Adventure Travel in a remote mountain region. There will quite likely be changes to the itinerary in terms of anything from on-the-spot choice of campsite . Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns, The guide will do everything in his
To join the climbing trek, you will need the following equipment:
Ice Axe*
50 - 65 cms. General Mountaineering or Alpine Pick. E.g. Grivel Air Tech Evolution.
Crampons*12 point. One pair that fit boots reliably. Clip-on crampons are recommended. E.g. Grivel G12. Ensure that you bring any relevant adjusting tools.
Anti-Balling Plates*You must fix anti-balling plates to your crampons.
Harness*Sit harness with adjustable leg loops and large enough to be worn over all clothing layers. Black Diamond Alpine Bod recommended.
Climbing helmet*Petzl Elios or Black Diamond Half Dome recommended
Sling Two long (120cm) sewn slings. Wild Country Dyneema recommended.
Karabiners One HMS (e.g. Wild Country Synergy) and three "D" shaped, screwgate karabiner ( e.g. Wild Country Titan). Four snaplink karabiners.
Descender For abseiling. Figure 8 or similar.
Ascender For use on fixed rope. Petzl Ascension with handle.
Prussic loops
2 Prussic loops made from approx 3 metres of 6mm accessory cord (1½ metres each loop but cut to less for shorter loops as required).
TREK NOTES
IMPORTANT NOTE: Whilst every effort is made to keep to the above itinerary, clients will hopefully appreciate that this is Adventure Travel in a remote mountain region. There will quite likely be changes to the itinerary in terms of anything from on-the-spot choice of campsite to when a rest day is taken. Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns off the beaten track, local availability of, horses or yaks, can contribute to the need for changes. The Trek guide will do everything in his power to see that you are inconvenienced as little as possible in such circumstances. Timings are approximate.
CHADAR - FROZEN RIVER TREKKING
Style of Trek: Camping
Best time: Jan-Feb
Duration: 18 Days
On Trek: 11 Days
Grade: Vigorous
INTRODUCTION
The Zanskar region of Ladakh is one of the oldest inhabited regions of the world. It has wild and solitary valleys at over 13,000 ft (4000 meters) in the Himalayas. In winter, Zanskar is isolated. Only in January and February is there a way to visit this incredibly unique world: the canyon of the Zanskar River. This trek is an adventure on the so called Chadar or ice covering the river from the village of Chiling to Lingshed.
DAY BY DAY PROGRAM
DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI. Our Local representative will greet you at the international airport and help you transfer to the hotel.
DAY 2: FLY TO LEH. You will have an early morning transfer to the domestic airport for the flight up to Leh. This surely is one of the most sensational scheduled flights in the world, taking you right over the top of the Greater Himalaya before dropping down in a series of steep turns, to land at the small military airport at Leh. Flight time is about 1 hour. You will be met on arrival and driven through Leh to check into your Hotel. Leh is at an altitude of 11,500 ft and therefore we recommend that the rest of the day is spent resting to help adjust to the altitude.
DAY 3: SIGHTSEEING AROUND LEH. Leh is the ancient capital of Ladakh and has many hilltop forts and palaces to visit including the Royal Palace which overlooks the town. The town is situated on the old Silk Route and still has a trading tradition- it is well worth wandering around the colourful bazaar. Overnight hotel includes a view of Leh and the surrounding mountains, including the Shanti stupa.
Day 4: DRIVE TO CHILLING AND TREK TO TILAD DO (3100m/10230ft)
After breakfast we will be on the move, driving through the suburbs of Leh, then along the Indus valley. The road climbs slowly past Spitok Monastery, and bus loads of Ladakhi kids heading for where the Indus has been diverted into shallow pools for skating. We reach about 3700m where we normally stop to stretch our legs and take in the view behind. Leh nestles at the foot of the Ladakh range, its location dictated by the high route to China behind. From here you can really see how geography dictates history. We drive on, descending to the Indus again to its confluence with the Zanskar. A dirt road from here takes us to Chilling, as far as the jeep can go. Here we have a simple lunch, then it is on the ice. It takes an hour or so to get into a comfortable rhythm, and we have found that using crampons tends to be more of a hindrance, as they are not suitable for all ice conditions. As the gear list says, good trekking poles are essential. Again, as on the gear list, you must have boots with good, new soles that 'stick'. Luckily there are rarely any ice puzzles on this first day, except at the camp, where you ascend a frozen stream. The camp is on a sandy plateau to one side of the Zanskar, where on this first day our tents will have been erected for us. We will introduce you to camp routines and our warm and cozy dining tent, followed by dinner, soup and a good, varied vegetarian meal. Evenings in the dining tent, which is big enough to stretch your legs but small enough to be easily warmed, are very comfortable. Before bed, as part of the daily routine, we fill your bottles with boiling water.
Day 5: Trek to Gyalpo camp (3170m/ 10461ft)
The morning cold is eased by the hot beverage of your choice that comes to your tent, and hot washing water. Breakfast call is 7:30, but your gear and tent have to be packed by then! Breakfast is as much hot coffee or tea as you can drink, fresh baked bread, jam and honey. Departure time is normally around nine, and the days soon assume a familiar pattern.
The first few days are generally problem free, but we can, and will, encounter times when we have to wait while we scout the best route. We prefer to stay on the river, and you will see Zanskaris take real risks to avoid rock climbing. For this reason you must have plenty of warm layers to throw on, and of course, dry socks. The ice conditions are too varied (and beautiful) to list, but there are one or two things to bear in mind. You will find yourself rapidly relaxing as you walk, enjoying the views; watching for wildlife. Look out particularly for snow leopard prints, Ibex on the gorge walls, and the crazy 'Dipper' birds that dive from ice into the river, turning over pebbles looking for edibles. You will develop a sense of the safe and unsafe ice, and learn to catch yourself if you slip. Be sure to use your poles if you want to sound the ice. Your feet are unclean, and although the gods who inhabit the ice will allow you to walk, to stamp with your foot is not acceptable to them (thus of course you never use the ice as a toilet).
The ice conditions change quickly and what takes an hour at noon can take three hours by 3pm. We do not rush; but we do not dawdle! Today we will pass through what the porters call 'Chadar Gate', a little surprise for the trekkers. By 3-4pm we should be in camp on a plateau above the river. Today we start putting up our own tents.
Day 6: Trek to Dib Cave (3225m/10642ft)
This is a stunning day as the river starts to curve and you can see the uphill slope of the ice as we ascend the river into Zanskar. We pass incredible waterfalls on our left, normally frozen into aquamarine ice cliffs. The waterfall was said to have come from a river given to local people who visited Tibet centuries ago to plead for water for their barren land. They were given a box which they were told they must open only on their return home. The curious Zanskaris were nearly home when one of them opened it; out jumped a tiny fish, and the river sprung from the ground high above here. Also today we will probably have to climb briefly above the river - on the sharp bends the speed of the current breaks up the ice. Lunch is on a rocky beach by the river, and camp is near one of the many caves that are blackened by centuries of use by the fires of locals.
Day 7: Trek to Neraks camp (3390m/11187ft)
Another beautiful day starts with crags that seem to leap up from the frozen river surface, and ibex can usually be seen defying gravity far above. After lunch we pass the 'incense tree', so called because the locals use its branches to burn in their morning rituals, and the prayer flag draped tree marks the entrance to Zanskar proper. The porters will normally take a few twigs from the tree, then tear a small piece of prayer flag to wrap it in, and present it to you. Welcome to Zanskar!
An hour later we turn a corner, and there, high above the river, is the bridge that links Zanskar with Ladakh, and Neraks village with Lingshed Monastery - in summer. Then the valley gorge opens up, and we see the small huts that mark some of the summer grazing of the Neraks villagers. The village is far above. A trail is normally beaten through the snow to these huts, where we camp. And rum is possible!
Day 8 : Trek to Lingshed (3870m12771ft)
We follow a narrow gorge to Lingshed village. Around Neraks is probably the most dangerous area on the Chadar, but this is not the only reason we leave earlier then normal. The views as we arrive in the village of Lingshed are another. After up to two hours of trekking we turn off the river, and start following a side stream up a valley which shows so many ibex and blue sheep trails it seems hard to believe. There is a reason for this; traditionally all life was sacred near monasteries, so wild life naturally gravitated to where it was not threatened. Despite the fact that all hunting is banned now, a larger population of wild animals still tends to be found near the gompas. We are going higher today, and you will feel it. Add fresh snow, and it will be harder still. On arrival we are staying with friends in the village; a room will be swept clean for us, and we can spread our mats out on the floor, and enjoy sitting and eating around a stove. Tomorrow is a rest day!
Day 9 - Rest day and visit Lingshed Gompa (4000m/13200ft)
We climb the steep trail to the famous monastery spectacularly situated below a cliff face studded with old meditation caves. High to the right you can see the Morgon La, at 4100m/13530ft on the summer trekking route, and as we climb, look back over your shoulder to that huge icy wall - the Hanuma La, familiar to all Zanskar summer trekkers for its brutally steep descent.
Day 10: - 14: Trek back to Chilling and drive to Leh
You have not done the Chadar unless you walk both ways! It is four easy gently downhill days back, if the Gods are happy with us; we have a spare day to play with. We use different camps on the way back (usually) and it really is even more beautiful. Weather changes, light comes from different angles, illuminating different colours. And of course, the ice! The last day we have an easy three hour walk, and there are the jeeps waiting for us high above the river. Have we really been walking on water? It is a three hour drive to Leh, then that hot shower.
DAY 15: RELAX IN LEH. You will have a chance to relax in the relative luxury of Leh, and do any last sightseeing and exploring. There will no doubt be a chance to have a final celebration with your guide and crew before the flight tomorrow. Overnight in the hotel.
DAY 16: FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.
DAY 17: RELAX IN DELHI. International flights usually leave after midnight, so sleep in and relax. Leave for the airport about 10 pm.
DAY 18 : FLY HOME
Land COST : on Request
What’s Included
- All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
- Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
- Expedition with expert leader
- All monastery entrance fees, wild life fees and Camping fees.
- English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the safari.
- Service of cook and attendants.
- All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
- All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.
What’s not included :
Medical and evacuation insurance
Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
Air ticket to and from Delhi.
A single supplement
Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.
TREK NOTES
IMPORTANT NOTE: Whilst every effort is made to keep to the above itinerary, clients will hopefully appreciate that this is Adventure Travel in a remote mountain region. There will quite likely be changes to the itinerary in terms of anything from on-the-spot choice of campsite to when a rest day is taken. Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns off the beaten track, local availability of, horses or yaks, can contribute to the need for changes. The Trek guide will do everything in his power to see that you are inconvenienced as little as possible in such circumstances. Timings are approximate.
Email: namgial@yamatreks.com and/or namgial@gmail.com