Adventures in India

Leh, the capital of the Ladakh region of India is a great starting point for a mild to moderate trek through the Indus Valley. If time permits it is a good idea for hikers and trekkers of all skill levels to acclimate themselves when newly arrived in the country. A tour of the city is a great way to do this.

The adventurous travelers who take up the challenge of the “Chadar trek”, or the frozen sheet, will experience the wonders of a region isolated for most of each year by impassable weather conditions and geographical difficulties. The visitors will also encounter many cultural and religious traits of the people as if they too were frozen in time. Though technically remaining in India the trekkers along the Frozen River will be in the land of Tibetan Buddhism.

This is easily seen at the very beginning of the trek, starting in the medium sized city of Leh. Within the city itself are several notable Gompa or Buddhist temples. A good idea for preparing for the rigors of the journey is to spend some time in the city, acclimating and visiting some of these culturally significant destinations. Among the most popular and commonly visited are Shey, Thiske and Hemis. Of course the historic Palace of the King should not be missed. The Palace is under restoration and does not yet have much to offer, with the exception of some wonderful views of the area from the heights of its many windows.

The best time to take the Frozen River trek is in the months of January and February when the area will be iced over and well-frozen. A good experience of this region must include at least a few of the following villages and towns: Chilling, Zaribago, Deepyokma, Nyrakpulu, Lingshed, Deepkongma, Warsangdo, Pishu, Karsha, Zangla, Sarakdo, Nyrakpulu, Tsomopaldar, and Tilatdo. Each of these villages and areas offer special attractions to trekkers as well as accommodations and support services. Many of them are located near caves that can offer accommodation.

Some of the sites also offer some interesting photographic or educational opportunities. For example, in Zangla visitors can view the ruins of a small castle that was the seat of a titular king. There is still a small chapel on the site and a nearby nunnery. An old monastery a short trek from the area also offers some fantastic fresco paintings.

At Karsha is an excellent opportunity for visitors to understand the tremendous importance of the religious lives of the Zanskar people at can be had at the Gelugpa monastery. The town also has incredible samples of mural art.

While journeying along this unusual path, trekkers must realize and take time to appreciate that they are taking an ancient trade route. In fact the frozen river was the only trade route for thousands of Zanskari peoples, and it is also the reason their culture and heritage are so well preserved today.