Across India’s icy north, frozen rivers transform into vital winter lifelines. From Ladakh’s Zanskar and Shyok to Himachal’s Spiti River, these temporary roads ensure connectivity, transport of supplies, and survival for remote communities when snow blocks conventional mountain passes.
1 / 61. Zanskar River, Ladakh: Chadar Road, formed over the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh, becomes a vital winter lifeline, allowing remote villages to stay connected when heavy snowfall cuts off mountain routes. (Image: Canva)
2 / 62. Indus River, Upper Ladakh Stretches: In the upper reaches of Ladakh, parts of the Indus River freeze during peak winter months. These frozen stretches are used for short crossings and local movement, especially in villages where roads remain blocked by snow for weeks. Though not used for long-distance travel, the frozen Indus helps maintain basic connectivity. (Image: Canva)
3 / 63. Shyok River, Ladakh: The Shyok River Ice Road in Ladakh, a lifeline in winter, keeps remote border regions connected. Used by the Indian Army and locals, it ensures essential movement when passing through high-altitude areas. This frozen artery highlights human resilience and strategic ingenuity amidst Ladakh’s harsh, icy terrain. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
4 / 64. Spiti River, Himachal Pradesh: In Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley, the Spiti River freezes in parts during severe winters. With roads closed for months due to heavy snowfall, frozen sections of the river are used for short-distance travel and access within villages. The river becomes an important winter support route in this remote tribal region.(Image: Canva)
5 / 65. Nubra River, Ladakh: The Nubra River, which flows through the Nubra Valley, freezes partially during harsh winters. Locals use frozen sections for limited movement and essential travel when road access becomes difficult. The river plays a supporting role in winter connectivity in areas close to the Siachen region. (Image: Canva)
6 / 66. Dras River, Ladakh: Dras is known as one of the coldest inhabited places in the country. During winter, sections of the Dras River freeze due to extreme temperatures. These frozen parts are sometimes used for local crossings, helping residents move between nearby settlements when conditions allow. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)
