Rivers, lakes & waterways

Waterways define the geography and life of the Zanskar valley. * **Zanskar River:** The lifeblood of the region, formed by the confluence of the Doda River (Stod) and the Tsarap River (Lungnak) near Padum. It carves spectacular, steep gorges through the mountains before meeting the Indus River. * **Frozen Waterways (The Chadar):** In the depths of winter, temperatures plummet and the Zanskar River freezes solid. This forms a traditional ice corridor (the "Chadar") that locals have used for centuries to travel and trade when mountain passes are blocked by snow. * **Glaciers:** The region is fed by massive glaciers, most notably the Drang-Drung Glacier at the Pensi La pass, which feeds the Stod River.