Truncated Chadar trek to begin on Jan 7

The much-awaited Chadar Trek, which attracts adventure enthusiasts from across the country to the cold desert of Ladakh, is set to begin on January 7, albeit on a truncated route. This year, the trek will cover nearly 20 kilometres of the frozen Zanskar river, instead of the full stretch.

Advertisement

The reduced route is due to the ongoing construction of the Nimu-Padum-Darcha Road (NPDR) by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under Project Yojak, which is yet to be completed. Last year, the trek was similarly shortened due to delays, and the BRO had initially requested authorities, including the Leh Hill Council, to cancel the event. However, it was decided to continue with the trek on a modified route.

PT Kunzang, Chairman of the Ladakh Tourist Trade Alliance, explained that blasting work on a section of the road was preventing the trek from proceeding along its full length. “The BRO has assured that the blacktopping will be completed by next year and the trek on full length will be held only in 2026,” said Kunzang.

He also mentioned that the Chief Executive Councillor of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Tashi Gyalson, strongly advocated for the continuation of the trek, even if it meant following a truncated route, to maintain the event’s continuity.

Gyalson had recently convened a review meeting with key stakeholders to discuss preparations for the upcoming trek. “After discussions, it was decided to begin the Chadar Trek on January 7. He directed all departments to collaborate closely to ensure smooth operations for the trekkers.