chandratal trek distance

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• Himachal Tourism

The Moon Lake

Chandratal Lake is situated in Spiti valley on the Samudra Tapu plateau. Chandra Tal is one of the crescent shape lakes in Himachal. Chandratal means “Lake of the Moon”, it is a popular rekking destination in Himachal Pradesh.

Chandratal Lake is perched at an height of 4250 m above the sea level. It is one of the easy to moderate level treks in Himachal. Chandra tal lake trek starts from Manali and the total trekking distance of this trek is 80 km.

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More about Chandra Tal Lake

Chandra Tal lake is known for its calm surrounding, beautiful clear blue sky with clouds, and white snow-covered peaks. This beautiful lake changes its color throughout the day. Chandra Tal Trek grabs the imagination of the travelers with its rambling landscape at a different height. The lake encircles a vast meadow that is filled with different kinds of wildflowers.

Chandratal lake trek is a short trek in which starts from Manali which is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh. It is a popular trekking and camping destination which attracts many trekkers and travelers every year. Chandratal Trek takes you through the lush green meadows and the freshwater Chandra River down below.

Best time to visit

June to October is the best time to visit the Chandratal lake trek. At the beginning of the year, there are high chances of witness lots of snow. This snow will reduce considerably in August. In October there are high chances of snowfall.

Mythology about Chandratal Lake Trek

Some legends said that, this lake is located at a place from where the chariot of the god Indra picked up by Yudhishthira, who is the eldest brother of the Pandava. As a result, Chandra Tal is counted among sacred lakes of India and grabs the attention of lots of Hindu devotees.

Short itinerary for Chandratal Lake trek

Day 1: Manali - Keylong

Arrive at Manali, drive to Keylong via Rohtang pass which is situated at a distance of 115 km. After reaching Keylong, go on short hikes around Keylong. Dinner and overnight stay in the camps in Keylong.

Day 2: Keylong - Batal

After breakfast, drive to Batal from Keylong in the morning. Arrive in Batal for lunch. You will go on an acclimatising hike from here. Return to the camp in the evening. Dinner & overnight stay in the camps of Batal.

Day 3: Batal - Chandratal 

After breakfast, trek to Chandratal from Batal which is an 18 km trek. It will take us about 5-6 hrs, while on this trek you will witness a beautiful view of the Lahaul range, peaks like Minar, Talagiri, Tara Pahar, and Mulkila. Dinner and overnight stay in the camp in Chandratal.

Day 4: Chandratal

The day is for exploring of the surroundings. Dinner and overnight stay in Chandratal.

Day 5: Chandratal - Manali

After breakfast drive for Manali. This is the last day of the trip. Our services will be finished once you reach Manali.

Chandratal Lake Trek Photo Gallery

• Chandratal Lake Trek Travel Guide
• Chandratal Lake Trek Weather
• How to Reach Chandratal Lake Trek
• Chandratal Lake Trek Photos

What is Chandratal Lake Trek famous for?

Chandratal Lake Trek is famous among tourist as Trekking, High Altitude Trek, Camping, Lake.

Chandratal Lake Trek is recommended destination for Corporates, Couples, Foreigners, Groups.

Chandratal Lake Trek is popular destination for following activities/ interests - Hill Station , Lakes , Trekking .

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Last Updated: 12 Apr 2024

Chandratal Lake Trek overview

• Best time to visit Chandratal Lake Trek May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct,
• Located in Lahaul Spiti, Himachal
• Recommended stay 5 days
• Railway Station Joginder Nagar Railway Station
• Nearest Airport Bhuntar Airport
• Famous for Trekking, High Altitude Trek, Camping, Lake

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Chandratal Lake Trek Guide 2024: History, Highlights, Best Time and Itinerary

Table of Contents

The Chandratal Lake Trek is beautiful in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 4,300m. It is also called the “Lake of the Moon” because of its crescent shape and is the origin of the Chandra River. In ancient times, this path was used as a trade route; traders from Tibet and Ladakh arrived in the Spiti and Kullu valley Lake. 

Chandratal is easily accessible from Kunzum Pass which stands at an average of 4,590 metres. Kunzum Pass is one of the most famous high altitude passes in Himachal Pradesh.It is a hub for many hikers and adventurers. From Kunzum Pass you will see the magnificent Chandrabhaga mountain range and the Bara Shigri Glacier which is considered the second largest. 

The ChandraTal Lake Trek is an absolute bliss for amateur hikers and the best time to hike the trails is from mid-June to mid-October. From Manali, the journey takes approximately 78 days. 

History of Chandratal Lake Trek

Considered one of the sacred lakes of the Hindus, the lake attracts hordes of Hindu devotees to its sacred waters. It is the origin of the Himalayan Chandra River, one of the tributaries of the Chenab River. 

The most famous folklore revolves around the two lovebirds named Chandra, the loving daughter of the Moon God, and Bhaga, the luminous son of the Sun God. Both were madly in love but, as fate would have it, their parents did not approve of their Alliance. They decided to escape from Baralacha La, the pass where they first met. Somehow they couldn’t meet there, but they did meet somewhere else where they had a heavenly wedding. 

You can see the effervescent Chandrabhaga River at this location which is a testament to their heavenly alliance. The individually created Suraj Tal and Chandratal lakes still resonate with the mystery of their love story. 

The famous lake of ChandraTal also finds its mention in Hindu mythology. It is widely believed that the chariot of Lord Indra (the revered rain god) brought Yudhishthir to his heavenly abode in this very place. 

Another story goes that a shepherd from Hansa village in the Spiti valley fell in love with a mermaid who resided in the glacial lake. Their love blossomed under the icy waters of Lake Angelic. Mythology believes that even today shepherds stop here to look for their lost friend. 

Highlights of Chandratal Lake Trek

• Heavenly campsites nestled in the knees of Himalayan giants
• The characteristic rugged landscape of the hermetic valley of Spiti is surrounded by the vast grassy land that was once a glacier.
• A superb combination of wonders and therefore of adventurers in an equivalent time which makes it a top-level and an exceptional trekking site.

Location of Chandratal Lake Trek

Chandra Tal (“the lake of the moon”) is located at an elevation of 4270 meters in the Himalayas, below the Spiti region of Lahaul and the Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. ChandraTal is a popular trekking and camping destination, attracting several travelers each year. It is within the walking distance of Batal and Kunzum La Pass. 

The best season to visit the Chandratal Trek is from mid-June to mid-October There is a 16 km motorable road from Batal which is accessible after mid-July, as road conditions can be dangerous before this time. Even after taking this road, you have to walk 2 km from the start of the road. 

Best Time of Visit Chandratal Lake Trek

 The road to the lake is open from the third week of June to the first week of November. The lake can be visited from mid-June to July and from September to mid-October. The region is still covered with snow in June and July. There are possibilities for roadblocks, especially from Batal to Chandratal, on the Manali side. From LosarKunzum Pass to Chandratal, the road is known for its famous water crossings on the Kunzum side.

The month of August brings showers to the region. You can face difficult situations in the lower regions of the course. When you venture into the upper lands of Rohtang Pass on the Manali side and Kaza on the Kinnaur side, the weather is very under control. September is the perfect time to hit the Chandratal Gita on the lake. You are entitled to the most breathtaking views, nothing less than a slice of paradise. 

The beauty of the lake, surrounded by scree and cirque on both sides, and overlooking a carpet of flaming autumn leaves, is simply incomparable. Temperatures start to drop from October. It begins to snow in October and temperatures fluctuate between zero during the day and below zero at night. The lake road may be closed in October depending on the amount of snow and the intensity of the cold

How to Reach Chandratal Lake Trek

By air –.

You can reach the lake by plane from Bhuntar Airport (near Manali), Simla Airport, or Chandigarh Airport. Bhuntar Airport, 180 km from Chandratal, is the closest airport to the lake.

By Train –

Chandigarh is the best-connected railway line in Chandratal as it has good connectivity with all parts of India. However, the nearest station to the lake is Joginder Nagar. At a distance of 290 km from Chandratal, it is located near Mandi.

By Road –

You can easily reach Manali from Delhi or Chandigarh by public transport buses, AC / NonAC, or luxury buses. Each season, the route between Spiti Valley and Manali opens in June. Board the public transport buses operated by Himachal Pradesh (HRTC), departing from Kullu and reaching Batal via Manali. Once the bus has passed through Batal, get off at the Chandratal diversion point.

Read more: Panchachuli Base Camp Trek

Itinerary of Chandratal Lake Trek

Day 01: delhi – manali.

Trips to Manali. Night travel.

Day 02: Manali

Arrival in Manali in the morning. On arrival transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Hadimba Devi temple. Evening is free to explore the mall street. Night at the hotel.

Day 03: Manali to Preeni Setan

Head to the village of Preeni from where you will travel towards the picturesque village of Setan. Stay in a tent outside the village.

Day 04: Setan Chikka

Start early and after crossing a few streams continue on a stone-strewn path to our next campsite. You can camp on a large lawn.

Day 05: Chikka Balu Ka Ghera

Today the hike is steep and can be strenuous as you make way to the base of Hampta Pass and reach the campsite on a strip of sand next to a stream of mountains. You will stay at the camp for the night.

Day 06: Beyond Hampta Pass (4270 meters) Chatru

The hike to the pass is steep again and once over Hampta Pass, you can see the fabulous views of the northern ridges of Lahaul and Spiti. In the evening reach the small camp along the road to Chatru.

Day 07: Chatru – Chota Dara

Today the trail runs along the Spiti highway.  The next stop on the trip is another accommodation on the Chota Dara side of the road. There is a former retirement home and a seasonal tea room here. Close the field.

Day 08: Chota Dara – Batal

Today , you will continue the road trip and walk along the Chandra river to reach the next small modest village and a temporary tea and Dhaba stall in Batal. 

Day 09: Batal – Chandratal

Just before the tea stand, there is a rugged path that leads north. As the highway heads towards Kunzum Pass and Spiti, this main road leads to the beautiful mountain lake. Much further down you can see the silver Chandra River meandering towards Lahaul. In the early evening, reach the lake. The course is located on the shore of this pretty lake.

Day 10: Chandratal Lake

Rest day in Chandratal because the body needs to recover. All around this magnificent crystal clear body of water, have a magnificent view of the high deserted mountains. The campsite is located near the shores of the lake.

Day 11: Chandratal Lake – Manali

In the morning, after breakfast, depart for Manali via 2 high passes Kunzum La and Rohtang La. Upon arrival in Manali, check-in at the hotel. 

Day 12: Manali and Delhi

In the morning, explore the surroundings and some other places in Manali. Drive to Delhi.

Day 13: Back to Delhi

Arrival at Delhi  in the morning 

In conclusion, the Chandratal Lake Trek is a must-visit destination for all nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The trek offers a unique combination of natural beauty, stunning landscapes, and challenging terrain that makes it an unforgettable experience. The trek is suitable for all skill levels and can be completed in a relatively short amount of time. The crystal-clear waters of the Chandratal Lake and the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Overall, the Chandratal Lake Trek is a must-do adventure that should not be missed by anyone traveling to the Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) for Chandratal Lake Trek

Where is chandra tal trek located.

ChandraTal is a lake in the Lahaul part of the Lahaul & Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.

When is the best time to visit Chandratal Trek?

The best months for trekking are May,June and between August and October.

How will the temperatures be during the Chandratal Trek?

The average daytime temperature will be between 12 ° C and 18 ° C and at night it will vary between 0 ° C and 4 ° C.

In which season is there snow on the Chandratal Trek?

While in August and September it will not snow, but more streams to cross and the landscape will be green and flowered in August and September. Meanwhile, hikers can enjoy the unobstructed view of the snow-capped mountains.

Can a beginner do the Chandratal Trek?

ChandraTal Trek is very popular with trekkers to start their trekking efforts. Chandratal Trek is one of the most thrilling trekking routes in India, yet extremely convenient to start your trekking goals. The trek has no high cliffs to climb or steep slopes to walk on and maintain a gradual incline through

What is the highest altitude of the Chandra Tal trek? 

At the end of the valley, standing at a majestic 4,280 meters, is the Hamta pass. 

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Chandratal Trek

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Chandratal Trek is the most famous and popular lake in the Lahaul and Spiti Range, the turquoise blue lake is a hidden gem also situated in the Chandrabhaga Range. It’s a terrific attraction for all the tourist trekkers and adventurers.

It is 14 km away from Batal. The routes are extremely treacherous, but worth it as you will get to witness the vistas of nature. Chandratal is a tourist destination for trekkers and campers. The lake is accessible on foot from Batal as well as from the Kunzum Pass from May to late October.

Camping near the lake should be in everyone’s bucket list. Accommodation is available 5 kilometers (3.1 mi) from the lake. Witness the vast meadows on the banks of the lake. During springtime, these meadows are carpeted with hundreds of varieties of wildflowers. Chandratal Lake is On the Samudra Tapu plateau, which overlooks Chandra River (a source river of the Chenab).

The name of the lake originates from its crescent shape. It is an altitude of about 4,300 metres (14,100ft) In the Himalayas. One can witness the some of the major peaks of Chandrabhaga Range like Chandrabhaga 14(CB14) or Chandrabhaga 13(CB13).

Chandratal Trek a Sacred Moon Lake in Spiti valley in Himachal

Chandratal Lake trek is a beautiful trek in Spiti valley of Himachal Pradesh at an elevation of 4,300 m. It is also called “Moon Lake” because of its crescent shape and is the origin of Chander River. In ancient times this trail was used as trade route; traders from Tibet and Ladakh came to Spiti and Kullu valley.

Chandratal lake can be easily approached from Kunzum Pass which is Located at an average of 4,590 meters, Kunzum pass is one of the most famous high altitude passes of Himachal Pradesh. It is a hub for many trekkers and adventurers. From Kunzum pass, you will witness the gorgeous Chandrabhaga Range and Bara Shigri Glacier which is considered as the second largest.

Glacier after Gangotri in the Himalayas. The pass connects Lahaul valley and Spiti Valley to the Kully Valley. Kunzum Pass is the starting point of the Chandratal Lake the visitors come here to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga and visit Chandratal Lake, which is around 9 km from Kunzum Pass. The route is extremely beautiful that people come here to halt and indulge in photography and to view the magnificent Bara- Sigri Glacier, the second-largest glacier in the world.

Key Points of Chandratal Trek

Level: – Easy or Moderate

Before heading towards the itinerary, it is really essential to perceive the reason behind choosing Chandra Tal Trek.

Proper conditioning & training of body required

Need proper gear & clothing for sub-zero temperature?

Shoes are the single most important equipment.

High Altitude requires proper acclimatization.

Beautiful landscapes so carry good photo gear & Extra battery backup.

Travel light

The backpack should not exceed 10 kgs.

Best Time to Visit  Chandratal lake Trek?

Chandratal Trek is a very beautiful  and  Easy trek in the Himachal spiti valley , The Chandratal Trek is great for those people who have a great passion for hiking and road trip in near Spiti valley kibber vaillge kaza  and consider it a special purpose in their life. Chandratal Trek is such a trek where you get to see more than one Spiti mountain range. Chandratal Trek is very important for those people who have holidays only on weekends  4 nights to 5 Days from Manali to Manali.

You can visit here  Chandratal Trek 2nd week of June to Last week of October , For those who like summer and monsoon treks, they can go summer and monsoon treks are a very good time for those who want to see snow. and live snow fall,

Chandratal Trek is also a good trek for Monsoon trek at that time there are flowers and green greenery which makes the trek very memorable.

During the day the temperature of Chandratal Trek is around ( 08°C to 15 °C  and during the night the temperature comes down to  05 °C  to 8 °C  which is not bad.

Will there be electricity in Chandratal trek

Let me tell you that there is no electricity in the forest area of Chandratal trek. Here we use Stobe Light and or Solar Light, candal light at the nights

If you come on this trek, then you should bring your own head light and your camera with full charge, if possible, it would be good to bring extra battery backup, and also bring the phone after full charge, today people most of the phone use the same

Note :- Day 3 and 4 Electricity available at Kibber village or Kaza during the trek

Do spare time in Interaction with locals, and you will get to know about some of the ancient tales of Indian mythology. And our Spiti or Himachali Cultures

Must Read about Chandratal Trek

Duration: 0 5 Days from Manali to Manali

Best Season:   June, July August and September

Level: Easy or Moderate

Highest Point:   4300 meters

Weather:   Nights are cold and day temperature is pleasant during the season.

Temperature:   (5°C to 15°C)

Starting Point: Manali mall Road

Short Itinerary of Chandratal Trek

Day 1 – Pickup to you from manali mall road Drive from Manali to Batal via Rohtang pass (109 km) (4/5 Hours) (3907 m) (5/6 hours) over night stay camp

Day 2 – Drive from Batal (3907 m) to Chandratal (4551 m) and night stay in Kunzum La Pass/Chika (3200 m)

Day 3 – Kunzum La Pass to Kibber village (69 km) (3/4 hours) (over night stay hotel

Day 4- Rest day explore some time kaza monastery back to overnight stay kaza hotel

Day 5 – Drive from Kaza to Manali (209 km) (8/9 hours) reach manali late evening 6 to 7 pm

Is it safe ?

Set amidst the popular destinations, Chandratal trek is indeed very safe. All our professional strive their best to provide trekkers with the best experience possible.

Difficulty level

Chandartal trek is very easy trek. Despite the fact that the top is relatively low in elevation, we recommend regulated physical fitness. All groups will be guided by our pros for trekking equipment and any impending terrain during the course. This is best beginner

Weather conditions

The weather conditions depend on the time of the year trekkers are travelling. Months from March to June experience moderately good temperatures during the day with substantially colder nights.

Monsoons remain cascaded under heavy rainfall while winters offer snow-covered tracks.

During the day the temperature of Chandratal lake trek is around  temperature is  8°C to 12 °C  and during the night the temperature comes down to 5 °C  to 8 °C  which is not bad.

What to pack for Chandratal lake trek and Spiti valley

Warm clothes, sleeves, wind shelter, comfortable clothing, and extra warm clothes so that you can enjoy trekking. A raincoat is the necessary

Footwear: A well-fitted trekking footwear shoes are highly recommended. If you wear an uncomfortable pair of shoes, your feet will be hurt.

Things to carry

1) Because nights at elevations tend to be considerably colder, we suggest having well-graded, warm and comfortable clothing along with good quality shoes.

2) Despite the fact that we handle medical crises, we urge individuals to keep their emergency kits at hand in any case of personal underlying illnesses.

3) Since the journey provides you with a picturesque view, don’t forget to bring your camera along with extra batteries.

4) All the trekking gears will be provided by our teams, hence we recommend carrying only the important luggage with essentials.

Connectivity and Transactions

1) Because connectivity along the route is unpredictable, we urge people to do all of their work ahead of time.

2) Trekkers will be provided with walkie- talkies beforehand in case of emergency.

3) The last ATM transactions available will be at Manali , but we recommend that travellers collect cash beforehand or while in Manali as the ATM available at other places might not dispense cash at times.

Your Travel Plan for Chandratal Trek

You can book trains, air flights, and bus tickets for your journey only according to the information given by us.

The Chandratal  trek will be of 5  Days from Manali to Manali, includes travel.

First of all, all the trekkers will have to book their flight and train bus according to our time table as our pick up is from 9:00 am to 10:00 am ,  you will have to reach Manali Bus Stand, Mall Road in the morning.

A taxi from Himalayan Hikers will link you to the Manali bus stand, near mall road.

Himalayan Hikers organize transport to the Spiti valley for Chandratal trek  from the Manali bus stand. Our vehicles leave 7at :00 am to 8:00 am sharp from Manali. Sharing taxi costs include your package.

In the Manali bus stand, you will get our taxi staff that will arrange transport for you. The contacts no Transport coordinator or our office team will give you a week ago to your departure.

Please you guys book your transport facility according to your own time table, after Himalayan hikers take all the responsibility of Manali to Manali ,  that you will not face any problem.

Your trek ends at Manali day 05 th  evening 5:30 pm. Manali is a beautiful city in Himachal here available public transport for all over State in India. Booked your return bus tickets directly Manali bus stands .

  How to Reach Chandratal Lake Trek?

If you are traveling from Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, Pune, Mumbai or Gujarat any other city, so you will have to come to Delhi, you will get a flight from Delhi for Bhuntar comfortably.

Option 01:- By Air

Himalayan hikers tell you that whenever you travel, you should reach your destination within 2 hours.  Bhuntar, Kullu airport is the nearest airport in Manali.

Located about 32 km for the Manali city. There are flights available to Bhuntar airport, you can go online and book your tickets. These are easy and easy ways for you and you also save your time, Bhuntar to Manali taxi available in airport 24×7.

If you find the flight to Bhuntar airport expensive, then you come by flight to Delhi or travel by bus from Delhi to Manali, and it will be easy for you. And many Volvo bus available.

  Option 02:- By Bus

You can reach Manali from Delhi by a bus, board it from (Delhi) Kashmiri Gate, ISBT; or chandigarh Bus stand,  it is good if you are booked the seats. It is a 10-11 hour bus journey from Delhi to Manali bus stand, near mall road.

(Reach Manali bus stand between 5:00 am to 6:00 am and the vehicle will be arranged from there.)

  What is the distance to reach Manali for Chandratal trek from other state

• from Mumbai to Manali Distance is – 1931 Kms by Road
• from Delhi to Manali Distance is – 553 kms by Raod
• from Jaipur to Manali by road is 800 kms
• from Chandigarh to Manali by road is 307 kms
• from Shimla to Manali by road is 248 kms
• from Dehradun to manali by Raod is 474 kms
• from Ludhiana to Manali by road Is 358 Kms
• from Bangalore to manali by road is 2693 kms
• from Kolkata to Manali by road is 2037 kms

What we do during an emergency breakout in the Chandratal trek

First of all, the safety of trekkers is much more for us, if you see in the trek, then there are all the risks, which I do not think about.

Himalayan Hikers worry more about you that no one should ever have any problem in the trek.

What should we and you keep more safety in the trek

• Whenever you are going for any trek, it is very important that you go completely fit and ready.
• The trek is not difficult, if you make your feet and your mind calm and strong, you will find the trek very easy.
• While trekking, keep in mind that you are walking on the right route or not always with your guide.
• Most people look somewhere and where they are walking, this can cause twitching in your legs, which can ruin your entire trek.
• It is important to ask your doctor if you have any medical problems
• I should always keep my medical kit with me, it is very important.
• Himalayan Hikers always keep a medical kit with you, such as oxygen cylinders, medicine to be given in emergency on the trek
• If any trekkers have any more problems, then they are brought back to the base camp by laying them in the stretcher.
• Our camp in Chandratal trek is around the 9000 feet to 13000 feet where you can not have any problem of oxygen
• In case of any medical problem, the help of your guide or a well-informed trekkers should be taken
• If there is major health problems in Chandratal trek, then Nearest Hospital is in Manali which is about 140  Kms away from Chandratal trek
• Along with the trek we keep getting acclimatization

Day 1 : Drive from Manali to Batal

Vehicles will be arranged from Manali, leave early to avoid traffic jams at Rohtang pass. Batal is a small town in the Himalayan region of Lahaul and Spiti. Arrangements will be made in a hotel there.

Day 2 : Drive from Batal (3907 m) to Chandra Tal (4300 m) same day drive Kunzum La Pass / Chika camp

The drive from Batal to Chandratal is 15 km long and it can be covered in less than an hour. Peep out of your window and witness the magnificent Chandra Bhawa ranges and snow clad peaks.

This crescent shaped “Moon Lake” lies at an altitude of 4300 m. It is a sacred lake which changes color and attracts many Hindu devotees. This places offers the sight of deserted mountains.

Then the drive is towards Kunzum La Pass, where the arrangements will be made.

Day 3 : Kunzum La Pass to Kibber village

Kunzum La is the highest memorable Pass and separates Spiti and Lahaul valley. Post breakfast the drive is towards a high village in Spiti valley.

Reach there and visit a monastery and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. Night stay will be in a lodge there.

Day 4 : Drive from Kibber village to kaza

Rest day explore some time kaza monastery enjoy beautiful views back to hotel overnight stay kaza hotel

Day 5 : Drive from Kaza to Manali (209 km) (8/9 hours)

In the morning, after breakfast drive to Manali via 2 high passes Kunzum La and Rohtang Pass. Have lunch en route. Reach manali late evening 6 to 7 pm

Mandatory Documents

Please carry the documents given below.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voters ID, etc, Passport and Visa important to foreigners Medical Certificate (First part should be filled by the Doctor and Second part by the Trekker) Declaration Certificates

Note: –   Many trekkers commit the same mistake of carrying unnecessary items on a trek which only makes the backpack heavy. It is important to know the right items to carry. It differs from season to season if you are trekking in summers then carry less layers of warm clothing and if you are trekking in winters carry enough layers to protect yourself against chilly cold.

Necessary Items for trekkers

Backpack (50 to 60 liters) A strongly built backpack with good support is compulsory for a trek. (Rain cover is important)

Sturdy Trekking Shoes The shoes should be strong enough with good support. The people ask if sports shoes would be comfortable but it is good to bring the right trekking shoes.

The Clothes You Should Bring On a Trek Avoid keeping extra clothes because it only makes you backpack heavy.

Trek Pants – The jeans are never suitable for a trek so you need at least 2-3 trek pants for treks carry more for longer treks.

Jacket – Jackets are very important to carry on a trek it protects you against the chilly weather. So carry 2 jackets on a week long trek.

Layers of warm Clothing  Carry warm woolen layers or fleece. Carry more layers during winter season (at least 2 to 3) and less during summer.

Thermals – The Temperature decreases at night so you might be need thermals for Night.

T- Shirts – Bring those t shirts which dry fast.

Poncho –They are needed if you are trekking on a Rainy day to keep you dry.

Hiking Pole

Water Bottle 2

Cap or Balaclava

Woolen and Waterproof Gloves

Socks (Woolen and Regular)

Torch head light

Personal Toiletry Items –  (toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, sanitizer etc.)

Carry Personal Medical Kit

Personal Medical Kit (Carry minimum 5 tablets and maximum 10)

Diamox – (Prevents altitude sickness)

Digene – (It cures discomfort in stomach, acidity)

Crocin Advance – (Cures fever and headache)

Aspirin/Combiflam – (Pain reliever)

Disprin – (Cures headache)

Avomine – (Prevents motion sickness)

Avil – (It treat allergies)

Norflox TZ & Lomofen – (Prevents Diarrhoea)

Ranitidine – (Reduces the amount of acid in stomach)

Volini/Moov spray – (For sprains)

Betadine/Savlon – (Antiseptic cream)

Stretchable/Elastic bandage

Note:- Use medicines only when prescribed by the doctor. In case you face any problem during your trek, discuss and take advice from the Professional guide.

Sorry! Here are no Available dates right now. For Any Queries you can Email us with [email protected] and Call Us +91 9756197558

What is Included In This Trek?

Transport Facility Manali To Manali

Forest Permit and entrance fee

Accommodation in tents on twin share basis

All meals: breakfast, packed lunch, tea, coffee, snacks, soup and dinner

(All camping gears)

High quality tents

Sleeping bags

Separate Toilet tents – Ladies and Gents

Dining Tent

Dining Table

Kitchen team

Radio Walkie Talkie for Communication

Good Experience Trek Leader guide and Technical guide

Medical Kit

Oxygen Cylinders

Crampons and Gaiters

What is Not Include In This Trek?

Personal Insurance

Medical Certificate

Personal toiletry Items and Personal Medicine kit

On first day En Route to base camp the Breakfast and Lunch are Not Included

Last Day En Route Lunch and Dinner are Not Included

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Chandratal Baralacha Trek

A spectacular route, as offbeat as it can get in the heart of the great himalayan range, about the chandratal to baralacha la trek - , chandratal baralacha la trek route, why should you do the chandratal baralacha la trek, hampta pass with chandratal, baralacha la trek, what is the best time for the chandratal to baralacha la trek, chandratal baralachala trek route map.

Chandratal Baralacha La Trek Itinerary

Day 1 arrival in delhi, overnight drive to manali.

• Distance: 530 KM
• Time: 12 hours
• Altitude: 6,400 feet | 2,050 meters

Volvo buses of Himachal State Transport Corporation and various private buses ply overnight for the journey to Manali, via Chandigarh, Bilaspur, Mandi and Kullu.

Private taxi can be availed for the journey too.

Day 2 Stay, acclimatize and explore Manali

• Type of Accommodation: Guest House/Hotel
• Attractions: Vashishth waterfall, Hadimba temple, Beas river with riverside restaurants, Mall road etc

The day can be leisurely spent exploring Manali town and nearby attractions. You can even indulge in zipline and rafting.

Day 3 Drive from Manali to Batal

• Distance: 95 KM
• Time: 3 hours
• Altitude: 12,960 feet or 3,950 meters

The drive is short owing to the construction of the 9 KM long Rohtang tunnel (Atal tunnel) under the Rohtang pass.

After crossing the tunnel the landscape changes dramatically as we enter the arid Lahaul. The drive is alongside the Chenab river, which eventually flows into Pakistan via Kashmir.

Day 4 Drive from Batal to Kunzum La, further drive/trek to Chandratal lake

• Distance: 14 KM (to Kunzum La) + 22 KM (Kunzum La to Chandratal)
• Trek Distance: 12 KM (optional hike from Kunzum La to Chandratal)
• Time: 2.5 hours
• Altitude: 13,940 feet | 4,250 meters

After an initial drive to Kunzum La (4,551 meters or 14,931 feet), we head back along the same route for a short distance and then head to Chandratal lake. We camp a KM before the Chandratal lake and hike to the lake in the evening for acclimatization.

If you are up for the challenge we can hike all the way from Kunzum La pass to the Chandratal lake in around 5 to 6 hours covering over 12 KM of distance.

Day 5 Chandratal to Tokpo Gongma trek

• Distance: 14 KM
• Time: 8 hours
• Altitude: 14,430 feet | 4,400 meters

The trail from Chandratal continues northwards on the true left of the Chandra river (river will be to our left hand side). The trail mostly stays high above the river with views of the valley extending as far as the eyes can see.

At places the trail is non existent and boulder or scree zones dot the terrain. We continue in the northward direction straight ahead.

There are several campsites on the way, where we cross small stream intersections. Often lush pastures can be found here with Gaddi (nomadic shepherds) with their flock of sheep camping in these spots.

Day 6 Tokpo Gongma to Tokpo Yongma trek

• Altitude: 15,255 feet | 4,650 meters

We cross a major stream that runs into the main Chenab river 30 mins ahead of our campsite. From there the trail continues up into the alpine meadows dotted with a variety of flora.

We cross another medium grade stream before reaching our campsite.

We stop short of a major river crossing and camp at a beautiful campsite, at a place known as Tokpo Yongma.

Day 7 Tokpo Yongma to Baralacha La trek, drive to Manali/Pang (if headed for Leh)

• Distance: 12 KM
• Drive Time: 5 hours drive – 144 KM to Manali or – 110 KM to Pang (similar time)
• Altitude: 16,140 feet | 4,920 meters

Early morning we start the day by crossing a major river. In pre monsoon months of June or till mid July, snow bridges are an easy find to cross the river. By August & September we need to get our boots wet to cross the river at a certain wider section with minimal depth.

The trek has several water crossings and after we are done with them all, one is surely going to end up as an expert on crossing mountain streams.

Ethereal beauty welcomes us as we approach the last leg of the trek to the Baralacha La pass. We hop into vehicles waiting for us and continue our journey either to Manali or Leh depending on what your next destination is.

Day 2 How difficult is the trek & what are the challenges?

Faq's about chandratal baralacha la trek, is network available.

Network connectivity is sparse. We will loose network connectivity after we proceed to Batal. During the trek there is no network connectivity. During return from Baralacha La the network reception is available from Jispa (towards Manali) & Sarchu (towards Leh). Airtel, BSNL & Jio networks are available.

How about electricity during the trek?

We will have electricity in Batal in camp to charge phones etc, but no electricity during the trek. Carry additional power banks for phone/camera batteries

Is the trek safe?

Apart from the 3 river crossings (and many minor streams) during the trek, the trail is very safe. Even the river crossings can be managed with ease if an experienced trek leader accompanies you. It is not recommended to trek by yourself along this trail without professional guidance.

The area is remote but the villages on the Manali Leh highway are very safe and the locals are very hospitable. Even the travelers driving to Leh via road bond well with each other in such a desolate and remote area, always willing to help each other if stranded.

What is the best time to do the trek and how is the weather?

What are the top highlights of the trek.

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Trek Inclusions

• Transfer from Manali to Batal, further Kuzum La/Chandratal & return to Manali from Baralacha La in Cab
• Overnight stay in Manali in a cozy guest house for 1 Night before trek start
• Stay in Batal in swiss camps
• Accommodation during trek in spacious EU standards certified tents for 3 nights with proper camping amenities
• All meals from Day 2 Breakfast to Day 7 Lunch
• Trained and certified trek leader, cook & support staff
• Safety gear where needed
• A guaranteed wow experience! We are rated 4.9 based on over 600 TripAdvisor reviews
• Your designated hotels may not reopen by the time you reach there. While we are making alternate arrangements, do understand that things may not be as “tip-top” as our designated hotels.
• The gurudwara, Hemkund Sahib may not be open. While we are trying to take permission to go to Hemkund Sahib, if it does not happen, then do understand that the pandemic has put restrictions beyond our control.

Trek Exclusions/Add-Ons

• Transfers to Manali from Delhi and return (or onward journey to Leh) - can be arranged at an additional cost depending on mode of transport (bus/private cab)
• Trek Insurance
• Any costs due to delays due to roadblocks or medical evacuation (we have an impeccable safety record in conducting our treks)

Upcoming Treks

• 17-07-2021 to 23-07-2021 open
• 17-07-2021 to 23-07-2021 close

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Are you planning to do the Chandratal Lake trek ? You have come to the right place! The India Explorer is here to provide the perfect guide to this beautiful moon lake trek. Read on!

Chandratal Lake: The Beautiful Moon Lake

Beautiful Chandratal, often called Moon Lake, is a high-altitude lake in Himachal Pradesh , India’s Himalayas. At 4,300 metres (14,100 ft), the lake is encircled by verdant meadows and towering snow-capped hills. Because of its moon-like crescent form, it is called “Chandra Taal” and is very important in local legend.

Travellers will have an adventure in and of itself as they make their way to Chandratal, passing through difficult rocky terrain and twisting roads that provide stunning vistas of the Spiti Valley. Trekkers and nature lovers frequent the lake as it is reachable from Kunzum Pass, a high mountain pass that connects the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys.

The ever-changing colours of the surrounding terrain are reflected in the sparkling waters of Chandratal Lake, producing a captivating scene. The lake’s appeal is increased because it is fed by glaciers and stays frozen throughout the winter. It’s an amazing experience to camp on Chandratal Lake’s coastlines, where guests may see the starry sky during the peaceful Himalayan night.

In addition to being a work of art, Chandratal Lake has cultural importance. This lake is considered a resting point for travellers on the historic trade route that connected Spiti Valley and Ladakh. Buddhist stupas dot the landscape, lending a spiritual element to the otherwise tranquil setting.

Adventurers and nature enthusiasts looking for a distinct and unspoiled Himalayan experience continue to be drawn to Chandratal Lake despite its isolated position and difficult accessibility. When someone travels to this Himalayan jewel, they are left with a lasting impression due to its unspoiled beauty and sense of seclusion.

Chandratal Lake to Manali Distance

The motorable distance between Chandratal Lake and Manali is 111 kilometres, and it takes about 4 hours to reach if you’re driving. The trail for the Chandratal Lake trek begins at Kunzum and has a distance of 21 kilometres between them.

How to Reach Chandratal Lake

To reach Chandratal Lake, you must reach Kunzum first and then trek to the lake. 

First, reach Manali via air, train, or road. From Manali, drive to Rohtang Pass. Rohtang Pass will take you to Batal, a tiny hamlet in Spiti Valley. From Batal, you will find many taxis to Chandratal Lake at a minimal price. You can either go by taxi or trek to the lake.

Chandratal Lake Camping

Camping at Chandratal Lake is another sought-after activity by travellers second to trekking. Chandratal Lake has several approved camping areas. Basic amenities like tents, sleeping bags, and food are available at these locations. Popular places to camp include meadows close to Samudri Tapu that offer a clear view of the lake.

You can also opt for a Chandratal Lake camping package by any operator online or in Manali. Meals, camping supplies, and knowledgeable guides are frequently included in these packages. Packages are a convenient choice if you would rather go on an excursion with a guide.

You can bring your camping equipment for a more self-sufficient camping experience. Ensure you have enough food supplies, a strong tent, and a comfortable sleeping bag for cold weather. Since open flames are often forbidden due to environmental concerns, portable burners are handy for cooking.

Chandratal Lake Trek: Hike to the Moon Lake

Trekkers looking for a mix of rugged terrain and scenic beauty find themselves drawn to the Himalayan region by the allure of the Chandratal Lake trip. This 14-kilometer hike, which is located in the Himachal Pradesh Spiti Valley, offers an enthralling path that changes with every step. It takes hardly 3 days to finish this trek.

Chandratal Lake Trek Itinerary

Day 1: delhi to manali.

A long drive over the NH1 awaits you, with an evening arrival in Manali likely after 12–14 hours, depending on your speed and rest periods. It is recommended to start early, ideally from Delhi around 4 a.m. Obtaining permits for Rohtang Pass is essential if you plan to drive; you may do this online or via a Manali hotel, where you can pay an additional price to guarantee that your permit will be ready for your delayed arrival on Day 1.

· If you are a bus traveller, consider making the trip a day excursion. Depart from Delhi early in the morning and arrive in Manali by evening to provide time to change to take the next bus to Kaza. Night buses might make this link vulnerable. Make early departures a priority for a smooth transition; your Kaza trip will go faster if you can get to Manali by 5 a.m.

Day 2: Manali to Chandratal Lake

Start your travel early to avoid traffic jams at Rohtang Top. At the Gulaba checkpoint, expect a long queue with potentially hour-long waits.

· Even though it seems like a short drive from Manali to Chandratal Lake, the difficult roads significantly reduce speed; hence, the total trip time increases. Pass across Rohtang La and, as you descend, bear right onto what can only be characterised as the most difficult route in the world, towards Spiti Valley, which is close to Gramphu. This segment offers an exciting challenge with its water streams, slush, loose stones, sharp boulders, and narrow dirt roads.

· Once you get to Batal, keep going towards Kunzum Pass. After a short while, you’ll see the 14-kilometre route that leads to Chandratal. It is a one-car-only pathway, thus going at a slow speed. Watch for approaching cars, select a larger area to cross, and wait if needed. 

Day 3: Enjoy the Scenic Views of the Chandratal Lake

You will see several campsites about 4 or 5 km from the lake. Since camping is prohibited in Chandratal by law, every campsite is at least three km away. Examine the camps and register for the one that appeals to you.

· Following the camps, the road goes on for two more km until stopping at a parking lot. It would help if you walked the final km to reach the lake from this point.

Day 4: Chandratal Lake to Manali

Set out to return, following the same route that brought you to Chandratal . Stroll around the lake before leaving for Manali at 8 or 9 a.m. If you travel from Chandratal to Manali, you do not need permission to cross Rohtang, which allays your worries.

· On this day, planning is crucial if you travel to Chandratal by bus. Make sure you get to the Kunzum Pass Chandratal diversion before 8 a.m. Early in the morning, a bus from Kaza to Manali leaves around 6 a.m. and reaches Kunzum Pass/Batal by 8:30 a.m. Please arrive at the destination before the bus arrives and board it to return directly to Manali. The bus offers a practical and picturesque route, enabling you to enjoy the captivating scenery while returning from the amazing trip.

Best Time for Chandratal Lake Trek:

The best time to start the Chandratal Trek is between mid-June and mid-October when a wide range of experiences are available. Beautiful snowscapes are common in the early season, starting in mid-June, and they are progressively less as August progresses. Anticipate a change from snow-covered scenery to the rain-drenched Kullu Manali Valley, interspersed with sunny patches in the Spiti Valley.

Expect bright, pleasant days between June and August, with highs of 12 to 20°C. At the highest campground, nighttime lows are between 2 and 6°C. The trail’s snowpack melts as the season continues until September and mid-October, bringing pleasant weather. The days are still bright, but October is approaching, which increases the likelihood of snowfall. Temperatures during the day range from 12 to 18°C, while those at night range from -6 to 4°C.

Tips for Chandratal Lake Trek:

Before the trip, spend a day or two in Manali or another high-altitude area to give your body time to acclimate to lower oxygen levels at higher elevations. That lessens the possibility of altitude sickness, including weariness, nausea, and headaches.

· Selecting the appropriate season is essential. You may enjoy the trip in a variety of weather situations from the mid-June to mid-October season. You may see snow early in the season, and then later on in Spiti, you may have bright weather and showers in the lower valleys.

· If you plan to drive, get your Rohtang Pass permits in advance. That guarantees a trip without interruptions because of permissions. If you are lodging in a Manali hotel, you might want to ask them to handle getting the permissions.

· Given the rough terrain, starting the journey early, at approximately 4 a.m., is advised to avoid traffic congestion at Rohtang Pass and make the most of daylight hours.

· Bring several layers of clothes, especially a waterproof jacket, in case the weather changes unexpectedly. You can respond to changing temperatures throughout the day by wearing layers of clothing.

· Invest in well-gripped, comfortable, and durable hiking shoes. The terrain ranges from rocky trails to slushy snow, so appropriate footwear is necessary for a safe and enjoyable walk.

· It is recommended to carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Refill it regularly and avoid disposable plastic bottles to help reduce waste. Carry energy-boosting foods with you on the hike, such as fruits, almonds, and energy bars, to help you stay strong.

· When camping, ensure you have a good, weatherproof tent, a cosy sleeping mat, and a warm sleeping bag for chilly weather. Lightweight camping equipment facilitates a more tolerable walk.

· Respect the Leave No Trace philosophy. To reduce your influence on the environment, dispose of rubbish properly, remain on authorised routes, and don’t disturb wildlife.

· If you are not familiar with the area, you might choose to join a trekking group or hire a local guide. Local guides can guarantee a safer hiking experience and offer insightful information about the area and culture.

· The walk passes across difficult terrain and a range of elevations. Before the trip, regular cardiovascular exercise improves your endurance and prepares your body for the strenuous physical demands of the adventure.

· Bring along a high-quality camera to capture the breathtaking views. To capture the stunning surroundings effectively, ensure your electrical gadgets are well charged and bring additional batteries.

· Keep a basic first aid kit with you at all times, filled with necessities like bandages, painkillers, and any prescription drugs you may need. Ensure you have an easy-to-access trekking route map and emergency contact details.

· Before taking pictures of locals, get their permission to show respect for their culture. Respectfully interact with the community, taking an interest in and learning about their way of life.

The climb to Chandratal Lake, which offers daring adventurers an unmatched adventure over various sceneries and difficult terrains, is a monument to the unadulterated magnificence of the Himalayas. Every step of this journey reveals a new aspect of the wonders of nature, from the untamed pathways of Batal to the expansive views of Rohtang Pass.

Nestled at a high height, the Chandratal Lake emerges as the expedition’s gem in the crown. Its glistening waters provide a calm and alluring scene as they reflect the snow-capped hills. The journey is more than just a strenuous physical ascent—it’s a ballet with the weather as you make your way through slush, tiny dirt roads, and streams of water.

Trekkers who travel into this distant area of Himachal Pradesh are left with unforgettable memories of the starry sky above the Himalayas, creating an ethereal aura as they camp by the beaches of Chandratal. The hike to Chandratal Lake is more than just a physical accomplishment; it’s an invitation for travellers to contemplate, explore, and get in touch with the wild spirit of the highlands. This walk becomes more than just an adventure when you embrace the difficulties and treasure the moments; it becomes a meaningful experience of the magnificent powers of nature.

Set off on the Himalayan journey of Chandratal Lake Trek, which runs from mid-June to mid-October. Encourage others to visit this magnificent location by sharing your experiences in the comments below. Regardless of your experience level, Chandratal is waiting for you, extending an invitation to join a group of people who share a passion for exploring at high altitudes.

• Chandratal Lake Trek

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Chandratal Lake – A COMPLETE Travel Guide & Itinerary

I visited Chandratal Lake for the first time a few years ago and was completely enthralled by what I saw. The landscape in front of my eyes was like no other and for a while I did not know what to do. A part of me wanted to put the camera away and allow myself to immerse in the beauty of the place whereas the other part wanted to click as many pictures as possible. In the end, I spent hours roaming around on its banks and ended up doing both.

The kind of vista you see at Chandratal is hard to find elsewhere. So much I was mesmerized that I returned only 2 weeks later to spend a couple of nights more in the camps here.

Chandratal may be smaller than some of the other high altitude lakes in the region but is a giant in beauty. It is often called the crown jewel of Spiti Valley and quite rightly so. Your trip to Spiti will remain incomplete unless you have spent at least one evening at Chandratal.

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About Chandratal Lake

For a brief introduction, Chandratal, or Chandra Taal, is a high altitude lake located in Lahaul & Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh. The name of the lake literally means ‘The Lake of the Moon’ and is owed to its crescent shape. At an altitude of 4,300 meters, it is the source of Chandra River.

There are vast meadows on the banks Chandratal, favorite among the gaddi shepherds to graze their livestock. In the spring season, these meadows are carpeted with hundreds of varieties of wildflowers and attract thousands of tourists and flowers.

Chandratal is open for tourists from early June to Mid October. Between December to April, it remains in a completely frozen state.

Also read: How to Plan a Trip to Spiti Valley

How to Plan a Trip to Chandratal Lake

Mostly Chandratal becomes a part of the itinerary for a trip to Spiti Valley. Depending on your plan, this could be an affair lasting 9 to 14 days. You start from Shimla, cover all of Spiti, and end your trip at Manali while covering Chandratal on the way. Or you can also do it the other way around, starting from Manali and ending at Shimla.

However, in recent times, a lot of people have started to travel to only Chandratal to enjoy camping here. Adventure junkies and motorcycle enthusiasts come here to get a taste of the extreme off-roading opportunities that the roads here present. Depending on where you started from, this can be done easily in 4-5 days.

Both of the plans have their own pros and cons and are equally good. Below is some information on how you can best utilize your time and money while visiting Chandratal lake.

Also read: Mobile Network and Data Connectivity in Spiti Valley

How to reach Chandratal Lake

Let us first take a look at how you can reach Chandratal and then I will discuss other aspects of the trip. There are two ways that a person can get to the lake. The first route is via Shimla and the second one is via Manali. The Shimla route is longer and is best when you are covering the entire Spiti Circuit and not just visiting Chandratal. Traveling via Manali is the preferred way when you only want to visit Chandratal and return the same way.

In order to explain this better, I will first post a map of the region. This map includes the entire Spiti circuit, showing how to access Chandratal from both Manali and Shimla.  Click on it to view in full size or save to your hard disk.

• Manali to Chandratal Distance: 124 kilometers
• Shimla to Chandratal Distance: 530 kilometers via Reckong Peo, Pooh, Kaza, and Batal
• Keylong to Chandratal Distance: 120 kilometers
• Gramphu to Chandratal Distance: 70 kilometers
• Kaza to Chandratal Distance: 115 kilometers
• Leh to Chandratal Lake Distance: 485 kilometers

The fastest way to reach Chandratal is via Manali unless you are traveling from Shimla or coming from Ladakh via Keylong. The easiest way however is via Shimla. Read on to know more.

How to Reach Chandratal Lake From Manali

When starting from Manali, it is extremely important that you get an early start. This would be beneficial primarily in the way that you will reach Chandratal in time and would have some daylight still left to trek to the lake. Secondly, if you started early, you will be able to avoid the possibility of getting stuck in a traffic jam towards Rohtang top.

After the introduction of the permits for Rohtang Pass, there is always a long queue at the Gulaba check post and sometimes it can even take hours before you get past it. So if you can, start by the first light of the day or even before that. The local taxi drivers get lined up at the check post even as early as 5 am sometimes.

From Manali, take the Manali Leh highway and cross Rohtang Pass. Road conditions will be good until you get closer to Rohtang top where it will be a mix of good and bad until Gramphu.

At Gramphu, you will notice a small dirt road to your right. Turn on this road and continue until Batal. This entire stretch is a badly broken and narrow dirt road filled with numerous water crossings , loose stones, gravel, mud, and slush so drive carefully.

Once you reach Batal, continue towards Kunzum Pass top . After about 2 kilometers from the Batal Bridge, you will notice another narrow dirt road to your left. There is also a board there naming it as Chandratal road. Turn on this road, drive carefully, and 14 kilometers later, you will be at Chandratal.

Chandratal to Manali Travel Time

The total travel time between Chandratal and Manali will be between 6-8 hours, depending upon your speed and breaks. The opening and closing of both the road and Chandratal are related to each other. So if this road is closed, then Chandratal will be as well and you cannot get there even if you went via Shimla. If Chandratal Lake is open for tourists then this route will also be open.

The distance from Manali to Chandratal is not really that great, just 124 kilometers which leads some people to believe that they can make this a quick trip. Make no mistake, however, this small distance can easily take you up to 8 hours to complete and sometimes even more.

You need to consider the fact that these 124 kilometers include a steep ascent to Rohtang Pass, then the slush and traffic towards Rohtang top followed by a nightmarish journey on Gramphu Batal stretch. Then comes another ascent towards Kunzum Pass top and finally a 14 kilometers drive on a dirt road that is barely wide enough for one car.

Rohtang Permits

If traveling by your own vehicle, you need to ensure that you first obtain the permit for Rohtang; either from the SDM office Manali or online. Without the permit, you will not be able to travel any further than the Gulaba check post.

The number of permits issued in a day is strictly limited, due to which, it can be a cumbersome task to procure it. Sometimes people even get delayed in Manali for an entire day because there was no permit available on their date of travel. For more details, please take a look at How to Obtain Permits for Rohtang Pass .

Manali to Chandratal by Bike

A bike trip is one of the best and most adventurous ways to visit Chandratal. Riding a motorcycle through water streams, on narrow roads, through boulders and slush is surely fun if you know how to handle the bike. But at the same time, you must practice extreme caution, especially on the notorious Batal-Gramphu stretch. There have been instances when bikers have died on this 60 kilometers long treacherous stretch.

If you cannot bring a bike of your own, you can surely rent one from Manali. Please read How to rent a Bike in Manali for more details.

How to reach Chandratal Lake from Kaza

The distance between Kaza and Chandratal is slightly more than a hundred kilometers. But the catch here is that the entire road is in a bad condition. From Kaza to Losar has is a badly broken tarred road and after Losar, there is no road at all.

Due to this, the travel time between both places is around 5-6 hours. From Kaza, take the road towards Losar and from there, continue towards Kunzum Pass top. A few kilometers after Kunzum top, as you start descending towards Batal, you will notice the narrow road going towards Chandratal that you will need to turn on.

Also read: Clothes for Chandratal Trip – What to Pack?

How to reach Chandratal Lake from Shimla

If a visit to only Chandratal is on your mind, then you must journey from Manali because reaching Chandratal from Shimla would mean 3 days of a journey. The only reason why you would want to take the Shimla route is if you were on a Spiti valley trip. That way, you can start from Shimla, cover the entire Spiti circuit, and exit at Manali covering Chandratal.

Depending on your itinerary and the places you wish to cover, this journey can be broken in several days. I have explained an example of an itinerary at Shimla to Spiti Itinerary – A detailed Travel Plan  Plan that you can take a look at.

If however you are starting from Manali and want to cover the entire Spiti circuit, you can refer to Manali to Spiti Itinerary – A Detailed Travel Plan .

At the least, it would take you 3 days to reach Chandratal from Shimla. The first day you can travel until Reckong Peo and stay there for the night. On the second day, you can do Peo to Kaza and on the third day, you can go to Chandratal from Kaza.

How to reach Chandratal from Keylong

If you are coming back towards Manali from Ladakh and have an additional day; adding Chandratal to your itinerary would be a good option. You can reach Chandratal from Jispa or Keylong and go to Manali the next day.

Keylong to Chandratal is a good 8-9 hours of journey, most of the time being spent on Gramphu to Chandratal stretch. Start early from Keylong towards Rohtang Pass and then from Gramphu, take the road towards Spiti to reach Chandratal.

If traveling by bus, catch the early morning Manali bound Bus from Keylong. It will drop you at Gramphu between 8-9 AM. The Kaza bound Bus from Manali reaches Gramphu sometime after 9 AM; so you can board this one to reach Chandratal diversion. If for some reason, you are not able to match timings with these buses at any point, the only other option would be to wait for a shared taxi, especially from Gramphu to Kunzum Pass.

How to reach Chandratal from Delhi

If you are traveling from Delhi, the best way to travel to Chandratal is via Manali. Delhi to Manali is a good 12-14 hours journey depending on your speed. On Day 1, reach Manali from Delhi and on Day 2, reach Chandratal from Manali as I described above in the article.

There are several HRTC buses to Manali from ISBT Delhi that you can board. Most of these buses start in the evening and reach Manali early in the morning. I have covered this entire journey at great length in a different article that you can read at How to Travel to Chandratal from Delhi?

How to reach Chandratal by Bus

Below is some information on how you can plan a trip to the lake by Bus.

Manali to Chandratal Bus

If traveling by bus, you will need to catch the early morning Bus to Kaza that leaves Manali at around 5 AM. Board this bus and get off near the Chandratal diversion at Kunzum Pass. From here, you have two choices, either to walk all the way to the lake or hitchhike. A lot of people travel on this road in the peak tourist season and you will have no trouble finding someone to give you a ride.

A better choice in my opinion will be to get off at Batal and not near the division. From Batal, at the Dhaba, you have a high chance of finding a shared taxi for the lake.

Otherwise, you can just get down near the division and start walking to the lake. On the way, if a vehicle passes you by, you can ask them for a ride.

Kaza to Chandratal Bus

If coming from Kaza, you will need to catch the early morning 7 AM bus from Kaza to Manali and then get down at Batal as I explained above. An important thing to pay attention is the timing of the bus when it arrives at Batal. Because the next day, when you are returning, you will have to reach Batal at the same time to board this bus again for Manali.

Shimla to Chandratal Bus

If you were planning to come from Shimla by Bus, you can first board the daily Shimla to Kaza bus. Or you can first go from Shimla to Reckong Peo and then catch the Peo to Kaza Bus. From Kaza, board the 7 AM bus to get to Chandratal.

The fare from Manali to Chandratal will be about Rs. 250 per person. If coming via Shimla, the total fare will come out close to Rs. 750 per person. For more information, please take a look at Spiti Valley by Bus .

Bhuntar Airport near Manali is the closest airport to Chandratal, located at a distance of about 180 kilometers. You can get a taxi for Chandratal directly from the airport itself. Or you can first come to Manali and then look for a taxi from there.

Other than Bhuntar, the second closest airport is in Shimla at a distance of 370 kilometers via Manali and about 500 kilometers via Kinnaur Valley.

Both of these are however small airports with limited flights. The nearest major airport is in Chandigarh that is well connected with the rest of the country. If you were traveling by air, my suggestion would to catch a flight to Chandigarh and then travel to Chandratal from there.

Nearest Railway Station to Chandratal Lake

The nearest railway station to Chandratal is the Joginder Nagar railway station near Mandi, at a distance of about 290 kilometers. You can also travel to Shimla by the famous Kalka Shimla Toy train and then get a taxi to Chandratal from there.

Both of these are however small railway stations with limited connectivity. Hence, it would be better to travel to Chandigarh instead by train and then go to Chandratal from there.

What to See at Chandratal Lake

First of all, let us talk about why should you visit Chandratal and what do you see there? The answer to this question is the natural beauty of the place and the adventurous nature of the roads. There are no markets here and no long list of activities to do. It is just a silent lake sitting in the middle of nowhere, between high rising snowcapped peaks. All that you can do here is to take a walk, enjoy the natural beauty, do camping, click plenty of pictures, and return.

But in itself, this is the greatest attraction of Chandratal. This is a place far away from civilization, soaked in tranquility, and perfect for some soul searching. The road leading to the lake is one of the most adventurous ones you had ever been on and will have your heart jumping to your mouth at several places.

So if your idea of a trip was to visit crowded hill stations, party, eat out and spend time shopping then Chandratal is definitely not for you. But if you want to spend some time away from the crowd, do some trekking, camp in the wilderness, see some stunning landscape, and have an adventurous drive then Chandratal is surely worth your time and money.

There is also interesting mythology related to this lake, a beautiful love story that you can read about at The Legend of Chandratal .

The primary attraction of a trip to Chandratal Lake is of course its natural beauty. Some other tourist attractions en route are Manali, Rohtang Pass, and Kunzum Pass. On the way between Batal and Chhota Dhara, you get to see the end of Bara Shigri Glacier, the largest glacier in Himachal Pradesh and the second largest in the Himalayas after Gangotri.

Accommodation at Chandratal

There are no hotels at Chandratal. The only option available is campsites. Charges of these campsites can be Rs. 1500 or above (different for each camp) per person including meals. Please refer to the below articles for more details on the campsites at Chandratal. I have covered this information in another article that you can take a look at Camping at Chandratal and Accommodation at Chandratal .

If you are on a budget trip and do not wish to stay at these camps, the only other choice is the Dhaba at Batal. You can come back to the Dhaba ents after visiting Chandratal and stay here for the night. It is basically a dormitory-type accommodation under a huge tent with a few beds laid out. Charges for staying here will be anywhere between Rs. 200 – Rs. 300

Hotels at Chandratal

The only concrete hotel available nearby is the PWD guest house at Batal. If you are able to find the caretaker and get him to agree in letting you stay; you can stay at the guest house and eat at the Dhabas which are right next to it.

Batal has the facility of a satellite phone, the number of which is 08991722020. If you want to call in advance and inquire about booking the PWD guest house, you can do so at this number. The chances of finding accommodation at the guest house are almost none.

If you do want to stay here, rather than calling the dhaba at Batal, you should get a prebooking done by the PWD office. Even after that though, the caretaker can still be gone and your booking will be good for nothing. So it is better to not rely on this guest house for accommodation.

Self Camping

Camping on the banks of Chandratal is restricted by the law. The nearest campsite is at least 3 kilometers away from the lake. Even if camping on your own, you are not allowed to pitch your tents anywhere near the lake.

Please take this seriously and do not attempt to camp close to Chandratal or you may get in trouble. Also, consider the fact that it is a sweet water lake with a lot of wildlife around. You may get attacked by some wild animal coming to the lake for drinking water at night.

Chandratal Lake Weather

Freezing Cold is how the weather at Chandratal can be best described. The lake sits surrounded by glaciers so a chill in the wind remains present at all times. Even in July, you will be crawled under two blankets when spending a night here. Chances of a snowfall remain throughout the year, though very less from June to August. If cold is something that you are not overly fond of, Chandratal is not a place for you to visit.

Temperature at Chandratal Lake

The average temperature at Chandratal in summers remains between 5 to 10 degrees during the day and 0 Degrees Celsius at night. In winters, the average temperature is -20 Degrees Celsius.

Best time to visit Chandratal

By road, Chandratal is open only from June 1st week till September. Some people do trek here in May and October as well but then you will have to make arrangements for accommodation as well. All the campsites become operational from June 2nd week onward and wrap up by early October.

So the only time you can visit Chandratal by road is from June 2nd week to October first week. Out of this, the best time for a trip to Chandratal would be June 3rd and 4th week, early July, and the first two weeks of September.

If you go in early June as soon as the road opens up; you will be traveling on really bad roads. Monsoon hits the Manali region by late July and August; so if you go at this time, you will encounter rain with a possibility of landslides.

Water streams during the monsoon will be at full flow and there will also be a lot of slushes around. By late September, it will start to get extremely cold at nights. So if you can, plan your trip for the second half of June or the first half of July and September. For more details, I will recommend reading When is the Best time to Visit Chandratal .

Chandratal in January to April

Chandratal remains closed between January to April. The passes of Rohtang and Kunzum receive as much as 50 ft of snow each year, making it impossible to travel to Chandratal at this time. You cannot reach the lake either from Shimla or Manali or even by trekking. If the weather favored, in late April, you may think about traveling towards Kunzum Pass from Kaza. You can go as far as the road allowed and then return but Chandratal will surely be off-limit.

Chandratal in May and June

BRO starts clearing the road in March and it is usually by Mid May that they are able to finish the operation. After that, a couple of weeks are spent assessing the road in terms of safety. This is the time when only locals are allowed to travel. After all, is deemed well, the road is declared open officially by Mid to Late May.

Chandratal however opens only in the first week of June. The campsite owners reach the lake after the road is opened and start to set up the camps which take another couple of weeks. At this time, you can surely drive to Chandratal but finding a place to stay may become tricky. In case there was no campsite open, you will have to come back to either Losar or Batal and stay there for the night.

This is a good time to go because there will be still plenty of snow for you to enjoy and the condition of Gramphu Batal road will not be that terrible either. The exact opening of the road however will depend on how fast BRO is able to clear the road and the amount of snow that year.

This is also when the weather is at its best with moderately warm days and cold nights. Overall, it is a good time to go.

Chandratal in July to September

Monsoon is not a good time to plan a visit to this area. Monsoon can wreak havoc here in July and August. Landslides caused by incessant rains and deaths caused by it are a sight not too uncommon in the hills. All the rains will also increase the flow of the water in the nallahs en route and will make the trip more risky and adventurous.

Late June is when the monsoon arrives in the region and is in full swing by July and August. By the end of August, the intensity and frequency of the rains start to drop. If possible, avoid a trip altogether at this time but if you must, then plan either in early July or late August.

September is one of my favorite times to visit the Himalayas. Monsoon will be long gone but would have left plenty of greenery for you to enjoy. If you went after September 15th, there will be almost no chance of rain and the vistas on the way will be simply amazing.

The only catch however is that the weather in September will be considerably colder than the previous months.

Chandratal in October to December

October 15th is usually the official closing date of Chandratal but it can close before that as well. If you have to go in October, then the safest time is only in the first week of the month. Keep in mind though that the chance of snowfall at this time is extremely high. In 2018, tourists got stuck at Chandratal at Batal for 3-4 days and had to be saved by the Army. The picture below was taken on October 10th.

By the end of October, the road gets buried under snow once again and Chandratal becomes inaccessible. You can plan to trek in early November if the weather was favorable but a trip after November 15th in any form will be a dangerous affair.

By the end of December, the entire Spiti Valley starts to receive heavy amounts of snow. This is the time when even the road between Kaza to Losar can get closed. The temperatures dip down to freezing -25 degrees Celsius.

Altitude Sickness

Chandratal is at a height of 4,300 meters; which means that you may suffer altitude sickness while spending a night here. If you start to feel any symptoms of acute mountain sickness while at Rohtang Pass; Kunzum Pass, on the way to Chandratal; it is best to avoid staying at the lake altogether. Continue straight to Kaza before it gets dark, stay there for a day at least, and then come back to Chandratal. This will allow your body some time to acclimatize and will reduce the chances of AMS.

If you still suffer the symptoms; cancel your plans of camping at the lake. Refer to Acute Mountain Sickness in Spiti Valley for more details on Altitude sickness in Spiti and how to deal with it.

Chandratal is at an elevation of 4,250 m (13,940 ft) approximately. During the winter season, the water of the lake freezes completely owing to its high altitude.

Road Conditions

Spiti valley is notorious for its bad roads. So when you plan a trip here, you already know that you are going to encounter some of the worst roads that you had ever been on. If you were coming from Shimla, then until Kaza, the road will be a mix of good and average. The tricky part of the journey however is between Manali and Kaza including Chandratal.

If you were traveling from Manali, then until Rohtang top, the road is mostly good and a little bad at some places. From Rohtang Top to Gramphu is mostly good. From Gramphu to Batal is a narrow dirt trail with numerous water streams, steep climbs, mud, slush, and loose boulders on the road itself.

Batal to Kunzum Top is a narrow dirt trail with steep climbs and hairpin bends. The 14 kilometers long stretch to Chandratal is an extremely narrow dirt road that is barely wide enough for one car. Let me post a picture to give you an idea.

The road between Losar and Kunzum Pass is again a dirt road with steep climbs and hairpin bends. Between Kaza and Losar is a broken road that was once tarred but not anymore. Take a look at Spiti Valley Road Conditions to see a few more pictures to get an idea.

Best Car for Chandratal

An SUV is what you need for visiting Chandratal. It does not have to be a 4×4 but good ground clearance is a must. You cannot make the mistake of bringing a sedan or SUV here without risking serious damage to your car’s underbelly. For more details, please read Which is the Best Car for Spiti Valley .

Best Bike for Chandratal

If you were traveling by bike, then any bike will do as long as it is well maintained and serviced. The only condition is that if you were coming by a smaller engine bike like 100 to 150 CC, it would be best to ride solo and as light as possible. If you were riding with a pillion, then you need a larger engine bike like Enfield 350 or 500 CC. If you do not own such a bike, then you can reach Manali and rent one from there.

Chandratal Lake Itinerary

Below are examples of a couple of itineraries that can be followed for visiting Chandratal. I will suggest an itinerary from both Manali and Shimla. For the sake of the itinerary below, I will assume Delhi as your starting point. Even if you were coming from a different place, only the journey on the first and the last day will be different. The rest of the details will still apply.

• Delhi to Manali – Day 1
• Manali to Batal / Chandratal – Day 2
• Batal to Chandratal – Day 3
• Chandratal to Manali – Day 4
• Manali to Delhi – Day 5

Below is the itinerary that you can follow if you were coming from Shimla, covering the entire Spiti Circuit.

• Delhi to Shimla / Narkanda – Day 1
• Shimla / Narkanda to Sarahan – Day 2
• Sarahan to Chitkul – Day 3
• Chitkul to Kalpa – Day 4
• Kalpa to Nako – Day 5
• Nako to Pin Valley – Day 6
• Pin Valley to Kaza – Day 7
• Kaza – Day 8
• Kaza to Chandratal – Day 9
• Chandratal to Manali – Day 10
• Manali to Delhi – Day 11

Clothes to Pack

Irrespective of your time of travel, you will have to pack warm clothes, thermals, and a heavy windproof jacket. The trick while packing clothes for anywhere in Spiti is to pack in layers; meaning clothes that can be worn on top of one another. This way, you can just add another layer if you were feeling cold or remove a layer if you were feeling warm.

Do not carry all heavy woolens though. Pack a pair of thermals, regular cotton clothes, some light woolens, a heavy jacket, and gloves. Please ensure that your jacket has a hood to protect your head, neck, and face. If not, you should pack a scarf or muffler as well.  For more details, please take a look at Clothes for Spiti Valley Trip – What to Pack .

Mobile Network at Chandratal

There is no network available at Chandratal. From Manali, you will remain connected until Rohtang but will lose the network shortly after. There is no reception on Batal Gramphu road, Kunzum Pass, Chandratal, or Losar. In Kaza as well, only BSNL and Airtel will work. Jio is setting up their tower in Kaza so they will also provide service shortly after. But there is no reception anywhere in Spiti for Vodafone or Idea.

For more details, please take a look at Mobile and Data Connectivity in Spiti Valley .

Other Facilities

Petrol Pump & Mechanic:  The nearest petrol pump is in Kaza and Manali. A tankful at either of these places will be sufficient to reach the next gas station while covering Chandratal on the way.

Banks and ATM: The nearest ATM is either in Manali or Kaza.

Medical Help: Manali and Kaza are where you can get some medical assistance if needed. There is a dispensary in Losar to buy some basic medicines. I will strongly recommend carrying your own first aid kit and some medicines like for flu, fever, headache, pain, etc.

I hope this information on how to plan a trip to Chandratal Lake was helpful. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below; or at our Community Forum ; and I will be glad to answer.

Vargis.Khan

Not much to write about me really except for that I love to travel around whenever I can and to wherever I can. This blog is just a small attempt to share my travel experiences with the world. Hope you like it !!!

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I am planning to visit Chandratal on 10th October from Kaza since I’ll start touring Spiti valley from Shimla. My question is 1) Would I be able to visit Chandratal on a day trip and reach Manali same day via Rohtang pass if I start early from Kaza? 2) What other stay option I have other than Chandratal Camps if not possible to reach Manali same day? 3) For Chandratal camps will it be available during that time and need to book in advance?

Thanks, Krishanu

Hey . . . .. . greatt article. . . really helpful. . .. I’m planning a trip from Chandigarh to shimla to lahaul and spiti valley to manali and back by car from 21st aptil to 30th april. . .. i wanted to know if the road will be open form both sides or not. .. .. .. .

Google have confused me alot about the status of roads form both sides especially manali side. I hope you could help me so i could plan accordingly. . .

Shimla to Leh route is definitely open. There is still some snow at Kunzum Pass but the locals are traveling. By the end of April, the situation will improve there as well. The only point to consider right now is the COVID situation. Spiti is accepting tourists right now but you will have to come with a COVID negative test or may not find a place to stay.

Ohh great. . . thanks for the help. . . . . . Being a health worker i have already been vaccinated with covid vaccine. . . But I’ll get the test done just to be on safe side. . . . . .. . thats for the help though. . . .

You are welcome !!! I will strongly recommend calling hotels in advance along the route and booking your stay.

Hi Varghis, First of all…Kudos to you for the directory on Spiti. It is really helpful. I need to know if it is possible to do Kaza – Chandrataal – Kaza within 1 day? If yes, then what kind of timelines can one expect for this round trip? I am planning a trip around 3rd week of June and am staying in Kaza for 3 nights so was wondering if doing a round trip to Chandrataal from Kaza is a possibility.

I am planning to travel with my family from Gujrat to Chandratal. Please help me with the following : 1. I want to book Volvo bus from Manali to Chandratal, who is the best travel agent ? 2. I want to book 3 double delux rooms with AC with Chandratal lake facing view, it should be not more that 50 metres from the lake for good view. 3. Do you have any entertainment for kids on the side of the lakeshore of Chandratal like pani puri & chaat sellers, kids entertainment like magic show etc. ? 4. Please give me the contact details of hotel & travel agent office in Chandratal. Also what are the good pure veg restaurants in Chandratal

Are you Mad ? AC room at Chandratal

Sir —- spiti , chandrataal is not for family trips…. Forget ac or volvo buses…. There is almost no road and mostly off roading

Hey Vargis, what about distance if i’m travelling through Atal tunnel. Like how much time it will reduce to C lake and thereafter Kaza.

Hi! We are a group of 4 ladies 54-64; ages, wanting to visit and spend the night in chandratal. We start our trip from Chandigarh/ Shimla and get to chandratal via kaza on the 8 th day . Is it wise , considering our age ?

Do I also need the Rohtang permit if I am travelling by HRTC buses?

No, you don’t. No permit needed if traveling by Bus

[…] Posts How to Plan a Trip to Chandratal Lake How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh… How to Plan a Trip to Spiti Valley… Dell Inspiron 15 […]

Thanks Varghis. Is it possible to travel to Chandratal in May 1st week from Kaza? I know roads are closed from Manali side. Can we go from Shimla until chandratal and come back on the same route in May 1st week?

It depends on the amount of snow on the road but chances are very less. Even if you are able to, you will have to go on foot.

well explained, Great knowledge about the destination & A great writer too.

Thank You !!!

[…] the Kullu and Lahaul valleys. Our 2018 trip would take us through both these passes and also the Chandra Taal Lake, which lies en route at a detour of just 10 […]

[…] How to Plan a Trip to Chandratal Lake […]

If we leave early morning from Manali is it possible to visit chandertal lake spend some time there and then reach Kaza by evening?

You will just touch the lake and come back but yes, it is doable.

Hi Vargis, me and my friends are planning to visit Chandrataal via Shimla – Kalpa – Kaza route in the end of this month ie. August (25-31). Can you let me know if it is safe for us to go at this time and from what point does the trek for Chandrataal begin?

Hi Priyankul – Yes it will be OK to go at that time. Trek for Chandratal starts from Batal and Losar.

Hi Mr Vargis Khan,

Your blogs and picture of Spiti encouraged me to plan a trip to Chandrataal all by myself. However, beling a novice just want to confirm a few things.

Could you please review my itinerary and confirm if its ok? No Date Day Moon Status Dept. Arrival Hr km Stay 1 7-Sep Saturday first quarter Home Chail 9 373 Chail Palace 2 8-Sep Sunday Chail Sarahan 5.3 178 Srikhand 3 9-Sep Monday Sarahan Chitkul 4.1 110 TBD 4 10-Sep Tuesday Chitkul Kalpa 3 71 Kinner Kailash 5 11-Sep Wednesday Kalpa Nako 3.3 110 Tara homestay 6 12-Sep Thursday Nako Kaza 2 111 Deyzor 7 13-Sep Friday Kaza Langza 1 16 TBD 8 14-Sep Saturday Full Moon Langza chndrtal 2.3 102 Parasol 9 15-Sep Sunday chndrtal Kullu 4 163 TBD 10 16-Sep Monday Kullu Home 8 400

Also, from the blog, I understood we don’t need Rohtang pass permit if entering from Shimla/ Keylong route. Is my understanding correct?

Just wanted to confirm if 2nd week of Sep is ok to travel or is there a possibility of snow and roads being closed (especially chandrataal). Should we move it to 1st week of September?

How accurate is the duration mentioned by google maps. As per my understanding the average speed in mountains would be 25kmph. Whereas the time taken mentioned for Langza to chandrataal is just 2 and half hours. Do you think that is an accurate estimation?

I know it’s a long mail but your support is highly appreciated.

Regards Soumyaa

Hello Soumyaa,

1. Your itinerary is OK 2. Yes Rohtang Permit is not needed for Kaza to Kullu 3. September is a good time to go 4. Do not rely on what Google shows for anywhere in the hills. Langza to Chandratal is about 5 hours easily.

Thanks for your prompt reply. Is it possible to share duration (time taken) from each point?

Mr Khan, I am going on a 10 days tour to Lahaul-Spiti from 19.09. My plan on 25.09 is to travel from Kaza to Keylong, starting at 5 AM and covering Chandratal on the way for a 1.30 hrs detour. What is the prospect ? I mean road condition, chance of snowfall, time taken, Kunzum crossing etc.

Hello Vargis. Again i need some help from you..i am visiting Manali on 27/may morning with my family…can you pls plan a tour including Keylong Chandrataal and Kaza for me. Should be back by 2/ june to Delhi..Thanks in advance

Hi Vargis, Thanks for the detailed descriptions. We are planning a Kinnaur-Spiti-Chandratal circuit starting from Chandigarh (24 Aug) and ending at Kullu (2 Sept). I am told by some drivers that Camping at Chandratal have been banned by NGT and we have to stay at Kaza only. Can you please update. Kunal

Hi, i m planning a road trip from shimla -spiti- chanratal- manali. with my 8 year daughter and husband. Is is safe to treavel with kid on this route ? Are there enough petrol pumps on the route ?

Is it possible to make a plan to manali – chandratal – and back to manali? What cities will come on this route where we can take a night stay?

1. Safe to travel – Yes but it depends on your driving skills as well 2. Petrol Pumps – No 3. On same day, no. With a night stay at Chandratal, Yes 4. Between Manali – Chandratal, None

We like to go Chandratal lake via Shimla and Spiti valley, in the mid of october 2019. Is it possible to visit in that time?

Chandratal closes between 10 – 15 October so plan before that

Hi vargis,I am stuck in narkanda due to bad weather(24 Sept 2018)…I had planned to go chandrataal…many local from theog narkanda saying that it risk to go ahead and chandrataal kaza is closed What should I do?should I wait for opening of the weather or go back to home delhi

Hi Dhawal, you mean the route from Kunzum to Kaza is closed or even Chandrataal is close? I’m planning to go in 3 days but I hear the weather is very bad. How is it there ?

It is snowing there and yes, Kaza to Chandratal is closed as of now. May reopen in next couple of days though.

Thank you, Vargis. What about Manali Batal Chandratal? Do you have any news on that route? I’m planning to take this route on 28-29 by bus) shared cab.

That is close as well Neel. Bus service is suspended.

Hi Vargis! Your blogs are well detailed. Thank you for the good work! I used it last year to plan my Ladakh trip. I’m planning a trip to Chandratal this September. Itinery- Sep 28 – Manali to Batal by bus. SEP 29 – Hike/shared cab/ hitchhike to Chandratal, and stay the night there. SEP 30- Chandratal to Batal and Batal to Manali the same day.

I have a few questions. Will I get accomodation at Chandratal on that day, given that it’s end of September. Further, how easy is it to find shared cabs/ hitchhike from Batal and back.?

Thank you in advance.

Hi Neel – Yes you will get accommodation but hitch hiking may not be easy since it is end of season and not many people will be traveling.

Hii….i am planning a trip in octobe 15 for chandrataal ….is there any possiblity to stay there in camps and can we go there with bike or cars…if yes…then plz tell me about the fare..we have group of 4 people. How much cost for booking car for 4 people.

It depends on weather and how soon it starts to snow. Check with Jamaica at 9418200183. He runs a camp site at Chandratal and can also arrange cab

We are a group of 10 going for spiti in a stringent timeline; so needed some advice. Here’s my itinerary 30th Aug night from Delhi to reach manali around 7 AM. 31st Aug – manali – Chandrataal (leave around 8 AM and reach around 3) in 2 SUVs Where do we stop at? Do we need to trek? whats the distance to be trekked? hows the trek category -easy?moderate? how much time the trek will take ideally? 1st Sept – wake up at chandrataal camps, see the sunrise, freshen up and head towards Gue as early as 7, then start covering backwards – Tabo – dhankar and reach KAZA 2nd sept – Cover KAZA and other places (in Bike) like – langza, hikkim, koumic, kibber, and any other noteworthy places? 3rd sept – Return from KAZA to Manali. reach by evening and catch the night bus for delhi.

the trip is a bit stringent and hectic. There are chances of AMS for which we shall be having proper medications to counter.

Just wanted to know, if its doable in the time-frame, hypothetically.

please let me know.

Hi Navneet – The trip is yes definitely hectic but doable. If you are bringing your own SUVs then you don’t have to trek to Chandratal. You can drive all the way to the camp sites. Another important factor are the Rohtang Permits. You cannot cross Rohtang Pass without first getting the permits from Manali.

Thanx Vargis, that definitely cleared my second thoughts and few doubts.

i would like to ask, is there any place that we will be leaving out which is worth going, in this trip??

we would be covering – gue – tabo – dhankar – kaza – langza, hikkim, koumic, kibber – losar – kunzum – chandrataal. even if we are on a stringent timeline, is there anything that we shall be missing out on??

Is the timeframe a suitable time to go? what about rains?

No you pretty much have it all covered. I wouldn’t recommend adding more places since you are short on time. And yes, it is raining over there. Manali Kaza road was closed last week for a couple of days due to heavy rains and landslides.

Thank you.. Will take precautionary measures wherever needed..

Hi Vargis Ji, Just wanted to check how the itinerary works better from Jispa coming through Leh to Spiti with three days on 2 night stay – Option one Jispa to chandratal camp (Jamaica) night stay then to Kaza (Langza-Komik-Hikkim-Kibber) OR JISPA to KAZA (Night Stay) & Second night at Chandratal from Kaza.

We have to proceed further to Manali on Day 3

Please guide on time taken distance from Jispa Road conditions which option is better as per above mentioned ??

Thanks in Advance

Hello Sumit Ji – Jispa to Chandratal on Day 1, Chandratal to Kaza on Day 2 and Kaza to Manali on Day 3 will be better. Road conditions on this route are always bad so keep your hopes low in that aspect.

Hi Vargis, is there option to hire private cab to chandratal lake(Keeping in mind to book permit also) with 1 night stay (taking Jamaica accomodation ref) and back using the same taxi, or is the bus the only option

Hi Jack – Yes private cabs are available from both Manali and Kaza for Chandratal. A cab from Manali however will be a costly affair. Just for Rohtang these guys charge about Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000.

Hello Varghis Khan.

really informative post. Doing a road trip next week and covering the spiti circuit from shimla to manali via kaza.

a query. can S Cross cover the batal gramphoo and chandertal lake section?

Hi Sitanshu – Yes it can go but the low GC can be a bit of a problem at a few places. Just go carefully and slow and you should be OK. I have seen locals traveling there in Maurti Alto so it is all about being good at the wheel really.

hello sir , we are going to chandaratal lake from manali, which permit should we apply for, up to Rohtang pass or beyond Rohtang pass ? actually i obtained pass beyond rohtang pass up to Kaza will it valid to visit chandaratal lake ? pls help me to understand this confusion .

You need to get beyond Rohtang permit. It will work well for both Kaza and Chandratal

thank you sir, i also have another query , i also have come to know that manali to kaza road is closed. is it true ? pls

You are welcome Bhai. And no, the road is open right now. You are OK to go.

thank you sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much bhai..

You are welcome brother !!!

Hello Vargis, Me and some of my friends are planning a trip to Chandratal on 1st July. Since we are 10 in numbers, we have planned to hire a 7-seater and 2 bikes for the same. We will reach Manali from Delhi on 1st July and will leave for Chandratal on 2nd July and have planned to camp their overnight and return the next day. Just want to confirm if this is the correct plan. Your suggestions would be very useful. Thanks.

Hi Vaibhav – Yes your plan is fine. You can definitely do it.

Thank you Vargis, though I have one more query. We need to hire camps for 14 people in Chandratal for overnight stay. Please recommend someone whom we can contact for pre-booking. I read somewhere in your blog where you mentioned about a person who has his camp sites at Chandratal. It will be very helpful if you share the contact with us.

Hi Vaibhav – Contact person is Jamaica and his number is 9418200183. Give my reference and he will take good care of you at a discounted price. Since you are 14 people, better to let him know in advance of your arrival so that he can make arrangements accordingly. While you are at Chandratal, say Hello to Jamaica for me 🙂

Finally we made it to Chandratal. I would like to thankyou for all the information and guidance you provided. Sincere Thanks to you. The scenic beauty is beyond imagination. We did took a stop at Chachi Chachi Chandra Dhabha. The food was delicious. I though wanted to meet Mr. Sanjeev but he wasnt there but I did met two of his men who provided us great hospitality and delicious food and specially tea.

Thanks again Vargis for this wonderful trip.

Thanks Vaibhav Bhai. I am glad that your trip went well. Do share some pics if possible 🙂

I m planning a trip to spiti via chandrataal. Will travel from Manali to chandrataal on 18th June and after spending night at chandrataal, will go to kaza from there, I wanted to ask you what can I do to avoid AMS since I m travelling from Manali to chandrataal. Thanking you in advance

Please take a look at this article.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/dealing-acute-mountain-sickness-spiti/

Thank you Sir ☺

You are welcome !!!

15- indore to CGH, then CGH to narkanda 16 narkanda to Nako 17 Nako sightseeing then go to kaza (Nako is b’ful) 18. Kaza sightseeing 19 dhankar valley n pin valley 20 kaza to chandrataal 21 chandratal to manali 22 stay at Manali 23 Manali to CGH and same day CGH to indore (where CGH stands for Chandigarh) Sir how is this iteneary? Sorry for troubling you so much sir!

How are you traveling? By you own car?

Better plan like this.

15- indore to CGH, then CGH to narkanda 16 narkanda to Kalpa 17 Kalpa to Nako 18. Nako to Pin Valley 19 Pin Valley to Kaza 20 kaza to chandrataal 21 chandratal to manali 22 stay at Manali 23 Manali to CGH and same day CGH to indore

Hi Vargis..thanks for sharing the detailed information…we are planning a trip to delhi-kalpa-tabo-kaza-delhi with family(including a 3 yr. old kid) by swift dzire from 15-23 june…can u please suggest if it is safe to travel to kunzum pass and chandrataal from kaza with 3 yr. old kid and would u recommend a stay at chandrataal

hey vargis, i am planning a trip to kaza via shimla from delhi on 16th May. then from kaza to chandratal lake and then to manali. we will reach kaza by 18th night. we will do sight seeing in kaza for 2 days then on 21st morning will leave for chandratal lake and want to stay there overnight. after that on 22nd will leave for manali through rohtang pass

Neither of the areas you mentioned are open right now Mayank and most probably will not be until late May. Chances are that only Rohtang will open by 22nd, not the Kaza route and Chandratal.

Thanks Vargis for the detailed info. It was very helpful to plan my trip!!….I am going to visit Spiti in June 2nd week from Manali and want to cover Kaza/Dhankar, Pin Valley and Chandratal. Chandratal being the last destination from where I will be headed to Manali(do we have to pre book at the Jamaica’s camp site as it being the peak season)..Can you guide me on how to travel back to Manali from Chandratal regarding the bus timing ‘n’ all? Also wanted to know what are the chances getting a confirmed seat in the bus from Manali..

1. No need to prebook. Just give him a call and let him know the date of your arrival. 2. You will have to walk back from the lake to Batal top and catch the Kaza Manali bus that you would have taken to get here the day before. 3. No guarantee but you will mostly get a seat. They are not that crowded.

Hi – I am plannig to visit Manali from Kaza on 27th May.. Can I do Chandratal on the way ? How long will the trip be ?

Also – I hope the road manali be open by then ..

Please let me know your feedback

From Kunzum top to Chandratal and back will talk easily take you 3 hours and yes, the road will be open by May end.

Bhai, im going to Manali on 2 June and in 3 June can go chandrataal lake on 3 June? It’s open or close ? How to go moon Lake? Which place to reach first batal or kunzum pass ? There r avaliable for shared taxi for going moon Lake or should go bt walk? It’s diffuclt walk? Can stay at moon Lake in night time what’s costs? Next day what time to return batal from moon Lake ? And batal to moon Lake?

I means next day what time to reach batal from moon Lake and batal to Manali bus?

Gaurav Bhai it is a bit early to say whether or not Chandratal and the road will be open by 3rd June. It usually opens after 10th Juen.

Gaurav Bhai it is too earyly to tell right now whether or not the road from Manali to Kaza and Chandratal will open by 3rd June or not. It usually opens after 10th June.

Is it fine if i travel there in the month of May, i will be travelling from manali and will i be able to hitchhike after the bus ride, will there be enough travellers in the month of may? Also How shall i make my way back to manali? Stay a night at batal or hitchhike the same evening?

I will recommend planning in June. The road will open towards late May and the camp sites are operational only after June 1st week. For your way back, start early morning from Chandratal, hitchhike to Kunzum top or Batal and board the Kaza – Manali daily bus to reach Manali on same day.

Hi I planning to go chandratal via Manali from Delhi. I am a solo traveller. Is there if any problem for camp for solo female traveller?

No there is no problem. You will find a lot of families there.

Me and my friends are planing for trip to kaza from manali by public bus on Oct 16. Will bus service stop by that time.? Can you please give me a good plan to make it happen without any difficulties.

Sorry for the late reply. I guess you are already on your way now.

Hey there! I was planning a trip to chandratal around 20 October. Will it be safe(winter/snow/cold) to visit at that time? Will there be any camps to stay at night? Even Chadar tents from the lake?

How far is Chadar tent from lake?

Chadar tent is at Batal, about 30 odd kilometers from the lake

Hi Harshit – Chandratal has closed for the season, no camps there to stay anymore.

I’m planning to start a Shimla-Tabo-Kaza-Chandratal-Rohtang-Manali round trip in this week (Bike Ride). Can you please let me know where should i look for getting Rohtang permit. Please let me know if i need to bother about any other permits/documents to travel in this route. And thanks a lot for this wonderful review. You are awesome.

Hello – No permit is needed since you are starting from Shimla. Even Rohtang permit is required if you start from Manali which in your case is not the situation.

we are a group of 4 guys on bike and are planning to visit chandartaal on 29 sep 17.. just want to make sure that are there any chances of snowing ?? and getting struck there ..or we shouldn’t worry about that …. reading blog posts i think usually it never snows before 10 oct.. so we should go without worrying about getting struck ?? and is there any working petrol pump between manali and chandartaal ?? as it might be difficult to go from manali to chandartaal and back to manali on a single full tank on 500cc bullet

No you are OK traveling at the mentioned dates. Camps at Chandratal will remain open until 10th October. Very rare chance of snowing that early. You should be able to make it back to Manali on 1 tank full, but just to be on a safer side, carry two or three 2 liters Pepsi Bottles. Get those filled up as well when you tank up in Manali. Carry them in a backpack carefully and after every 50-60 kilometers or so, keep emptying one bottle in the tank so that you do not have to carry the weight. There is no petrol pump between Manali and Chandratal, next one is only at Kaza.

Thanku very much for the timely response

Thanks for detailed info.

Day 1. Reach Manali after overnight journey from Manali. Start your journey to Chandratal Lake same day Day 2. Explore Chandratal Lake. Day 3. Chandratal Lake to Sissu. Explore waterfall. Finally drive to Manali. Day 4. Manali to Delhi Volvo.

Please comment if this is good. Any other itinerary you would suggest. I want to cover Sissu and Chandratal Lake and have 4 days.

Thanks, Rachit

Hi Rachit – How are you traveling?

Hello Vargis vai, I am going to Kaza & Chandrataal after 2-3 days! Right now i am leaving for Manali from Delhi. Can you please help me out with Jamaica’s contact no? And also recommend me some hotels for Kaza! Thank you in Advance! 🙂

Hello Pritam Bhai – Jamaica’s number is 09418200183. There is no network at Chandratal so it is possible that you won’t be able to reach him. Just reach Chandratal and look out for Jamaica’s camp. You will easily spot it while on your way to Chandratal. Reach there, give my reference and he will take good care of you at a discounted price.

I called up Jamaica and gave him your reference. He spoke only good words about you. You seem to have a great fan following there.

I will be travelling to Chandratal Lake on 29-Sep. I have one confusion. I was looking to apply for online permits on the foll website: http://admis.hp.nic.in/ngtkullu/

IN case of visiting Chandratal, it will be the “Beyond Rohtang” one. Right? But this one does NOT have any permit fee. It only has Congestion charge of Rs 50. In addition, I will also take the Green Tax i.e. Rs 300.

So the total becomes Rs 350 for one diesel vehicle? Is that correct ? Am I missing something?

Please advice.

Best Regards

Hello Dev – That is correct. There is no permit fee anymore if you travel beyond Rohtang.

Some of my friends and I are planning to go to Manali end of Decembar. Is it possible to start early from Manali and cover Rohtang pass, Chandratal both and return Manali same day?

You cannot do it in December. Chandratal, Kunzum Pass will close in October and Rohtang sometime by late October or early November.

Right, not possible in winter. Maybe not even after the Rohtang tunnel is completed.

thanks for sharing …chandratal is a real gem

Thanks Nilanjana, I agree, a real gem it is indeed

Very helpful. Thanks.

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note Narinder. I am glad the information was of help.

Very well explained ! I just completed the chandratal trip and i have done it twice already and seriously this is all the info thats needed! Another addition: one can stay at “nomad’s cottage” , losar which is 2.5 hrs drive from batal. Very nice place and can be booked online.

Thanks Sahil Bhai

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Chandratal Baralacha Trek

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About Chandratal Baralacha Trek

Nothing short of an enthralling expedition, the Chandratal to Baralacha Pass trek takes you through winding scenic trails, picturesque valleys, dense forests, quaint villages and awe-inspiring landscapes. One of the most sought after treks hidden in the quaint valleys of Himachal Pradesh, the Chandratal – Baralacha trek gives you an opportunity to revel in the mesmerizing beauty of the ‘Chandratal’ or the ‘Moon Lake’ as it sits in its mystical glory, cuddled in the tranquility of the Spiti Valley. The adventure does not end at Chandratal; a thrilling climb to the majestic Baralacha La connecting regions of Spiti, Lahaul, Ladakh and Zanskar adds to the magical charm of this memorable trek. The nature’s work of art at the Baralacha La is just indescribable in words; the magnetic vistas of the Chandra and Bhaga Rivers and the enchanting beauty of the emerald Suraj Tal leaves you speechless and awed the very instance you reach the pass.

Be prepared to ascend steep slopes, cross gurgling rivers, traverse through boulder fields, brave icy-cold waters of the milky white streams, cross over rustic bridges and witness a dramatic change in the landscape from lush greenery of Kullu-Manali valleys to arid and barren mountains of Lahaul-Spiti valleys; as you make your way to the Chandratal and Baralacha La. Needless to say, immerse your souls in the captivating vistas of snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas, shimmering glaciers, crystal clear water streams and flower carpeted meadows along this fulfilling and enticing journey of your lifetime.

Commencing from the scenic hill station of Manali, the trek follows the route through Batal via Rohtang Pass, halting mid-way at the beautiful Chandratal Lake, perched at a height of 13,000 ft. above sea level. After spending the night in camps at the lakeside, start your journey ahead via Topko Gongma, Topko Yongma, finally leading you to the Baralacha La, situated at an elevation of 16,000 ft. Designated to be of moderate to challenging grade, the Chandratal Baralacha trek is packed with all the necessary elements an ardent trekker looks forward in an ideal trekking excursion. With its immense scenic beauty and plethora of thrilling twists and turns along the journey, the trek, undoubtedly will leave you asking for more.

Chandratal Baralacha Trekking Tour Highlights

• Get an opportunity to enjoy scenic vistas at the Rohtang Pass.
• Get the opportunity for camping at serene and picturesque locations set amidst lush landscapes; Chandratal lakeside camping needs a special mention.
• Explore the culture of Lahaul/Spiti immersed in Buddhism.
• Abundance of photographic locales for photographers.

Best Time to Visit Chandratal Baralacha Trek

The Chandratal Baralacha route is accessible between June-July to mid-October but, the best month to visit it, is during the month of September. In June, the roads may be in pathetic conditions and owing to presence of slippery snowy patches, you can face tough time climbing the ascent. July-August is the time of heavy monsoon showers in the region with huge possibilities of land-slides, avalanches and cloud-bursts so, better embark on to the journey in September. The route can close any time in October. Also, it is not recommended to venture on this trek in October as the temperature drops below zero, making the trek all the more difficult.

Where is the Chandratal Baralacha Trek

The Chandratal Lake is a crescent shaped alpine lake, tucked away in the Spiti Valley, surrounded with majestic snow-clad peaks of the Chandrabhaga Range of the Garhwal Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh. From Chandratal, at a distance of approximately 37 km. lies the Baralacha Pass located in the Lahaul district of Himachal Pradesh that connects Zanskar and Ladakh regions of Jammu & Kashmir.

Chandratal Baralacha Trek (Detailed Itinerary)

Delhi – manali (525 kilometres /12 to 14 hours.), other benfits (on arrival).

• Stay Included

In the evening catch Ac Volvo bus for Manali at 17:00 hrs. An overnight journey.

By Morning arrive at Manali and then transfer to the hotel for relaxing & acclimatisation. At leisure visit the old Manali, the famous Hadimba Devi Temple and the Mall road. Enjoy dinner and overnight stay in the hotel.

Manali – Batal (100 Kilometres / 4hours)

In the morning after the breakfast drive to the Batal through Rohtang pass (3980 meters). On arrival at Batal set out the tent. Rest and relax through the night. In the afternoon, take a walk enjoy the nature’s marvels. Come back to the camp site in the evening. Dinner & Overnight stay in the tents.

Batal - Chandratal (18 Kilometres/6 hours)

After an early feast, begin the trek to the Chandratal (4250 meters/13940 feet) with a sumptuous meal packed for the lunch. Chandratal enjoys incredible beauty. Nestled amidst the main Kunzum range and a lower ridge, the passage leads through the Chandra River. Come back to camp, take dinner & stay overnight.

Chandra Tal (4250 meters/13940 feet)

After breakfast explore the spectacular surroundings. One can go for a trail or relax nearby the lake. Feast and night stay in the tents.

Chandra Tal to Tokpo Yogma (4350 meters/14300 feet) 12 Kilometres/ 6 hours.

Right after the breakfast we will hike to the Tokpo Yogma. Enjoy a panoramic view of the stunningly gigantic glaciers and mountain peaks during the trek. After trekking for a while, one arrives at the Tokpo Gongma located at an altitude of 4400 meters. Stop for the ready to eat lunch for a while moving on to Tokpo Yogma. In Tibetan “Tokpo” refers to a river and the meaning of the word “Gongma” is big. Dinner & night stay in the tents.

Tokpo Yogma to Tokpo Gongma (4650 meters/15250 feet) 10 Kilometres/5 hours.

Today, trek starts towards Tokpo Gongma with packed lunch through Tokpo Yogma River. On this trek we will cross the river streams using ropes. On arrival camps are set out for dinner & overnight stay.

Tokpo Gongma to Baralacha (4950 meters/16236 feet) 10 Kilometres/5 hours - Manali (Travel By Jeep)

Today, after a hearty morning feast at the Camp, the day begins by crossing the Upper River by crossing the Tokpo Gongma. The hike of about 10 KM will takes us to Baralacha La. This is a twofold pass located at an altitude of 4950 Meters. It marks the separation between the Lahaul Ranges and the Himalayan Range and also between the Baralacha and the Himalayas stretching towards the North. After enjoying lunch, one moves towards Baralacha located at an altitude of 4883 Meters. This is a stunningly beautiful 8 kilometres long pass and gives ascend to 3 rivers namely Bhaga, Chandra, and Yunam. The meaning of the world Baralacha is ‘pass with cross roads on summit’. Roads from Ladakh, Zanskar, Lahaul, and Spiti meet on the zenith of the Baralacha pass. On the arrival at the ‘Baralacha Pass’, the tour manager will meet you with the Jeeps. After reaching Manali, you can rest at the hotel after a nice dinner.

Manali to Delhi (525 Kilometres/12 to 13 hours.)

The day to unwind. In the evening, drive back to Delhi by the AC Volvo coach. An Overnight journey.

Arrive Delhi

Arrival at Delhi by morning in between 07:00 – 08:00 hrs.

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CHANDRATAL BARALACHA LA TREK

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Region: Lahoul and Spiti Valley

Chandratal Baralacha La Trek

Chandra Tal, literally translated to the ‘Lake of the Moon’, is a glacial lake located between the Rohtang and Kunzam passes at an altitude of 14,100ft (4300m). It is a full day’s drive from Manali and trekkers have to bring their own gear and provisions from Manali, as there are no habitations along the way. The scenic trek from Chandra Tal to Bara lacha la Pass is lesser-known and relatively easy.

The first night’s camp will be on the shores of the lake. With 4 km. circumference, the lake is much bigger and deeper than what it appears to be. The trek on the first day is about 20 km, following the Chandra River upstream. Trekkers are bestowed with the site of the huge riverine island known as Samudra Tapu, which becomes one massive block of ice in winters. Night camp is near the Topko Gongma River.

Second day begins by fording the ice-cold stream at 7:00 am. The early start is to reach the next, much bigger stream (Topko Yongma) by noon as later on it gets too tough to cross with the glacial melt. Camp is on a bluff overlooking the river at a height of 15,500ft (4724m).

Third day’s trek is gentle and much more enjoyable. Navigate through panoramic pastures, and stop by in between to admire and photograph the stunning beauty of the Bara-lacha la glacier on your left (west side). This glacier is the source of the Chandra River. Finally, after six hours of a fulfilling trek, reach the Bara-lacha la Pass at 4950m/16240ft. The pass is situated in between along the Leh-Manali highway and you can always catch a vehicle from here back to Manali. A bonus will be the wildlife sightings that include Marmots, Pica, Horned larks, Lammergeier (Bearded vulture), Wagtails, Black redstart bird, Sand lark, Snow pigeons and Choughs.

Things to Pack:  Rucksack, cotton clothes, good trekking shoes, a warm jacket,warmer, woollen or monkey cap covering head and ears, UV rays protected sunglasses, raincoat, extra socks, water bottle, torch, cold cream, sunscreen, toilet soap, towel,Walking Stick and medicines that you usually use.

Fix Departure tariff  12,999/- excluding GST of 5%

Trek schedule:  

Day 1: Reporting Manali. (2050m.)

Reporting – Acclimatization – Orientation & Briefing of the trek – Trek Preparation & window shopping

(Sufficient time would be given for visiting market and nearby places)

Day 02: Manali/ Rohtang Pass/ Batal (4000m. via taxi - 7/ 8 hrs)  Approx. 115 km's.

After a healthy breakfast, we will move to the Batal( Sapiti Valley) via vehicle(123 Km. 6 to 8 hour ).  Leaving Chota Dara behind we continue along the right bank of Chandra River. Good view of Bara Shigri glacier on the left side. All above the glacier which is 25 km in length, longest in Himachal. Peaks of White Sail, Shigri Parbat, and Kullu Makalu where daring mountaineers touch the sky can widely be seen.

Day 03: Trek From Batal – Chandra Tal (4270m./13096 ft; 5/ 6 hrs) Approx 15-16 km's

Crossing bridge soon after Batal, we climb towards Kunzum la following small stream, which originated above pass. Arriving at pass has a glimpse of Spiti valley, which runs 170 km's towards south. Take a path, which goes to Lake 8 km approach to the large meadows, a favorite area with a multitude of shepherd’s huts. Crossing over a long stretch of stony ground and small stream arrives at the lake. Across Chandra river most fascinating sight of Samudra Tapu glacier, North Dakka glacier, South Dakka glacier and Silver glacier. Above the glaciers towering mighty peaks of Moulkila and C.B. peaks. Leaving Kunzom we trek to Chandratal which is 8 kms long and has a wide panoramic view of Chandra Bhaga peaks all around. Camp after Chandratal.

Day 04: Chandra Tal –Tokpo Yongma (4400m./ 14700ft ; 7/ 8hrs) Approx 10 – 11 km's

A long exhausted trek but well worth, because occasionally trekkers encounters patches of green pastureland. This stretch is about 14 to 16 km. The trail starts with a series of ups and downs through steep ravine and boulders - stream fields. As you progress, a flat grassy land, which slopes up to snow, clad ridge. Snow cock can be heard has heard and even sighted, if you are lucky. After 3 hrs the trail winds down a knoll, which has a steep precipice to the river far down to the left. Cross the stream if the water is low or find Snow Bridge up near the source. Or camp and cross next morning as earliest. 

Day 05: Tokpo Yongma – Tokpo Gongma (4700m./ 15715ft ; 7/ 8hrs) Approx 12 – 13 km's

Trek through a narrow valley flanked on both sides by snow capped mountains. Star walk early as possible, since this stream to be cross, while the flow of the water is less early in the day. A short walk after crossing the river, here the valley opens out on a broad plateau where camp is set on a delightful grassy patch.

Day 06: Tokpo Gongma – Baralacha La (4890m./ 16030ft ; 4/ 5hrs) Approx 8–9 km's.

Today early departure from camp towards Baralacha la pass, which is 7 km long, gives the source of three rivers - Chandra through South, Bhaga through upper Lahul and Yunam towards Zanskar. A splendid view of M-4, which is the highest in the Moulkila range, can be seen from the trail as well as of Keorang range of Great Himalayas. On the pass, join the main highway. We will be pick up by our vehicle here and drive to Manali.

How To Reach

Distance by road:-

Manali is well connected to Delhi. Take an overnight bus from Delhi and you will reach Manali in 12/ 14 hours(approx.540 km's) Tickets can be booked online at www.redbus.in or www.hrtc.gov.in Tip : Since Delhi Manali is a long journey most Volvo private buses leave Delhi between 5 pm and 6 pm. The last govt. bus leaves at 8.30 pm from ISBT Kashmiri Gate. Volvo buses charge between Rs.1,000 to 1,400 per sector from Delhi to Manali and vice versa. Manali to Delhi: Like the onward journey, buses leave from Manali to Delhi between 4 and 5 p.m. Your tentative arrival at Delhi may be anywhere between 6 a.m and 10 a.m. Plan your onward journeys only post noon giving enough buffer for bus delay.

Nearest Railway Station:-

Nearest Railway station is Ambala (350 kms) and Chandigarh (310 km's). Tip: Regular Volvo and Buses are available from Chandigarh to Manali in the evening. Volvo buses charges between Rs.800 to Rs.1,200 per sector from Chandigarh to Manali and vice versa.

Nearest Airport :-

Nearest Airport is Bhuntar is 60 Kms. ​Bhuntar, which is 52 km away from Manali, is the nearest airport. Taxi services are available from Bhuntar to Manali, which costs about Rs.1000‐ Rs.2,000. Bhuntar is well connected to Delhi by air. The airliners that take you to this Airport are Indian Airlines, Kingfisher airlines, MDLR Airlines and Jagson Airlines, operating flights from Delhi and Chandigarh to Kullu.

What is included in the tour

• Transport required in the trek.
• Highly advanced & certified mountaineering guide from Himalaya Destination.
• Skilled Guide who has ample knowledge of the route.
• Vegetarian meals on the trek (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)
• Cooks/Helper and other requisite staff.
• Porters/mules for carrying common equipments (like rations/tents/utensils)
• Equipments – Tents on sharing basis / Sleeping bags / Sleeping Mats.
• Basic First aid Kit.
• Forest Permits and camping charges.

What is NOT included in the tour

• Personal Porters for carrying trekker’s backpacks.
• Personal trekking equipments – like trekking poles or sleeping bag liners.
• Personal insurance or cost of emergency evacuation.
• Purchases of personal natures (like mineral water bottles/bottled or canned beverages/chocolates/dry fruits etc)
• Food to/from the trail head.

What is the best time to trek Chandratal Baralachala?

Where to meet, how cold it gets during the trek, how hard is the trek, how should i prepare, what kind of clothing should carry, what is the minimum age required for the trek, what is the batch size, how long we will walk each day, who will lead the group, what kind of shoes should i buy, is mountain water safe to drink, what kind of food is provided during the trek do i have to bring lunch box along with me, what is the accommodation facility, can i offload my sack, is this trek safe for girls, what if any emergency occurred, what if the trek is extended by natural calamities, are there toilet facilities during the trek, can i have liquor or smoke on the trek, can i communicate while on the trek, do i have to carry medicines do i have to bring medical certificate, will doctor come along with us.

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Chandratal Lake: Guide to the magnificient lake of Spiti Valley

Chandratal Lake – the most awaited part of any trip to Spiti Valley.  How our group members always wait desperately to spend the last night of the Spiti Valley trip is unexplainable in words. In our latest Spiti Valley trip,  during that 100 km drive from Kaza to Chandratal, every single soul was so excited to finally witness the magnificent Chandra Taal. After a long journey on dusty roads, we arrived at our campsite.  The staff gave us a warm welcome along with some hot tea & pakodas in that cold weather.  Post that, we were shown our super comfy & luxury tents with attached toilets. We were tired but still, spirits were high. We threw our luggage in the tents and decided to rush immediately towards the lake. Oh God, when we saw the calm waters of Chandratal, all the fatigue was somehow alleviated.

“Stay close to the serenity of a lake to meet your own peace of mind” – Anonymous

There was a slight breeze in the air. We could see the ripples created in the lake. The bright prayer flags fluttered by the lake and the smell of fresh & clean air was intoxicating. The lake beautifully reflected the changing hues of the sky and all its other surroundings, among which we found a space even for ourselves!

Introduction to Chandratal Lake

Chandratal Lake – the crescent shores nestled between sloping mountains, clear skies on top, and clear waters below. It is located in the Lahaul and Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is believed that this sweet water lake was discovered by traders who came from Tibet or Ladakh. They were looking for a place to rest before continuing their journey forward. Chandra Taal Lake is situated at an altitude of 4300 meters and is 2.5 km wide. The source of this freshwater lake is the river Chandra, and this brings me to the reason for this lake’s name.

There can be 3 reasons why the lake’s name is Chandra Taal or Chandratal:

• Taal means Lake and the source of this lake is the Chandra river. Hence the most simple result of combining both these words leads to Chandra Taal.
• The second, reason which is the most widely accepted one is that the lake owes its name to its crescent shape. Hence Moon Lake or Chandratal
• The third reason is my favorite. On clear nights, the night sky is reflected clearly in the water with all its hundreds of stars and the big, pale-white moon. It’s almost as if the moon is in the lake itself. Hence, it is the Lake of the Moon, Chandra Taal.

Regardless of whichever reason you are partial to, this beautiful lake is a fixed spot on any Spiti trip . 

Where is Chandratal Lake

Perched on top of the Samudra Tapu (plateau), overlooking the Chandra River, the Chandratal lake is located in the heart of the Peerpanjal Mountain range in the Lahaul and Spiti region of Himachal Pradesh. 

Things to do at Chandratal

If we are talking about Chandratal lake itself, then the range of activities is limited. Chandratal Lake is a place just to be close to nature and enjoy the silence.  Please have a look at the list of “Things to do at Chandratal Lake”:

Before planning your camping trip to Chandratal Lake, do remember that there is no campsite anywhere in a radius of 3 kilometers of the lake. Local authorities have also banned self camping. Chandratal is a wildlife reserve and hence a protected area. As tourism to Spiti Valley got a boost in the last decade, the camping near the lake resulted in littering and the wildlife getting disturbed. Hence, the rule of no campsites nearby the lake was declared. Although, the overnight stay in the camps near the lake is one of the most sought-after experiences during a Spiti Valley trip . Be ready to brave the cold and thin air of Chandratal Lake. You can choose the camps as per your preferences and budget. There is a wide range being offered from luxury camps with proper beds and attached toilets to simple dome tents with sleeping bags and common toilets.

Note: To visit the Lake from your camp, you either walk/ trek for 3 km or take your vehicle to the parking point. From there, you only need to walk 1.5 km to the lake. 

2. stargazing.

If you camp in the nearby campsites, perhaps you can stargaze at night and take in the wondrous night sky you never get to see in urban cities. Chandratal Lake is one of the best places in India to offer such a clear night sky for stargazing. It’s because of its geographical position, high altitude, and the fact that it’s mostly free from artificial lights, unlike Kaza city. You can do some astrophotography, trace the trail of the milky-way galaxy, or some constellations. Don’t forget to wear layers of your warm clothes, caps, and gloves before heading for stargazing.

3. Leisure time at Lake

You can enjoy the peaceful beauty of the lake nestled between snow-capped mountains. Listen to the sounds of your surroundings – the whistling wind, the ripples of the water, and the sound of the Chandra river gushing at a measurable distance. You can take a stroll around the edge of the lake and click lots of aesthetic pictures, maybe do a little inner retrospection.

That’s all there is to do at the Chandra Taal. It is a place of tranquil silence, a spiritual paradise in a sense. But if you want to go the extra mile, there are quite a few places to visit around Chandratal like Kunzum Pass or Suraj Tal which are trekking hotspots. Please note that most of the treks around the like are at least 6 hrs long or can even stretch for 2-3 days.

Best Time to Visit Chandratal

The best time to visit Chandratal is between the summer months of May to October. Because the roads are mainly closed for the rest of the year due to snowfall. During May or October, you can trek to Chandra Taal but you will need to make prior arrangements for accommodations and the rest. The roads open from the first week of June till the first week of October and the campsites are operational from the second week of June till early October. 

The third week of June to the third week of September is the most advisable for a trip to Chandratal. The reason for this is that if you go during early June when the road opens up, you will find that the roads are not in good condition. Do remember that by late July and for the most part of August, it’s Monsoon season in the Manali region. So, during this time you will encounter rain with the possibility of landslides. As far as late September is concerned, this is the time the change in the seasons starts to set in and it will start to get extremely cold at night.

Weather at Chandratal

Although Chandratal remains cold throughout the year, the summer months are slightly more bearable with average temperatures during the day at 5-10 degrees and 0 degrees at night. It’s still advisable to carry heavy woolens during any time of the year since the temperature drops significantly post-sunset. Moreover, if you are going during late July or August then you’ll be in for quite some rainfall which will again make the weather extremely cold.

Winters in Chandratal are unforgiving with temperatures dropping below -20 degrees celsius. The snowfall causes roads to get blocked and most of them are in fact closed during winter, therefore it is really not recommended to travel there during this time.

Acclimatization at Chandratal

Acclimatization is the process of our body adapting and adjusting to a different environment in order to maintain a balance across various bodily functions. It is important to acclimatize ourselves especially if we are going to places at a higher altitude where the air is thinner. At an altitude of 4300 meters above sea level, Chandratal is one such place where it is extremely important to acclimatize yourself before arrival. If we do not do this, we are highly likely to suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or Altitude sickness. The symptoms of AMS are headaches, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, and muscle aches. In severe cases, your AMS may be life-threatening. If we properly acclimatize ourselves we should be good to go. To be on the safer side, better to carry an oxygen cylinder.

How to Avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or Altitude Sickness

• Always travel from a place of lower altitude. 
• Make it a rule of the thumb to stop for a day at every 2,000 feet of any climb above 8,000 feet
• In the car, do not use the heater on full blast because it can trigger symptoms of Altitude sickness
• Even if you have to use the washroom multiple times a day, always remain hydrated
• Refrain from smoking or drinking during the entire duration of your trip in the Spiti Valley / Lahaul region
• Don’t undertake strenuous physical activity and exert yourself
• Get proper sleep 
• Don’t overeat and get proper meals instead of filling your stomach with junk food.
• Carry proper medication such as Diamox, which you can start having a day before the trip begins and then continue for the next day or two

Note: It is highly advised that you consult your doctor or physician before taking Diamox or any other medicine. Firstly, Diamox is essentially a sulphonamide blood thinner and there are people allergic to sulfa drugs. Secondly, Diamox has several side effects like nausea, dizziness, and frequent urination

Things to Remember before planning a trip to Chandratal Lake

These are some things you must keep in mind and know about before planning a trip to Chandratal lake:

Cell Service

There is no cell service around Chandra Taal. From Manali , you will only remain connected to any cell service till Rohtang Pass. In Kaza, you might get some reception if you have Postpaid BSNL or Airtel.

ATM Facilities

The nearest ATM is in Manali or Kaza, therefore be sure to carry enough cash when going to Chandratal lake. Do not depend on paying through a credit card or UPI as there is no reception around Chandratal.

Medical Facilities

If you require proper medical assistance, you will need to go to Kaza or Manali . There is a dispensary in Losar where you can buy basic medicines but that’s it. Therefore, it is highly recommended to carry your own first aid kits equipped with medicines for flu, cold, fever, headache, muscle pain, or any other common ailment. You can also carry oxygen just in case you need some precautionary reassurance.

Inner Line Permit

You need a permit if you are coming via Manali for Rohtang Pass. Until last year, you did not need a permit for Chandratal when coming via Shimla but amongst increasing concern of the increase in tourists, the Lahaul-Spiti administration has taken the decision to introduce the permit system. You can apply for these permits online at www.eaagman.hp.gov.in . For more details please go through this article .

What to Pack for Chandratal Lake

• Comfortable walking shoes/ sport shoes
• Woolen socks
• Heavy woolens like Sweatshirts, pullovers, warm hoodies
• Comfortable trekking/traveling pants or trousers
• A heavy woolen wind-proof jacket or parka is good to carry even during summers in case the weather changes
• Caps or Hats to protect against the suns
• Balaclava or Monkey cap especially for the winter months
• Sunglasses protect your eyes from the reflections from the snow
• Hand gloves and mufflers are a must during winters or cold nights during summer.
• Carry sunscreen, a first aid kit, and medicine for Acute Altitude Sickness.
• Carry your own water bottle to be economic and it’s better for the environment, plus you’ll need to keep yourself hydrated constantly.
• Toilet Paper and Wet Tissues
• Also if you are planning to camp, it is a good idea to bring your own sleeping bag or insulated blanket.

How to reach Chandratal Lake

There are two ways to reach Chandratal lake: one route is via Manali and one is via Shimla.  

Route 1: Manali to Chandratal

Please note that we ain’t talking here about going directly to Chandratal from Manali . As it would cause serious AMS trouble and hence not recommended at all. The itinerary we provide at Transforming Travels uses Manali as the first and last stop keeping the visit to Chandratal lake at the end thereby giving you enough time to acclimatize in between. 

 For more information on this itinerary, you can check out “ Wonders of Spiti ”.

A general itinerary would look like this for this trip/route:

Day 1: Arrival in Manali, relax and spend the day roaming around

Day 2: Sojourn to Spiti Valley – Manali to Kaza

Day 3: In and around Kaza (stay in Kaza)

Day 4: Dhankar, Gue & Tabo (stay in Tabo/ Dhankar)

Day 5: Pin Valley & Demul (stay in Demul)

Day 6: Hikkim, Komic , Langza (stay in Kaza/ Langza)

Day 7:   Kaza/ Langza to Chandratal Lake

Day 8: Leaving Spiti Valley – Chandratal Lake to Manali

Please note that you need to have a minimum of 8 days in hand to do the justification with a Spiti Valley trip involving Chandratal Lake. As a matter of fact, the best way to do Chandratal Lake is to club it with a Spiti Valley trip itself. This route does involve long road journeys but the overall driving distance is much lesser than the Shimla route (discussed in next section). This trip gives you ample time in Spiti Valley . It enables you to cover some of the offbeat villages as well along with mainstream places. Did I tell you that Spiti Valley is home to some of the highest villages in Asia and their culture is still raw & rustic? Hence, these villages must not be missed. ,

Route 1: Shimla to Chandratal

This route is recommended if you want to do Kinnaur & Spiti Valley along with Chandratal Lake in one go. 

• Day 1: Delhi to Shimla/ Narkanda
• Day 2: Shimla/Narkanda to Sarahan
• Day 3: Sarahan to Chitkul
• Day 4: Chitkul to Kalpa
• Day 5: Kalpa to Nako/Tabo
• Day 6: Nako/Tabo to Kaza
• Then to Komic
• Then from Tashigang to Kaza
• Day 8: Kaza to Chandratal
• Day 9: Chandratal to Manali
• Day 10: Manali to Delhi

Please note that you need to have a minimum of 10 days to do the above circuit. Be ready for really long drives every day. Also, this route offers you a lesser number of days in Spiti Valley as compared to the previous one. This route is recommended if you can undertake strenuous road journeys almost on daily basis and want to cover a lot in a shorter period of time.

Accommodations near Chandratal

You cannot camp directly next to the lake because it is a protected Ramsar Site. Below are the ways to figure out your stay near Chandratal:  but you can choose one of the following options or travel to the Manali -Leh Highway and travel along that way to a place with decent accommodations:

1. Camp stay

About 3 km from the lake there is a dedicated area for camping, where you can self-camp by pitching up your own tents or stay at one of the camps set up by a few companies. You even have the option of getting a luxury tent with attached washrooms. If you are thinking if luxury camps have heaters or not, then the answer is no. It’s not possible to provide heaters in such a delicate environment. 

2. Chandra Dhaba Batal

An elderly couple affectionately called “Chacha-Chachi” by their visitors, runs this famous Dhaba near Chandratal. As a matter of fact, this Dhaba is also known as Chacha-Chachi Dhaba. The Dhaba has room for 7-8 people.  They also have a space next to that and you may be allowed to stay there if space is available. Moreover, you get to have some warm home-style food.

3. Batal PWD Rest House 

This is the closest thing you will get to a hotel in and around Chandratal lake. Batal has a satellite phone, the number of which is 08991722020. If you wish to stay here, you should get a prebooking done directly through the PWD office. The chances of finding accommodation at this guest house are very slim.  Even if you do end up finding a slot, there may be no caretaker available at the guesthouse. Hence, your booking could go waste. 

How to be an Ambassador of Responsible Tourism at Chandratal

The whole reason why the permit system was introduced for Chandratal lake was the growing concerns over how the increase in the number of tourists can imbalance the lake’s ecology. Therefore, please make sure that you are an Ambassador of Responsible Tourism at Chandra Taal. You can start by following some simple etiquette: 

• Don’t litter around. Follow the No Trace Left Behind (NTLB) policy.
• Don’t enter the water or take a bath in the lake because it will lead to dirtying the water and causing an ecological imbalance. Also, Buddhist people consider their water bodies sacred, and hence entering into the water is prohibited. 
• Don’t run around or physically expend yourself and get exhausted. 
• There are a lot of treks around Chandratal. Don’t go for them without proper planning and without a local guide. You may get AMS or even lose your way to the campsite.
• Do not smoke, drink alcohol, or do anything else that would lead to AMS. 
• Refrain from making loud noises during your visit to Chandra Taal because the beauty of this place lies in its peace and quiet.  

This article might help you to understand more about the practices of responsible tourism that would help you in the longer term.

Chandratal Lake is a place that makes you appreciate the simplicity & slowness of life. But if you haven’t planned your trip properly, then everything can go haywire. Travel to Chandratal after proper acclimatization. Pack well as per the weather and do not forget your medication. Follow the above guide. In nutshell, be careful even while having the adventure. I am sure your mind will get ample peace when you sit by the lake and hear nothing else, but the water ripples.

P.S. Please note that we also organize group tours to Spiti Valley and custom tours as well. If you are a solo traveler or fewer than 4 people then a group tour would make it a fantastic experience and economically viable as well. Else, you can reach out to us to design a private/ custom trip.

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How to plan a trip to Chandratal Lake – Spiti Valley?

Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley is considered to be one of the most beautiful lakes in Himachal Pradesh. A trip to Chandratal would mean a mix of adventure and raw, desolate nature. You can reach this pristine Lake by traversing through the most treacherous roads and climbing the high glaciers between Rohtang Pass and Kunzum Pass. Otherwise, you can always club this trip and travel the road to Spiti Valley through Kinnaur to reach Chandratal Lake.

But, once you reach Chandratal Lake, the first sight takes away all the pain of the arduous journey. In this article today, let me share with you a comprehensive travel guide for planning a memorable trip to Chandratal Lake.

Let's quickly dive into the details:

About Chandratal Lake – Spiti Valley

At an altitude of 4270 Meters , Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh lies between a low ridge and the main Kunzum range. Mostly surrounded by snow in winters, this deep blue-water Lake has a circumference of 2.5 km.

Some people also call it “ The Moon Lake ” and is also one of the sources of the violent Chandra River. Moulkila and Chandrabhaga mountain range have snow-capped peaks and snow slopes around the valley measure from 3000 Meters to 6500 Meters approximately. Locales there, believe that Chandertal is this point from where Yudhishtra (Eldest among Pandava of Mahabharata epic) was taken to heaven in his mortal form.

Setting all the legend and folklore asides, Chandratal Lake in itself is a very luring place. It must be on top of your bucket list if you love the Himalayas.

Located in Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, Manali to Chandratal Lake distance is 125 km. You can either travel from Delhi to Chandratal Lake via Manali. Or, you can also plan to take the longer route from Delhi to Spiti Valley via Kinnaur and further to Chandratal.

A lot of people also travel from Mandi to Chandratal Lake, which about 250 km of a journey by road. It will take about 12 hrs to reach Chandratal from Mandi.

The motorable road to the Lake exists only up to 12.5 km. After the road ends, a remaining distance of 1.5 km is what you need to trek from parking points to the Moon Lake.

The altitude of Chandratal Lake is 4270 Meters or 14220 Feet (approximately). Hence, you can see that this Lake lies at a very high altitude which means that you must plan your trip to Chandratal with a proper acclimatization schedule.

Chandratal Lake Weather

Weather at Chandratal remains mostly cold to very cold throughout the year. During winter, the Chandratal Lake temperature Lake may drop well below even – 20 degrees Celsius. Although cold during summer, snowfall can happen any time of the year here in this part of Spiti Valley. Already in the last few years, I have seen heavy snowfall happening in June, August, September months as well.

Do not forget to take heavy woolens at any time of the year you are going. You can always refer to what clothes to carry for Chandratal or Spiti trip .

So, when making a trip to Chandratal Lake, make sure you are well prepared for any emergency even in the summer months. Winter months are not at all recommended for traveling to Chandratal Lake.

When should I visit

As you can see that the months to visit Chandratal are pretty much limited to summer months. However, the definition of summer months can be different in a high altitude terrain like Spiti Valley. Let’s look at, which is the best month to visit Chandratal Lake.

Pre-requisite : Any one of the mountain passes, Rohtang La (Rohtang Pass) or Kunzum La (Kunzum Pass) are open for traffic to make a road trip to Chandratal.

Chandratal in January to April

It is impossible to travel to Chandratal Lake in January to April as the heaps of snow blocks all the road beyond Losar. Manali to Kaza road remains closed in winter from November to May period. From the Kaza side, the road to Losar even closes in February – March – April.

During these winter months, the glaciers are piled up between Gramphu – Chatru – Batal road and Kunzum Pass – Chandratal diversion road.

So, even when you plan a trip to Spiti Valley in March , you cannot reach Chandratal Lake.

Chandratal in May to June

The snow finally starts to clear up in May, and snow clearance operations are in full swing. The road from Kaza to Losar opens, but beyond Losar towards Kunzum Pass, the snow clearance will still be going on. Hence, in May it is again not possible to visit Chandratal Lake.

It is in June first week or second week, people will be able to reach Chandratal either by trekking the 14 km diversion road from Batal or when the Batal to Chandratal road clears up by mid-June to late June period.

So after the middle of June to the remaining season up to September, you can take your car or bike at the parking site and continue the Chandratal Lake trek of about 2 km to reach this beautiful Lake.

Still, thinking of planning late May or early June?

Well, you may try your luck first week June onward, but it’s highly likely that trek from Batal onward will be tough due to the presence of snow and for sure not motorable till the very end. You may reach Batal and then need to do the Chandratal Lake trek in the presence of snow, which makes it all very tough. I went on a trip from Delhi to Chandratal via Manali in the first week of June 2009 , and it was a near-death experience for me.

Dheeraj Sharma

Chandratal in July to September

July to mid-September is one of the better times to visit Chandratal Lake as the roads are open, the operators set up their camps at camping sites, and the weather is pleasant and favorable mostly. The roads are not in good shape, especially Manali to Kaza, with lots of notorious water crossings, but you do not have a choice.

In August, you will need to face the monsoon hassles in lower hills that can cause some nightmarish situations. The parts of Kinnaur Valley and Delhi to Manali route will be facing the music of rains. But, once you cross Rohtang Pass from Manali side and Nako from Kinnaur side, it is very much OK to reach Chandratal.

Come September, the rains go away, and it becomes one of the best times to visit Chandratal Lake. The water crossings are pretty tamed on Gramphu to Batal road and further Batal to Chandratal. However, as the days pass in September, the cold sets in the Himalayas. The nights and morning get cold and afternoons get cooler.

Chandratal in October to December

October is when most campsites at Chandratal pack up, and it becomes freezing to spend the night up there in Spiti, especially camping. I will not recommend planning a night stay near Chandratal Lake in October and beyond up to next season that starts in June.

November and December are said to be the winter months in Spiti Valley . Here, you should note that the roads to Chandratal will close down anytime in October. Hence, in November and December, it is not possible to make a road trip to Chandratal, in general, unless you want to take the risk of your life.

The roads to Spiti Valley from Manali close with the heavy snowfall around the middle of November or December. Although the roads from Kalpa to Kaza remains open almost all around the year, the roads further ahead of Kaza to Chandratal can close anytime in November – December.

What is the Best time to visit Chandratal?

Looking at these details month by month, the best time to visit Chandratal Lake is September month, or you can also make a trip from the middle of June to July month as well. In September, the road conditions are best in shape with tamed water crossings. So, making a Chandratal road trip is very favorable in this period.

You should also read my article on the best time to visit Spiti Valley for more details.

How to reach Chandratal

There are two possible routes from Delhi to Chandratal by road. One goes from Delhi to Manali, and the other goes from Delhi to Shimla to Kinnaur to Spiti Valley. Both routes have their advantages and disadvantages.

The route from Shimla – Kinnaur – Kaza

You can travel on this route starting from Delhi to Shimla or Narkanda. Then, from Narkanda move to Kalpa and further to Nako and Kaza . After exploring Spiti Valley, you can visit Chandratal from Kaza. The entire route is as follows:

Delhi » Shimla » Narkanda » Karcham » Powari » Puh » Nako » Tabo » Kaza » Losar » Kunzum La (4551 Meters) » Chandratal

I will strongly suggest that for visiting Chandratal Lake, you should travel from Shimla to Kinnaur and then visit Spiti Valley. Finally, when exiting Spiti Valley from Manali side, you should visit Chandratal Lake.

This route from Kinnaur provides a gradual ascend and helps you acclimatize to the high altitude of Chandratal Lake. Better acclimatization will help you fight the AMS and better enjoy your trip. Acclimatization is the key to success for any high altitude trip, and this one is no different. So, please take it seriously.

The route from Mandi – Manali – Rohtang Pass

The shortest route from Delhi to Chandratal Lake is from Manali side. It takes just one night to stop at Manali from Delhi to reach this Lake. The entire route is as follows:

Delhi » Mandi » Kullu » Manali » Rohtang La (3978 Meters) » Gramphoo » Chattru » Battal » Chandratal

Although the route from Mandi – Manali is the shortest route to Chandratal, it is a dangerous one too because it does not provide any acclimatization to your body. You sleep directly from less than 8000 feet to 14000 feet. By no means, you can acclimatize your body for such a huge difference in altitude between two nights. Hence, the majority of people traveling to Chandratal Lake from Manali does get hit with Acute Mountain Sickness symptoms.

This is the reason I always recommend to travel to Chandratal via Kinnaur side. If that is not possible and you only have the option to travel from Mandi to Chandratal Lake, better sleep at Solang Valley and Batal before planning to sleep at campsites of Chandratal Lake.

Bhuntar Airport near Manali is approximately 180 km from Chandratal Lake and is the nearest airport too. The other one being in Shimla is 375 km away. However, due to their small size, these airports have limited capacity and connectivity. The next major airport is Chandigarh Airport which 300 km from Manali and 112 km from Shimla.

Hence, Chandigarh is the best place to start the journey to Chandratal if you are flying from any other part of India than Delhi or other Northern states.

By Railways

Joginder Nagar railway station near Mandi is the nearest railway station from Chandratal about 290 km away. However, this would also have limited connectivity. My suggestion would be to have your endpoint of the railway journey as Chandigarh, which is well connected throughout.

By Public Transport

You can think, of course, plan a trip to Chandratal Lake by public transport. However, there isn’t any direct bus though you can still work it out if you like an adventure.

Manali to Chandratal by Bus

There are two HRTC buses that run between Manali and Kaza every morning, as soon as the road to Spiti Valley from Manali gets open in the season, mostly in June. You can hop on to any of these buses.

These buses run from Kullu to Kaza via Manali and it reaches Manali around 4.45 AM and leaves at 5.00 AM. Ticket to Kaza will cost you only about INR 250 approximately per person. You will need to get down at Chandratal diversion point after bus crosses Batal and either hike or hitch-hike for the remaining 14 km to the Lake.

Pro Travel Tip : You can read my article in detail on how to plan a Chandratal Lake budget trip .

Shimla to Chandratal by Bus

There is an AC bus from Chandigarh, which reaches Shimla around 11 AM and then further connects to Reckong Peo. Also, there are two non-AC buses from Shimla till Reckong Peo. Then you can take the 7 AM daily HRTC bus to reach Kaza.

After reaching Kaza, you can follow the same Kaza to Manali bus and get down at Chandratal Lake diversion point after Kunzum Pass to hitchhike further remaining distance as explained above.

By Self drive Car

If you are driving your car, the choice shall be SUVs/MUVs for sure (Safari/Sumo/Xylo/Scorpio/Jeep, etc.). A 4×4 vehicle is not required, but it’s an added advantage anyway for such terrain, especially when tacking water crossings between Gramphu to Batal stretch.

Travel Tip : If you are driving yourself to Chandratal or Spiti Valley, then do not forget to check the 40 must-have things to carry on a self-drive trip to remote Himalayas .

Manali to Chandratal by Bike

When you plan a trip from Manali to Chandratal by bike you should note that you will be riding on one of the toughest roads in the world perhaps.

If you are riding Motorcycles, Mountain Bicycles be very careful at some of the stretches between Gramphu to Chatru to Batal to Chandratal, are you will have to cross and tackle numerous notorious water crossings. Well, human feet are almost always required to trek some part in this journey so be ready to use them anyway 😉

Guide Road Map for Chandratal

Road Conditions

Road conditions to Chandratal are not so good once you take the diversion off the Manali – Leh highway i.e. when you take a right turn from Gramphoo towards Batal – Kaza (Spiti Valley).

Manali – Chandratal Road Status & Condition

The road from Gramphu to Batal to Kunzum Pass is basically nothing but a dirt track with many water crossings all the way till Chandratal.

Kaza – Chandratal Road Status & Condition

If you are coming from Kaza towards Chandratal, you will find similar bad road conditions after crossing the Rangrik just ahead of Kaza. Well, the roads from Losar to Kunzum La and move towards Chandratal, the road condition further deteriorates. At this crossing taking a right will take you to Chandratal and left will lead you to Batal – Gamphoo – Manali (Left) / Leh (Right).

Main Troublesome Spots / Sections

From Batal to Chandratal from Manali side or Losar – Kunzum La crossing board to Chandratal from Kunzum side, it gets even worse due to the presence of boulders/rocks throughout the stretch, and you need higher ground clearance vehicles at many places.

You shall have to be extremely lucky negotiating with this stretch with lower ground clearance vehicles. It’s almost a kind of off-road driving experience. The presence of snow may make it more difficult. Many cars get damaged between Gramphu to Chandratal road.

You will also have to clear 2/3 water crossings during this stretch of Batal / Kunzum La Crossing to Chandratal, and the current depends upon the time of the year. When I was there the latter one (near the Lake) was very violent.

Things to Carry

Another common question I keep getting is what things to carry for a trip to Chandratal Lake?

If you are traveling in a pleasant time window, i.e., mid-June to mid-September, you don’t need any special thing apart from your basic travel kit and regular medicines. But, if you are traveling in a dicey time window to terrain like Chandratal Lake then better prepared with the following must-have –

• Snow/Waterproof trekking shoes, preferably comfortable, lightweight (as you need to trek a lot) with powerful grip in Snow or slippery surface.
• Strong easy to grip wooden stick for holding gripping snow while trekking
• Snow/Waterproof clothing i.e. Jackets and Lower
• Heavy Woolens and Inner Thermals
• Woolen socks [carry 2 extra pairs in case one any gets wet]in your backpack. Wet socks won’t let you walk with all strength
• A small towel in your backpack to keep yourself dry as much as you can
• A water bottle for your backpack
• Camping gear if you need to set up your own camps at the camping site

Apart from the above list you can check my list of things to carry on a trip at the link List of things to carry when you go on a trip

Where to Stay at Chandratal

There isn’t anything to stay at Chandratal Lake because camping is banned and illegal. The region comes Chandratal Lake wetland reserve, which is a Ramsar site protected under wildlife act. Hence, one cannot pitch camps near Chandratal Lake. There is a dedicated camping site about 2 km before it where you can pitch your camps. It is also the parking site where vehicles are parked, and people trek further to the Lake.

Parsol Camps Chandratal

Apart from self-camping at the camping site, there are temporary camps set up by local Bishan Thakur – Parasol Camps & Retreats at Chandratal and few others. You can contact Bishan of Parasol Camps at 09418845817, 09459910098, Nawang: 09459073908, 01906-200204. You can write to them at [email protected], [email protected] as well. The camps are more spacious and comfortable. They also have mattresses and quilts. Bishan does have a dining area and covered washrooms if required.

You can refer DoW or my name to Bishan and he will surely offer whatever best in his capacity. We did stay with him at DoW Mega Meet and everything was managed very well by Bishan.

Chandra Dhabha Batal

Well, there is this all famous Batal Chandra Dhabha of Dorje Uncle, which has room for 7-8 people on one side and the other side they may allow you to stay if there is space available. Workers and the Dhaba family itself occupy most of the space in the dhabha, so if you are lucky, you may get space to sleep there as well. They charge Rs 150 per person for a night stay and provide quilts as well. You can take as many quilts as available with them and if not in use by anyone.

There are many stories of Chacha Chachi bravery and they have been given gallantry awards too for saving lives of numerous people up there in this remote region of Chandratal Lake.

Batal PWD Rest House

There is an HP PWD Rest House as well now at Batal, and you can take rooms there and eat at Chandra Dhabha with Dorje Chacha and Chachi. 08991722020 is the contact number of satellite phones at Batal, and you can inquire from him if Dorje uncle can book a PWD Rest House room for you or a couple of igloo type huts just in front of Batal dhabha that can save you from cold winds in the evening or night.

Tenzin Camps

Dorje Uncle’s son Tenzin now also set up camps at Chandratal, you can reach him at Tenzing Camp – +91-8991722020. Else call up the satellite phone and ask Dorje uncle to do the bookings for his son’s camps.

As far as accommodation at the bank of Chandratal Lake is concerned, it has been banned by the GOVT. lately. So, you need to pitch tents alongside the parking site which is about 2 km from the Chandratal. After this point, you need to hike th remaining distance. Please respect the rules and nature else one day it will punish in its own way.

Other accommodation options

One more possibility is you come back on Manali – Leh highway and rest at Khoskar (right from Gramphoo towards Leh side) in HP PWD Guest House. You can travel further towards Keylong and reach Sissu which has many decent options of stay as well 20 minutes ahead of Khoksar. I have stayed at Hotel Triveni at Sissu myself many times on my Ladakh and Chandratal trip.

Self Camping

As mentioned above, you cannot pitch your own camps at the banks of Chandratal Lake but you can camp at the dedicated camping site.

There is always an option of taking your camping stuff or getting a tour package with a guide or a porter. You can either hire camps from Manali or Delhi or buy your own if you are planning to camp many a time in the future and serious about it. In case you are interested in camping then you will need tents, sleeping bags (-5 to -10 rated) and mattresses.

Attractions Around Chandertal

• Kunzum Pass At an altitude of 4551 m, is the main access to Spiti Valley from Lahaul Valley.
• Bara Shigri Glacier The largest glacier in Himachal Pradesh is located in the Chandra valley of Lahaul and it feeds the river Chenab. This glacier, 25 km long and about 3 km wide, lies on the middle slopes of the main Himalayan range.
• Sissu At an altitude of 3170 m, this place is famous because of a magnificent waterfall.
• Darcha At an altitude of 3360 m, Darcha is an ideal place for trekkers. You can start off trekking from here to Padum, Zanskar Valley passing through Shingola as well as Baralacha/Phirtsela. Darcha is around 24 km from Keylong and offers facilities for camping. A road to Shingo La has been built now and hence, you can plan a trip up there too.
• Baralacha La This pass which is crossroads on the summit is 75 km from Keylong. Baralacha La is on Manali – Leh road . It is also the watershed for the Chandra Bhaga and Yunam Rivers.
• Suraj Tal, you can trek from Chandratal to Suraj Tal and Baralacha La, however, that is a 2-3 days trek

Common Itinerary

Let us look at the common day by day trip plan for Chandratal Lake. Well, as mentioned above you can plan your trip either from the Manali side or from the Shimla side. It will take more days or time to reach when you come from Shimla – Kaza route as compared to the Manali route. However, traveling to Chandratal from Manali route will cause you AMS hassles .

Hence, you need to maintain a balance somewhere and my suggestion will be to club Chandratal trip with Spiti Valley in most cases. But if you do not have that many days at hand, you can refer my detailed itinerary of Chandratal trip in 4-5 days .

A basic plan for a trip to Chandratal is mentioned below as well but for detailed, refer to the article I linked in the last paragraph.

• Day 1 | Delhi – Manali and stay overnight at Solang Valley
• Day 2 | Solang – Khoksar/Sissu/Batal
• Day 3 | Khoksar/Sissu/Batal – Chandratal
• Day 4 | Chandratal – Manali
• Day 5 | Manali – Delhi

I hope this will help you plan a trip to Chandratal in an eased out manner.

Download your FREE high-resolution version pdf copy of this most common itinerary for Chandratal trip day by day plan infographic guide. If you like it and find it helpful, please feel free to share it with your family and friends to help them too.

Nearby Utilities

• ATM : The nearest ATM available is in Kaza and the next one in Manali. Hence, make sure you carry enough cash on your Chandratal trip.
• Petrol Pump : The nearest petrol pump to Chandratal is Kaza, next you will get fuel at the Tandi petrol pump on Manali Leh Highway. You should tank up at Manali as well.
• Medical Help : Losar has a medical dispensary which will be the nearest to get any basic medical help. The next best option to get any medical help on your trip to Chandratal is Kaza or Keylong.
• Mobile Connectivity : The moment you cross Gramphu and take the road to Chatru – Batal – Chandratal, there will not be any mobile connectivity with you. Hence, it is best to stick to my tips on mobile connectivity in Spiti Valley .
• Mechanics : The nearest mechanic you might get for any basic need is Losar and Gramphu. Anything major with your car or bike will need to be taken care of in Kaza.

Other Tips for Chandratal Trip

• You do not need any permit for Chandratal. However, if you come from Manali side, you will need to get the Rohtang Pass permit.
• Never cross the water nallas in a way that might get your clothes or socks wet. It will lead you to big trouble if you have wet clothes in such freezing conditions as chilly winds bite your bones. Try to protect your clothes as much as you can from getting wet. So, while crossing Nallas, fold your lowers up to the knee and remove shoes and socks before jumping in to cross it.
• Use your towel from the backpack if you get wet to dry yourself as soon as possible.
• No Alcohol shall be consumed while trekking or hiking in the high Himalayas .
• Since Chandratal Lake is at an altitude of about 14000 feet; it is not a good idea to go there without any acclimatization to stay overnight. The best way to plan a trip to Chandratal is that you come from the Shimla side as the ascent is very gradual as compared to the Manali side, of course, it takes more time to reach Chandratal from Shimla side.
• Do not forget to read my tips on acute mountain sickness and the importance of acclimatization .

No matter where you have traveled in the Himalayas, if you have not been on a trip to Chandratal Lake, you have surely missed something. The magical morning reflections in the Lake are something that can cure any mental or emotional turmoil raging within anyone.

A trip to Chandratal is one thing in life, I always appreciate and why not !! It gave birth to this wonderful travel blog that we call Discover with Dheeraj 🙂 …

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I am Dheeraj Sharma - a traveler, techie, and Himalayan lover. Since 2009, I have been helping thousands of travelers every year plan memorable & budget-friendly trips to the Himalayas - Smartly, Safely, and responsibly.

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I am planning to visit Chandertal and Tso Moriri Lake from 20 August. But I have dought regarding the permission to visit there. – Do I require any permission from the army or local authority?

waiting for your reply

You need inner line permit to visit Tso Moriri lake which you can get from DC office in Leh, Chandratal lake can be visited after taking permit for Rohtang Pass.

Hi, I am planning a trip to chandtrataal from delhi from june 1 st till june 4th or 5th , will that work ?

Yes Vishnu, the road from Manali to Kaza is open now for light vehicles, so by June 1st even the Chandratal route should be clear.

Im planning a backpacking trip to Shimla -Spiti – Manali circuit during the 2nd Week of October,2017.Here’s my itinerary :

Delhi :14th October

Shimla : 15th October

Kalpa/Reckong Peo : 16th Oct

Nako  & Tabo: 17th Oct & 18th Oct

Kaza  : 19th Oct & 20th Oct

Chandratal & Kunzum Pass – 21st Oct

Rohtang Pass & Manali :  22nd Oct

Delhi : 23rd Oct

Suggest me if there is any changes are necessary in the above itinerary. Thanks in advance.

Plan wise looks fine but that late in the season, there are risks associated with your trip. You should read: 5 Reasons to Avoid Manali Kaza Road in October

Hi Dheeraj,

Thank You for sharing the information. It’s very helpful.

I have some doubts please clarify if you can – 1. Will leave delhi on 11th august by volvo and reach manali by 12th early morning 7-8Am will stay there and look for some rented bullet and visit manikaran and around by places. As we want to travel by bike from manali to chandratal then how feasible the roads are and how much rent it would cost to us. If you know any rented bike service please provide the details.

2. After on 13 early morning we are planning to leave by 4-4:30 am to avoid traffic and reach early may be max by 11-12pm. So tents availability (hygiene with attached washroom) and Prices for it booking. What would be more fun staying at chandratal or Kaza?

3. how much time will it take to chandratal to Kaza?

4. If not bike then what are the other cheaper ways to reach there.

5. Most importantly, we have only 12,13,14,15 august so please suggest accordingly we all want back by 16 early morning

Thanking you in advance !

Awaiting for your views 🙂

1. That’s fine but I will suggest taking rest instead of doing rides. For road conditions check some latest posts/videos on our Facebook page.

2, 3. So, 13th you will reach Chandratal. For accommodation, refer the article stay options section above. Avoid going to Kaza, it will be tiring with days you have in hand. It is a 4-5 hr bumpy, hard ride back to Kaza and then coming back again. Once, you will look at the posts or videos on our facebook page, you will understand the perils of Manali – Chandratal road. So, keep energy to enjoy

4. You can read: Chandratal Lake | Cheapest Ways To Travel There

5. I will suggest resting on 13 at Battal and leaving after breakfast easily from Manali so that you get a bit more acclimatized before sleeping near Chandratal. On 14, go over and sleep near Chandratal and enjoy the rest day. On 15 leave early morning start back for Manali and catch the last overnight volvo back to Delhi.

Thank You so Much for your early response.

I am still thinking either drive or trek via hampta pass & chandratal.

Thanks for your suggestions ! indeed helpful !

I am Planning for a chandrataal trip from Oct 19 and Oct 20th via Rohtang Pass ,will the same be accessible that time period .Following is my itinerary

Day 1 (Oct 17th) : HRTC bus from Delhi to Manali Day 2 (Oct 18th ): Stay at manali or solang valley (Could you suggest some cheap hotels or homestays in Solang Valley). Day 3 (Oct 19th) : Meet Up with Friend (Will be coming from IIT Mandi) and leave for Chandrataal as soon as possible and Reach Chandrataal the same day . DAY 4 (Oct 20th ): Leave for manali /or stay another day visit surrounding area. Day 5 (Oct 21st ): If we leave for manali on 20th of October then visit Prashar Lake or else stay at Manali Day 6 (Oct 22nd): if we visit Parshar Lake then leave from mandi for delhi .

Kindly update me on the same.

Warm Regards Abhishek

Abhishek, late October is not at all recommended to travel to Chandratal lake. I will not advise going to Chandratal lake beyond first week of October.

I just wanted to visit a lake which where we can tent and stay for the night gaze upon the milky way galaxy 🙂 could you suggest any is Parshar Lake an option we can explore .

Yes Prashar lake is another option you can explore else for Chandratal you can even stay at Battal to fight with AMS because in any way you cannot camp besides Chandratal lake. So, start gazing in tent will be possible away from it in any case. You can try to refer: Chandratal Lake – Most Common Itinerary

Hi, Nice article, lots of information. Just need one quick suggestion, is it safe to visit in August (12-22 Aug). What are the weather situation at this time??

Well, Jai, you must read: 10 Tips for a Trip to Spiti Valley in Monsoons

Thanks for quick reply. 🙂

Hello Dheeraj,

We plan to be in Chandrataal in the last week of June, going from Shimla side by four wheeler. We understand that the final approach has to by foot. Is waterproof footwear required for the final trek? What other accessories are must haves?

No Anand, no waterproof footwear is required to walk the remaining path to Chandratal lake.

I need your advice on chandratal lake visit on my way to Spiti.

My itinerary is to visit Spiti from Manali side from 26th June so I am planning to visit chandratal while going from manali to Kaza in transport Innova and I have following questions –

1. Can I take Innova till chandratal lake? Or How far is the motorable road? As I want minimum trekking.

2. Is it possible to finish in one day and return to kaza by late evening? I mean if I start very early morning from manali and reach chandratal by 11-11:30 and return directly to kaza by eve without stay near chandratal?

Thanks in advance.

Awaiting your advice.

Thanks, Jugal

1. Yes innova is capable enough vehicles to reach parking site of Chandratal lake. Last about 800 Mtrs you have to walk down to reach Chandratal. 2. If you leave Manali early morning and reach Chandratal by like 11 AM, you can reach Kaza by late evening.

Your travel guide is awesome. I have never seen so elaborated guide anywhere on internet not even on makemytrip. I appreciate your efforts and once I come across your travel guide. I stop my research right there and read whole article and your replies to the questions. Three cheers to your work!

Thank you so much Sanchita, I am really glad it was such a help for your trip.

Hi dheeraj we 4 of us thinking to visit chandratal 15 June is it the right time and also tell us is it ok if we travel by our swift car.and do we require any permit from shimla side also.

No permit is required if you traveling from Shimla side. Chandratal road may not be open by 15th June, so better that you plan the trip up to Kaza in your car and then take a taxi beyond Kunzum Pass and trek to Chandratal and be back in that taxi.

Hi Dheeraj, I have planned for a trip for chandratal lake via the manali route from 29th of April to 5th of may. Is it a good tym, will take a innova. What are the suggested medicine to take? What are the washroom options? Anything special to be taken care of?

Chandratal is not possible in the month of April. The roads to Chandratal is accessible only in the month of June to mid October. Even in early June, you will have to trek some distance. So, in April you cannot make a trip to Chandratal.

Regards Dheeraj

Dear Dheeraj,

We are planning for the Trip to Spiti Valley from 24 Sep to 01 Oct.

Mode of Transport: (2 Duster 110 PS AWD and 1 XUV 500 W10 AWD)

3 family’s trip with 6 Adults and 5 Children (Aged: 6 Yrs.’ to 8 months) — Will be safe for Children’s specially of 8 months

A itinerary is below: Day 1 | Dehradun – Narkanda Day 2 | Narkanda – Kalpa- Sangla Day 3 | Sangla – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo- Kaza Day 4 | Kaza Local Sightseeing — Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang in the second half of the day Day 5 | Kaza Local Sightseeing (Hikkim, Koumik)— Hikkim, Komik, Langza circuit Day 6 | Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal Day 7 | Chandratal – Manali Day 8 | Manali – Dehradun

Total Fuel consumption is around 8K Hotel booking Done with : 16K All check list made for the items required for travelling

Is alcohol consumption while night stay will fine. Medicine taken along with Dimox (AMS).

Any body there to come with us — Should have their own vehicles. Feel free to call at 9816644145

Ankush, I will not recommend the infant to be carried on a trip to Spiti valley. !!

Dear Ankush

Plan 2nd day stay at Rakchcham or Sangla and 3rd at Kalpa. In this itinerary you are missing Dhankar . Alcohol consumption is not an issue but intake should be less. If u stay at Tabo then u can visit Dhankar thereafter reaching Kaza u can go to Ke and Kibber, rest u can visit next day.

Hello, its a great article. I am planning to visit from shimla side. Please can you tell me what all places can we set up our own tents.

Vikram, please refer: Top 10 Tips for Camping in Ladakh & Spiti Valley

Hi.DHEERAJ we are planning bike trip to visit kinnaur and spiti region in april frist week 2016. will the route to chandrataal and kunzum la be open during this period?? thanks

No Amit, the route to Chandratal and Kunzum Pass will not be open by April.

We 2 friends are planning to visit Kinnur and Spiti in October 2016. We will be leaving Delhi on 7th October and we will be spending 8 nights on the trip. We will go to Recong Peo,NAko,KAza,Kunzum Pass,Chandratal and Manali

Will Kunzum pass open at that time and we can complete the circuit. Can we visit Chandratal at that time Where we can get snow during this time How will be weather conditions at that time

Can we complete this tour in my Ford Figo, Last year I have been there in Chitkul and weather was quite pleasant and we did not encounter any issue.

Please suggest.

Kapil, the snowfall has been started in higher hills of Ladakh, Lahaul and Spiti. Though October is not the time when the Manali – Kaza road closes in general but with turn in weather there could be possibilities and you should be aware of weather conditions before heading from Kaza to Manali. If the road is open you can try it and yes Chandratal road will be open too.

The early in October you make the trip, the better it will be. I will not recommend anything beyond 15th October.

Hi , Kindly suggest would it be okay to be at chandertal lake on 17 th september 2016. I am planning a 3 night and 4 days trip from chandigarh. i wish to see it on the full moon night. Please guide eagerly waiting for your response also suggest what precautions to to be taken if we travel on those dates. Kindly reply

Aman, september 17 shall be fine to visit Chandratal. The roads will be open, just carry woollen jackets for the nights as that wil be cold.

Hi Dheeraj, I have picked up the most common Itinerary from DOW for Spiti visit. Cramped up the first 2 days in 1 day… Let me knowe ur thoughts… Also since we got limited days what do u think we can drop from this Itinerary.

Day 1 | Delhi – Shimla / Narkanda -Sangla Start FRidayn night- Reach saturday evening Day 2 | Sangla / Chitkul (Kinnaur Valley) – Kalpa -SUNDAY Day 3 | Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo – MONDAY Day 4 | Tabo – Dhankar – Dhankar Lake – Pin Valley (Mud Village) – TUESDAY Day 5 | Pin Valley – Kaza – Ki – Kibber – Gette – Tashigang – Kaza – WEDnesday Day 6 | Kaza – Hikkim – Komik – Langza – Kaza / Losar – THURSDAY Day 7 | Kaza / Losar – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal / Battal – Friday Day 8 | Battal / Chandratal – Kunzum Pass – Rohtang Pass – Manali – SAT Day 9 | Manali – Delhi – SUN

Second question is about accommodation, do we have option of homestays (similar to Ladakh region)in the region or it would be better to book hotels prior to the trip. I have looked at the recommended accommodation link on DOW but could not find much recommendations for home stays… Also what do u think reasonable amount would be for a couple to spend on accommodation as per above itinerary.

Above plan is to travel from 7th Oct onwards.

Any other advice would be most appreciated. Thanks in advance…:)

1. Well, you must be aware how you can drive, so you are the best judge if you can make the 16-17 Hrs drive to Sangla by saturday or not. Rest looks OK. 2. You have plenty of home stays available all round Spiti Valley, since most do not have contact info. so not posted. 3. Take about 800-1000 per day for food + stay per person at max on an average.

Thanks for your responce Dheeraj….. We got 3 people who would be sharing the load of driving so hopefullywe should be able to manage that part.

In any case if we get delayed which place we should plan to skip in below schedule so as to get back delhi on time.

Also if we decide not to spend night at Chandratal…how far is Batal and would accomodation options be available in oct second week.Any other option to spend night around Chandratal. Basically i am little nervous aboutsub zero temp. around Chandratal, especially at night.

Lastly is it possible to spend night in Tabo monestry…we would like to observe the routine of monks from 1000 year old monestry.

Thanks again for your help….

Hi Dheeraj, any chance you can comment about my query above…

Sorry it got missed somehow 🙁 … Just replied now.

1. Batal is about 17 KMs from Chandratal and about 15 KMs from where the cars are parked at Chandratal. It may take time as the speed of vehicle will be slow due to very narrow track. Apart from camps there is no option at Chandratal. You should be nervous because late in the season winds make it freezing at night 🙂 … Yeah, Tabo monastery has a guest house where you can stay and live the day with monks. The rooms are basic but then this is what about experiencing the local life.

Hi dheeraj,

we are a group of 8-10 people. we are planning to visit chandertal on 9,10,11,12 oct 2016. we will be travelling by a scorpio and a tata safari. Itenary as follows: Day 1- delhi to manali. stay overnight Day 2- manali to chandertal (camp at chandertal) Day 3- chandertal – kunzum-batal.(camp at batal) Day 4- batal – chandigarh/stay at manali and back.

following queries regarding above. 1. what will be the tentative temperature day/night? 2. do we need to carry any oxygen supply? 3. will the tents be available or we should carry our own supplies. 4. any possibility of snow in entire circuit? 5. is it safe to do the trip?

1. It will be subzero or at times below zero in October. Winds will make the real feel all together different in night and evenings. 2. If you carry, it will be better and provide you with comfort in case someone is stuck with AMS 3. There may be a camp available but cannot be 100% certain that late in the season 4. It usually starts to snow around end of September early October, so, yes. 5. There is definitely a risk that you will be taking, I wil not say it entirely safe. That late in the season, the biggest problem is less people frequent that place and in case of any issue, there could be trouble. The only saviour up there is Dorje uncle at Batal dhabha

Thanks for ur advise dheeraj! I did chandertal on 15 oct. We did it same day up down from mandi- chandertal– mandi. We started 4:30 am and got back 11:30 pm night on 15 th. It was a wonderful experience. Can u pls help me with itenary/ route map for following tour. I want to cover marsmik la, waree la, kaksang la primarily. Secondary khardung la, chang la, tanglang la.

Kindly help with route map and days to be provision.

Tx once again Dheeraj

Dheeraj, you can refer: DoW – Maps of Ladakh | Nubra Valley & Changthang

How many days do you have in hand, which vehicle you will be using and when are you planning this trip?

Dheeraj, I think I replied to your other comment.

We are planning for a trip to Chandratal and hope to do camping there for a night. 9th Sep – 11 AM Leave from Manali for Chandratal. Night at Chandratal Camping. 10th Sep Return to Manali.

We are hoping to commute on a bike.

Is it doable or should we take up a spare day ?

Please help with contacts for camping at chandratal.

Yes Varun it is doable. Please check the accommodation section in the article above.

I’m planning to do Delhi – Manali- Chandratal- Kaza- Tabo- Nako- Kalpa-Sangla-Narkanda-Delhi in the last week of september, i have about 12-13 days at my disposal so please suggest a good itinerary, please include an extra day at Manali. Thanks

Molty, you can refer: Spiti Valley from Manali – Most Common Itinerary

We are a group of 12 people, planning to visit Lahul and Spiti valley in the month of September. Vehicle: Traveller Month : September 2016 Tour Plan is as below, request you to please check and suggest change if any. 16 Mumbai to Kalka 17 Kalka to Fagu 18 Fagu-Narkanda-Rampur-Sarahan 19 Sarahan-Kalpa 20 Kalpa-reckong peo-Nako 21 Nako-Tabo-Kaza 22 Kaza Local sightseeing 23 Kaza-Losar_Kunzum-Chandrataal 24 Chandrataal-Manali 25 Extra Day 26 Manali to Kalka 27 Kalka to Mumbai

Br, Nishant

I will suggest that you do it like below:

16 Mumbai to Kalka 17 Kalka to Narkanda/Fagu 18 Narkanda/Fagu – Sangla 19 Sangla – Chitkul – Kalpa 20 Kalpa – reckong peo – Nako – Tabo 21 Tabo – Dhangkar – Pin Valley – Kaza 22 Kaza Local sightseeing – Langza, Hikkim, Komik 23 Kaza – Ki – Kibber – Losar – Kunzum – Chandrataal 24 Chandrataal – Manali 25 Extra Day – Better spend in Spiti Valley 26 Manali to Kalka 27 Kalka to Mumbai

Thanks a lot Dheeraj ..For your valuable suggestions ..

Hello Dhiraj,

Nice to see the work you are doing. i.e. Helping the travellers. 🙂

We are planning to travel Chandratal on 1st October nd we will be carrying the camping tents with us. I just wanted to know that as we are going to stay for 2 nights at camp Are there any facilities of toilets available near lake?

else it would be difficult for us to control the natures call for 2 days. 🙂

Thanks in Advance. 🙂

Ravi, please not that camping at Chandratal lake is not allowed as it comes under Ramsar site. You have to camp it at the camping location. So, please respect that and avoid any trouble with the locals. You can pitch the camps at the dedicated camping sites. There are no toilets, you will be at the mercy of cold and harsh nature up there. Do go prepared with woollens as it will be windy and cold during that time at Chandratal

Thanks Dheeraj. U r an authority on Himalayan Travel.

Thank you Pallav.

Thanks for the useful information here. I want to do the trip to Lahaul – Spiti including Chandratal, from Delhi in the first or second week of September this year. I will be driving a crossover with my wife. I want to know the weather conditions in September for a road trip or shall we do it in August? We want to do the circuit from Kinnaur and come back from Rohtang la or other way round. Please suggest suitable time or any other important thing that you want to. Thanks for the help.

Second wek of September will be much better than August. You will have good time up there with pleasant weather. Please refer Spiti Valley | Most Common Itinerary

Thanks Dheeraj. Appreciate it :).

Hi Dheeraj, Last Year completed Spiti Valley Trip with your advice but had to leave Chandratal due to bad weather condition in the 3rd week of September. Now I want to enquire weather Chandratal is open from manali side, as I plan to visit during 6-10 July. Since I plan to travel by Bus, information on Kullu-Kaza bus is also solicited. thanks

Pallav, the bus is operational now from Kullu – Manali to Kaza. You need to get down at the diversion and then either hitch hike or take lift or trek to Chandratal from the point.

I m planning a solo trek to Spiti valley, exploring chandertal also and Dhankar village, Nako, Tabo and Kaza. Might also want to trek to a peak. Never been to Spiti. My trip plan is from 25 June- 2 July My queries are:- 1. Is it safe to travel altogether solo in whole trek ? Or is there chance of getting lose the way? 2. Can I explore all the above mentioned places of Spiti in 7-8 days? 3. How much estimated budget would be incurred including local travels if ever needed. ? Kindly guide me on itenary also. Thanks in advance. Bindiya

Hello Bindya,

1. Yes, mostly safe you can loose the track. 2. It will be hectic but possible 3. Take about 1200-1500 per day for food + stay and rest will be all transport/commute

You can try

Day 1 | Delhi – Narkanda Day 2 | Narkanda – Kalpa Day 3 | Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo Day 4 | Tabo – Dhankar – Dhankar Lake – Pin Valley (Mudh Village) – Kaza Day 5 | Kaza Local Sightseeing  — Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang in the second half of the day Day 6 | Kaza Local Sightseeing (Hikkim, Koumik)  — Hikkim, Komik, Langza circuit  Day 7 | Kaza – Kunzum Pass – Chandratal Day 8 | Chandratal – Manali Day 9 | Manali – Delhi

Oh So nice of You Dheeraj for quickest reply and for itenary. I will sure take up this and explore Spiti my way. Thanks a tonn

Sure have fun, feel free to post any queries.

Dear Dheeraj, I just spoke to one of the driver listed by you. I told him his my plan and itenary as prepared by you. later he called me up and told his itenary prepared for me and charges as under:- Shimla- Srahan (stay at Srahan) day 1 Sarahan- kalpa- chitkul (stay at kalpa) day 2 Kalpa- Nako- geyu- tabo- kaza (stay at Kaza) day 3 kaza- local sight seeing , ki monastry- Dhankar- Lohsar (stay at Lohsar) day 4 lohsar – chandertal (stay at Chadertal) Day 5 Chandertal – Rampur (stay at Rampur) Day 6 he will drop me at Rampur saying volvo are available for Delhi from there. Total charges- His car- 15000 Stay and accomodation as said by u earlier 7-8000/- Total= 23000/- Plz correct the itenary for me. And guide me some more. So that I can communicate Are his charges genuine?

Plz reply Dheeraj

Well, 15000 for 6 days seems good deal BUT the plan is very hectic since you have less time on hand. You will be on road only for long hours.

I had a fabulous trip to spiti and Kinnaur. Your guidance helped me a lot and boosted my morale for solo trip. This just life time experience esp the Itenary as guided by you and the driver I got from ur reference. he was just hardworking and honest person. Kept motivated even in difficult most of terrain and through deep nullahs though his was a small car (Maruti alto). I would like to share final itenary I followed at with u as this might help other travellers too to plan accordingly in the limited time period. Itenary:

Day 1: Shimla- Srahan (stay at Sarahan) Day 2: Sarahan- Raksham- chitkul (stay at Chitkul) Day 3: Chitkul- Reckong Peo- Kalpa- Nako- geyu- (stay at Geyu) Day 4: Geyu- Tabo-Dhankar- Trek to Dhankar lake- Kaza (Stay at kaza) Day 5- Kaza- Langza. Hikkim, kaumik vilages, Sakya monastery, local market (stay at kaza) Day 6- Kaza- lohsar- Kunzhumpass- Chandertal- Kaza (stay at kaza) Day 7- Kaza- ki monastry- Kibber- Back journey- Tabo- Nako- RPeo (stay at kalpa) Day 8- Kalpa- Rpeo- Narkanda- Shimla- Back to Chandigarh by evening

Total charges of car were @2500/day. He tried arrange stay at good and reasonable guest houses and home stays. luckily we got all good stays. The best part of this plan was that, i could stay at Geyu (The most unexplored one). The home stay there was one fabulous experience as family was just homely and in the night the sky appeared so starry full of large sized stars..we just njoyed early morning stroll through Geyu village, yellow flower beds, bful snow capped mountain top views, deep valley, and what not. Geyu must stay guys. There is only one home stay there. I wanted to post pics here but am unable to. another good decision was avoid stay at Chandertal. Since stay near lake is not allowed, and we had reached there early morning and could spent ample time roaming around. Stay at Chitkul too was awesome as this village offers not only bful Baspa river view, but also of Kinnar kailash on east and mountain ranges of Tibet on West side. A fresh water nullah through flowing just thru middle of village , and its energy is tapped by many water chakkis is just a sight to watch.

I want to share the name of driver as he was just motivated to drive through difficult terrain also and was safe. His name is Rajkumar and number- 08894320524

Thanks once again Dheeraj.

Thank you so much Bindiya, sorry for the delayed reply. I have put up your report in DoW COmmunity: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/lahaul-spiti-kinnaur-valley-travel-tales/topic4641.html#p35754

I am planning a trip to spiti via manali coming down from sangla back to Chandigarh. I have never visited spiti valley and intend to drive my self on this trip. Below are my questions.. You think it is alright to drive yourself during your first visit to this place? Is it fine to drive a hatch back or sedan? We are a couple travelling all alone.. Is it safe and will we get decent places to stay over during nights?

Hello Yash,

1. If you have a SUV and a good driver, it should be OK 2. Please refer plan below

Day 1 : Reach Manali by overnight volvo of and stay overnight at Solang Valley as preferred for acclimatization Day 2 : Manali / Solang – Chandratal – Kaza. Leave early morning from Manali to see Chandratal too. Day 3 : Kaza – Rest Day. Evening pay a visit to Ki, Kibber Day 4 : Kaza – Langza – Komik – Hikkim – Kaza – Tabo Day 5 : Tabo – Geyu Mummy – Nako – Kalpa Day 6 : Kalpa – Sangla / Chitkul – Sarahan / Rampur Day 7 : Sarahan / Rampur – Delhi, long drive back

Hey Dheeraj, I am planning a trip to Chandratal Lake from 17th to 24th June 2016. Just wanted to know if it is possible to complete this trip if we make the complete circuit i.e. go via Shimla route and come back via Manali route ? Secondly, could you suggest as to how we should go from Shimla to Chandratal Lake. Preferably we want to hire a taxi or we are ok with sharing it with fellow passengers as well. Some local contacts etc would be great.

You can follow:

You can get connected directly to some drivers in Spiti Valley or Kinnaur Valley at the link: List of Taxi Drivers for Spiti Valley & Kinnaur Valley . These drivers can come and pick you up from Manali / Shimla / Delhi / Chandigarh too, of course with a price of pickup as well.

The rates of the taxis are about Rs 3000-3500 per day depending upon the number of days you plan to travel, more the days, less the price.

Otherwise, taxis in general are also available on the spot from Shimla or Manali from respective taxi stands

Hey Dheeraj. I had to cut down my itinerary down to about 5 days i.e. 18th June to 22nd June. We will reach Manali on 18th in the morning and then we have to plan the journey forward. It would be great if you could take out the time to answer the questions below.

1. We asked a driver mentioned in the list you provided. (Arun Negi). He referred one of his friends. He said he would be charging Rs 19,000 for 3 days i.e. starting on 19th and finishing by 21st. He would bring us back to Manali by 22nd. Innova car and we are 3 guys. He would take us to Chandratal and would also take on a tour of Spiti, the important places like Key, Kibbar etc and whatever else if feasible. Is this price ok or should we inquire for drivers once we reach Manali ?

2. Secondly, could you please suggest a suitable itinerary for us for a period of 3 days. We definitely want to visit Chndratal. Apart from this what all can we cover in Spiti Valley. I mean what all is feasible. We don’t want to over exert ourselves. :p

Thanks in advance Dheeraj 🙂 🙂

I had been following your blog since last 3 years…and i love it. You are doing a great job compiling all the information when it comes to ladakh and spiti. I must say this is one of the most detailed and exhaustive blog.

I felt i should share this piece of information about the myth associated with pandavas reaching heaven. I visited har ki doon long back where locals there told me about the myth that yudishthir reached heaven through Swargarohini peak. I cross checked it in wiki. “Swargarohini derives it names from the Legends associated with that it peaks forms the path to heaven that was followed by Pandavas,But only One Pandava [Yudhishthira] & A Dog had reached to Heaven.According to Legends it is believed that is the only way one can go to heaven with the human body itself.”

Thanks Jitesh for sharing it 🙂

I am planning to visit Manali- Rohtan- Kunzum-Kaza and may be Chandrataal Lake, if possible. We are 6 people coming from Delhi. Dates are decided, i.e., 28june to 2nd july. Please help in making the itinerary and Taxi or rented bike and places to stay. Also please give phone no of those who can help us make this trip the best.

Thank you for creating such an amazing page. You inspire to to travel more often.

Cheers. Power to you!

Hi there, I am planning for a short trip to spiti with 3 of my friends. Taking public transport to reach there. Could you please help me in knowing whether manali route is open now? i will reach Delhi on 28th evening and have to depart from delhi 4th morning. will it make sense in going spiti for such a short span?

Manali – Kaza is not open yet and will open around first week or second week of June

Hi Dheeraj, I’ve to say that you & the whole DOW team is doing a tremendous job of helping all. After doing lot of search on the internet for weeks & this is the best site for travelling to Leh/Spiti.

I’m doing a Road trip along with a friend from Mumbai in Duster 4X2 from 25th July (Mumbai-Jaipur-Mashobra) I plan cover Spiti & Leh starting from Shimla as we are staying at Mashobra for 3 days(27th to 30th july). I’ve 20 to 22 days for this whole trip.

I need bit help & suggestion on few things. 1. As i am starting from Shimla, I am still not sure which places i must see, where to halt for night on route? I prefer home stay if possible. Can you please plan a itinerary for me to follow. We are also carrying camping gear in the car. 2.How is the weather? Lot of rain? I was told mostly its rain shadow region. 3. Are 20 days enough for this entire trip. I doubt it. I plan to exit from Srinagar.

You can check the below plan and fit in Mashorba in place of Sarahan.

Day 1 | Chandigarh/Ambala – Narkanda – Sarahan Day 2 | Sarahan – Rakcham/Sangla/Chitkul Day 3 | Rakcham/Sangla/Chitkul – Nako – Geyu Mummy – Tabo Day 4 | Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley – Kaza Day 5 | Kaza Rest and Local Sightseeing — Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang Day 6 | Kaza – Hikkim, Komik, Langza circuit – Kaza Day 7 | Kaza – Sissu / Keylong, leave early in the day Day 8 | Keylong/Jispa – Leh — Leave Keylong/Jispa early next morning, say by 4/5 AM types, so that you reach Leh in the evening. — Overnight at Leh

Day 9 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Acclimatization — To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh — Overnight at Leh

Day 10 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder — Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit — On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La — Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari

Day 11 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh — Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs — Overnight at Leh

Day 12 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake — Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso — Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)

Day 13 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh — Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh — Overnight at Leh

Day 14 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang — Cover Karzok Monastery — Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri   Day 15 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Taglang La – Upshi – Leh — Come back via Tso Kar and Manali – Leh Highway to Leh — Overnight at Leh

Day 16 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping — Overnight at Leh

Day 17 | Leh – Lamayuru – Kargil — Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes — On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu — Overnight at Kargil

Day 18 | Kargil – Drass – Zozi La – Sonamarg – Srinagar — Enjoy the vistas enroute — Have late drunch meal at Sonamarg — Overnight at Srinagar

Day 19 | Srinagar – Jammu — Overnight at Jammu

Day 20 | Jammu – Ambala – Delhi — Back Home

Thanks…. How is the weather in August? are all routes passable for Renault Duster?

Weather is rainy lower hills but once you reach rain shadow, it is in general overcast, drizzle only

Hi – Too ambitious – I am at Manali from 22 May till 27 May – I don’t want to miss this place – Let me know if by any chance the road will be Open – I am on my XUV. (I have a 3 year kid as well) – is it worth trying.

Either a day trip or one night + (2 people to drive)

Very unlikely that road to Chandratal will be open during that time of the year.

I am planning to go the Chandra tal on 8th June. a couple of questions

1. Will we be able to take our car up to chandratal? We are planning to take a Duster 110PS. 2. Can we stay overnight there? Is there any accommodation available at that time. We will also be carrying our own tents. Can we use them in that temperature?

1. I think so, this year, it might be possible for you, if not to the last parking point then at least to some extend from Battal to dirt track of Chandratal 2. Yes tented accommodations will be available up there and inc ase the road is not open then you will have to stay at Battal dhabha or PWD Rest house

Hi, your articles are just awesome and so inspirational and helpful. Thanks for these articles. I will be travelling from Shimla to Spiti Valley and surrounding areas like Chandratal, etc and then back to Delhi via Manali. I have 2 questions – Is it ok to start this trip on 15th May? I will be going with 2 ladies so will it be safe? What is the toilet situation for women on the road? Men can stop the vehicle anywhere and answer nature’s call but it’s hard for women.

Appreciate your answer.

Thanks Bobby, glad to know that you loved the articles on DoW.

1. Hmm, road from Kaza to Manali is notorious and may not open by that time of the year. Chandratal is more dicey to travel. 2. Safety from humans are no worries there in Himalayas at all unless your time is really really bad 🙂 3. There will not be any toilets on the road, you have to ensure you take opportunity in the morning, in monasteries, in restaurants where ever you stop for sightseeing.

hello.dheeraj we are planning to visit kinnaur and spiti region in may last week 2016. will the route to chandrataal be open during this period?? thanks

Hello Dr. Tejas,

Well, this year snowfall is very less in Himalayas and I am hoping by the time you reach Chandratal that is around first week of June, it shall be open this year.

Dear Dheeraj Ji, We, the three families have planned to visit HP during Durga Puja vacation this year. We will arrive Manali on 10.10.2016. Whether we may visit Chandratal on 11.10.2016 or next morning from Losar and proceed Kaza there after? We need your opinion pl. Warm regards. Debajyoti

Well, it will be damn cold during that time in Spiti Valley. This is the only option you have to visit Chandratal on the way to Manali from Kaza. Best is that you leave Manali or Solang Valley very early in the day. Then you visit Chandratal on the way to Kaza only. Do no stay there. Also check the weather in case of any snowfall predictions.

Dear Dheeraj, Your posts have been really informative and I feel so proud to connect with someone who values nature and acts with a sense of responsibility towards others well. I have explored some parts of the north east this year and next year I surely want to visit Spiti. Will need your advice and guidance… PS: u r doing a great job , way to go…

Thank you so much Shilpa, feel free to post any queries you have.

I will reach Sangla on 11 th noon and have to reach back on 15 th oct to Delhi.kindly suggest what best area can be covered.

11 – Sangla, rest and sit besides river or walk in village 12 – Go over to Chitkul and explore 13 – Visit Kalpa and stay there 14 – Kalpa – Narkanda 15 – Narkanda – Delhi

Thanx a lot…is it possible to do 11th Kalpa..12th kaza..13th Manali..14th Delhi …can risk be taken coz of weather n road conditions especially thru Kaza…kindly advise.

Sanjay, in that case why not reverse it and also keep in mind all these days will be quite long almost running on road only.

The travelogue is extremely informative. We have planned to visit chandratal lake this week on 3rd Oct, saturday. We are leaving Delhi on thursday night and plan to reach Manali by Friday afternoon. I have a few queries-

1. Is the road from manali to batal accessible presently?

2. We plan to trek to chandratal, is it feasible going by the present conditions?

3. What are the accommodation options if we plan to stay? Is staying there really a good option?

4. Is the PWD gueat house readily available or is there a point of contact?

Awaiting your response…

1. Yes, it is accessible but cold is quite getting harsh day by day in nights 2. No need to trek, the road goes all the way to parking spot about 700-800 Mtrs before the lake 3. It is better that you stay at Batal and next day leave for Chandratal early morning spend there up to 11 AM and then come back. Spending night at Chandratal camps will be quite tough and uncomforting at this time 4. There is no contact, may be call the sattelite phone info. given in article above for Dorje uncle who can book it for you.

Dheeraj sir, We guys are planning a trip to manali-lahul-spiti-dehradun … Sir we will be reaching Chandigarh on 8th by 10pm… Can u please help us plan our trip… We are really confused about how to travel and how many days should we stay in these places… Especially lahul nd spiti… Can u please make a trip plan day wise… We want to complete the whole journey from manali to dehradun by 16th… We will be reaching manali early in d morning around 7am on 9th… Sir please help us… 🙂

Post first week of October, it becomes quite a risky affair to travel on Manali – Kaza road especially when snowfall starts getting up there. Snowfall has started on all high passes in trans Himalayas and that road is a no mans land and in case of any help required it will be quite difficult. I always suggest that one know this kind of risk of getting stuck in no mans land in quite cold conditions at night without much food or stay option and then take a decision of go/no-go to travel on these roads.

If you really want to do Spiti Valley during that time of the year, then go ahead and do it from Shimla – Kinnaur side only and come back from the same route. In case you are OK with such a risk of being stuck in case weather turns up its head, then try to do Manali – Kaza as soon as possible in the season now.

Let me know from where you want to make a trip

Sir we would prefer manali kaza route… Nd sir wat abt lahul… Is it worth going? Which one do u think is better lahul or spiti given u dont have much time to stay…? Pls suggest ! Nd do help us to plan our trip!! 🙂

Abhishek, it is really not wise to be stuck in the middle of no where in harsh conditions. That place is unforgiving, remember. One unnecessary risk can take an ugly turn at any moment. But, last call will be to you only 🙂 ..

Regarding Lahaul, it is good but Spiti is Spiti at any given day 🙂

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Trekking and Camping at Himachal’s Surreal Wonder – Chandratal Lake

traveller Chitraangi

Chandratal Lake literally means ‘Lake of the Moon.’ The word Chandra in Hindi means the moon and Tal means a lake. Chandratal is a crescent-shaped lake and is often referred to as one of the most beautiful lakes located at an altitude of about 14,000 ft amidst the majestic Himalayas. 

The Chandratal Lake grabs the imagination of travelers because of its magnificent landscape. The lake encircles a vast meadow that is carpeted with different kinds of wildflowers. Not to forget the brown mountains that cover it from three sides. Each year hundreds of travelers pursue trekking up to Chandratal Lake from Batal. I too trekked here and even camped overnight, once I reached this gorgeous natural wonder. In my current blog, I will share my experience with you. Also, I will elaborate on how to reach here, where to stay and every other travel detail that you need.

Chandratal Lake

There are several stories related to Chandratal Lake. Legend has it that Chandratal Lake lies in the vicinity of a place from where God Indra’s chariot picked up Yudhishthira , the eldest of the Pandava brothers in Mahabharata (the great Indian epic) . This fact renders the lake sacred and thus, is flocked by a lot of Hindu devotees each year.

Another mythical story is related to a fairy residing in the lake. It is believed that a shepherd from Spiti Valley fell in love with the mermaid and spent some time with her under the water. Thus the colour of this lake kept on changing. By the way, the colour of the water of this lake keeps changing from reddish to orange to blue to emerald green as the day ends, till this date.

Whether you choose to believe any of the above-stated legends or not, the fact remains that Chandratal is a beauty lying high in the Himalayas and only a true wanderlust lover will beat all odds to reach here and see that beauty. Trust me, once you visit this beauty, going back won’t be on your mind for a long time.

This is me standing right in front of Chandratal Lake in Spiti after trekking till here. It felt surreal to be here. The lake changes colours throughout the day. Its water is sparkling clean. Every traveler should visit Chandratal at least once. On my first trip ever, not only did I trek to the lake but also camped for 2 nights and days at a locale nearby. Chandratal is pure magic and beauty.

The fact that Chandratal Lake is located at a high altitude makes its geographical position remote. Hence, you should be mentally prepared to commence your journey here.

One thing I can tell you as a traveler is that even though Chandratal is remotely located, the entire route and trek later is so scenic that you won’t mind getting a little tired. After all, what is required to truly enjoy nature’s gems is a lot of passion.

Chandratal is accessible both via Manali and through the Shimla route. However, it is closer to Manali than it is to Shimla. But as a traveler, you can decide which route to take for Spiti depending on your itinerary.

Either way, you will have to enter Spiti first and reach a place called Batal. Once you reach Batal, you need to trek about 14 Kms to finally reach Chandratal Lake.

Once you reach here, you should surely camp overnight and feel the magic of nature around you.

Before I proceed ahead, let me share some very important details about the lake and the region for all my fellow travelers who plan to trek to Chandratal in the near future –

Chandratal Lake lies in a region called Spiti which in turn is located in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.

Chandratal lies at an altitude of about 14,000+ feet above sea level.

Accessib ility

Chandratal can be accessed throughout the year. However, it is extremely difficult to reach here during winter months.

The ideal time to visit

The months of June to October make for an ideal time to visit this natural wonder. These are months of summer and monsoons in Himachal. Hence, the weather conditions will be more welcoming for travelers during these months.

Weather conditions

Being at such a high altitude, the weather conditions around the lake are mostly chilly. However, the sun shines during the day providing warmth to the place. The nights surely can get very cold even during winter.

Daily temperature

On average, the daily temperature around the lake varies from 11°C to 20°C during sunny days and falls to about -2°C to 6°C during chilly nights.

Trek difficulty

The trek till Chandratal is of easy nature. Even a first time trekker will be able to finish it with ease. However, do take breaks in between in order to conserve energy.

Biking options

A lot of individuals bike from Manali to Chandratal. You can rent bikes in Manali itself and pay for the fuel yourself. Make sure you are a seasoned biker before entering the region.

Accommodation available

Accommodation near Chandratal includes campsites in the form of tents. You can camp by yourself as well. However, camping near the lake is strictly prohibited. Most campsites are located at a distance of 2-3 Km from the lake.

Safety level for solo travelers

Chandratal and the entire region of Spiti is extremely safe for solo travelers, backpackers, and families. A lot of people have this question of is Spiti safe or not. Visit here to find out.

Cost of taking a trip to Chandratal

It cost me 6K INR for a trip from Manali to Chandratal Lake. This cost was so low because we were a group of five people. This figure of 6K INR included everything – campsite, food and transport.

Travel Routes for Chandratal Lake

As a traveler coming from Manali, the travel route for Chandratal will be as follows – Manali –> Rohtang Pass –> Batal –> Chandratal Lake.

As a traveler coming from Shimla, the travel route for Chandratal will be as follows – Shimla –> Reckong Peo –> Kaza –> Batal –> Chandratal Lake.

How to Reach Chandratal Lake from Manali?

One of the nearest towns to Chandratal Lake where travelers visit and stay in Manali. It can be a good stopover place before heading to Chandratal. The distance between Manali and Chandratal Lake is a little over 70 km. Each year a lot of bikers pursue a biking trip to Chandratal and beyond.

You can either head via a bike, cab or state transport bus from Manali till Batal. Traveling as a group or at least as two people will be much more cost-effective in this part of the world than traveling solo.

The Dhaba (small eatery) at Batal that goes by the name of Chacha Chachi Dhaba is an all time favourite of travelers. Chacha and Chachi are very hospitable couples and are famous for letting travelers stay over at the time of a weather crisis. Do try out their maggi, omelette and tea.

How to Reach Chandratal Lake from Shimla?

Even though the route till Chandratal from Shimla is really long, a lot of travelers prefer it. The reason is that this route helps them cover a lot of other places as well that lie on the way.

In order to travel from Shimla and finally reach Chandratal, you will have to break your journey twice. So this is what you do – start from Shimla and reach Reckong Peo. Stay overnight and stay at Reckong Peo. Start your journey again in the morning by taking a bus to Kaza. Stay overnight at Kaza and finally in the morning travel to Batal.

Once in Batal, trek till Chandratal Lake and camp there overnight.

An important thing that needs to be pointed out here is that if you choose to reach Chandratal Lake via this route, make sure to explore all the places that lie en route. That way you won’t get tired and your journey will be very fulfilling.

This is the map showing both routes to reach Chandratal Lake i.e from the Manali side and from the Shimla side. No matter which route you choose for your journey, Batal is the place that you will have to most certainly visit. Therefore, reach Batal in time to begin your journey to Chandratal.

Trekking till Chandratal Lake  

I had been planning a trek to Moon Lake for so long that when it finally happened, I was overwhelmed. I just couldn’t believe that I actually made it this far from my home city – Delhi.

You should know exactly how to reach Spiti from Delhi or whatever your home city is as a traveler. The details of the route and the modes of transport available need to be known beforehand.

Anyway, I took the Manali route for my first-ever trekking trip to Chandratal Lake. I undertook it with some close friends. Not only did traveling together turn out to be a wonderful experience, but it also ended up being cost-effective.

Our trekking trip comprised of the following stages –

Reaching Batal from Manali

We started from Manali at 5 am in the morning by boarding the local state transport bus. On our way, we crossed the lovely Rohtang Pass, also known as Rohtang La. Seeing blocks of ice on either side of the road made my heart jump a beat. We finally reached Batal by afternoon and were dead hungry. 

Having lunch at Chacha Chachi Dhaba at Batal

Batal is a small village but the hearts of people here are full of love. A small dhaba by the name of Chandra Dhaba is located by the road in Batal. It is run by an elderly couple who are fondly known as Chacha and Chachi. They serve the best food you can get in the Himalayas.

We stopped by here for lunch and chatted with the owners for a while. They gave us some very useful tips for our path forward. We savoured eggs and Paranthas here. Chacha and Chachi were so hospitable that we hugged them tight once we left.

Trekking from Batal to Chandratal Lake

From Batal, there is a 14 km long trek to reach Chandratal Lake. This road is one of the most picturesque routes in Spiti Valley. The roads are winding around the mountains.

On this route, you will notice plenty of waterfalls and the Spiti River flowing nearby. You will also witness snow-capped mountains around covered mostly with mist and fog which adds to the beauty of the trek.

A lot of people take vehicles on this route. If you feel that trekking isn’t for you, then go for a drive on this route. Personally, I prefer trekking on this route to taking a vehicle and adding pollution to this very eco-friendly region. It took us 6 hours to reach our campsite.

Camping overnight near Chandratal Lake

Camping on the banks of Chandratal Lake is restricted by law. Therefore, as travelers we had to camp near it and not around it. The nearest campsite is at least 3 kilometers away from the lake. Even if you are camping on your own, you are not allowed to pitch your tents anywhere near the lake.

As much as we wanted to go and see Chandratal Lake, our camp owner convinced us to eat something, sleep early and then take a hike till Chandratal Lake early morning. This was very helpful advice, now that we think of it.

We got into our tents and were served decently cooked food. A huge bonfire was lit outside our tents. The entire ambience was lovely at night. The shining stars above added to nature’s beauty.

Hiking till Chandratal Lake in the morning

From our campsite, Chandratal Lake can be accessed on foot. The road leading to Chandratal Lake was about 3 km long. It took us around 15 minutes to reach the Lake. We took a shortcut. After all, this is one of the best things about mountains – shortcuts are always a possibility if you don’t mind walking.

The route we took was comparatively shorter and easier than the actual trail which is 3 km long starting all the way from the campsite to the lake. Our route ensured that we took a hike around the mountains passing through two high-altitude lakes surrounded by snow capped mountains.

On the way, we found wildflowers, different coloured stones and a patch of the land struck by lightning. This patch, in particular, is barren and can be easily spotted amidst the green mountains. We were also able to see the panoramic views of Samudra Tapu Glacier at a distance. 

Finally, we spotted the lake even though we were still a distance from it. 

Spending quality time at Chandratal Lake

The first thing we observed once we reached our beautiful destination were signboards. Around the lake, there are boards signalling the start point of the lake.

Chandratal was not just beautiful. It was truly magnificent. I had a feeling of hopping over all the high mountains to see what lies on the other side. 

I spent around 2 hours here and finally hiked back to the campsite and left Chandrtaal. I plan to visit here again.

My Trekking and Camping Experience at Chandratal Lake in Pictures

Let me now share all my trekking and camping pictures in and around Moon Lake by means of pictures. I hope my fellow travelers benefit from understanding the locale, trek, camps and other things related to the lake after seeing these pictures.

This is the famous Chandra Dhaba at Batal run by two elderly people. They are fondly known as Chacha and Chachi. Not only are they hospitable but also prepare delicious food. Batal will be the starting point of your trek. Hence, stop by here and recuperate.

This is me at the beginning stage of my trek to Chandratal Lake. See the boards behind me? Chandratal lies at a distance of 14 km from this point. Well, the spelling on the board is incorrect (Chandertall)but the distance is accurate.

Me and my friends treading along the beautiful path towards Chandratal. The snow-clad mountains add to the magnificence of the landscape. The blue mountains along with the blue hue of the sky add to the vibrance and the greenery adds to the overall beauty.

This is us at the Tenzing camp – our place of stay near Chandratal Lake. The lake was about 3 Km from here. Tenzing camp is a pretty side and the owner is a hospitable and gentle person. He took care of us really well.

This is the inside of my camp. A warm blanket along with a quilt was provided in here. On the floor was a luxury carpet that helped maintain the warmth inside the tent. It was a lovely experience spending a night inside this tent.

This is us ready to hike up to Chandratal Lake early morning after a good night’s sleep at the Tenzin Camp. The sun was up and added to the warmth. The mountains at a distance looked so beautiful and welcoming.  There is something about the mountains that attracts travelers like myself.

The last part of the hike. We were almost there. We could even see the first glimpse of Moon Lake. It made us so excited. The vibe of this place is exceptionally positive. Every traveler should visit here at least once.

We’re finally here at this beautiful wonder. The man in this picture was a solo traveler and was basking in the sun. He was the only one here when we reached Chandratal Lake. This region is so full of grace, so abundant with optimism.

As soon as you reach Chandratal Lake, there is a small stupa covered with prayer flags and wishing stones piled up all around the lake. There is a popular belief amongst the locals to make a wish by piling up seven flat stones one on top of the other.

This is me having a fun and frolic moment at the lake. I was so happy to be here that I just had to do this. Chandratal is a gem of a place and has made me fall in love with it totally. I will return to this wonder soon.

Thus, this was my trekking and camping experience at the lovely Chandratal Lake. I hope all my fellow travelers put this place on their priority travel list.

Although the temperature of the Chandratal lake water is generally cold, swimming is permitted in the lake.   Do take a skinny dip in the clear waters, it’s very refreshing.

At a full moon or a new moon night, the reflection of the full moon in the lake makes it sparkle and it is a magnificent experience. While on the new moon, millions of shooting stars can be seen which makes the heavens look close.

The temperature drops below zero degrees Celsius during pre-winter, and the sky is filled with countless stars and offers spectacular Milky Way views.

AMS at Chandratal Lake

A very important thing that needs to be mentioned is that more often than expected, travelers experience a health issue known as the AMS while they are in this region. AMS stands for Acute Mountain Sickness and is a very common occurrence in almost all the mountain regions of the world.

Whether you are backpacking to Leh or traveling to Sikkim’s Nathu La Pass, AMS is common. As a traveler, you should know how to deal with it and how to acclimatize yourself.

Chandratal Lake is at a height of 14,000 feet which means that you may suffer altitude sickness while spending a night here. You are covering a tremendous altitude in a single day and it might lead to AMS. 

If you start to feel any symptoms of acute mountain sickness while at Rohtang Pass, Batal, or on the way to Chandratal Lake, it is best to avoid staying at the lake. Alternatively, you can pop in medicine prescribed by your doctor. 

Make sure to have him prescribe you the AMS medicine so that you can carry it with you. That way, you will be able to cope fast and not miss out on anything. One of the best ways to counter AMS is by taking breaks at various places and acclimatizing. 

A Note about the Campsites near Chandratal

There are no hotels at Chandratal Lake. The only option available is campsites.  Camping is not allowed on the edge of the Chandratal Lake, and it is a good thing. You want the lake to be there for your kids too, right? We’ve degraded the environment way too much.

  I stayed at Tenzing Camp, owned by Tenzin, Chacha and Chachi’s son at Chandratal Lake. The tents usually cost 1500 INR upwards. The campsites at Chandratal Lake include huge dining tents and tents pitched up for toilets and for a stay.

The tents available are of moderate quality with mattresses and blankets inside.  The food available at the campsite is very hygienic consisting of rice , mixed vegetables, lentils and noodles. Beverages such as tea, coffee and cold drinks are also available. Do not miss their special tea. It’s savoury.

One can also pitch their own tents by paying a nominal fee at the campsite.

Frequently Asked Questions by Travelers about Chandratal Lake

A lot of travelers have some common but important queries about Moon Lake. Therefore, let me address the concerns below.

As a trekking and camping destination, Chandratal Lake is mesmerizing.  You can break free from your  daily monotonous routine here and experience the true nomadic life.

Wildflowers fill up the banks of the Chandratal Lake in summer. White snow covers the lake during winter. The vast green meadows around the lake are a favourite among the Shepherds.

It is truly a splendid experience to trek and camp near Moon Lake. As a passionate traveler,  you should definitely visit Chandratal Lake at least once in your lifetime.

Happy wayfaring 🙂

THIS POST IS AN EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF BUDGET WAYFARERS. ANY INDIVIDUAL OR ASSOCIATION INDULGING IN PLAGIARISM WILL BE DEALT WITH STRICTLY . IF YOU WANT TO USE INFORMATION FROM THE ARTICLE ABOVE, KINDLY QUOTE THE SOURCE.

Chandratal Lake: A Trip to Enigmatic, Surreal and Magical Himalayan Jewel

About chandratal, the lake of the moon.

Chandra Tal or the Moon Lake, the name in itself is mysteriously enchanting! It conjures images of a tranquil water body settled amidst remote mountains. As you transcend upon this enigmatic jewel of Himachal Pradesh, your imaginations are beautifully jolted into reality.

The surreal beauty of the Chandra Taal lake smacks you in the face, it looks as if heavens have meticulously hand-painted this Kohinoor of nature with their own palette.

The Chandra Taal lake gets its name from the exquisitely crafted crescent shape that flamboyantly nestles under the azure blue skies. The lake glitters like a turquoise pendant against the cold-barren mountains of Spiti valley. It is surrounded by the expansive grassy land which was a glacier in ancient times.

The divinely beautiful lake reflects myriad hues ranging from reddish-orange to turquoise blue to shiny emerald as the day progresses. The changing colors add an element of mystery to the magical ambiance of the lake. These contrasting colors and stark landscapes sprinkle the entire panorama with shades of rainbow that the lake is so famous for.

At night, the moon casts a silver shimmer on its pristine waters and soaks the entire surroundings in a silvery spell. The mammoth hills encompassing the lake stand tall as if trying to delve deeper into the mystery of the elusive lake.

Believed to be the abode of Moon God, the luminous Chandra Taal lake leaves little for imagination! It never fails your expectations rather floors you with an ambiance so divine that you become a fan for a lifetime!

Chandratal Lake Location

Beautifully nestled between the mountains of Spiti Valley on Samudra Tal plateau, Chandratal is a 2.5 km wide freshwater lake that beckons tourists from all across the world.

At an astounding altitude of 14,100 feet, the Chandra Taal lake is strategically located at a distance of 9 km from Kunzum Pass in the Spiti Valley. It is surrounded by the expansive grassy land which was a glacier once. It was also a popular trading spot for traders from Tibet and Ladakh.

With a rambling landscape characteristic of the hermetical Spiti Valley, the lake is a popular trekking location because of its moderate trekking gradient.

It’s proximity from Manali, the picturesque tourist locale, makes it a hotspot for trekkers and travellers alike.

The history behind Chandratal Lake

Touted as one of the sacred lakes of the Hindus, the lake attracts hordes of Hindu devotees to its holy waters. It is the origin of the Himalayan river Chandra, one of the tributaries of river Chenab.

As eerie as it may sound but the mythical Chandra Taal lake has not one but three legends attached to it.

The most famous folklore revolves around the two lovebirds by the name of Chandra, the loving daughter of Moon God and Bhaga, the bright son of Sun God. Both madly in love but as destiny would have it, their parents did not approve of their alliance. They decided to elope from Baralacha La, the Pass where they met for the first time. Somehow, they could not meet there but met someplace else where they performed a celestial wedding. You can see the effervescent Chandrabhaga River at that spot which stands testimony to their heavenly alliance. The lakes Suraj Tal and Chandratal individually created by them still reverberate with the mystery of their romance.

The celebrated lake of Chandra Taal also finds its mention in Hindu mythology. It is widely believed that the chariot of Lord Indra (the revered God of Rain) took Yudhishthir to his heavenly abode at this very location.

History has it that a shepherd from Hansa Village in Spiti valley fell in love with a mermaid residing in the glacial lake. Their love blossomed under the icy waters of the angelic lake. Mythology believes that even today shepherds halt here to look for their long-lost friend.

How to reach Chandratal Lake

The Chandra Taal lake can be reached either by road, rail or air. You can decide on the one that best suits your adventurous needs.

The on-road route has two options. You can either drive to the lake or take a public transport bus to reach your destination.

• Car/ SUV Drive or Bike

Did you know that it was possible to cover the entire route to this heavenly place by road! If you are a driving expert or an avid biker, this on-road experience is bound to rock you out of your wits! Whooping bends, tricky terrains, hair-raising loops, and some precarious water crossings test the limit of even the best of the drivers. It is one of the very tough routes to traverse by car, SUV or bike, so one has to be extremely cautious and well-prepared for the notorious terrain.

Again, there are two options to reach the lake by bus, depending upon your trekking route ahead. The Chandratal Lake trek can either be undertaken via the Delhi-Manali route or the Simla-Kinnaur-Spiti Valley route. The total distance between Delhi & Chandratal is 680 km, and between Manali & Chandratal is 140 km

Delhi-Manali route to Chandratal Lake

This is one of the shortest routes to reach the lake, but not recommended as your body does not get enough time to get acclimatized to the changing altitudes. There is a rapid change in altitude from 8,000 feet to 14,000 feet in just 2 days which can take a toll on your body and cause acute mountain sickness. This route journeys from Delhi to Kullu, Manali, Rohtang Pass, Gramphu, Chhatru, Batal and finally to Chandratal.

One can comfortably reach Manali from Delhi or Chandigarh by state transport buses, AC/Non-AC or deluxe buses. Every season, the road between Spiti Valley and Manali opens by the month of June. One can hop onto the state transport buses run by Himachal Pradesh (HRTC), starting from Kullu and reaching Batal via Manali. After the bus crosses Batal, you get down at Chandratal diversion point.

From this diversion point, you can hike the remaining 14 km distance to reach the lake.

From Batal, a semi-motorable road of 18 km can take you to the lake.

Simla-Kinnaur-Spiti Valley route to Chandratal Lake

You start from Simla or Narkanda. The route from Simla/Narkanda moves to Kinnaur, Kaza, Losar, Kunzum Pass and finally Chandratal. This route, albeit a little longer, provides perfect acclimatization to your body.

The best combination is to explore the beautiful valley of Spiti and then head to the lake from Kaza.

From Delhi or Chandigarh, you can reach Simla by an AC or non-AC bus. From Simla/Narkanda these buses take you to Reckong Peo, the headquarters of Kinnaur district. At Reckong Peo, you take a bus to Kaza. After the bus crosses Kunzum Pass, you alight from the bus and trek to the lake. The Chandratal lake trek length is almost 9 km from Kunzum Pass. From Kunzum Pass, you can reach the lake only by trekking as there is no motorable road.

One can reach the lake by air either from Bhuntar airport (near Manali), Simla airport or Chandigarh airport. Bhuntar airport, at a distance of 180 km from Chandratal is the nearest airport to the lake.

Chandigarh is the most well-connected rail route to Chandratal as it has good connectivity with all parts of India.

However, the nearest railhead to the lake is Joginder Nagar. At a distance of 290 km from Chandratal, it is located near Mandi. It is, however a small station with limited connectivity.

Chandratal Lake Camping

Respecting the fragile eco-system of the region, one cannot camp near the lake as the area has been declared Chandratal Wetland and falls under the protection of the Forest Department.

However, there are paradisiacal campsites snuggled in the lap of mammoth Himalayan giants that offer an idyllic vista to nature lovers and adventure junkies.

The nearest campsite from the lake is at Batal. It takes around one and a half-hour of a trek to reach Chandra Taal from Batal.

While daytime camping at this scenic site floors you with a variegated spectrum of colorful wildflowers on a glossy green carpet flanked by austere barren mountains, the night camping under the canopy of the limitless expanse of starlit sky stirs your senses with its silvery sheen.

The landscape is hallucinogenic, surreal-you have to revel in the experience to actually believe it!

Chandratal Weather and Temperature

Located in the remote regions of Himalayas, the glacial lake is mostly cold all through the year.

With day time temperatures varying between 12 to 20 degrees Celsius, summers can be pleasant. Nights can be unusually cold with temperatures ranging from -2 to 6 degrees Celsius.

Winter is not the right time to venture to the frosty lake. The biting cold conditions can be unbearably cruel with temperatures going as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius.

Best Time to visit Chandratal Lake

The route to the lake is open from June third-week to November first-week. The lake can be visited between Mid June to July, and September to Mid October.

The region is still covered in snow in June and July.

There are chances of road blockage, especially from Batal to Chandratal, from Manali side.

From Losar-Kunzum Pass to Chandratal, the route is notorious for its infamous water crossings on the Kunzum side.

The month of August brings downpour in the region. You may face some tricky situations in the lower regions of the route. As you venture into the upper terrains-Rohtang Pass from the Manali side and Kaza from Kinnaur side-the weather is much in control.

The month of September is the ideal time to hit on the Chandratal Lake trip. You are treated to the most breathtaking views, nothing short of a slice of heaven.

The beauty of the lake cupped between mountain scree and cirque on each side, and overlooking a carpet of blazing fall foliage, is simply unparalleled.

The temperatures start falling from October onwards. It starts to snow in October and temperatures fluctuate between near zero in the day time and to sub-zero degrees during the night time.

The route to the lake may close in October depending upon the amount of snowfall and severity of the cold.

When is Chandratal Lake open?

Because of its high-altitude location and hostile weather conditions, the lake remains inaccessible for almost 8 months in a year.

It is open from the 3rd week of June to November first week, for almost four and a half months. As mentioned earlier, the region may experience heavy snowfall in the month of October, leading to an early closure of the Chandratal Lake route.

SSeptember is the best time to celebrate the beauty of the region. The fall season enamours you with rainbow tones of Himalayan flora set against the infinite expanse of clear blue skies.

Attractions around Chandratal Lake

Kunzum Pass- This pass connects Spiti valley to Lahaul valley. The almost 9 km distance between Kunzum Pass and the lake can only be traversed by foot. You are floored by the splendid view of the Bara Shigri glacier from the pass.

Baralacha La pass- At an imposing altitude of 16,040 feet, Baralacha La is one of the most treacherous passes in the Spiti Valley. It is at a distance of 35.7 km from Chandratal lake. It takes a trek of 2-3 days from the lake to reach Baralacha La pass.

Suraj Tal- This sacred lake, also called the lake of Sun God, is the third-highest lake in India. Located under the Baralacha La Pass, you can explore this exquisite marvel of nature by undertaking a trek of 2 to 3 days from Chandratal lake.

Rohtang Pass- The distance between the Chandra Taal lake and Rohtang Pass is 36.7 km. This beautiful pass treats you to majestic views of Lahaul Valley, cryptic glaciers and massive peaks.

Bara Shigri Glacier- This 25 km long and 3 km wide icy jewel is the largest glacier in Himachal Pradesh. Cradled between the Himalayan mammoths of White Sail, Indrasen, Kulu Makalu and Parvati Peak, this spotless beauty feeds the largest river of Himachal Pradesh, the Chenab river. Located in the Chandra valley of Lahaul district, the glacier is at a distance of 4 km from Batal and 40 km from Rohtang Pass. It is believed that Chandratal lake originated from this glacier.

Chicham Village- The exquisite mountain village of Chicham is precariously nestled across a deep gorge. Famous for its unique architecture, it is at a distance of 37.8 km from the lake. As recent as October 2017, Chicham village was cut off from the rest of the world because of its dangerous location. In November 2017, Chicham bridge, the highest in Asia and perched at an elevation of 13,597 feet connected the obscure Chicham village to Kibber village though a motorable road.

Hampta Pass- Located at a distance of 34.5 km from the lake, Hampta Pass lies in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas at an elevation of 14,010 feet. Trekkers undertaking the Hampta Pass trek usually extend their itinerary by 1 to 2 days to visit the stunningly beautiful lake.

Key Monastery- At 13,688 feet above sea level, the beautifully calm Tibetan Monastery is perched on a hilltop in Spiti Valley. It is at a distance of 42.5 km from the lake. You meditate, whisper Buddhist chants, enjoy splendid views of the Spiti river and learn the fascinating history of the place while sipping the therapeutic herbal tea at this magical site.

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• Himachal Pradesh

Chandratal Trek, Himachal Pradesh

One of the crescent-shaped lakes that are located in the middle of the Spiti Valley on the Samudra Tapu plateau, the Chandra Tal, which means 'Lake of the Moon', is a popular destination for trekkers and climbers. It is confined in between the mountains at a lofty height of 4,250 meters and is one of two high-altitude wetlands of India which have been designated as Ramsar sites. The Chandra Tal Trek grabs the imagination of the travelers with its rambling landscape at a different altitude. The lake encircles a vast meadow that is carpeted with different kinds of wildflowers. One of the easy to moderate treks in Himachal Pradesh and also a short trek from Manali, which is a popular hill station at an altitude of 2,050 meters, the Chandra Tal Trek solicits the mind of travelers with the abundant beauty of nature and wildlife.

The trail which begins from Kunzum is truly picturesque and displays panoramic views of Samudra Tapu Glacier, CB Peaks, and Chandra River. It is 8 km long and takes only 4 hours to complete. Chandratal Lake is just within walking distance from Kunzum. The source which feeds the lake is probably under the ground, as there is nothing visible on the surface. Wildflowers fill up the banks of the lake in summer. The vast green meadows around the lake are a favorite among the Gaddi Shepherds, who come here to graze their flocks. The shepherds of the Gaddi tribe enjoy their traditional and long-held grazing rights in the area. Chandratal Lake is one of the two high-altitude wetlands of India.

The best season to visit Chandratal Trek is from mid-June till mid-October. At the beginning of the season, there are more chances of seeing lots of snow. Snow cover reduces considerably as August approaches. As the season advances, we are more likely to witness rain in the Kullu Manali Valley and bask in the sun at the Spiti Valley.

Chandra Tal (‘the Lake of Moon) is located at the height of 4,270 meters in the Himalayas. It comes under the Spiti area of Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. Chandra Tal is a popular trekking and camping destination, attracting several travelers every year. It can be reached on foot from Batal as well as from Kunzum La Pass. The best season to embark on the Chandratal Trek is from mid-June to mid-October. There is a 16 km motorable road from Batal which can be accessed after mid-July, as the condition of the road can be dangerous before this period. Even after taking this road, one needs to walk for 2 km from the road head.

Easy or Moderate

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CHANDRATAL LAKE

Perched at a staggering altitude of 4200 meters above sea level, you have to witness the unparalleled beauty of Chandratal to believe it. A sanctuary from the lightning fast city life, this lake is slowly becoming one of the most attractive tourist places in Spiti valley. With the spellbinding backdrop of majestic mountains and meadows covered with gorgeous wildflowers, the lake is the perfect place to click Instagram worthy pictures.

Popularly known as the trekker's paradise, Chandratal Lake is reckoned as the most charismatic lake situated in the laps of Himalayas. This enticing lake is perched on the Samudra Tapu plateau which lies in close proximity to Chandra river. Situated at an altitude of 4300 meters, Chandratal offers the most splendid views of the Spiti region. If you're planning a trip to the Himalayas, don't miss out on including Chandratal Lake in your Spiti Valley Tour .

The lake is crescent-shaped, and that is how it got its name. If you are looking for a perfect blend of adventure and laidback holidays, there could not be a better site to kickstart your journey than Chandratal. The road to Chandratal lake takes you through treacherous trails of Batal which will set your adrenaline pumping.

Discover the beauty of Spiti on a trip from Delhi, where you'll find the stunning Chandratal Lake, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the mountains. With a Spiti tour package from Delhi , cherish unforgettable moments by the tranquil shores of Chandratal Lake.

On your way, you will also get to climb the glaciers between Kunzum pass and Rohtang Pass. This mesmerizing site has much folklore attached to itself but what lures its visitors is its turquoise blue water, majestic mountains and serene surroundings which make it an apt place for camping. Sprawled over an area of 2.5 kilometers, Chandratal sees a massive influx of travelers during the summer months.

In the winter months, this place majorly remains in the bucket list of adventure enthusiasts who want to push past their limits.

• Discover the serene beauty of Chandratal Lake, nestled in the Himalayas at an altitude of 4,250 metres. • Admire the lake’s crescent shape, which gives it the name "Lake of the Moon." • Trek through challenging terrains and glaciers to reach this pristine lake for a journey complete with breathtaking views. • Take some time to photograph the surrounding Chandra Bhaga mountains as they reflect in the lake’s crystal-clear waters.  • Embrace the unique experience of camping near Chandratal, under a blanket of stars, amidst the Himalayan wilderness. • Capture the ever-changing hues of the lake, from turquoise to emerald green, as sunlight dances across its surface. • Witness the rich fauna around the lake, including rare Himalayan birds like Snow Partridge and Golden Eagle. • Soak in the tranquil ambience of Chandratal's surroundings, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

How To Reach

There are two viable routes from Delhi to Chandratal Lake by road. While the first route takes you through Manali, the other one passes through Shimla and then leads you to Spiti Valley. 

- Routes from Shimla:

This route begins from Delhi and leads to Narkanda. From here, one can move to Kalpa, and then further travel to Kaza and Nako. After taking a halt at Spiti valley, head towards Chandratal Lake from Kaza. While following this route, it is advisable to travel from Shimla to Kinnaur and then head towards Spiti Valley. Once you exit Spiti Valley, you can visit Chandratal Lake.

- Routes from Manali:

If you wish to follow a shorter way to Chandratal Lake, the Manali route is your best bet. It is a small journey where you will kickstart your trip from Delhi, pass through Mandi, Kullu, Rohtang La, Battal, Gramphoo, and finally reach Chandratal Lake.

1. By Public transport:

While traveling through public transport, there are the following two routes to Chandratal which you can opt for.

- Manali to Chandratal: There are two buses that traverse between Manali and Kaza early in the morning. The bus starts from Kullu at 4:30 AM and takes you to Manali. From here, the ticket to Kaza barely costs Rs 250 per person. Once you get down at Chandratal diversion point by the evening, you can hike your way to Chandratal Lake.

-Shimla to Chandratal: There are two non-ac buses that travel from Shimla to Reckong Peo. Once you reach Reckong Peo, board on a 7:00 AM HRTC bus to reach Kaza. From Kaza, board a bus for Manali and get down at the Chandratal Lake diversion point. From this point, you can cover the remaining distance by hiking.

2. Road Conditions: 

Once you divert off the Manali-Leh highway, the road conditions get unfavorable. The track from Gramphu to Batal is just a rough dirty route with several water crossings throughout the way. Even if you have opted for Kaza-Chandratal route, you will not see any significant improvement in the road conditions. There are many troublesome spots on the entire route due to the presence of rocky formations.

Best Time To Visit

Winter is not considered as an ideal time to plan your Chandratal Lake visit as the entire way is blocked with snow. The snow starts clearing up in the May month, but the routes beyond Losar will still be blocked. The best time to visit Chandratal Lake is in June month when the snow clearance operation is complete.

During this time, you can reach the lake by trekking the 14 km long road from Batal. You can also plan your visit between July to September as the roads remain open and the weather turned pleasant. But one should definitely avoid monsoon of August due to wet roads and landslides.

Other Essential Information

Location:  Chandratal Lake is nestled in Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh. It is around 6 km away from Kunzum Pass. There are two popular routes to reach this site. While the first route is from Delhi to Manali, the second route passes through Shimla and Kinnaur to Spiti Valley.

Altitude:  The lake is perched at an altitude of 14,220 feet or 4,270 meters above the sea level. Since it is one of the high altitude lakes in the Himalayas, you need to plan your trip with a proper schedule.

Distance from Spiti:  Chandratal Lake is around 27 kilometers away from Spiti Valley.

Distance from Manali:  Manali to Chandratal Lake is a 250 km journey by road. It will take around 12 hours to traverse between these two destinations.

ATM's near Chandratal Lake:  It is advisable to carry enough cash along with yourself on the Chandratal trip. Chandratal is bereft of human settlement, and you won't find many ATM's in this area. One can find the nearest ATMs in Manali and Kaza.

Mobile Connectivity:  There are only a few routes in Spiti Valley where you can enjoy decent phone connectivity. Once you cross Gramphu and take a course to Chatru, you will hardly see any phone signals. Hence, it is advisable to carry a BSNL or MTNL sim card along with you as only these two connections work in this area.

Petrol Pumps near Chandratal Lake:  The nearest petrol pump to Chandratal can be found in Kaza. You can also tank up at Tandi petrol pump on Manali-Leh highway.

Hospitals near Chandratal Lake:  You need to keep your medical kit ready on your trip to Chandratal as this place lacks in medical amenities. You won't be able to avail any medical facilities till you enter Manali.

Chandratal Lake Itinerary

Your entire itinerary should be based on your comfort and the number of days at hand. If you want to avoid AMS hassles, it is best to opt for the Shimla route. However, if you have less time at hand and you want to go for a shorter route, choosing the Manali route is the best bet. Here is a general itinerary for Chandratal lake that strikes a balance between time and comfort.

Day 1:  Travel from Delhi to Manali and take an overnight halt at Solang Valley.

Day 2:  Start your journey from Solang and head towards Batal.

Day 3:  Leave for Chandratal and enjoy an unforgettable camping and hiking experience.

Day 4:  After spending a day full of adventure in Chandratal, get on your way back to Manali.

Day 5:  Travel back from Manali to Delhi.

Chandratal Lake Weather

The weather at Chandratal lake remains cold throughout the year. In the winter season, the average temperature varies from -40 to 0 degrees celsius. Though the summer months in Chandratal also remain cold, you will be able to relish snowfall mostly in winter months only.

The average day and night temperature during the summer months range from 6 to 15-degree celsius. It is best to avoid the Chandratal trip during the monsoon as the site remains closed due to landslides.

The Legend Of Chandratal Lake

This enticing site in Spiti valley bears huge significance in Indian mythology. If legends are to be believed, Chandratal Lake is the site from where Lord Indra's chariot picked up the eldest of the Pandava brothers, Yudhishthira. This is why the lake is frequented by a large number of Hindu devotees too.

Another tale that is popular among the locals talks about two lovers named Chandra and Bhaga. Chandra was the daughter of the moon while Bhaga was the only son of Lord Sun. Chandratal Lake is said to be named after moon god's daughter, Chandra.

Where to Stay Near Chandratal Lake

There is not a proper place to stay near Chandratal Lake as the government has banned camping near the site. Chandratal Lake is situated at a deserted land where you can't dream of a luxurious stay in 3-star hotels and cottages. However, just 2 kilometers away from this point, you can find a camping site where you can pitch your tents. If you are looking for safer stay options other than self camping, you will still be left with few choices.

There is a small place called Chandra Dhaba Batal which can accommodate around 7-8 people. If you are lucky, you will get to stay in igloo style huts right in front of the Dhaba. You can also plan your stay in Batal PWD Rest House. Apart from this, one can come back to Manali-Leh highway and stay at the Khoshkar guest house. If you want some better accommodation options, just travel towards Keylong and book your stay in any local hotel.

Places to Visit near Chandratal Lake

1. Sissu:  Nestled at an altitude of 3170 meters, Sissu is known for its scenic vistas and magnificent waterfalls. Sissu Lake is cradled on the banks of river Chandra. Just 90 KM away from Manali, this remote hamlet is an ideal destination to get in touch with nature.

2. Kunzum Pass:  This pass is located at an altitude of 4,551 meters above sea level. It is the main gateway to Spiti Valley from Lahaul Valley. A 15 km trek from this point will take you to the Chandratal Lake. Most of the visitors take a halt at this spot to visit the Kunzum Devi temple.

3. Darcha:  It is another trekkers paradise nestled at the height of 3360 meters. Darcha is around 24 km away from Keylong and is a popular camping site. You can begin your trekking expedition from this point and head towards Zanskar Valley.

4.Suraj Tal:  A 2-3 day trek from Chandratal will take you to this surreal spot called Suraj Tal. It is a go-to spot for tourists looking for road trips and trekking. Created by the streams of Bhaga river, this lake is popular as the lake of Sun God. Nestled at an altitude of 4,950 meters, it is the third highest lake in India.

5. Bara Shigri Glacier:  Hailed as the largest glacier in Himachal Pradesh, Bara Shigri is situated in the Chandra Valley. It is a 25 Km long and 3 Km wide glacier which rests on the middle slope of Himalayan ranges.

6. Baralacha La:  Located at a distance of 75 Km from Keylong, this pass is a major attraction on Manali-Leh road. The pass acts as a bridge between two well-known mountain ranges of India, namely, Zanskar Valley and Pir Panjal.

Things to Carry

If you have chosen offseason to embark on the Chandratal trek, it is better to be ready with some essential items. Some of the things that you need to carry on the Chandratal trek are listed as below:

-  Heavy woolen clothes and socks

-  Waterproof clothing, including jackets and lowers.

-  Torchlight

- Medicines

- Water bottle and towels

-  Camping equipment

- Wooden stick

AMS at Chandratal Lake

Experiencing sickness on Himalayan trips is the most common phenomenon. If you are hiking in higher altitudes, there is a fair chance of AMS hitting you. However, such mountain sickness can ruin your travel plans and turn your exciting journey into a dreadful experience. If you want to avoid such occurrences, here are a few things that you must keep in mind.

-  Try to follow the travel itinerary which takes care of the rapid increase in the altitude. If you experience mild AMS even after considering all the due precautions, keep some AMS medicines like Diamox handy.

-  You can carry a small oxygen kit along with you.

-  Up your water intake and remain hydrated throughout the hike. However, don't over hydrate as it can result in weakness and nausea.

-  Keep yourself warm and dry by wearing woolens.

 Do's and Don'ts

-  If you are accessing Chandratal Lake from Rohtang Pass, do get yourself a permit.

-  Don't let your clothes get wet while crossing the water bodies.

-  Don't consume alcohol while hiking your way to the lake.

-  Do gather some information about mountain sickness and be ready with few medicines beforehand.

-  Don't expect fancy accommodation nearby the lake. Chandratal lake is situated in a deserted spot. Hence, plan well in advance.

-  Be aware of the road conditions at Spiti valley and use a vehicle that is meant for such roads.

-  Carry enough cash with yourself in advance as you will hardly find any ATMs on the route.

Tips for Visiting Chandratal Lake

Though Chandratal Lake trek comes with a bountiful of unforgettable experiences for hikers, there are few precautions that should be taken to ensure your safety.

-   It is advisable to avoid alcohol consumption while trekking through these Himalayan trails.

-  Carry an adequate amount of cash with yourself as you won't find many ATMs on this route.

-  Try to cross the water nallas without getting your clothes wet. Do carry a towel and spare clothes in your backpack to dry yourself as soon as you get drenched in cold water.

-   If you want to relish a peaceful and easy hiking trip, it is recommended to start your journey from Shimla instead of Manali. 

-  If this is your first Himalaya trip, you might face bouts of mountain sickness. To avoid any major health issues in such conditions, do carry some AMS medicines such as Diamox, etc

Manali To Spiti Bike Expedition | FREE Kaza Excursion

Best of spiti valley | free chandratal lake excursion.

Chandratal Lake Trek

If you are an ardent trekker in quest of challenging hiking trails, look no further than Chandratal Lake trek. This soul-stirring trek begins from Manali and takes you to Chikka, which is nestled at an altitude of 3100 metres. The trail then leads to Balu Ka Ghera, followed by Hampta Pass, and Shira Gorh.

From Shira Gorh you climb up to the treacherous trails of Batal. Though the route from Batal is arduous and tiring, the surrounding view will leave you refreshed and energized. From this point, the route splits to Kunzum, which is the major gateway to the Chandratal Lake. 

Tourism Board Alliances

Chandratal lake faqs, is chandratal lake open.

Rohtang Pass, which is the main entrance to Chandratal Lake, remains open only for few months in a year from June to 15th October. Since the winter months are marked by heavy snowfall in this region, Chandratal Lake will stay closed for the rest of the year.

How far is Chandratal Lake from Manali?

Is chandratal lake open in may, where is chandratal lake situated.

Nestled in the Spiti Valley of Lahaul district, Chandratal is a beautiful lake on the Samudra Tapu plateau.

Is there snow in Spiti in May?

Chandratal lake reviews.

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Spiti valley tourism, popular related attractions.

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Chandratal Lake A Paradise for Nature Lovers

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Chandratal Lake, one of the most enchanting destinations situated in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.  The location, the topography, and the natural beauty of this place will simply blow your mind away.  You would definitely want to spend a day or two here.   In this article, we will delve into the mesmerizing beauty, geographical significance, and unique experiences that Chandratal Lake offers. Discover why Chandratal Lake deserves to be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Table of Contents

Chandratal Nature’s Wonder

Chandertal, chandratal or chander Tal, means “Moon Lake”.  It is located at an altitude of 4300 m (14100 ft) above sea level in Lahaul & Spiti Valley, just 6 km west of Kunzum Pass. Chandratal Lake is 2.5 km wide in circumference and takes about 3 hours to cover this distance on foot. One very mysterious thing about this lake is that there is no visible source of water in this lake, however, it is possible that water to this lake comes from underground.  

The Origin of the Name: Chandertal

The name “Chandratal” is derived from the crescent shape of the lake, resembling the moon. The pristine waters of the lake reflect the clear blue sky, creating a surreal and tranquil atmosphere.  In olden times, this used to be a halting place for the night for traders from Tibet, Ladakh and Kullu.  Today, this freshwater lake is very popular with tourists and campers coming to this place from all across the world. This high-altitude glacial lake is a testament to the breathtaking grandeur of the Himalayas.

Chandratal Lake Trek

One of the most thrilling ways to reach Chandratal is through a trek that starts from Batal. The distance from Batal to the lake is about 14 km; whereas from Kunzom the trek is slightly more arduous, covering a distance of 8 km. Remember that the oxygen level at this altitude is very thin. The difficulty level of the trek is moderate to difficult but can be done easily.  You can also reach the lake directly in a hired jeep/taxi. About 2 km after crossing the Batal bridge there is a narrow road that goes to the left which will take you to Chandertal, 14 km from there. The right road goes to Kunzum La Pass and onwards to Kaza.  The construction of the road has made it more accessible for a broader range of travelers. Along the way, trekkers are rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas of the Spiti Valley and the Chandra River.

Chandratal Campsite

The vast flowerbed meadows on the banks of the lake are the camping sites.  There are enough places for a campsite.   One can camp either at the far end of the lake or North side of the lake.  Camping by Chandratal Lake is an experience like no other. One side of the lake has high mountain cliffs.  Now you have chosen your campsite and pitched your tent.  Imagine waking up to the melodious chirping of birds, with the crystal-clear waters of the lake just a stone’s throw away from your tent. It’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.  However, one thing to remember is that there are no restrooms or facilities for toilets.  Please remember while attending the call of nature, to go a bit far away from the lake and its water source.  We happened to spend 3 nights by the side of this beautiful moon lake. Before leaving the campsite, we collected our garbage and took it back to Manali for proper disposal. Would request the same from all nature lovers.

Recommended CAMPING TENTS FOR CHANDRATAL CAMPING

Options to Stay

Other than your own camping tents the options to stay are also limited in Chandratal. If you intend to camp here then no worries as the majority of the tourists prefer to stay in camp at Chandratal.  The options to eat are also limited in Chandratal. There are some dhabas at Batal and Kunzum Pass where food is available.  While we were at Chandertal we cooked our own food.

Biodiversity of Chandratal

Keep an eye out for the elusive Himalayan snow leopard, blue sheep, and a myriad of avian species.  However, it is rare to find any of these animals when humans are nearby.

The Chandertal wetland and its surrounding catchment area are situated within the Alpine zone, characterized by its distinctive lack of trees. The Lake is not just a visual delight; it’s also a habitat for a variety of wildlife. The area around the lake is rich in alpine flora, adding to its ecological significance. This region is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Marmot (Marmota bobak), the elusive snow leopard (Panthera), the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes), the Wild Chukar (Alectors Chukar), the sturdy Goat (Capara ibex), the Blue Sheep (Pseudois nayaur), the Snow Cock (Tetrogallus spp), the elegant Black Winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus), the striking Brahminy Duck (Todorna ferruginea), and the majestic Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos).  You may not find these animals in the immediate vicinity of the lake, but in the nearby areas or higher reaches, undisturbed by humans’s watchful eyes.

Source: HP Govt

The Mythological Connection

Local folklore weaves tales of Chandratal into the fabric of ancient mythology. It is believed that this lake was created by the gods and is associated with divine blessings. Such stories add a layer of mystique to this already captivating destination.

The Changing Colors

One of the most intriguing aspects of Chandratal Lake is its ever-changing colors. Depending on the time of day and weather conditions, the lake can display hues ranging from emerald green to deep blue, leaving visitors in awe of nature’s artistic prowess.  In the morning it can turn into deep aquatic blue while in the evening it turns greenish.  

Chandratal Trek Routes

Chandratal to sarchu.

Chandratal is a popular destination for trekkers and campers.  From Chandertal one can trek to Baralacha la and onward to Suraj Tal and further onward to Ladakh and Zanskar. The Chandra Tal to Bara Lacha trek can be done in 3 days. However, the level of difficulty is hard and therefore not for everyone.  

On the first day, you trek from Chandra Taal to Tokpo Gongma covering a distance of approx 15 km in 8 hours. The second day trek from Tokpo Gongma to Tokpo Yongma takes 6 to 7 hours covering a total distance of 10 to 12 km. The third-day trek is from Tokpo Yongma to Bara Lacha and takes 5 hours. Once, you reach the Manali-Leh highway, you can further trek 5 km and reach Sarchu. After a hot meal, you can decide either to return back to Manali or to further proceed towards Ladakh or Zanskar.

Chandratal Hampta pass

The Hamta Trek which takes you from Manali to Chandratal Lake through Hamta Pass is an odyssey through the Himalayan wonderland, where every step feels like a journey through a living postcard. As you ascend through the rugged Hamta Pass, you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, meadows adorned with a riot of wildflowers, and pristine streams trickling down the slopes. The trail weaves its way through the heart of this breathtaking landscape, and as you descend towards Chandratal Lake, the crescent-shaped jewel nestled in the high-altitude desert, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a dream. The trek is not just a physical journey; it’s a passage into the very soul of the Himalayas, where nature’s grandeur and serenity envelop you at every turn, making it an adventure of a lifetime.  Chandratal Hamta Pass or Hamta to Chandratal Lake trek is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Himachal Pradesh.

Chandratal Weather

During winter the weather in Chandertal can be extremely cold. The chandertal temperatures can plummet up to minus 20 degrees and the place is cut off for tourists. Summers can, however, be pleasant with lush green meadows and flowers. This is the right time to come to this beautiful place.

Clothing and Shoes

When preparing for your journey, be sure to pack essential items such as comfortable walking or sports shoes, cozy woolen socks, and warm clothing like sweatshirts, pullovers, and snug hoodies. Opt for comfortable trekking or travel pants, ensuring ease of movement throughout your adventure. Additionally, it’s wise to include a heavy woolen wind-proof jacket or parka in your luggage, as unpredictable weather can occur even during the summer months. These items will help keep you comfortable and prepared for any climate conditions you may encounter during your travels

Recommended  BEST TREKKING SHOES FOR CHANDRATAL AND ANY OTHER TREKS IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Chandratal is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is relatively mild, and the road to the lake is accessible, both from Manali and Shimla.  During this time, Chandertal turns into a paradise with lush green meadows, wildflowers growing everywhere, streams, and breathtaking views all around. This is the right to come to this beautiful place.

Respect for Nature

While visiting this pristine ecosystem, it is essential to follow Leave No Trace principles. Chandratal’s fragile environment deserves our utmost respect and protection to preserve its natural beauty for generations to come. Do not litter, or throw garbage, especially bio biodegradable like plastic bottles and wrappers, polythene, etc.  Carry bio non – bio-degradable wastes back to cities for proper disposal.  This is a small way to pay back to nature.

Acclimatization

Due to the high altitude, it’s crucial to acclimatize properly before embarking on any trekking or camping adventure in the region. Altitude sickness can be a concern for travelers coming from lower altitudes.

How to reach Chandratal Lake

The Chandra Tal Lake can be reached by road easily.  If you are coming from outside Himachal Pradesh, there are two routes for coming to Chandratal Lake, the Delhi-Manali route or the Simla-Kinnaur-Spiti Valley route.  You can drive in your own vehicle and reach here or hire a taxi from the nearest major towns.

Delhi to Manali route to reach

There are frequent bus services from Delhi to Manali. One can easily reach Manali from Delhi or from Chandigarh. There are innumerable buses run by HRTC, Punjab Roadways, and even Haryana Roadways as well as private buses. Bookings can be done online. After resting a day or two in Manali, one can take an HRTC bus from Manali or a taxi for Chandertal and get down either at Batal or Kunzum Pass. From Batal one can trek up to the lake covering a distance of 14 km; whereas from Kunzom pass the trek is slightly arduous covering a distance of 8 km.  From Delhi, you can reach Chandertal in 2 days but would recommend a halt for a day or two at Manali. If you want to travel by HRTC buses, you can book your tickets in advance from the HRTTC website.  If you are interested to travel by private buses, the best site is Redbus .

Simla-Kinnaur-Spiti Valley route to Chandratal Lake

On this route, one can take a bus from Delhi or Chandigarh, and reach Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. From Simla/Narkanda there are buses for Reckong Peo, the headquarters of Kinnaur district. From Reckong Peo, you take a bus for Kaza and get down at Kunzum Pass from where Chandratal Lake is about a 9 km trek.  Simla to Chandertal may take more than 3 to 4 days.  If you are coming from Delhi and are on a visit to Spiti Valley and intend to visit Chandertal Lake, I would suggest a return journey via Manali.

Chandratal Lake stands as a testament to the natural wonders that the Himalayas have to offer. Its ethereal beauty, unique geography, and thrilling adventures make it a destination worth exploring. As you plan your journey to this hidden gem, remember to embrace the tranquility, respect the environment, and revel in the awe-inspiring experiences that await you at Chandratal Lake in Lahaul Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, Bharat. Start your Himalayan adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Chandratal Lake

₹ 19,463 onwards

Label : Top Attraction

Tags : Lake

Time Required : 2-3 hrs

Weather and Best Time to Visit : The best time to visit Chandra Taal is between July and August.

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Chandra Taal

Chandratal lake, spiti valley overview.

Chandratal Lake is often referred to as one of the most beautiful lakes located at an altitude of about 4300 m in the mighty Himalayas. The stunning lake is situated on the Samudra Tapu plateau in the Lahaul region of the Lahaul and Spiti district and is the source of the Chandra River.

The name "Chandra Taal" (Lake of the Moon) comes from its crescent shape. This lake is also one of two high-altitude wetlands of India that have been designated as Ramsar sites. Once a tentative residence for Tibetan traders travelling to Spiti and the Kullu valley, it attracts thousands of adventure enthusiasts. The colour of the water of this holy lake keeps changing from reddish to orange to blue to emerald green as the day ends. Vast stretches of green meadows house the best camping sites and an array of different wildflowers during springtime.  Legend has that the Chandratal Lake lies in the vicinity of a place from where God Indra's chariot picked up Yudhishthira, the eldest of Pandava brothers in Mahabharata. This fact renders the lake sacred and thus, is flocked by a lot of Hindu devotees. The trek from Batal to Chandratal can be quite a tedious trail, but the captivating views and charm of the place will be worth it. The sun's light reflecting on the surface of the astounding Chandratal Lake makes it seem crystal clear.

Must Know Before You Visit Chandratal Lake

• Chandratal Lake was earlier a popular camping site but camping is now forbidden within 3km of the lake.
• It is best to avoid going for the trek in the monsoon as the water levels of the rivers and lake are unusually high which may create restrictions on your movements,

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• Embark on a thrilling adventure with the Hampta Pass trek combined with the serene beauty of Chandratal Lake. This incredible journey takes you deep into the heart of the Himalayas, offering a mesmerizing experience that will leave you in awe of nature's grandeur.
• Starting from Delhi, a scenic drive takes you to the picturesque town of Manali, where your trek begins. Nestled in the Kullu Valley, Manali serves as the gateway to the Himalayas, with its charming landscapes, towering mountains, and serene ambiance. As you set foot on the trail, a world of natural wonders unfolds before your eyes.
• The Hampta Pass trek is a thrilling escapade that spans over 35 kilometers, taking you through a diverse range of landscapes. From lush green meadows to rugged mountain terrains, each step offers a new perspective of the majestic Himalayas. The trail winds through dense forests, crosses gushing rivers, and presents breathtaking vistas at every turn.
• One of the highlights of the trek is reaching the majestic Hampta Pass, situated at an elevation of approximately 4,270 meters. Standing at the top, you are rewarded with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and vast expanses of untouched wilderness. It is a moment of triumph and a testament to your perseverance and love for adventure.
• From the Hampta Pass, the trail descends into the scenic Spiti Valley, leading you to the tranquil Chandratal Lake. Nestled at an altitude of around 4,300 meters, the crescent-shaped lake is a sight to behold. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a surreal ambiance that captivates the soul. Spending a night camping by the lake, gazing at the starry night sky, is an experience that lingers in your memory forever.
• Throughout the trek, you are accompanied by experienced guides and support staff who ensure your safety and well-being. Their expertise and knowledge of the region add an extra layer of assurance and make your journey even more enriching. Camping amidst nature, savoring delicious meals prepared by the campfire, and sharing stories with fellow trekkers create a sense of camaraderie and forge lasting friendships.
• The Hampta Pass with Chandratal Lake trek is suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers, although a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. The best time to undertake this adventure is from June to September when the weather is pleasant and the trails are accessible. However, always be prepared for unexpected weather c
• The Hampta Pass trek covers a distance of approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) in total. The trek starts from Jobra and concludes at Chatru, crossing the Hampta Pass along the way.
• In terms of altitude, the Hampta Pass stands at approximately 4,270 meters (14,009 feet) above sea level. It serves as the highest point of the trek and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• The difficulty level of the Hampta Pass trek is considered moderate , making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The trail involves ascending steep sections, navigating rocky terrain, and crossing streams. Some parts of the trail may require a good level of physical fitness and endurance.
• Endurance plays a crucial role in successfully completing the trek. The total duration of the trek is typically around 4 to 5 days , depending on the itinerary and pace. Each day involves trekking for several hours, covering a distance of approximately 8 to 12 kilometers (5 to 7.5 miles). It is important to maintain a steady pace, stay hydrated, and listen to your body's needs to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.
• It is recommended to engage in regular physical exercise and cardiovascular activities before embarking on the Hampta Pass trek to improve endurance and stamina. Building strength in your legs, core, and cardiovascular system can greatly enhance your trekking experience and help you overcome the challenges along the way.

Departure from Delhi: 

• July:   5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 
• August:  2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, 31 
• September:  6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28
• October:  4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26    
• Manali to Manali: 7499/- per person
• Delhi to Delhi: 11499/- per person

Brief Itinerary:

Manali to Manali:

• Day 1: Manali to Jobra and Trek to Chikka
• Day 2: Chikka to Balu ka Ghera
• Day 3: Balu ka Ghera to Hampta Pass and Return
• Day 4: Siagoru to Chatru and drive to Chandra Tal. 
• Day 5:  Chandra Tal to Manali drive via Atal Tunnel

Delhi to Delhi:

• Day 1:  Departure from Delhi
• Day 2: Relax, Acclimatize, and Explore Manali
• Day 3: Manali to Jobra and Trek to Chikka
• Day 4:  Chikka to Balu ka Ghera
• Day 5:  Balu ka Ghera to Hampta Pass and Return
• Day 6:  Siagoru to Chatru and drive to Chandra Tal. 
• Day 7:  Chandra Tal to Manali drive via Atal Tunnel
• Day 8: Arrive in Delhi

What is included in the tour

• Accommodation in a camping tent during the trek on a triple-sharing basis.
• All veg meals while on trek (Breakfast, Lunch, High Tea, Soup, Dinner)
• Transport from Manali to the base village, Chatru to Chandratal, and return
• All necessary permits and entry fees
• First aid medical kit with Oximeter and Oxygen cylinder
• Qualified and experienced Trek Guide and support staff
• Camping Tents, sleeping bags, Rolling mattresses, Toilet Tent
• Morning / Evening tea with light snacks during the trek.

What is NOT included in the tour

• Any meals during transit
• Personal Expenses
• Cost Escalation due to unforeseen reasons
• Mules or porter to carry personal luggage
• Anything not specifically mentioned under the head
• Travel Insurance
• Reprot at  Majnu Ka Tilla at 07:00 PM
• Take a Volvo / Cab to Manali (anywhere between 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm)
• Start the journey from Delhi to Manali.
• Reach Manali and proceed to our base camp in Old Manali.
• Checkin and meet the team and get acclimatized
• Go to the local market to buy/rent any trekking equipment required.
• Self explore Manali
• Dinner and Stay at the campsite in Old Manali.
• Pickup from Manali to Jobra at 7 AM
• Meet your Trek Leader in Manali.
• Depart from Manali in a private vehicle and drive to Jobra, the starting point of the trek (approximately 1 hour).
• Begin the trek from Jobra to Chika campsite (approximately 2-3 hours).
• Settle in at the campsite, enjoy the scenic surroundings, and have dinner.
• Overnight stay in tents at Chika campsite.
• After breakfast, start the trek from Chika to Balu Ka Ghera.
• Trek through beautiful landscapes, cross wooden bridges and witness the gradual change in scenery.
• Reach Balu Ka Ghera campsite, which is surrounded by towering mountains.
• Set up tents, relax, and enjoy the evening.
• Overnight stay in tents at Balu Ka Ghera campsite.
• Today is the most challenging day of the trek.
• Begin early in the morning and ascend towards Hampta Pass.
• Marvel at the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and the vast expanse of the valley.
• Cross the Hampta Pass and descend towards Shea Goru campsite.
• Reach Shea Goru, set up tents, and rest for the night.
• Overnight stay in tents at Shea Goru campsite.
• After breakfast, start the trek from Shea Goru to Chatru.
• Trek through rocky terrain, cross streams and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
• Reach Chatru and board a jeep for a scenic drive to Chandratal Lake.
• Explore the mesmerizing Chandratal Lake, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and capture beautiful moments.
• Return to Chatru by jeep and set up the camp for the night.
• Overnight stay in tents at Chatru campsite.
• Have breakfast and bid farewell to the mountains.
• Board a vehicle from Chatru and drive back to Manali (approximately 5-6 hours).
• Arrive in Manali by late afternoon or evening, marking the end of the Hampta Pass with the Chandratal trek.
• Drop at Manali by 7 PM.  You can plan the return journey accordingly.
• Delhi to Delhi people will board a Volvo to Delhi
• Reach Delhi around 10 AM

Please note that the itinerary may vary slightly based on the trekking company, weather conditions, and the discretion of the trek leader. It's important to follow their instructions and stay updated with any changes during the trek.

Backpack Offloading Cost:

• If the payment is made in advance through Paytm/online, then the charges per bag will be Rs. 1200/- for the entire program. Which will be made 7 days prior to the program.
• The backpack cannot weigh more than 10 kg. The backpack should have a waterproof cover. Suitcase/Strolley Bags will not be allowed. 

Things to carry:

• Trekking shoes:  Carry waterproof trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support. Do not carry sports shoes.
• Three layers of warm clothes:  Carry two or three-layer jackets, fleece jackets, and a padded jacket.
• Two/Three trek pants:  Carry light cotton trek pants. Denim/jeans and shorts are not suitable for trekking.
• Three t-shirts (collared/dry-fit):  Full-sleeved t-shirts that prevent sun burns on the neck and arms. Carry one or two dry-fit T-shirts.
• Thermals:  Carry thermals (top and bottom).
• Sun Protection:  Sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses are mandatory.
• Waterproof hand gloves:  Carry waterproof gloves and avoid woolen gloves as they will get wet if you touch snow.
• Socks (3-4 pairs) and a pair of woolen socks:  Apart from two sports socks, you can take a pair of woolen socks for the night.
• Headlamp/LED torch:  Mandatory
• Raincoat/Ponchos:  At high altitudes, snowfall, and rain are quite common and it’s mandatory to carry a poncho so that you don’t get wet. The trek will continue as planned even during rainfall.
• Lunch box and water bottle:  Every participant should have their personal lunch box and a water bottle [insulated type].
• Energy Bars:  Nutrient-dense with oats, nuts, seeds, and fruit.
• Personal Hygiene Kit:  Hand sanitizer, biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cotton washcloth, toilet paper, a menstrual cup (if necessary), or feminine hygiene products, and a sealable plastic bag to carry them out.
• Mini First Aid Kit:  First aid for emergencies
• Trash Bag:  Normal kitchen garbage bags to keep the trails you trek beautiful, clean, and free of garbage.
• Slippers:  With a flexible sole and good grip, water-resistant.

Things to do 

• Enjoy Scenic Landscapes: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayan landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, lush green meadows, and cascading waterfalls.
• Trekking: Experience the thrill of trekking through varied terrains, including rocky paths, alpine meadows, and challenging mountain passes like the Hampta Pass.
• Capture Moments: Carry a camera to capture the stunning vistas, panoramic views, and memorable moments throughout the trek.
• Camp under the Stars: Set up camps at picturesque locations and spend nights under the starry sky, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the mountains.
• Explore Chandratal Lake: Visit the enchanting Chandratal Lake, also known as the "Moon Lake," and witness its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for wildlife encounters, such as Himalayan birds, mountain goats, and other native species.
• Interact with Locals: Get to know the local culture and interact with the people residing in the small villages along the trekking route.
• Experience Local Cuisine: Sample the local cuisine of the region, which may include traditional Himachali dishes like siddu, thukpa, and dham.
• River Crossings: Navigate river crossings along the trek, adding a sense of adventure and thrill to the experience.
• Enjoy Campfire Nights: Gather around a campfire in the evenings, share stories, and indulge in some delicious food with your fellow trekkers.
• Sunrise and Sunset Views: Wake up early to witness stunning sunrise views from various vantage points along the trek. Similarly, enjoy the mesmerizing sunset views in the mountains.
• Connect with Nature: Take moments to appreciate the serenity and tranquility of the mountains, allowing yourself to connect with nature on a deeper level.
• Admire Flora and Fauna: Observe the diverse plant life and unique Himalayan flora, including rhododendrons, wildflowers, and alpine vegetation.
• Experience the Thrill of Hampta Pass: Challenge yourself with the steep ascent to Hampta Pass and soak in the rewarding views from the top.
• Relax and Rejuvenate: Take breaks during the trek to relax, meditate, and rejuvenate amidst the pristine surroundings.

Remember to follow responsible trekking practices, respect the environment, and abide by the rules and regulations of the trekking area to ensure a memorable and sustainable experience.

Payment Details :

UPI ID : 7387523876@upi

Net banking :

• Name- RAJBALA YADAV Bank name - HDFC BANK  ACC No.- 50100308491863 IFSC code- HDFC0002501
• Name- NITIN YADAV Bank name - PUNJAB NATIONAL BANK  ACC No.- 0530001500002688 IFSC code- PUNB0053000

Cancellation and Refund Policy:

NO REFUND SHALL BE MADE WITH RESPECT TO THE INITIAL BOOKING AMOUNT FOR ANY CANCELLATIONS. HOWEVER IF FULL PAYMENT HAS BEEN MADE THEN,

• If cancellations are made 30 days before the trip's start date, 50% of the trip cost will be refunded within 5-7 working days.
• If cancellations are made 15-30 days before the trip's start date, 25% of the trip cost will be refunded within 5-7 working days.
• If cancellations are made within 0-15 days before the trip's start date, 100% of the trip cost will be charged as cancellation fees. No refund will be processed.
• In the case of unforeseen weather conditions or government restrictions, certain activities may be canceled and in such cases, the operator will try his best to provide an alternate feasible activity. However, no refund will be provided for the same.
• No show No Refund.
• Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another date against cancellation.
• Event Tickets can be transferred to another person against cancellation.
• If we cancel the TRIP, only the TRIP AMOUNT will be refunded.

Trekhievers Policy:

• A complete schedule of the trek will be given to the registered participants 12 Hours prior on WhatsApp.
• Organizers have all the right to modify or change the schedule in case of any unavoidable circumstance.
• The tour is weather-based and depends on the weather conditions. There may be last-minute cancellations if weather conditions deteriorate.

What is the Hampta Pass with the Chandratal trek?

The Hampta Pass with Chandratal trek is a popular high-altitude trek in the Himalayas that takes you through the stunning landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, India.

What is the best time to do the Hampta Pass with the Chandratal trek?

The best time to undertake this trek is from June to September when the weather is generally favorable and the trail is accessible.

How long does the trek take to complete?

The trek typically takes around 4 to 6 days to complete, depending on the specific itinerary and the pace of the trekking group.

What is the difficulty level of the Hampta Pass with the Chandratal trek?

The trek is considered moderate in terms of difficulty, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. It involves steep ascents, rocky terrains, and some river crossings.

Is prior trekking experience required?

While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is recommended to have a basic level of fitness and stamina for a comfortable trekking experience.

What is the maximum altitude reached during the trek?

The highest point of the trek is the Hampta Pass, which stands at an elevation of approximately 4,270 meters (14,009 feet) above sea level.

Are there any age restrictions for the trek?

There are no specific age restrictions, but participants should be in good physical health and capable of enduring the trekking challenges.

Is it necessary to hire a guide or can it be done independently?

While it is possible to do the trek independently, hiring a professional guide or joining a reputable trekking company is recommended for safety and convenience.

What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?

Accommodation during the trek is typically in tents or basic guesthouses/lodges, depending on the availability at different campsites.

What permits are required for the trek?

Permits are required for the Hampta Pass trek, including the necessary permissions from the local authorities and the forest department. These permits are usually arranged by the trek organizers.

How do I reach the starting point of the trek?

The trek usually starts from Manali, which is well-connected by road from major cities in North India. Participants can reach Manali by bus or private transportation.

Are there any medical facilities available during the trek?

Basic medical facilities may be available at some campsites, but it's advisable to carry a personal first aid kit and any necessary medications.

What kind of food is provided during the trek?

Nutritious vegetarian meals are provided during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The meals are usually simple yet filling, consisting of local dishes and snacks.

What should I pack for the Hampta Pass with the Chandratal trek?

Essential items to pack include trekking boots, comfortable clothing layers, warm jackets, rain gear, a sleeping bag, a backpack, a water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a headlamp, toiletries, a personal first aid kit, and any necessary medications.

Is there any mobile network connectivity during the trek?

Mobile network connectivity is limited during the trek, especially in remote areas. It's advisable to check with your service provider for coverage details and inform your family and friends about limited communication availability.

Are there any water sources along the trekking route?

Yes, there are water sources available at various points along the trekking route. However, it is advisable to carry water purification tablets or a water filter to ensure safe drinking water.

Is it possible to do the trek in the winter season?

The Hampta Pass with Chandratal trek is generally not recommended during the winter season (November to March) due to heavy snowfall and challenging weather conditions. It is more popular during the summer months.

What are the cancellation policies for the trek?

The cancellation policies may vary depending on the trekking company or organizer you choose. It's important to carefully read and understand their terms and conditions regarding cancellations, refunds, and rescheduling.

What are some other popular treks in the region?

The region offers several popular treks, including the Bhrigu Lake trek, Beas Kund trek, and Pin Parvati Pass trek. Each trek has its own unique features and challenges, providing trekkers with diverse experiences.

Can I see Chandratal Lake during the trek?

The Chandratal Lake is not part of the Hampta Pass trek itinerary. However, some trek organizers may offer an additional extension or side trip to Chandratal Lake as part of a separate package or customized itinerary.

Please note that the specific details and answers to these questions may vary depending on the trek organizers, current conditions, and regulations. It's always recommended to consult with professional trek organizers for the most accurate and up-to-date information before planning your trek.

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