Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley is a silent Valley held within itself the Chandratal Lake – a place one feels to walk through the portal into another world. With the shining blue waters creating reflection in the mighty Himalayas, it holds a special place in the hearts of every traveler who visits. For a guy like me, it amazes what beauty is reflected in Chandratal Lake and what a place it is in that one never forgets it.
The Mythology and Legends of Chandratal Lake
Chandratal is not only famous for its glamour but also carries a mythological significance.
The Connection to Mahabharata -According to local lore locals here believe that this Spiti Chandratal Lake is the place from which the Pandavas had entered heaven. This tale from Mahabharata adds on to the spiritual ambiance of this lake.
Local Beliefs and Folklore– Locals hold this lake sacred, and it is not hard to see why: locals fear that a swimmer will incur bad luck. Respecting these beliefs is important when visiting.
Chandratal Lake in Himachal Pradesh, is situated at an elevation of 4,300 meters in the Chandra Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The Chandratal Lake to Spiti Valley distance is about 97 km; hence it is a must visit stop when exploring the Spiti region. Situated close to Kunzum Pass-the high mountain pass that connects Spiti Valley to Lahaul Valley. The lake has been named Chandratal, meaning “Moon Lake” in the Hindi language. It is like a crescent moon. Chandratal lake height is 14,100 feet due to such high altitude and thin oxygen level create High Altitude Sickness in visitors. How to reach Chandratal Lake from Delhi? It is adventurous enough just to reach Chandratal, and all along it promises to be another thrill. If you are coming from Delhi then you need to reach Manali and from there at approx 111 km distnace Chandratal Lake is situated but the road is pretty tough and testing–the last stretch is the trickiest. A 4×4 vehicle would be of great use on this trip.
Where is Chandratal Lake?
Geographical Location of Chandratal Lake
Chandratal Lake Location- Chandratal Lake, or Chandrataal Lake Himachal Pradesh, is situated at an elevation of 4,300 meters in the Chandra Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The Chandratal Lake to Spiti Valley distance is about 97 km; hence it is a must visit stop when exploring the Spiti region. Situated close to Kunzum Pass-the high mountain pass that connects Spiti Valley to Lahaul Valley. The lake has been named Chandratal, meaning “Moon Lake” in the Hindi language. It is like a crescent moon. Chandratal lake height is 14,100 feet due to such high altitude and thin oxygen level create High Altitude Sickness in visitors.
How to Reach Chandratal Lake
Reaching by Road
How to reach Chandratal Lake from Delhi?? It is adventurous enough just to reach Chandratal, and all along it promises to be another thrill. If you are coming from Delhi then you need to reach Manali and from there at approx 111 km distnace Chandratal Lake is situated but the road is pretty tough and testing–the last stretch is the trickiest. A 4×4 vehicle would be of great use on this trip. For Bike lovers Bike’s on rent is available from Manali for Spiti Valley and rent ranges from Rs.800/- to Rs.3000/- per day depending on the Bike and their conditions. All Bike rental service provider is available online, all you need to be act smart and choose best service provider to avoid any problem during trip.
The Manali to Chandratal Lake route passes through Rohtang Pass and Kunzum Pass, offering stunning views along the way. It’s best to start early in the morning to avoid traffic and bad weather.
If you’re coming from the other side of Spiti, the Kaza to Chandratal distance is about 97 km. The roads are equally rugged but incredibly scenic. Along the way, you’ll pass by charming villages, monasteries, and open landscapes that stretch for miles.
Public Transportation Options for Chandratal Lake
For those who prefer not to drive, buses from Manali or Kaza will take you to Batal, from where it’s either a trek or a hired jeep ride to the lake. The Losar to Chandratal Lake distance is roughly 40 km, and many trekkers make this their starting point.
Best Time to Visit Chandratal Lake
The best time to visit Chandratal is between June and September. This is when the roads are accessible, and the Chandratal lake temperature or Chandratal Temperature is moderate, though nights can still be freezing. During these months Chandratal weather is at its most beautiful, with clear skies and pleasant daytime weather.
Scenic Beauty and Landscape at Chandratal Lake
The landscape at Chandratal is nothing but breathtaking. The lake lies in a bowl-shaped valley amidst towering peaks. The water colour changes during the day- from turquoise in the morning to deep blue in the afternoon. The reflections of Himalayas on the surface of the lake look just like in the postcard. It feels like you are nowhere in the world, yet a dip into the senses in natural beauty.
Exploring Chandratal Lake
We reached Chandratal lake parking area around 2:50 PM, it is a very small parking area and almost half full. From there we walked approximately 1KM to reach Chandratal Lake. As we reached the Lake edge we greeted with the snowcapped mountain. The color of the water of Chandratal Lake at night becomes blue due to the clear sky. We asked some people about the viewpoint and hiked there to capture some breathtaking photos of Chandratal lake night view. You can see the cluster of tents from viewpoint which built for night camping at Chandratal Lake.
Camping Near the Chandratal Lake
No hotels are directly available here at Chandratal Lake; but there are several camps are available at Chandratal and just a few kilometers. The feel and experience of staying under the stars in the Himalayas will be unforgettable. You can stay at Chandratal Lake or you can do Chandratal Lake camping for a night or two, but be prepared for cold weather, even in the summer Chandratal lake weather feel like winter in night under open sky.
Tips: – If you want night camping at Chandratal Lake, it is advisable to prebook your tent. All tent service providers are available online and they are heavily booked during peak seasons.
Nearby Hotels and Homestays-If camping isn’t your style, consider Chandratal lake staying in Batal or Kaza, which have more options available like guesthouses and homestays. While these are not luxury options, these are comfortable and a warm haven to rest on after a long day of adventure.
Rules and Regulations for Camping Around the Chandratal Lake
Camping near Chandratal is an experience you don’t want to miss, but there are strict rules to protect the fragile ecosystem around the lake. When I camped here, I learned that respecting these regulations isn’t just good practice—it’s essential for preserving the beauty of the place for future visitors.
No camping near the lake’s immediate shores- To protect the lake’s pristine waters, camping is not allowed within 3 km of the lake itself. The designated campsites are located about 2-3 km away from the lake, in meadows where temporary camps are set up during the summer months.
Leave No Trace- The region around Chandratal is fragile. It’s essential to leave no litter behind. All waste should be carried out with you, and plastic use is strongly discouraged. If you’re trekking, take all your trash with you—this is a personal responsibility to protect the landscape.
No swimming or washing in the Chandratal Lake – The lake is considered sacred by locals. Swimming, bathing, or washing utensils in the lake is strictly prohibited. The water is incredibly pure and keeping it that way is a must.
Wildlife and Flora around Chandratal Lake
Chandratal is also habitat for some rare species of wildlife such as snow leopards and Himalayan blue sheep and some rare species of birds. Surrounded with bald mountains, the place forms a thin yet colorful vegetation which too forms mystique charm that is enhanced during summers when wildflowers bloom.
Chandratal Lake Trekking Experience
Chandratal is perhaps the best trek for adventure seekers. The trek to Chandratal Lake is both challenging and breathtaking-very exciting, with stunning landscapes and crisp mountain air.
Popular Trekking Routes– The most popular trekking routes for Chandratal are Kunzum Pass and Batal. Kunzum Pass is about 8 kilometers long, and Batal is about 14 kilometers. Of course, both have spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
This trek to Chandratal is relatively easy but takes in some endurance given the very high altitude once you reach about 4,300 meters. The spot must be undertaken when you are adequately acclimatized. Even in July and August, chances of finding patches of snow and wildflowers hordes dotting the trail are definite.
Star Gazing and Night Camping at Chandratal Lake
Camping under the stars at Chandratal is an experience I’ll never forget. The Chandratal night sky is one of the clearest I’ve ever seen. Without any light pollution, the stars seem to sparkle brighter than ever, and you might even spot shooting stars or satellites.
Essential Travel Tips for Chandratal Lake
Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness
Because of its high altitude you must give yourself time to acclimatize, especially if you are coming from lower altitudes. Altitude sickness can be a real problem if you ascend too quickly, so spend a night or two in Kaza or Manali before heading to Chandratal. The altitude of Kaza is about 3800 meters which is slightly lower than Chandratal but still high enough to help with acclimatization.
Packing Essentials for Chandratal Lake
Being prepared well can make your trip to Chandratal much more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to pack:
Clothing for the Spiti Weather-Temperatures around Chandratal can fluctuate wildly. During the day, it can be warm, but at night it gets freezing cold. Pack layers of clothing, including a good thermal jacket, woolen socks, gloves and Slipping bag. Don’t forget to bring a huge capacity of battery bank for your electronic devices. As there is limited electricity available there.
Equipment for Trekking and Camping- If you’re camping, don’t forget essentials like sleeping bags, Trekking Boot, Flashlight, and trekking poles, a battery bank for your electronic devices, cold cream, lip balm, first aid kit, water bottles, and essential medicines.
Food and Supplies- There are no shops or cafes near Chandratal, so stock up on supplies in Manali or Kaza. Bring enough food for the trek and your stay. Food like dry fruit, energy bar, chocolate, snacks will do well.
Tips: Carry enough cash with you. As you will face network issues in Spiti Valley.
Safety Considerations on Road Conditions and other Challenges
The road to Chandratal Lake is fairly perilous, especially after rainfall or snowfall. Bumpy rides, narrow roads, and landslide slabs are to be expected. If one is not comfortable driving in such conditions, it would be wise to hire a local driver who knows the terrain.
How to Prepare for Sudden Weather Changes and Road Closures
It’s famously unpredictable. You could have sun at one moment, and at the very next, you’d just see dark clouds clouding the skies, and it might well rain or snow. When driving from Manali to Chandratal Lake, we had a hailstorm blow in on us in the middle of nowhere to force us to stop for hours. It’s one thing you must always prepare for.
Check up on the weather report each day– Know the weather in Chandratal ahead even before you leave. If you are already traveling, ask locals or fellow travelers about the conditions ahead.
Carrying waterproof gear– Rain can come out of the blue. Always have a waterproof jacket and cover for your backpack. If you’re trekking, ensure your shoes are water-resistant.
Pack food and drinking supplies – You may never know when traffic might snatch your way, especially on Manali to Kaza road, which is prone to landslides during monsoon rains. Carry snacking and drinking supplies for worst case situations when you are outside a roadblock and need to wait.
Drive carefully-the mountain roads are slender and sometimes dangerous, especially after rain or snow. For those driving, it’s imperative to maintain a slow and even speed. First-timers are better off hiring an experienced local driver.
In Case of a Medical Emergency , it’s important to know that Chandratal and the surrounding areas are very remote. The nearest town with medical facilities is Kaza, which is roughly 70 km away, and the Kaza altitude is around 3,800 meters (12,500 feet). Given its remote location, medical facilities are limited near Chandratal. The nearest hospital is in Kaza, so it’s essential to carry a basic first aid kit and medications for altitude sickness.
First Aid Kit: Always carry a well-stocked first aid kit. Include essentials like altitude sickness medication, pain relievers, bandages, and antiseptic.
Altitude Sickness: Given the high altitude, symptoms of altitude sickness can appear quickly. It’s important to acclimatize properly—spend a night or two in Kaza before heading to the lake. If symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or severe headaches occur, descend immediately.
Emergency Services: There are no hospitals at Chandratal, so it’s crucial to be prepared. In case of a serious emergency, try to get to Kaza as quickly as possible. Some camps might have satellite phones to call for help, but don’t rely on it—be self-sufficient.
Nearby Attractions around Chandratal Lake
Kunzum Pass
Crossing Kunzum Pass is like entering another world. The mountains cast a massive shade where people cross low; the wind whisks the whispers of stories from far-off times. Kunzum Pass stands at 4,590 meters, not just a sight to behold as a gateway between Spiti Valley and Lahaul Valley but also a great spiritual location. And then, at the head of the pass, a tiny shrine to Kunzum Devi, where one stops to pray for safe passage; crossing it for the first time was quite an experience, for the snow had capped the peaks, and fluttering prayer flags had added a silence that seemed as if the mountains themselves watched over me.
The best time to visit Kunzum Pass is between June and September as the snow has melted off and the roads are open. If you are an adventurous trekker, then you can also go trekking from Kunzum Pass to reach Chandratal Lake, that is approximately 8 km long, proceeding through high-altitude meadows and valleys. The challenge you may face on this journey is sure to be compensated with the breathtaking views where you will feel walking on cloud.
Key Monasteries in Spiti Valley
The monasteries of Spiti Valley are more than just architectural marvels—they are living, breathing sanctuaries of peace and wisdom. Close to Chandratal Lake lie two of the most iconic monasteries in the valley: Key Monastery and Dhankar Monastery.
Dramatically sited over Spiti River on a hill, this must be one of the most authentic views. Founded over a thousand-year-ago Key Monastery now forms the heart of Buddhism in this region and is interwoven into every aspect of its history. I could feel the chanting of monks all around the air, and the smell of butter lamps being burnt within the monastery halls ooze a deep sense of spirituality. The hospitality accorded by the monks was warm enough, but sitting in the prayer hall was something that gave a sense of profound peace in my life. It houses ancient manuscripts and murals portraying stories of the philosophy and culture of Buddhism inside the monastery.
Dhankar Monastery is a little further along Chandratal, precariously perched on the edge of a cliff, to the north. This ancient monastery, overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers, has been a silent guardian of this valley for centuries. The spiritual energy here is palpable, and standing on the edge of the monastery, you feel both incredibly small and deeply connected to something larger than life. Both monasteries offer the opportunity to closely see the region’s spiritual life, and, indeed, these are must-visit places for any person who wants to connect to the soul of Spiti Valley.
Photography and Social Media Spots
There are several perfect spots around Chandratal Lake for photography. The best time to capture the lake’s beauty is during the early morning hours when the light is soft, and the water is still.
Local Food and Cuisine Near Chandratal Lake
There aren’t many food options near the lake, so it’s essential to carry your own meals. If you’re camping, you’ll likely be provided with simple, local meals such as dal and rice.
Packing Your Own Meals
It’s a good idea to pack high-energy snacks like nuts, chocolate, and protein bars. Since it’s a remote area, there are no restaurants, and you don’t want to rely solely on the limited supplies available at the camps.
Weather Considerations in Chandratal Lake
Weather at Chandratal Lake can be as unpredictable as it is extreme. At an altitude of 14100 feet the climate here changes swiftly so it is essential to be prepared for anything.
During the summer months daytime temperatures range between 12°C to 20°C but once the sun sets the mercury drops sharply. Even in July I remember huddling by the campfire in layers of thermals as the temperature plunged close to freezing. The contrast between the warmth of the day and the cold of the night is striking and it is something you will need to prepare for.
If you’re visiting in September, the lake takes on a quieter, almost ethereal beauty, but the temperatures drop even further, and snow may start to dust the peaks. By late September or early October, the first snowfalls may block the roads, signaling the end of the tourist season.
Winter brings harsh unforgiving conditions with Chandratal Lake in winter buried under a blanket of snow from October until May. The lake is inaccessible during this time and the region is left in a frozen silence. While the thought of seeing the lake in its winter solitude is tempting, the extreme cold and road closures make it impossible for most travelers.
No matter when you visit, be prepared for rapidly changing weather. Always check local forecasts and pack accordingly—you will want warm clothes, rain protection, and enough supplies to see you through in case the weather takes a sudden turn.
Permits and Documentation
Another big plus to visiting Chandratal Lake is that it requires no special permits for Indians. For foreign nationals coming to Spiti Valley, though, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) may be required, which can be obtained in Shimla, Manali, or Reckong Peo. There’s always a chance to refer to the latest travel advisories or get information from local authorities if you’re not so sure.
In addition, though one does not require permits to go to Chandratal, there are checkpoint registrations along the way. This is mainly done for safety and monitoring purposes because the roads and the terrain may become a hotspot during the monsoon months.
Conclusion
Spending a day at Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley is an adventure which many would not like to miss, given the uniqueness of landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and starry nights. No wonder then that Chandratal Lake beckons many nature lovers and adventure cravers. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply soaking in the views, the magic of Chandratal Lake will leave you speechless.
FAQ
Is Chandratal Lake accessible by public transport?
Yes, Chandratal Lake accessible by public transport up to Batal. From there, you can either trek or hire a vehicle.
What is the altitude of Chandratal Lake?
The lake sits at an altitude of 14,100 feet.
Is it safe to camp near Chandratal Lake?
Yes, but it’s important to be prepared for cold weather and carry the necessary supplies.
What permits are required to visit Chandratal?
Indian nationals don’t need a permit, but foreigners may require an Inner Line Permit.
Can I visit Chandratal in winter?
No, the lake is closed in winter due to heavy snowfall.
What’s the best time to visit Chandratal Lake?
The best time to visit Chandratal Lake is between June and September.
How long is the Chandratal trek from Batal?
The trek is about 14 km and can be done in 5 to 6 hours.
How far is Chandratal from Kaza?
The Chandratal to Kaza distance is approximately 97 km.
Are there hotels near Chandratal Lake?
No, but there are campsites available at Chandratal Lake.
Can I see the Milky Way at Chandratal?
Yes, the Chandratal Lake Milky Way view is one of the clearest you’ll see in the region.
Is Chandratal open now?
The lake is usually open from June to October. Check local conditions for current status.
How do I book a camp at Chandratal?
Camps can be booked online or through local tour operators.
How far is Chandratal from Losar?
The Losar to Chandratal distance is about 40 km.
Is it safe for solo travelers to visit Chandratal?
Yes but be prepared for the challenges of high-altitude travel.
What’s the current temperature at Chandratal?
The Chandratal Lake temperature today can vary but tends to be cold, even in summer.
