Archive · 13 Jan 2026
Chadar Trek Suspended Amid Severe Cold
The Chadar Trek in Ladakh, India, has been put on hold until 20 January.
This trek is on a frozen river and is very popular, but the ice isn't stable right now because it's warmer than usual.
The authorities don't want people to go on the trek because it could be dangerous.
They remember that in 2020, 41 trekkers had to be rescued when the ice melted and the water rose.
The region is also experiencing very cold weather, with temperatures dropping to minus 11.6 degrees Celsius in Leh.
Snowfall is expected from January 19 to 24, which might make the ice even more unstable.
So, for now, no one is allowed to do the trek.
They hope it will be safe again soon.
The Chadar Trek on the Zanskar River in Ladakh has been suspended until 20 January due to unstable ice conditions.
The trek was initially postponed from 10 January and then suspended after a recce team reported hazardous conditions.
All trekking and adventure activities on the Chadar route are prohibited during the suspension period.
Tour operators and local stakeholders have been directed not to organize or promote any trekking activities.
In 2020, 41 trekkers were rescued by helicopters when the river unfroze and water overflowed the ice.
- Who
- Ladakh authorities and trekkers
- What
- Suspension of the Chadar Trek
- When
- Until 20 January
- Where
- Zanskar River, Ladakh
- Why
- Unstable ice conditions due to warmer weather and severe cold wave
- Location
- Ladakh, India
- Trek Length
- 105 km
- Altitude
- 11,000 ft
- Suspension Period
- Until 20 January
- Reason for Suspension
- Unstable ice due to warmer weather
- Previous Incident
- 41 trekkers rescued in 2020
- Expected Snowfall
- January 19-24
- Lowest Temperature in Leh
- -11.6°C
- Lowest Temperature in Kargil
- -10.2°C
